by Allie Brosh
It began as a blog. The website Hyperbole and a Half is a collection of stories from the life of its creator, Allie Brosh. While there are hundreds of blogs that could fit that description, Brosh's stands out for three reasons: her hilarious writing style, her quirky but utterly fun artwork, and the fact that she can tell a good story.
Her illustrated tales are a mixture of childhood remembrances, adventures from her day-to-day experiences, and reflections on herself and on life in general. Many of her stories are laugh-out-loud hilarious -- such as when she's remembering her beloved dinosaur costume or her childhood fondness for cake. But she's not afraid to tackle more serious fare -- such as her courageous two-part tale detailing her struggles with depression. (In fact, if I have any criticism for the book at all, it's that she is far too hard on herself for what she sees as her personal shortcomings.)
When turning her stories into a book, Brosh plucked several classic entries from her website for publication. But there is also a plethora of new material in the book, including an ill-begotten hiking trip from her childhood and the truth behind her lifelong love of hot sauce. The book was as delightful a read as her webpage stories have been, and I'm already hoping a sequel might be in the works.
Want to try a few of her tales? Here are five of my favorites (just click on the title to read the story on her website):
1. The Milk Crisis of 2005
Before I was a librarian, I spent nine months working as a waitress. That memorable experience gives me a special appreciation for this story: a simple, heartwarming tale that rapidly turns into full-blown horror. (Of the most humorous kind.) A cautionary tale for anyone contemplating a career in the food service industry.
2. Texas
Brosh's first trip to Texas was somewhat ill-timed. Having grown up in the frigid Northwest, the beginning of summer was not a good time to make her first trip down south -- particularly not to compete in a regional track meet. Factor in a fever, fireflies, and a few inadequately-sympathetic teammates, and it's a recipe for certain disaster.
3. The Party
Dental surgery and birthday parties don't mix. Little Allie's not about to let that stop her. All she has to do is prove to her mother that she's sufficiently recovered from her surgery sedation to make it to her friend's birthday party. What could go wrong? (This one's included in the book.)
4. Sneaky Hate Spiral
Perhaps you've already read the children's book Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. Here's another look into days like that.
5. Dogs Don't Understand Basic Concepts Like Moving
As a long-time dog owner, I'm admittedly biased when it comes to our canine companions. And nothing tickles my funny bone like a great dog story. So I couldn't resist this tale, in which Brosh and her boyfriend must transport their two dogs -- one smart as a whip and highly neurotic, the other a gentler soul who still manages to cause all manner of mischief -- to their new home. Complete with 2 a.m. wake-ups, sled dog booties, and a Bon Jovi shout-out, this is easily my favorite of Allie Brosh's stories. (Also included in the book.)
-- Post by Ms. B
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