Everybody Into the Pool: True Tales

I thought I was the only one who enjoyed Hallmark "Mahogany" cards, until I read Beth Lisick's "Everybody Into The Pool." This is just one of the many things that resonated for me in this collection. And here's an added bonus that shows how art can make an impact and connect people: I was on the Larkspur-to-San Francisco Ferry reading the final tale, "Little Bundle of Entropy," and laughing so hard that I was crying. The woman sitting next to me started laughing too, because she could relate to a moment like that. I read her the sentence that had sent me over the edge, and she laughed even harder. What normally would have been a typical, solitary ride--where you're staring straight ahead, trying not to look at what the person next to you is writing in their notebook--turned into a great human conversation about how important it is to look at the world with a sense of humor.

I laughed and I cried but most of all I just enjoyed every minute - nay second - of reading this book. My poor husband had to endure the constant: "Oh babe, I just HAVE to read this part to you....." Beth Lisick's humor and her art of storytelling is taking hold of you and you can't put down this book even if you try. I missed a doctor's appointment and a movie date. Darn. And if you ever have a chance to see her in person read any kind of story to the audience, make sure you don't miss it. I went last week to one of her readings in the city. You are in for a ride. Believe me.

Beth Lisick may well be the funniest person in America. This book not only transcends and redefines its ostensible genre (the humorous chick memoir): it turns it inside out and stomps all over it. It is the perfect antidote for the precious-er than thou hey-let's-go-shopping-and-talk-about-our-periods type of book that seems to be everywhere nowadays. But more than that, the stories in this book will remain with you long after you've read them. There are one-liners a-plenty, and a good supply of offbeat, caustic observations, and they work great. Behind all that, though, is an original, engaging voice with a lot of heart and a truly unique take on the trials of enduring the ordinary. Beth also manages the neat trick of summing up each story with a coda that suddenly throws the barrage of one-liners into a new, contemplative perspective that can really be quite moving. Yet it never feels forced or contrived; and each one somehow managed to take me by surprise just a bit. After you finish each story, you want to close the book and stare off into space for a while, thinking about life. I got all choked up by several of them, in fact. This is great, great writing. The best book I've read this year so far, by far.

Beth Lisick is a hip, 21st Century, female Dave Barry, except her stories are true life experiences. Most chapters are cutting edge, up-to-the-minute, uncensored episodes of "I Love Lucy." This upper middle class suburban gal definitely has experienced more than most . . . and it ain't just girl talk. Guys will love it too! Hope there is a sequel. Don't miss it!

After reading a chapter of this book in the Metro I knew I had to check it out. There are stories in here that are laugh out loud funny. I work at a book store in the bay area and have recommended it to many. DONT PASS THIS ONE UP!