Book Review and Giveaway: Agorafabulous by Sara Benincasa

“I subscribe to the notion that if you can laugh at the shittiest moments in your life, you can transcend them. And if other people can laugh at your awful shit as well, then I guess you can officially call yourself a comedian.”

Sara Benincasa is a comedian who has certainly dealt with some awful things in her life.  Her panic attacks began as a teenager and as a college student developed into full-blown agoraphobia.  This memoir takes a humorous look at her very difficult experiences and how she has overcome some very serious difficulties with her sense of humor intact. 

I, personally, found the book to be hilarious. I really enjoy good humor writing, and this memoir is certainly a good example of the genre.  I would compare Benincasa's writing to Jen Lancaster or Laurie Notaro, although she's dealing with a much more serious topic.  Despite dealing with mental illness, the book is lighthearted and easy to read.  I highly recommend you pick up a copy if you enjoy humorous memoirs.

William Morrow, the publisher of the books, has graciously offered to give a signed copy to one of my readers.  All you have to do is leave a comment with your name and contact info (email or twitter).  I'll choose a winner with a random number generator and William Morrow will send you a signed copy of the book.  I'll leave the giveaway open for a week, so look back next Monday for the winner!

For a sample of Sara's hilarious work, check out this YouTube video.