Title: It Looked Different on the Model: Epic Tales of Impending Shame and Infamy
Author: Laurie Notaro
First published July 26, 2011
240 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780345510990 (ISBN10: 0345510992)
Rating: 3.77
Overview
Laurie Notaro, the beloved Idiot Girl, is back with more hilarious tales of her misadventures in It Looked Different on the Model: Epic Tales of Impending Shame and Infamy. From struggling to fit into a blouse that looked perfect on the mannequin to public embarrassment at a holiday party, Notaro shares her relatable mishaps with marriage and family.
You’ll laugh out loud as she tells of the dog-bark translator that’s a little too accurate and the emails from her mother that predict the end of the world. With her trademark humor and candid storytelling, Notaro takes readers on a journey that’s both sidesplitting and unforgettable.
About the Author
Laurie Notaro has achieved great success as a writer and has even made it onto the prestigious New York Times best-seller list.
Editoral Review
Laurie Notaro’s “It Looked Different on the Model: Epic Tales of Impending Shame and Infamy” is a hilarious and relatable memoir that explores the author’s life experiences in a unique and witty way. First published on July 26, 2011, the book belongs to the memoir genre, and it stands out for its casual writing style, humor, and candid tone.
Notaro is an American humorist, writer, and New York Times bestselling author of multiple novels and memoirs. In “It Looked Different on the Model,” she shares her personal stories of embarrassing moments, awkward situations, and unexpected turns of events that she faced at different stages of her life.
The book follows the author’s journey from her childhood in Phoenix, Arizona, to her current life in Eugene, Oregon. Notaro describes her experiences growing up in a dysfunctional family, dealing with body image issues, working various odd jobs, traveling, and surviving chronic health problems.
She narrates her stories with funny anecdotes and self-deprecating humor, which makes it easy for readers to connect with her and laugh along with her misfortunes. The humor in the book is not only entertaining but also serves as a coping mechanism for Notaro as she deals with difficult situations such as a cancer diagnosis.
She reflects on her experiences in a way that makes the reader empathize with her, even as they laugh. Through her stories, Notaro sheds light on societal pressures, gender roles, and body image expectations, making her book timely and relevant.
Despite its humorous tone, “It Looked Different on the Model” also raises poignant issues such as grief, loss, and acceptance. Notaro’s writing embodies a mix of vulnerability and strength that encourages readers to embrace their own vulnerabilities and find the courage to face life’s challenges head-on.
On a critical note, the book lacks a structured plot, and some stories seem disconnected, resulting in a disjointed flow of narration. However, it doesn’t detract from Notaro’s honest and entertaining storytelling.
Moreover, while the book is labeled as a memoir, some of the stories feel too exaggerated or embellished, leaving readers to question their truthfulness. Overall, “It Looked Different on the Model” is a witty and relatable memoir that will make readers laugh, cry and cringe.
It’s an easy read that provides a light-hearted escape from everyday life, while also bringing awareness to important societal issues. Fans of memoir and humor will enjoy this book, as well as those looking for a little light in darker times.
Rating: 3.5/5
