I am a huge fan of standup comedy; I go to many shows of both famous and not-so-famous comics, watch specials and clips, and read many of their memoirs. Gary Gulman is one comic that has been on my radar, his skit on state abbreviations is one of the all-time classics. So I was really looking forward to “Misfit: Growing Up Awkward in the '80s”, his new book. This book is many things, but unfortunately (for me anyway) the one thing it isn’t is funny.

The book starts with Mr. Gulman’s current attempts at recovering from his psychological issues, dealing with depression, and his resulting move back into his mother’s house as he struggles with his mental health. He then takes us through his childhood, school year by school year, starting with first grade (which he repeated at his dad’s insistence) and ending with high school. Along the way we learn about his parent’s divorce, his struggles with making (and keeping) friends, his attempts at sports (mostly basketball with a little bit of football as he got older), his feelings about being Jewish, and finally dealing with first love and heartache. In between each chapter we get a short glimpse at his recovery progress in the current day.

Mr. Gulman has a great memory and his recollections are poignant, wistful, melancholic, but for the most part they are somewhat depressing with very little humor interspersed. That’s great for a typical memoir about growing up awkward, but I guess I expected more comedy. I wish Mr. Gulman a complete recovery, and I still enjoy his standup. But this book just wasn’t aligned with my expectations.

I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Flatiron Books via NetGalley. Thank you!

I enjoyed this book but the chapters set in present day were too short. It was an interesting look at the development of someone with depression and anxiety. The parts in italics where he revealed his thoughts was enlightening and relatable. I would love to learn more about the recovery process though

Years ago, Gary Gulman made me laugh as a contestant on Last Comic Standing. I was surprised to read the galley for his book- I hadn’t realized the depth to which he struggled with mental health.

He’s as enjoyable a writer as he is a performer: Quick-witted, charming, and highly likable. I appreciate how he dove in to topics that many people are more comfortable pretending don’t exist. He felt like a friend, and I honestly missed “having him around” once I finished the book. Don’t miss this one- it’s terrific.

As a bonus, check out his appearance on Marc Maron’s podcast. He’s so honest you can’t help but feel tender.

Thank you to NetGalley and Flatiron Books for sharing an ARC. Highly enjoyed!

Comedian Gary Gilman has written an open honest look at his life his struggles with mental illness.He returns to his childhood home sharing with us hilarious episodes while he was growing up while trying to recover his mental health,.Entertaining real a book that I will be recommending.

This might be the most charming and witty memoir I've ever read. Gary is full of both in his standup, and it translates wonderfully on the page. This is a great book for those who know what it feels like to not fit in. Reading this felt like getting some life advice from the coolest uncle. It was also super fun, and I admire the bravery displayed when discussing his mental health journey.