Humour Books

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Book SynopsisBrian Blessed has a lifelong love of animals and over the years has rescued cats and dogs, horses and ponies, and even a very ungrateful fighting cock. All were characters in their own right, such as Jessie, a dog left languishing for a year at the local RSPCA, who ruled the entire household with a rod of iron, when she wasn’t out harassing the local vicar. Then there was Bodger, an abused terrier cross breed, who was nursed back to health by Brian and his wife, and Peppone, a stray cat and notorious thief, who was responsible for a crime epidemic in the Bagshot area. Most of all there was Misty, a soul mate and the first Jack Russell Brian met who didn’t take an instant dislike to him. Over the years Brian has encountered more exotic animals too, from Kali the black panther who had free run of his kitchen and the gentle boa constrictor Bo Bo who went for walks with him in Richmond Park to the female gorillas who found him incredibly attractive. Written with all of Brian’s ebullience, The Panther in My Kitchen is a laugh-out-loud, life-affirming book about the joy animals bring and why we should care for them.

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Book SynopsisSometimes I Just WON'T is a hilarious and helpful book about the ever-changing moods of small children, from top picture book pairing, Timothy Knapman and Joe Berger.Being a toddler is an emotional rollercoaster. Some days you want to put your coat on, you don’t mind sharing and you can't wait to have your bath. There are days when you're the first to slide down the biggest slide, or join in with everyone else. But some days, you just WON'T! And sometimes that’s OK. But, with a little kindness and encouragement, you might find that something you don’t want to do can become something you love to do!A comic look at child autonomy and how to navigate strong emotions. An essential read for all young children – and their adults because, big or small, sometimes we ALL need to feel in charge. With bouncing rhythmic text and lively, graphic illustrations this is a brilliant follow up to Sometimes I am Furious, a Sunday Times Book of the Year 2021!

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Book SynopsisIt's Sapiens for teenagers.' The TimesLIFE IS WEIRD.Nothing gives you a sense of perspective like finding out just how weird.I'm an extremely curious chap and with this book I wanted to share the content of my noggin, because I think these are the 147 things that have helped me through this thing we call life. Sometimes because it shows how lucky we are to be here at all, but often because I’m a moron and learned whatever lesson it taught me the hard way, and I’d like to save you the pain of making the same mistakes (I refer here to the waxing of my pubic hair).Ever wondered if first times are over-rated (hint: they are), whether you’ll ever find the one (hint: there are 7 billion of us) or pondered the sheer unlikelihood of the you who is you being in the world right now? If so, then YouTube superstar and fact-obsessed, over-sharer Jim Chapman is here to explain it all – whether it’s why your heart actually aches after a break-up, what’s happening when you get hangry, or why people are just so plain RUDE online.Along the way, we’ll find out how much fun he has when Tanya’s sleep-talking and why he looked like a gangly T-rex with wonky teeth when he was a teenager. As with his videos, no subject is off-limits, as Jim lifts the lid on his life and his relationships, sharing embarrassing stories and things he’s learnt along the way (trust us, the thing about kangaroos will really freak you out).Trade ReviewIt's Sapiens for teenagers * The Times *An online sensation * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisWhen you’re pregnant you think: ‘I’m having a baby’, not a person who will eventually catch trains by themselves, share a fridge with ten strangers, go to a festival in Croatia without succumbing to a drug overdose, and one day, bring you a gin and tonic when your mother is dying. We imagine the teenage years as a sort of domestic meteor strike, when our dear, sweet child, hitherto so trusting and mild, is suddenly replaced by a sarcastic know-all who isn’t interested in the wisdom we have to pass on. But with great honesty and refreshingly bracing wit, Stephanie Calman shows that adolescence in fact begins much earlier, around the age of seven. And having nurtured them through every stage of development, from walking to school by themselves to their first all-night party, you find yourself alone – bereaved even – as they skip off to university without a second glance. Candid, touching and very, very funny, Confessions of a Bad Mother: The Teenage Years offers hope to despairing and exhausted parents everywhere. Read it and discover that your teenager is not the enemy after all.Trade ReviewHilarious, poignant, and relatable on so many levels . . . a must-read for parents at every stage of their parenting journey . . . sure to be a huge hit and I highly recommend it * Books of All Kinds *I recommend this book as a light-hearted read that cleverly has some important lessons to share with every parent or indeed anyone who is just doing their best * Kate on Thin Ice *This was such a fun book, full of hilarious, sweet and poignant, anecdotes from when the author’s children began to turn into teenagers, right up until they left home to go off to uni. I laughed out loud on so many occasions when I was reading this, as well nodding vigorously agreeing with the author . . . I loved this book, and thoroughly recommend it one if you’re looking for a nonfiction book that will make you laugh and also help you through those awkward teenage years. * Secret Library Book Blog *I’m actually convinced that Stephanie has had a sneak peak into my life . . . As well as being slightly thought provoking, you will relate to this book on so many levels as a parent, I loved it and think it’s a must read . . . The book is bound to become a hit -- Lost in the Land of Books[A] hilarious and poignant read that anyone who has children is sure to love . . . I loved this book. It’s brilliantly written, insightful and hilarious. A must read * Cal Turner Reviews *Brilliantly funny . . . [a] thought provoking book, which I thoroughly enjoyed * Black Books *You can expect plenty of real laugh-out-loud moments and also more than a few genuinely ugly-cry ones too! But throughout, you will be able to relate to just about everything that is in these pages . . . A fabulous book which really should be essential reading for parents and teens alike! 5 stars * Jan’s Book Buzz *This is an absolutely brilliant read that I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish * Coffee and Kindle Book Reviews *Calman has such a great way of writing – the book is full of anecdotes and events in their family’s life and how her and her husband Peter deal with them . . . This book made me laugh out loud on several occasions. I guess it is parenting manual of sorts, but presented in a light hearted, yet relatable way . . . A really entertaining read, suitable for parents of kids of any ages, I looked forward to picking this up because it made me smile! Ironically, even though it is called Confessions of a Bad Mother, Stephanie is anything but! * Always Need More Books *Stephanie hits the nails on the head with every chapter . . . a hilariously, absorbing read of parenthood that I . . . just couldn’t put down! What a book! * The Reading Closet *This is a delightful book in many senses, as the honest revelations of feelings, some fears and many frustrations emerge from a writer who carefully balances farce with reality. I found it funny and realistic, and flows well from episode to explosion and explanation. I enjoyed this book far more than I thought I would, and found it very readable. I would certainly read other books by Calman, as this is a balanced and essentially lighthearted read -- Northern ReaderStephanie Calman has such a brilliant way of putting all of the trials and tribulations of bringing up teenagers in this beautifully hilarious book. Writing from her own experiences makes this a refreshing read which most people will related to in one way or another * My Journey Finding My Voice *It was laugh out loud funny, very honest, light hearted and extremely relatable to all mums . . . I definitely recommend reading Confessions of a Bad Mother: The Teenage Years, it's hilarious, honest, relatable to all, I whizzed through the pages with ease. Stephanie has written a Gem of a book that all parents, and even children should read, it certainly opened up my eyes and took me back to my teenage years! * Dash Fan Book Reviews *Confessions of a Bad Mother: The Teenage Years is a laugh out loud book that had me, as a reader and parent of two teenagers, realise that my children are normal, that we have done an okay job of bringing them up and they have turned out okay! . . . Everyone should read this - it is a real hoot! * Sarah’s Book Reviews *The writing was witty, engaging and honest . . . I enjoyed this book a lot and will likely purchase it for those friends of my who are also raising teenagers, the struggles are real but already I am dreading the loss of them leaving and all of these feels are captured in this entertaining piece of nonfiction. * I Loved Reading This *Calman writes about parenthood with the same winning mix of fondness and exasperation . . . the book brims with great jokes * Readers Digest *Wow, what a laugh! Absolutely loved the humour in this and I think any parent will feel exactly the same . . . much better than the other teenager parenting guide available and definitely more funny! * The Spoonie Mummy *I loved this book. It has interesting layers of which even its author appears unaware. She is brutally honest and more or less incapable of writing a stuffy or self-satisfied line. What a reader can see and she seems not to, is that she is just as bright and intelligent as her children as they grow, and possessed of a sweet nature and a brilliant sense of humour. -- Anne Garvey * The Jewish Chronicle *

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Book SynopsisPredators get a pretty bad rap. Sure, they prey on helpless animals that never stand a chance. But behind those jagged teeth, powerful jaws, and razor-sharp claws, every predator has a softer side. Maybe even an adorable one.Everyone has compassion for the cute bunny or lamb. But what about their predators who are working hard for their meal? Capturing their prey is a life or death game. Just think about the last time you had to hunt for food while hangry. You can understand, right?With thirty adorably dark scenes of nature, illustrator Alex Solis shares his sense of humor while giving you a chance to color in the most gruesome parts of life with a smile.It’s time to give theses predators a break! Because, in the end, both predators and their prey play a role. I mean, it’s not their fault they were made this way! They’re just living off of instincts; doing what comes naturally to them. So rather than turning away from nature, let’s celebrate all the animals who complete The Adorable Circle of Life Adult Coloring Book!

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Book SynopsisSavage. Menacing. Ruthless.Predators get a pretty bad rap. Sure, they prey on helpless animals that never stand a chance, but behind those jagged teeth, powerful jaws, and razor-sharp claws, every predator has a softer side. Maybe even an adorable one.Everyone has compassion for the cute bunny or lamb. But what about their predators who are working hard for their meal? Capturing their prey is a life-or-death game. Just think about the last time you had to hunt for food while hangry. You can understand, right?Including famous quotes from history that give context to these disturbingly cute illustrations, Alex Solis shares his sense of humor while giving readers a way to enjoy the darkest parts of life with a smile.It’s time to give theses predators a break! Because, in the end, both predators and their prey play a role. I mean, it’s not their fault they were made this way! They’re just living off of instincts, doing what comes naturally to them. So rather than turning away from nature, let’s celebrate all the animals who complete The Adorable Circle of Life.

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Book Synopsis“Better a witty fool, than a foolish wit,” said the world’s greatest and most preeminent English writer of all time, William Shakespeare.Have you ever wanted to quote the most quoted writer in the English language? Deliver the most inventive and debasing Shakespearean insult (“Would thou wert clean enough to spit upon!”)? Recite titillating love poetry like a modern-day Romeo to his (or her) Juliet? Or commit a learned wisdom about life’s woes to memory? The Smart Words and Wicked Wit of William Shakespeare is the perfect pocket book to carry around in your arsenal. Laugh, cry, rage, and muse along with beloved (or not so beloved) Shakespeare characters like Hamlet, Lady Macbeth, King Lear, and Cleopatra on the topics of love, art, beauty—as well as life’s most irreverently relevant insights. Full of savvy wisdoms from works such as Twelfth Night, Othello, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, As You Like It, and many others, this inspiring collection compiles the wisest and wittiest Shakespearean quotations that speak of the writer’s enduring legacy—even in contemporary pop culture.

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Book Synopsis“Wisdom is better than wit,” said Jane Austen in a letter to Fanny Knight, “and in the long run will certainly have the laugh on her side.” Have you ever wanted to contribute to a discussion with an astute observation on unrequited love? Give advice to a peer on how to dress for a night out? Or end an argument with a biting quip on feminist politics? The Smart Words and Wicked Wit of Jane Austen is the perfect pocket book to carry around in your bag as you meditate on Austen’s surprisingly modern and perceptive life philosophies set against the backdrop of eighteenth century mores. Discover what she had to say about style and dress, men and women, love and heartbreak, keeping up with appearances, arts and graces, health and happiness, and more, and stock up your arsenal of wicked and practical wisdoms as you navigate life. Beautifully designed and curated, this entertaining collection compiles the wisest and wittiest Austen quotations that speak of the novelist’s enduring legacy in contemporary pop culture. Full of sense and sensibility, The Smart Words and Wicked Wit of Jane Austen is sure to delight devoted fans and casual readers alike.Trade Review“Wisdom is better than wit, and in the long run will certainly have the laugh on her side.” —Jane Austen, in a letter to Fanny Knight “People themselves alter so much, that there is something new to be observed in them for ever.” —Elizabeth Bennet, Pride and Prejudice “Woman is fine for her own satisfaction alone.” —Northanger Abbey

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Book Synopsis2018 Shorty Award winner for best Creative & Media animal content***Named one of the Best Comedy Books of 2017 by Splitsider***“Over-the-top and hilarious.” —Barkpost Based on the Twitter and Instagram sensation, #WeRateDogs features the most heroic, over-the-top adorable, wildly successful, all-around entertaining dogs the world has ever seen! It combines extraordinary photos with ridiculous captions to expand the knowledge and overall lives of its readers. It is not only an exceptionally reliable source for dog greatness, it is also a one stop shop for happiness. This book takes readers on a journey through the strict science of dog rating and the unwavering rules associated with it. Questioning the accuracy of these ratings is ill-advised. They are certainly not arbitrary and this book is absolutely not just about how cute dogs are. It truly is all about precision and ethics in dog rating. The #WeRateDogs book will produce an audible reaction with every flip of the page—whether a groan from a terrible pupper pun or an “aww” of seeing a super floofer. If #WeRateDogs takes you away from reality and pushes you into this conglomerate of absurdity for even a second, then it has fulfilled its purpose.Trade Review"Nelson is now at the helm of a pup-loving empire." —BBC "[Nelson] may be the dog king of the Internet." —Time.com "Witty, ironic captions that are cute, hilarious, and relatable all at once . . . WeRateDogs is a cultural force in its own right."—Salon"Next-level understanding of internet escapism . . . The real magic is the delightfully surreal captions."—Esquire"Such lighthearted humor . . . as WeRateDogs followers are constantly reminded, all dogs are good dogs."—NPR“Nelson’s surreal, irrelevant, and often hilarious captions take it to the next level.”—NY Mag“Over-the-top and hilarious.”—Barkpost“‘We Rate Dogs’ isn’t the Twitter account we need, it’s the Twitter account we deserve.”—theCHIVE“It’s about time WeRateDogs gets the credit it deserves for its complete accuracy and human service to rating dogs.”—Buzzfeed"Nelson is now at the helm of a pup-loving empire." —BBC "[Nelson] may be the dog king of the Internet." —Time.com "Witty, ironic captions that are cute, hilarious, and relatable all at once . . . WeRateDogs is a cultural force in its own right."—Salon"Next-level understanding of internet escapism . . . The real magic is the delightfully surreal captions."—Esquire"Such lighthearted humor . . . as WeRateDogs followers are constantly reminded, all dogs are good dogs."—NPR“Nelson’s surreal, irrelevant, and often hilarious captions take it to the next level.”—NY Mag“Over-the-top and hilarious.”—Barkpost“‘We Rate Dogs’ isn’t the Twitter account we need, it’s the Twitter account we deserve.”—theCHIVE“It’s about time WeRateDogs gets the credit it deserves for its complete accuracy and human service to rating dogs.”—Buzzfeed

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Book SynopsisThis practical and humorous guide helps readers learn appropriate manners so they can enjoy the pleasures of good food, good drink, and good company without worrying about what behavior is proper. Chapters cover how to be a good host, how to be a good guest, and how to behave at business events, cocktail parties, formal dinners, and restaurants. There is also a unique chapter discussing pet peeves and how to handle them with grace, civility, and appropriate manners.What’s the proper way to hold a wine glass? What’s an appropriate gift to bring a host—and what shouldn’t you bring? How should you correctly introduce guests to each other? If you’re the host, how do you determine who should sit next to whom? What should you do if you don’t want to drink alcohol at a cocktail party? What is appropriate cell phone usage at a business dinner? Here are easy-to-implement answers to these and many other important etiquette questions.Lavishly illustrated with memorable full-color photographs that highlight both good and bad table manners, Modern American Manners is full of friendly advice for business professionals, college students entering the workplace, and anyone needing a refresher course or an introduction to proper behavior.Trade Review“In this crazy world we live in, manners and etiquette have somehow become a lost art. This gap can make many people uncomfortable whether at home, with friends, or at a business meeting. Dr. Fred Mayo, Professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management, and Michael Gold, photographer extraordinaire with a lighthearted lens, have put together this fabulous book as a guide to help us all get back on track with a sensible, simple, concise, and fun approach.”—Kevin Zraly, internationally recognized wine expert and educator, creator of the Windows on the World Wine School, author of several books on wine, and recipient of the 2011 James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award“Modern American Manners: Dining Etiquette for Hosts and Guests by Fred Mayo and Michael Gold should be a required reading not only for students and young professionals, but for everyone. The book provides excellent pictures of the do’s and don’ts with thought-provoking information for people to use throughout their lives. In particular, the Manners in Business chapter is one of the most important sections for new and experienced professionals, reinforcing the importance of proper conduct in business settings, which many people have either forgotten or never learned.”—Joseph A. McInerney CHA, Emeritus President and Chief Executive Officer, American Hotel & Lodging Association“Remember those etiquette lessons your parents tried to teach you? Modern American Manners goes well beyond those teachings and provides invaluable information for those who like to throw a party and those who like to attend social gatherings. Best of all, the authors provide the information in a lighthearted and comical way.”—Dr. Dennis Reynolds, Barron Hilton Distinguished Chair and Dean, Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management, University of Houston“Good manners are essential for putting yourself—and others—at ease for every occasion. But where can you turn to learn the basics of proper etiquette, whether you are entertaining at home, socializing for work, selecting the proper hostess gift, or want to fine tune your conversation skills and be an enjoyable guest? Simply turn to the pages in Modern American Manners. Authors Fred Mayo and Michael Gold provide the essentials of contemporary manners with helpful tips for any social situation, all illustrated with Michael’s spot on, often humorous, photographs.”—Melanie Young, Host of The Connected Table LIVE!"I was once told that manners are the lubricant of social intercourse. This book is the modern guide to manners, etiquette, and polite behavior that our society needs. Fred Mayo and Michael Gold have created a clearly written and comprehensive book that covers every social and private situation that I can think of and details the way to behave in each situation. It also separates the polite from the rude. So much more than a list of ‘do's and don't's,’ this book explains and shows the ‘why's’ behind the ways we should act. It belongs in the hands of everyone who would have the world think well of them.”—Darrin Siegfried, President Emeritus, The Sommelier Society of America, Inc.“A comprehensive and fascinating book on American manners….The friendly style invites readers to consider how to be good guests and hosts. The chapter on entertaining and practicing manners in business settings is especially helpful. I recommend it to everyone who wants to know about how to enjoy dining with colleagues and friends.”—Professor Kaye Chon, Dean and Chair Professor, Walter Kwok Foundation Professor in International Hospitality Management , School of Hotel & Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University"A useful guide to navigating the often confusing—and always evolving—world of manners at today's dinner table. Among many things, it is a quiet plea to acknowledge civility at a time when we apparently need it most.”—James Oseland, former Editor-in-Chief of Saveur magazine, author of Cradle of Flavor and judge on Top Chef Masters“In this crazy world we live in, manners and etiquette have somehow become a lost art. This gap can make many people uncomfortable whether at home, with friends, or at a business meeting. Dr. Fred Mayo, Professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management, and Michael Gold, photographer extraordinaire with a lighthearted lens, have put together this fabulous book as a guide to help us all get back on track with a sensible, simple, concise, and fun approach.”—Kevin Zraly, internationally recognized wine expert and educator, creator of the Windows on the World Wine School, author of several books on wine, and recipient of the 2011 James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award“Modern American Manners: Dining Etiquette for Hosts and Guests by Fred Mayo and Michael Gold should be a required reading not only for students and young professionals, but for everyone. The book provides excellent pictures of the do’s and don’ts with thought-provoking information for people to use throughout their lives. In particular, the Manners in Business chapter is one of the most important sections for new and experienced professionals, reinforcing the importance of proper conduct in business settings, which many people have either forgotten or never learned.”—Joseph A. McInerney CHA, Emeritus President and Chief Executive Officer, American Hotel & Lodging Association“Remember those etiquette lessons your parents tried to teach you? Modern American Manners goes well beyond those teachings and provides invaluable information for those who like to throw a party and those who like to attend social gatherings. Best of all, the authors provide the information in a lighthearted and comical way.”—Dr. Dennis Reynolds, Barron Hilton Distinguished Chair and Dean, Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management, University of Houston“Good manners are essential for putting yourself—and others—at ease for every occasion. But where can you turn to learn the basics of proper etiquette, whether you are entertaining at home, socializing for work, selecting the proper hostess gift, or want to fine tune your conversation skills and be an enjoyable guest? Simply turn to the pages in Modern American Manners. Authors Fred Mayo and Michael Gold provide the essentials of contemporary manners with helpful tips for any social situation, all illustrated with Michael’s spot on, often humorous, photographs.”—Melanie Young, Host of The Connected Table LIVE!"I was once told that manners are the lubricant of social intercourse. This book is the modern guide to manners, etiquette, and polite behavior that our society needs. Fred Mayo and Michael Gold have created a clearly written and comprehensive book that covers every social and private situation that I can think of and details the way to behave in each situation. It also separates the polite from the rude. So much more than a list of ‘do's and don't's,’ this book explains and shows the ‘why's’ behind the ways we should act. It belongs in the hands of everyone who would have the world think well of them.”—Darrin Siegfried, President Emeritus, The Sommelier Society of America, Inc.“A comprehensive and fascinating book on American manners….The friendly style invites readers to consider how to be good guests and hosts. The chapter on entertaining and practicing manners in business settings is especially helpful. I recommend it to everyone who wants to know about how to enjoy dining with colleagues and friends.”—Professor Kaye Chon, Dean and Chair Professor, Walter Kwok Foundation Professor in International Hospitality Management , School of Hotel & Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University"A useful guide to navigating the often confusing—and always evolving—world of manners at today's dinner table. Among many things, it is a quiet plea to acknowledge civility at a time when we apparently need it most.”—James Oseland, former Editor-in-Chief of Saveur magazine, author of Cradle of Flavor and judge on Top Chef Masters

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Book SynopsisOffer praise at the altar of snarkiness!The lord of snark, Lawrence Dorfman, is back! With this treasury of backhanded compliments, sarcastic insults, and catty comebacks, Dorfman gives us transformative wisdom that’s sure to change your life—or at least induce a light chuckle.One question plagues us all: How do we survive all the Sturm und Drang of everyday life? The answer is but one word: snark.“She wears her clothes as if they were thrown on by a pitchfork.” —Jonathan Swift“Why don’t you get a haircut? You look like a chrysanthemum.” —P.G. Wodehouse“He’s a mental midget with the IQ of a fence post.” —Tom Waits“They hardly make ’em like him anymore—but just to be on the safe side, he should be castrated anyway.” —Hunter S. Thompson“He has a Teflon brain. . . . Nothing sticks.” —Lily Tomlin“He has no more backbone than a chocolate éclair.” —Theodore RooseveltSnark will keep the wolves at bay (or at least out on the porch). Snark, much like a double scotch, will help you deal with relatives, shopping, and rudeness; it is an outlet for the unleashed vitriolic bile that’s saved itself up over the months. Like a shield, it will protect you while you go about your life. Snark is your answer!

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Book SynopsisFor fans of Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Amy Schumer—and every other “funny woman”—comes a candid feminist comedy manifesto exploring the sisterhood between women’s comedy and women’s liberation.“I’m not funny at all. What I am is brave.” —Lucille BallFrom female pop culture powerhouses dominating the entertainment landscape to memoirs from today’s most vocal feminist comediennes shooting up the bestseller lists, women in comedy have never been more influential.Marking this cultural shift, The Girl in the Show provides an in-depth exploration of how comedy and feminism have grown hand in hand to give women a stronger voice in the ongoing fight for equality. From I Love Lucy to SNL to today’s rising cable and web-series stars, Anna Fields’ entertaining retrospective combines amusing and honest personal narratives with the historical, political, and cultural contexts of the feminist movement.With interview subjects like Abbi Jacobson, Molly Shannon, Mo Collins, and Lizz Winstead among others—as well as actresses, stand-up comics, writers, producers, and female comedy troupes—Fields shares true stories of wit and heroism from some of our most treasured (and under-represented) artists. At its heart, The Girl in the Show captures the urgency of our continued struggle towards equality, allowing the reader to both revel in—and rebel against—our collective ideas of “women’s comedy.”

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Book SynopsisLet’s face it: we’re not all leaders. Some of us were born to take orders, while others were destined to delegate. But the truth is: we are both shackled and empowered by a simple transaction: if the boss didn’t pay you, you probably wouldn’t turn up. And the sign of a true boss? The sublime and unwavering knowledge that they are in charge.Not all bosses handle being in charge in the same way, however. In How Bad Is Your Boss? you will find many questions to judge your boss’s approach and personality, including: Does your boss greet you for your appraisal with a comforting hot chocolate or a sneer? Does she steal the mic at post-work karaoke or is she happy to retain the role of supreme but aloof overseer? Is his style more simpering-puppy or hardline taskmaster?With How Bad Is Your Boss?, you will discover what lies beneath your boss’s managerial demeanor with a series of fun tests and activities to confirm whether your boss is secretly a real person.

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Book SynopsisLet’s face it: most people irritate us. Hexes for the Modern Age is a tongue-in-cheek approach to giving these folks a taste of their own medicine. While inspired by witches’ curses of the past, this is a gift book of 120 funny spells specific to the smartphone-obsessed, overworked, hipster-drenched reality of the present day. Organized by category—love, work, roommates, traffic, pets, weddings, and so on—each hex is accompanied by an irreverent, Demetri Martin–type line drawing. Spells include: “May you start turning into your parents way earlier than you expected.” “May all the cords to your electronics become entangled in a massive death coil.” “May a full-size parking space that appears to be open actually be taken up by a tiny Vespa scooter.” “May you always have 3 percent phone battery when you have no idea where you’re going and it’s in the middle of nowhere and there’s no one else around.” And many, many more! This little book, with a spell and an illustration on every page, is perfect for anyone who wants some subtle modern-day revenge.Trade Review“Yes, it’s insightful. Yes, it’s funny. But most importantly, Hexes for a Modern Age explains a lot. I now know that the frequent and frustrating mishaps that shape my life are no accident . . .” —Ellis Rosen, New Yorker cartoonist and cartoon editor for Blunderbuss magazine “Genius! [This] book provides a busy modern woman like me with quick and easy hexes for every irritating person in my life. I have tried a few of them already and am very pleased with the results.” —Lydia Ortiz, illustrator for Teen Vogue and cat hoarder “With her witty and unreasonably effective debut tome, Val cements her status as everybody’s go-to sorceress. Toss your voodoo doll, you’ll never be at a loss for vengeance again.” —Gaia Cornwall, writer and illustrator of Jabari Jumps and gal-about-town “Spot on and hilarious. If I were good with hexes, I’d cast one on Val so she’d forget she wrote this and I could take it to my agent.” —David Ostow, award-winning illustrator of So Punk Rock (and Other Ways to Disappoint Your Mother) "Revenge is a dish best served through these hilarious curses—topless selfies sent to the wrong person, or one lone pube found on your bar of soap. What are you waiting for? Make your shit list actionable!" —Rachel Federman, author of Test Your Dog's IQ:Genius Edition“Yes, it’s insightful. Yes, it’s funny. But most importantly, Hexes for a Modern Age explains a lot. I now know that the frequent and frustrating mishaps that shape my life are no accident . . .” —Ellis Rosen, New Yorker cartoonist and cartoon editor for Blunderbuss magazine “Genius! [This] book provides a busy modern woman like me with quick and easy hexes for every irritating person in my life. I have tried a few of them already and am very pleased with the results.” —Lydia Ortiz, illustrator for Teen Vogue and cat hoarder “With her witty and unreasonably effective debut tome, Val cements her status as everybody’s go-to sorceress. Toss your voodoo doll, you’ll never be at a loss for vengeance again.” —Gaia Cornwall, writer and illustrator of Jabari Jumps and gal-about-town “Spot on and hilarious. If I were good with hexes, I’d cast one on Val so she’d forget she wrote this and I could take it to my agent.” —David Ostow, award-winning illustrator of So Punk Rock (and Other Ways to Disappoint Your Mother) "Revenge is a dish best served through these hilarious curses—topless selfies sent to the wrong person, or one lone pube found on your bar of soap. What are you waiting for? Make your shit list actionable!" —Rachel Federman, author of Test Your Dog's IQ:Genius Edition

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Book SynopsisEver wondered whether it’s okay to touch your pet turtle? Share a bed with your pet boa constrictor? Or kiss your adorable cat? Have no fear. No longer will you have to delete your Internet history because you don’t want anyone to know you searched such a seemingly silly subject. Is It Safe to Kiss My Cat: And Other Questions You Were Afraid to Ask is here with answers to these questions about turtles, snakes, and cats, plus more than 150 others on how to stay safe in a complex world. Each entry in the book's six sections is filled with fun facts and logical information pertaining to possible problems with animals, food, health, and (almost) everything else—from cell phones to thunderstorms. In short, bestselling author Carol Ann Rinzler offers a sensible guide to some of life’s most challenging moments that every careful human should have on hand. Filled with fun, witty, and informative quips and tips, Is It Safe to Kiss My Cat is the go-to resource for those yearning to learn the answers to life’s toughest questions.

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Book SynopsisWait, I know what you’re thinking. You may feel you don’t have a spare minute to take a shower, let alone conduct elaborate psychometric tests on your mewling newborn bundle of love (and constant diaper changes). But with Test Your Baby's IQ, all the hard work has been done for you. You need only stay awake long enough to monitor your Mini-Me as they navigate life on the outside. Is little Emma more likely to munch her crayons or create a Modernist masterpiece? Do precious Oliver’s gurgles sound more bebop than Beethoven? Does the old “spoon as airplane” line do the trick, or does baby Noah demand the exact nutritional content before considering his next spoon of mush? With Test Your Baby’s IQ, discover more about what lies beneath those coos and squeals with a series of fun tests and activities to confirm whether your baby really is an undiscovered genius.

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Book Synopsis Timely follow-up to Test Your Cat's IQ: Genius Edition and Test Your Dog's IQ: Genius Edition Unique quiz approach to popular genre of baby humor books Great gift potential for expecting and new parents: entertaining approach and illustrations throughout

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Book SynopsisPerfect gift for the literate snark in your life! The timeless wit of Dorothy Parker, Robert Benchley, and other Algonquin Round Table members all in one volume! Contemporary cover to revitalize interest and attract new audiences.

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Book SynopsisChew on this. As humans, we have a deep need to believe . . . a need to relate to something greater and more ideal than ourselves. Perhaps that’s why so many millions believe in Dog. Man’s devotion to Dog has come to rival the great -isms and -ologies of the world. This thing has gone way beyond a hobby.We may not literally worship dogs, but we come pawfully close. This rabid reverence for Rover has a name: Dogtology. Dogtology is for the dog lover who has bailed on a date because they didn’t want Twinkles to be left home alone. It is for the human whose dog owns a more festive holiday wardrobe than they do, whose pups dine on free-range bison burgers while they live off ramen, or whose smartphones have more photos of their dog than of the humans in their family. In this sacred dogtrine, the case is made that Dogtology has become a bone-a-fide belief system on par with the world’s great philosophies and religions.Trade Review“I think the concept of Dogtology is as fresh and unique as Chicken Soup for the Soul was two decades ago.” —Jack Canfield, cocreator, Chicken Soup for the Soul series

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Book SynopsisHave you ever wished you could receive a little guidance from your favorite book boyfriend? Ever dreamed of being the Chosen One in a YA novel? Want to know all the secrets of surviving the dreaded plot twist? Or maybe you're just really confused about what "opal-tinted, luminous cerulean orbs" actually are?Well, popular Twitter personality @broodingYAhero is here to help as he tackles the final frontier in his media dominance: writing a book. Join Broody McHottiepants as he attempts to pen Brooding YA Hero: Becoming a Main Character (Almost) as Awesome as Me, a "self-help" guide (with activities--you always need activities) that lovingly pokes fun at the YA tropes that we roll our eyes at, but secretly love. As his nefarious ex, Blondie DeMeani, attempts to thwart him at every turn, Broody overcomes to detail, among other topics, how to choose your genre, how to keep your love interest engaged (while maintaining lead character status), his secret formula for guaranteed love triangle success, and how to make sure you secure that sequel, all while keeping his hair perfectly coiffed and never breaking a sweat.Trade Review“Readers—and authors—will swoon and raise a perfectly arched and knowing eyebrow at this clever confection, narrated by an egotistical main character, about writing the perfect main character. With a tongue-in-cheek look at YA tropes, writers are subtly encouraged to expand the genre in a way that is more clever, more subtle, and more inclusive. I would tell you more, but Broody and I are about to meet-cute in an epilogue.” —Jodi Picoult, New York Times bestselling author of Small Great Things and Between the Lines "I smiled, I laughed, and I might have swooned! A brilliant combination of humor and clever insights. If you’re looking for entertainment or writing a young adult novel, you need to read this book." –Stephanie Garber, New York Times bestselling author of Caraval "Hilarious and sneakily, cheekily feminist in the best way. I'm gifting a copy to every YA reader in my life." —Sandhya Menon, New York Times bestselling author of When Dimple Met Rishi "Whether brooding snarkily, brooding soulfully, or brooding with a side of melodramatic backstory, Brooding YA Hero embodies everything I love—and love to hate—about the bad boys of young adult literature." —Jessica Cluess, author of A Shadow Bright and Burning "The sentences are quippy and quotable, and the characters are laugh-out-loud hilarious but that's all just trapping to a truly thought-provoking and challenging satire on the books we love, the books we hate and the books we love to hate." —Laura Lee Anderson, author of Song of Summer "DiRisio brings her @broodingYAhero Twitter persona to the page in this insidery faux manual “written” by Broody McHottiepants, the sort of dangerously attractive love interest who can be “found in all your favorite books.” After the prologue leaves Broody without work—“There are so many other stories to tell, Broody,” an all-powerful Author tells him. “You don’t need to star in all of them”—he sets out to instruct readers on how to grab the spotlight like him, highlighting an array of character types, techniques, and tropes (“If you’re a supernatural creature, try to find a girl who has no idea of her destiny and obsessively follow her around,” he suggests in a section about meeting one’s love interest). An equally recognizable villain, Blondie DeMeani—Broody’s ex-girlfriend—makes appearances, letting DiRisio show another side to this oft-seen archetype: might Blondie be more than just perfect hair and eye rolls? Amid all of the self-referential, self-obsessed silliness, DiRisio nods toward the forward momentum of YA literature, which is slowly but surely moving away from the familiar heteronormative relationships, predictable clichés, overused tropes, and overwhelming whiteness." —Publishers Weekly "A clever, tongue-in-cheek novel that will appeal to teens with a disdain for the formulaic. A good choice for YA shelves or where satire is popular." —School Library Journal "A satirical look at the world of the male hero in young-adult literature . . . In short, subheaded chapters that address the audience directly, he does so, hitting on some funny moments that are also critically insightful. —Kirkus Reviews“Readers—and authors—will swoon and raise a perfectly arched and knowing eyebrow at this clever confection, narrated by an egotistical main character, about writing the perfect main character. With a tongue-in-cheek look at YA tropes, writers are subtly encouraged to expand the genre in a way that is more clever, more subtle, and more inclusive. I would tell you more, but Broody and I are about to meet-cute in an epilogue.” —Jodi Picoult, New York Times bestselling author of Small Great Things and Between the Lines "I smiled, I laughed, and I might have swooned! A brilliant combination of humor and clever insights. If you’re looking for entertainment or writing a young adult novel, you need to read this book." –Stephanie Garber, New York Times bestselling author of Caraval "Hilarious and sneakily, cheekily feminist in the best way. I'm gifting a copy to every YA reader in my life." —Sandhya Menon, New York Times bestselling author of When Dimple Met Rishi "Whether brooding snarkily, brooding soulfully, or brooding with a side of melodramatic backstory, Brooding YA Hero embodies everything I love—and love to hate—about the bad boys of young adult literature." —Jessica Cluess, author of A Shadow Bright and Burning "The sentences are quippy and quotable, and the characters are laugh-out-loud hilarious but that's all just trapping to a truly thought-provoking and challenging satire on the books we love, the books we hate and the books we love to hate." —Laura Lee Anderson, author of Song of Summer "DiRisio brings her @broodingYAhero Twitter persona to the page in this insidery faux manual “written” by Broody McHottiepants, the sort of dangerously attractive love interest who can be “found in all your favorite books.” After the prologue leaves Broody without work—“There are so many other stories to tell, Broody,” an all-powerful Author tells him. “You don’t need to star in all of them”—he sets out to instruct readers on how to grab the spotlight like him, highlighting an array of character types, techniques, and tropes (“If you’re a supernatural creature, try to find a girl who has no idea of her destiny and obsessively follow her around,” he suggests in a section about meeting one’s love interest). An equally recognizable villain, Blondie DeMeani—Broody’s ex-girlfriend—makes appearances, letting DiRisio show another side to this oft-seen archetype: might Blondie be more than just perfect hair and eye rolls? Amid all of the self-referential, self-obsessed silliness, DiRisio nods toward the forward momentum of YA literature, which is slowly but surely moving away from the familiar heteronormative relationships, predictable clichés, overused tropes, and overwhelming whiteness." —Publishers Weekly "A clever, tongue-in-cheek novel that will appeal to teens with a disdain for the formulaic. A good choice for YA shelves or where satire is popular." —School Library Journal "A satirical look at the world of the male hero in young-adult literature . . . In short, subheaded chapters that address the audience directly, he does so, hitting on some funny moments that are also critically insightful. —Kirkus Reviews

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Book SynopsisFriends, neighbors, and passersby from all over the country can’t fail to miss “The Sign’s" constantly changing humor and insight. On occasion, The Sign of the Apocalypse (SOTA) traffics in the earnest, but at its heart is rooted in a deep-seated desire to express the sarcastic and snort-worthy. This, and a love of haiku, pizza, Latin, double entendre, and the worst puns ever crafted. Two years in the making, the message on “The Sign” is changed on a daily basis, with the primary benefit of slowing passing traffic to a honking crawl. It was designed to convey pithy tidbits of thought and wordplay. In its conception, SOTA was perpetrated in spite of the objection of the author's girlfriend, and with hopes of creating controversy and dismay in the local community. The girlfriend packed up and left, and the community and town fathers were surprisingly gruntled by the proceedings. Punny and sarcastic signs include: •When attacked by a gang of clowns, go for the juggler •What if doing the hokey pokey really is what it’s all about? •Legalize marinara •A penny saved is ridiculous •Wendy, please take me back / I’m so miserable / it’s almost like / you’re still here

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Book SynopsisHaving trouble finding things to talk about with people? Feeling awkward amidst a tense moment or gap in conversation? Do you need some comic relief? Good news: Your arduous search for the holy giggle ends with this book. Have You Heard the One About . . . includes over 480 pages of gut-busting jokes and amusing anecdotes that readers can memorize and add to their conversational repertoire. These jokes, with their charming wit and large variety of subject matter, are sure to get a chuckle from even the most miserable human-beings! So grab a copy with Have You Heard the One About . . . , it’s the perfect humor reference to study before any party or occasion, or when you feel the need for a good hoot or a ha-ha. Start filling the room with laughter today.

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Book Synopsis• Great new gifty cover • Perfect Valentine’s Day gift for single women • Imogen Lloyd Webber, is an author and political commentator. She has appeared on MSNBC, Fox News, Vogue and other prominent media outlets. She is also the daughter of Andrew Lloyd Webber. • “A wry, witty look at the predicament of the modern day woman” —The Sunday TimesTrade Review“A wry, witty look at the predicament of the modern-day woman” —The Sunday Times

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Book Synopsis"In this autobiographical collection of thoughtful and poignant comic vignettes, Chisholm explores her experiences with depression, anxiety, and love ." —BooklistJust Peachy is a comic series that explores what the day-to-day is like with depression and/or anxiety. The all-too-real cartoon protagonist gives readers a character to empathize with, and helps explain some of the not often talked about consequences and symptoms of having depression. The comics also explore the themes of heartbreak, finding love, dealing with stress, and capturing the magical moments in life that keep us going.Through dark humor and cute illustrations, the subject matter becomes a bit more bearable, allowing for honest discussion about things like treatment and getting through anxiety attacks, and providing some comfort in times of struggle.For anyone affected by mental illness, Just Peachy shows that you are not alone. Simply put, this is an encouraging collection of comics about being just okay sometimes.“So brave of Holly Chisholm to share her struggles with mental health issues through this creative medium. Just Peachy will inspire others to connect to, navigate through, and recover from their own day-to-day trials and tribulations of living with a mental illness. Well done!” —Dr. Carlin Barnes and Dr. Marketa Wills, authors of Understanding Mental Illness and founders of Healthy Mind MDsTrade Review"Chisholm’s graphic memoir about her battle to overcome panic and gloom is told with an almost adorably cute sadness . . . This is a sweet-natured, guardedly optimistic handbook for working through the bad times with an occasional well-earned laugh." —Publishers Weekly "Just Peachy offers a delightful commiseration on the human condition. It is cheerfully conspiratorial for those who share the author's plight. It laughs in the face of existential dread. A scrumptious treat made by a confectioner of emotional distress.​" —Emily Niland & Coree Spencer, authors of I'm Not Okay, You're Not Okay “So brave of Holly Chisholm to share her struggles with mental health issues through this creative medium. Just Peachy will inspire others to connect to, navigate through, and recover from their own day-to-day trials and tribulations of living with a mental illness. Well done!” —Dr. Carlin Barnes and Dr. Marketa Wills, authors of Understanding Mental Illness and founders of Healthy Mind MDs "A compilation of comics filled with cute drawings and funny expressions. Just Peachy offers an honest and courageous view into vulnerable topics that are sure to resonate with readers." —Dante Fabiero, author of Slothilda: Living the Sloth Life "In this autobiographical collection of thoughtful and poignant comic vignettes, Chisholm explores her experiences with depression, anxiety, and love . . . This graphic novel will provide comfort and information to both those who are dealing with similar issues or those who know someone who is." —Booklist

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Book SynopsisFrom best-selling author and illustrator Ron Barrett, who forecasted the weather in the classic picture book, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, now predicts how —thanks to climate change and other unpleasantries — the world will end!Though some might call these lists "fake news" (we're looking at you, Donald), these lists are compiled and culled from the world's most credible authorities like NASA, the UN, and the Union of Concerned Scientists. But coupled with darkly humorous illustrations, you'll be laughing your way all the way down in our race toward the bottom!Find out the: Top 10 species we'll lose to climate change Top 10 avalanches mostly caused by global warming Top 10 climate change deniers Top 10 times we almost had a nuclear war Top 10 things that will happen when the Yellowstone Supervolcano erupts Top 10 ways to try to stop an asteroid and many more!

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Book SynopsisThe third installment in Sam Miserendino and Mike Odum's Addicted Animal Series, If You Give a Kitty a Cocktail is a children's book for former children. Following the success of other adult-themed parodies of children's books, author Sam Miserendino presents a delightful tale that will entertain readers with its charming combination of innocence

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Book SynopsisDonald Trump Says Mullets Are Back, and They're Gonna Be YUGE! First it was The Mueller Report, and now, finally, the long-awaited Mullet Report is here, with all the shocking photos you've been waiting for.Long mullets, curly mullets, orange mullets . . . it's all here, with as few redactions as possible (without compromising national security and ongoing investigations). Robert Mueller investigated Russian collusion, but Ronald Redaktor will let you in on the secrets of the Hair Investigation. Find out about hair dumping and hacking operations, and decide for yourself if there was any brushin' collusion.Donald Trump's hair has long been the subject of intense scrutiny. We've heard a lot about obstruction of justice. Well, what is he hiding up there? Is it detachable? Why is it orange? In response, Trump has launched his own #MulletStyle campaign, which in itself has become the subject of conspiracy theories and in-depth investigation. Now you can separate fact from alternative fact with this newly released and highly anticipated Mullet Report.

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Book SynopsisPublished in cooperation with the American Library Association, an insider's look at one of the most prevalent, yet commonly misunderstood institutions! Here is the good, the bad, and the ugly of librarian William Ottens' experience working behind service desks and in the stacks of public libraries, most recently at the Lawrence Public Library in Kansas. In Librarian Tales, published in cooperation with the American Library Association, readers will learn about strange things librarians have found in book drops, weird and obscure reference questions, the stress of tax season, phrases your local librarians never want to hear, stories unique to children's librarians, and more. Ottens uncovers common pet peeves among his colleagues, addresses misguided assumptions and stereotypes, and shares several hilarious stories along the way. This book is must reading for any librarian, or anyone who loves books and libraries, though non-library folks will also laugh and cry (from laughing) while reading this lighthearted analysis of your local community pillar, the library.

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Book SynopsisMost people love cats. They’re fluffy, playful, and can be a joy to have as a companion. However, they can also be huge assholes. So what can you do? How do you deal with a roommate who always seems to be plotting to kill you? While we all love sharing adorable photos of kittens, these frisky felines are known more for marching to the beat of their own drum than abiding by the rules. From running around your home at two in the morning, knocking everything off your shelves, or taking up most of your bed, these furry critters can be immensely selfish and disrespectful to those who give them endless love and affection.Why Cats Are Assholes is up for such a challenge. From studying their history all the way back to ancient Egypt, comedian Liz Miele—the daughter of veterinarians—digests the cat psyche to try and understand why they do the things they do, and how we, as their loyal servants, can handle domestic bliss with them around. With the help of her cat Pasta, Miele breaks down the common behaviors of cats in an attempt to try and better understand their plan of attack (if there is one), as well as what we can do to better prepare ourselves. Whether you have one, two, or twelve fur babies, Why Cats Are Assholes is the ultimate guide to better understanding your pet’s behavior while taking back your home from these domesticated terrorists.Trade Review“Liz Miele is hilarious, she’s brilliant, and she’s taken more pictures of my cats than I’ve taken of my kids. Take a look inside this book and you’ll see why I always invite her on stage with me on my book tours: she KILLS. I never knew cats were accused of murdering babies until I met Liz, and I’ve never met anyone else who could make that a punchline.” —Christopher McDougall, bestselling author of Born to Run and Running with Sherman “I was mere seconds into my friend Liz Miele's Why Cats Are Assholes, when I was interrupted by my cat Michaeleen, who thought biting my feet would add a 3D life-imitates-art element to the reading experience. Why Cats Are Assholes is perfect for people who don't really think cats are assholes, but sort of understand how Liz came up with the title.” —Todd Barry, comedian and author of Thank You for Coming to Hattiesburg "If you have a toxic relationship with your cat, which you do, this book will be a huge help. Liz is hilarious, insightful, and informative!" —Jim Tews, comedian and author of Felines of New York "Liz Miele wrote this hilarious/tough love/love letter to cats and if you've ever had a pet, you'll adore it and the art by Chelsea Trousdale. It is a warm, furry hug in book form." —AJ Mendez, author of Crazy Is My Superpower "Not only is this a very funny book, but there's a surprising amount of cat science in it. I didn't even know they could hold a test tube." —Paula Poundstone, comedian and author of The Totally Unscientific Study of the Search for Human Happiness

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