Josh Bokor

“Born Standing Up” is a solid, well written debut memoir from the stand-up comedy legend Steve Martin. It's quite short and to the point at around 200 pages total but Martin does a great job covering his massive rise to fame and decision to step away from performing stand-up and pivoting to film. It could've been a bit meatier, that's my only complaint.

Let me be clear: this is a four star or potentially five star book. I'm giving this three stars because if you've heard the majority of Jim Gaffigan's standup material like I have, then you've pretty much already read this book. This book is still enjoyable to read, especially since it's been awhile since I've watched a standup special from Jim. But if you're not familiar with Jim's standup, then this read would be best experienced this way. But also... it'd be much more enjoyable if you listened to this book as an audiobook narrated by Jim himself or if you just simply watch his classic standup specials. Jim's one of my favorite comedians of all time and his many takes on food are simply a must if you aren't familiar with them.

I was introduced to this book out of a recommendation and decided to listen to this one as an audiobook. Ruiz's methodology and the “Four Agreements” themselves are definitely something I agree with for the most part. What I got the most out of this book is the idea of believing and trusting in oneself, not caring about what others think and to live in the present and drop the weight of the past and future. I'm very happy I chose the audiobook version because I'm not sure I could sit through reading this one from start to finish. The writing is too oversimplified and repetitive for me to read a full book on, while even the audiobook was tough to listen to due to the narrator's slowed down approach as if the reader is 5 years old. Despite this, I appreciate the themes and what the author is ultimately getting at towards the reader. A little bit too new agey for me, yes, but if you can take something positive out of this book, such as living to your best and living in the moment while dropping all the weight of self doubt, then that's the only accomplishment you need from this book.

I absolutely loved this book. Trevor is a fantastic story teller. Each story I find to be enveloping and enthralling. There's heartbreak, love, hilarity, devastation. All the emotions are here. Everyone should read this book. I don't care if you're into memoirs or not, you gotta read this. I have even more respect for Trevor Noah now that I'm aware about this harrowing upbringing through his childhood/young adult years. It is also a fantastic ode to his fearless, hilarious and loving mother. I'm so glad to be more aware of Apartheid in South Africa now. I feel like a moron for not knowing enough but at least I feel a little less like a moron now.

This one's for the geeks and I loved it. This book is super immersive, as if you're actually in the world that the author has created. The story is great and I appreciate Cline's massive attention to detail in his writing. It's a great nod to the classic nostalgia from 80's pop culture and a truly fun read for any gamer or sci-fi fan out there.