Read it or Weep

Laughing My Way Through 2014 December 8, 2014

Making a list of my favorite titles of 2014 really brings to light one thing about me;  I love to laugh.  I’m a firm believer that laughter is the best medicine, and throughout a very busy, sometimes overwhelming year, I’ve been desperate to get in all the laughs I can.  Most of these titles are comical, one serious, and one is  a little dark.

 The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

The Rosie Project was a hilarious story about a hyper intelligent professor and his search for a significant other.

The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak

This book was very entertaining when read aloud.  I ended up buying it as a gift for my nieces and nephews, and for my friend’s first grade classroom.

Yes Please by Amy Poehler

Amy Poehler is my hero.  Not only do I think she is very funny, but she is also incredibly inspiring.  She’s the type of woman who doesn’t accept failure as a failure, but as an opportunity to learn and grow. I appreciate that Poehler was able to share her story while respecting the intimate privacy of her family.

Dad is Fat by Jim Gaffigan

My husband and I listened to this audiobook on our way home from a cross-country trip.  Not only was Jim Gaffigan full of his usual comedic wit, but it also offered insight into his daily life, living in a two bedroom apartment in New York City with his wife and their many children.

Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg

This book was inspiring and motivating.  I found Sandberg’s advice on being willing to take risks, and not be afraid to ask for what you want or need in a professional environment.

Bossypants by Tina Fey

I’d like to be Tina Fey when I grow up, or at least meet her.

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry  by Gabrielle Zevin

This novel was a reminder that even the coldest hearts can be thawed with a little compassion.

Killing Yourself to Live: 85% of a True Story by Chuck Klosterman

Klosterman visited the locations where rock stars died.  It was an entertaining read about pop culture, past loves, and his experience in life.

Spoiled Brats by Simon Rich

This was a hilarious collection of short stories, though not for the easily offended.

Darkly Dreaming Dexter by Jeff Lindsay

I’m a big fan of the TV series Dexter, so after the show ended I had no choice but to find another route to get my Dexter fix. The Dexter book series is similar to the television show, though the plot lines blur and different characters die.

Beth