Review of Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things by Jenny Lawson
I have a confession: before diving into Furiously Happy, I had been eagerly following Jenny Lawson’s blog for years. Her ability to intertwine humor with poignant reflections on mental health has been a source of solace and laughter for me. So when I heard about her latest book, I went into it with more than just curiosity; I felt a personal connection. Sadly, my experience turned into a mixed bag of elation and disappointment—a bit like opening a surprise gift only to find an empty box.
Furiously Happy is a memoir that dances through the chaotic moments of Lawson’s life, deftly touching on heavy subjects like depression, anxiety, and the oddities of existence. Each chapter bursts with her unique brand of humor, from clever observations about bizarre Japanese toilets to the quirks of her companion animals, including a stuffed taxidermied boar. Lawson’s writing style is conversational and candid, making you feel like you’re chatting over coffee (or perhaps something stronger) with a friend who just gets it.
Yet, while her anecdotes often made me chuckle, I found myself grappling with “second book syndrome.” Memories of her previous work, Let’s Pretend This Never Happened, lingered like a ghost throughout my reading. Much of the material felt familiar, and I noticed I was reading stories I had encountered before on her blog. For casual readers, this might not be a hindrance, but for die-hard fans like me, it meant that some moments lost their punch.
One standout chapter was when she describes the hilarious, if perplexing, concept of naming a pet kitten “The President.” Seriously, who wouldn’t love tweeting about waking up next to this feline powerhouse? I laughed out loud at her quirkiness and vision. She captures daily absurdities that make life hilariously unpredictable.
But it was her father’s wisdom that struck me the hardest. His reflections on creativity and the beauty of everyday life resonated deeply. Phrases like, “You can make a very convincing taxidermied Sasquatch out of a deer’s ass,” felt like the small, silly truths that bring a smile when life feels heavy. Moments like these were the gems among the heavier topics that Lawson navigates, drawing me back into my own familial connections and laughter.
Despite its drawbacks, Furiously Happy resonates with so much authenticity. It speaks to anyone who has faced their own challenges while seeking joy in the surreal spaces of life. While I didn’t love it as passionately as I had hoped, there are countless gems throughout the book that highlight Lawson’s humor and resilience.
This book will be a treasure for anyone who appreciates candid discussions about mental health, as well as those who enjoy quirky humor and a touch of absurdity. It may also provide a comforting reminder that it’s okay not to feel perfectly happy all the time. If you’re ready to explore the rollercoaster of life—filled with its dark corners and bright flashes of joy—you’ll find some lovely moments here, even if you’ve already attended a few of Jenny’s past parties.
As for me, Furiously Happy was a reminder that while not every ride is a thrill, the scenery along the way is uniquely beautiful—even when it’s wrapped in stuffed animal fur.
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