In the last month, I’ve died laughing, shed a couple tears and have been aroused with inspiration by two books from triumphant women. Here’s my attempt at giving justice to great work.
In all honesty, though, there’s no way these reviews can be objective or unbiased. It’s as if my two older sisters gave me these books and said, “we wrote these for you, Fareeha, and we made sure to highlight all the similarities between us. Oh and did we mention that you’re awesome and hilarious like us too?” I’ll try my best, though.
Bossypants
I read Tina Fey’s Bossypants first, and unsurprisingly it was engaging, informative and humorous. Aside from describing her incredible path to success, she discusses the progression of gender politics and corporate affairs in her line of work. She supplies advice to the young motivated woman, from unraveling the secrets of being a successful comedian in midst of a male-dominated industry, to urging girls to wear underwear at all times. It’s always entertaining to hear about how someone transported from an ordinary world to the realm of stardom, but Tina’s is especially enthralling because she landed opportunities with Saturday Night Live and eventually became writer and executive producer of 30 Rock. The hours spent perfecting Sarah Palin’s accent and the months she held her breath waiting to hear of 30 Rock’s fate, alone display her unadulterated determination. I understand why this book is catered to women, especially since some refuse to acknowledge accomplished female comedians, but her advice on effective management in the work place and balancing your dream job with your dream family is beneficial to both genders. Plus, maybe boys will learn a thing or two from her chapter on breast feeding.
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns)
I remember watching The Office as the first season aired on TV when I was in high school and being really excited that they had cast an Indian girl, even though her character bordered irritating. When I found out that Mindy Kaling was in fact one of the first writers on the show and later realizing that she wrote my favorite and Emmy-nominated episode “Niagra,” I lost it. Mindy’s book Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? is about a smart, inspired girl who happens to be really funny and talented as well. I loved this book so much I think because Mindy seems like one of the most relatable and candid people, not just celebrities, out there. She recounts her childhood and friendships while intermingling hilarious lists, like the rules of a best friend or action fantasies she has while working out. I respect Mindy for her relationship with her parents and especially her mother because it proves to me that you don’t have to lose that part of your life after you’re immersed in your career. She’s a 30-something that still calls her mom every day, and I love her for that. Mindy emulates Tina’s wit, but the books differ in that Bossypants gives you concrete pointers whereas Mindy’s book is more of a casual conversation.
It wasn’t until I read these books that I realized just how talented these women are. They’re funny, sure, but they’re intelligent as well and great writers. I learned much from both, but the main thing I’ll take from it is that you really have to work your ass off even for mediocre success because if you’re really, actually passionate about something, it’s not just going to deplete with each failure.
If I ever win an Emmy or an Oscar or a Nobel Prize, I’ll remember to thank both of these ladies.