After reading other reviews I have to defend Shannon Olson's writing and her character. Some reviewers thought Shanny, the main character, had no reason for being depressed. I did not know someone coming from a rich family with an education could not be depressed. I believe depression has no boundaries. Others thought it was difficult to follow. If I can't follow the story I usually blame myself not the author. I loved the great read that it was.

...or at the very least that she wasn't writing about me. My mom first read this book when I was in college - she told me about it and said it reminded her of me. I said, mom, I'm not in my late 20's. Ha - like that made a difference, and as years go by I identify even more. I LOVE this book, it is so honest and true, and funny and wonderful. This book has made me laigh so hard that I snorted and cry through half a box of tissues. I have this book earmarked, highlighted and underlined and won't even lend it to anyone - I'll just buy them one or make them go out and by it themselves, because my copy is precious. From her quirky, smart, but depressive self, to her adorable mother who, although wonderful, can drive her up the wall, to her ex-boyfriends and her dysfunctional realtionships, to her career and education which can be confusing and frustrating, to her ongoing depression, sometimes debilitating, and to her honest and slowly productive but snarky relationship with her therapist - this book is just the best. And that's a good place to begin.

Shannon Olson's autobiographical novel is a sided-splitting yet tender story of a Gen X daughter who, a supposedly mature 30-year-old, returns home to live with mom and dad because she can't handle her finances, her job, her relationships, in fact most of her life, and who wants others "to take care of her" while she hides from life by living through the "Love Boat" or engaging in other distractions. Her relationship with her mother Flo is beautifully crafted, and reflects a dominating narcissistic mother figure who the daughter "Shanny" attempts to emulate, but usually fails. The book, broken into bite-sized snippets from Shanny's life, is a must-read for every Gen Xer, every parent of a Gen Xer or those who just want a very funny, very real story about human life, love and frailty.

This book is awesome and funny. She really relates to single and taken women. Her mother is a hoot, and really gives the book a lot of personality. If you read this book, you are going to want to read her following book
"Children of god go bowling"
She plays a great character in this book, and an even better one in the other book.
Happy reading

When I went into the public library, I didn't expect to find such a hip, funny, familiar book. I really love how personal Shannon gets in this book. She's honest, funny, and has some very legitimate life struggles. Whether you are 18 or 38 you can appreciate what she has to say. I often laugh out loud because she is just that funny... or has a knack with wording her ideas. Anyways, get this book and you might be pleasantly surprised. Especially if you like authors like Amy Rosenthal. =]