we are never meeting in real life. by Samantha Irby

I read this essay collection because Roxane Gay, one of my feminist heroines, said it was amazing, and she never disappoints. It made me laugh and cry and cringe within the same essay. The subjects are broad– normalizing the experience of being treated poorly in relationships during her twenties; disregarding money-saving tips in the most gloriously irresponsible ways; her evil cat, Hellen Keller, and more.

The author’s self-deprecating humor is woven into even the most humiliating and depressing situations, and her excellent use of ALL CAPS as a writing tool for emphatic expletives and strong opinions kept me laughing throughout. Irby’s writing is unapologetically vulnerable and self-confident in the best way. Chances are that this book will make you feel uncomfortable, but you should read it anyway.

All this might be easier if I could punch something, but I’m not a punch-something person. I’m a “sit in the dark in the bathroom with a package of sharp cheddar cheese slices” person.”