I came to this book after reading Bird by Bird. It is truly a totally different animal. However, I enjoyed it immensely.

Her writing style is quite unique. She has a dry, witty way of describing her experiences and surroundings. This is something that I can really relate to.

As I was reading, I found myself constantly chuckling at her humorous anecdotes and clever observations. It was as if she was sharing her life with me in the most engaging and entertaining way.

The book not only provided me with entertainment but also gave me a new perspective on life. It made me realize that even the simplest of things can be turned into something hilarious and meaningful with the right attitude and a touch of humor.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a lighthearted and enjoyable read. It is sure to put a smile on your face and brighten up your day.

I got halfway through the story and made up my mind that none of the characters managed to capture my interest to the extent that I would want to continue reading.

The majority of the dialogue gave the impression that the author was simply speaking in a conversational style, lacking the distinctiveness that would have made the voices of the characters stand out.

Mostly, what really annoyed me was the way their grief seemed so disingenuous. It felt as if the author was just going through the motions of describing grief rather than truly conveying the depth and authenticity of the emotions.

I found myself constantly disengaging from the story because of these issues, and it became increasingly difficult for me to invest any further in what was happening.

Perhaps if the characters had been more developed and the dialogue more engaging, I might have had a different experience. But as it stands, I don't think I'll be picking up this book again.

I have an absolute passion for Anne Lamott. I have delved into several of her remarkable books and have made up my mind to attempt to read every single one of them. "Hard Laughter" holds a special place as it is the very first novel she penned.

This book essentially serves as a profound commentary on life and death, exploring the age-old question of why bad things befall good people, among other deep themes. It presents these ideas through the engaging stories of the family within the book, and it has a strong autobiographical element.

With a father, Wallace, recently diagnosed with a brain tumor, a significant other who fails to live up to the name, and a neurotic dream consultant as a best friend, it seems almost impossible to believe that Jennifer, the main character in Anne Lamott's book, could find anything to laugh about. However, as the title implies, she not only manages to discover some hard-earned laughter in the midst of this difficult situation but also comes to the realization that laughter is, in fact, one of the essential elements that make life's struggles worthwhile.

The ending of the book is a beautiful celebration of family and life. It leaves us suspended in that moment, without revealing the outcome of Wallace's cancer. Overall, it is a good, solid book that earns a well-deserved ⭐️⭐️⭐️.

I'd have ditched this book about 50 pages in if I weren't reading it for a group.

It was such a struggle to get through. I found myself losing interest very quickly.

In the end, I resorted to skimming the last half just to be done with it.

To be honest, nothing really happens in this book.

It consists of a series of strange vignettes that take place in a town full of even weirder characters.

The relationships between these characters are highly unconventional and often difficult to understand.

I really can't recommend this book to anyone.

It fails to engage the reader and lacks a coherent plot or any real substance.

Save your time and choose a different book to read.

I have an unwavering love for this book.

I find myself returning to it periodically, like a trusted friend.

Every time I open its pages, it has the remarkable ability to make me truly appreciate life and family.

Even in the face of illness, when the world may seem dark and challenging, this book serves as a guiding light.

It reminds me of the preciousness of every moment, the importance of those closest to us, and the strength that can be found within.

It's not just a book; it's a source of inspiration and a reminder to cherish the simple yet profound joys of life.

With each reading, I gain a new perspective and a deeper understanding of what truly matters.

This book has become an integral part of my life, and I will continue to turn to it whenever I need a boost of hope and a reminder of the beauty that exists all around us.

If you have been tracking my books, you would definitely know that I have a profound love for Anne Lamott. Her works have always had a special charm that draws me in. However, it is not uncommon for a great nonfiction writer to struggle when it comes to fiction. But this is not the case with one of Lamott's early novels.

In this novel, Jen's father Wallace is diagnosed with a brain tumor. The book essentially delves into the story of how his cancer impacts the entire family. It shows how this difficult situation brings them closer together and helps them find their way through the challenges.

It is truly a beautiful story that is filled with Lamott's signature quirky humor. The settings described in the book are ones that I, as a Bay Area native, can easily recognize and relate to. The vivid descriptions make me feel as if I am right there with the characters, experiencing their joys and sorrows.

Lamott has done an excellent job of creating a compelling and emotional narrative that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. This novel is a testament to her talent as a writer, and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good story.

I have a profound love for the book Bird by Bird. I have had the privilege of listening to Anne Lamott speak, and she is truly wonderful. Her words have the power to inspire and move.

However, when it comes to this particular book, I have to admit that I didn't even manage to reach the 50-page mark, and my general rule is to give a book at least 100 pages. Sadly, I just couldn't do it. The dialogue within the book is simply awful. It lacks authenticity and fails to engage the reader.

Moreover, the characters are equally unappealing. They lack depth and dimension, making it difficult for the reader to form any kind of connection with them. It's just - terribly awful. It's such a disappointment considering my high regard for Anne Lamott. But sometimes, even the best authors have their off moments.

Lamott's work truly combines wit and wisdom in a remarkable way. Her writing style is both engaging and entertaining, making it a very enjoyable read. With her unique blend of humor and profound insights, she manages to capture the reader's attention from the very beginning and keep them hooked until the end.

Each page is filled with her clever observations and thought-provoking ideas, which are presented in a way that is easy to understand and relate to. Whether she is writing about life, love, or the human condition, Lamott always brings a fresh perspective and a touch of her own brand of magic.

Her ability to find the humor in even the most difficult situations is truly inspiring, and it makes her books not only a source of entertainment but also a source of comfort and inspiration. If you're looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and think, then Lamott's work is definitely worth checking out. You won't be disappointed!

I have a profound love for reading Anne Lamott's works.

However, this particular book isn't my absolute favorite. Perhaps it's due to the subject matter.

It's truly challenging to find the humor and laughter when times are so tough, and that precisely is the essence of this book.

When you have someone dear to you diagnosed with cancer, it's an extremely difficult situation.

The question then becomes how to remain positive, live life to the fullest, while still being sensitive to the unpleasant and "icky" aspects, and being acutely aware of the possible impending death sentence that might come sooner rather than later.

Anne Lamott delves deep into these complex emotions and experiences, making us reflect on the fragility of life and the importance of finding hope and strength even in the darkest of times.

Her writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, inviting us to walk in the shoes of those facing such difficult circumstances.

Although this book may not be my top pick among her works, it still offers valuable insights and a poignant exploration of the human condition.

Another book that is filled with truly awesome, crazy, lazy, smart, outsider, drunk, free-thinking people.

It's truly a remarkable collection of characters that the author has created. Each one seems to have their own unique charm and idiosyncrasies that draw you in and make you want to know more about them.

I find myself completely captivated by this writer's ability to bring these individuals to life on the page. Their stories unfold in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking, making it impossible to put the book down.

I have a deep appreciation for this writer's talent and imagination, and I can't wait to see what other amazing works they have in store for us.

No one writes like Anne LaMott. Her unique style and perspective make her books truly one-of-a-kind.

This particular book tells the story of Jennifer and the recent news that her father has a brain tumor. It's a story that many can relate to, especially those who have experienced the loss of a loved one.

I, for one, found this story both funny and relevant. Having lost my father 7 years ago, I could understand the emotions and experiences that Jennifer and her family were going through.

The book is an easy read, filled with the antics and idiosyncrasies of this offbeat family. It shows that life is always interrupted, especially when we least expect it.

Despite the difficult subject matter, LaMott manages to infuse the story with humor and hope. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always something to smile about.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good story that will make them laugh, cry, and think. It's a beautiful exploration of family, love, and the unpredictable nature of life.

This book truly appeared as if it was penned specifically for me. I derived enjoyment from it on multiple levels. Lamott brings to my mind a resemblance to Anne Tyler, yet her characters lack the same degree of eccentricity. A significant portion of the book evoked sadness within me (owing to the current circumstances in my life), but there were also numerous parts that made me burst into laughter.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book. It has the power to touch your emotions and take you on a journey through a world of engaging characters and thought-provoking storylines. Whether you're in need of a good laugh or a moment of reflection, this book has something to offer.

Give it a chance and you'll be glad you did. It's a literary gem that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

So, don't hesitate. Pick up this book and let it transport you to a place where you can forget about your troubles and simply enjoy the beauty of the written word.