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Why Don't You Write My Eulogy Now So I Can Correct It?: A Mother's Suggestions
The perfect Mother's Day gift: A collection of witty one-line advice New Yorker writer Patricia Marx heard from her mother, accompanied by full-color illustrations by New Yorker staff cartoonist Roz Chast.
Every mother knows best, but New Yorker writer Patty Marx's knows better. Patty has never been able to shake her mother's one-line witticisms from her brain, so she's collected them into a book, accompanied by full color illustrations by New Yorker staff cartoonist Roz Chast. These snappy maternal cautions include:
If you feel guilty about throwing away leftovers, put them in the back of your refrigerator for five days and then throw them out.
If you run out of food at your dinner party, the world will end.
When traveling, call the hotel from the airport to say there aren't enough towels in your room and, by the way, you'd like a room with a better view.
Why don't you write my eulogy now so I can correct it?
Every child will want to buy this for mom on Mother's Day!
Every mother knows best, but New Yorker writer Patty Marx's knows better. Patty has never been able to shake her mother's one-line witticisms from her brain, so she's collected them into a book, accompanied by full color illustrations by New Yorker staff cartoonist Roz Chast. These snappy maternal cautions include:
If you feel guilty about throwing away leftovers, put them in the back of your refrigerator for five days and then throw them out.
If you run out of food at your dinner party, the world will end.
When traveling, call the hotel from the airport to say there aren't enough towels in your room and, by the way, you'd like a room with a better view.
Why don't you write my eulogy now so I can correct it?
Every child will want to buy this for mom on Mother's Day!
112 pages, Hardcover
First published April 2, 2019
60 people are currently reading
2170 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Marx
38 books87 followersPatricia Marx is an American humorist and writer.
Born in Abingdon, Pennsylvania, she earned her B.A. from Harvard University in 1975. Her writing has appeared in the The New York Times, The New Yorker, Vogue, and The Atlantic Monthly. Marx is a former writer for Saturday Night Live and Rugrats, and one of the first two women elected to the Harvard Lampoon.[1][2] She is the author of the 2007 novel, Him Her Him Again The End of Him, as well as several humor books and children's books (Meet My Staff, Now Everybody Really Hates Me, Now I Will Never Leave the Dinner Table).[3]
Born in Abingdon, Pennsylvania, she earned her B.A. from Harvard University in 1975. Her writing has appeared in the The New York Times, The New Yorker, Vogue, and The Atlantic Monthly. Marx is a former writer for Saturday Night Live and Rugrats, and one of the first two women elected to the Harvard Lampoon.[1][2] She is the author of the 2007 novel, Him Her Him Again The End of Him, as well as several humor books and children's books (Meet My Staff, Now Everybody Really Hates Me, Now I Will Never Leave the Dinner Table).[3]
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 380 reviews
December 9, 2020
4.5 stars!
Her mother has saying for every situation - from the mundane to the highly specific - and all were absolutely hilarious.
Overall, I loved reading all of the advice - her mother was an absolute hoot.
One of my favorite parts is when Patricia Marx, second grade, decides to run away. Her mother helps her pack, preps a lunch and then says:
I do wish the book was a bit longer and had more quotes - they were so fun and I was sad when the book was over!
YouTube | Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat @miranda_reads
Patricia Marx's mother has always had advice aplenty to pass along to her daughter...and luckily, Patricia kept all of it.
Never do anything you can pay someone else to do
Her mother has saying for every situation - from the mundane to the highly specific - and all were absolutely hilarious.
If you feel guilty about throwing out leftovers, put them in the back of your refrigerator for five days and then throw them out.This short book combines all of Patricia's mother's advice with adorable illustrations by Roz Chast into one short and sweet handbook for life.
Overall, I loved reading all of the advice - her mother was an absolute hoot.
One of my favorite parts is when Patricia Marx, second grade, decides to run away. Her mother helps her pack, preps a lunch and then says:
"You can go anywhere you want," she told me, "as long as you don't cross the street."The drawings were really well done and brought life to the story. I loved the color and the style of the images!
I do wish the book was a bit longer and had more quotes - they were so fun and I was sad when the book was over!
My mother has no interest in the past other than regretting it.With thanks to the publisher for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
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May 8, 2022
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!
If you feel guilty about throwing out the leftovers, put them in the back of your refrigerator for five days and then throw them out.
it has been a long time since i have had a mother, and this is exactly the wrong time of year for me to be reading and reviewing a book celebrating that relationship, but when i was offered a copy of this book for review, i decided to THROW CAUTION TO THE WIND and so here we are.
it's a slight book, but funny and sweet. and although i am very susceptible right now to the feels, this book did not send me into the emotional tailspin i had feared it would, because although patricia marx’s mother is full of advice i never got: Never wear red and black together or you will look like a drum majorette.
(oops)
some of it is very useful, and roz chast’s drawings are a delight:
The only men who can get away with short-sleeved button-downs are butchers.
like all advice, some of it is worth heeding:
Some people like meat well done, but they are wrong.
and some of it needs to be sent packing:
You don’t need to spend much time in San Francisco. It’s all frosting and no cake.
everyone knows frosting > cake.
…don’t go overboard in the number of dishes you serve or your table will look like a Las Vegas buffet.
if you see how i handle thanksgiving-for-two, you know i’m not in agreement with this particular sentiment:
http://bloggycomelately.com/thanksgiv...
so, yeah, it’s just a teeny little gift book, but it’s one of those books perfect for gifting to all the mothers and children-of-mothers in your life, especially the booky ones:
If your book club chooses Absalom, Absalom!, that will be the end of your book club.
If you are writing a novel, I’ll tell you what to do: Don’t make it boring.
this is advice that patricia marx took to heart.
many thanks to celadon for sending the book and for not making me cry all over it!!
come to my blog!
If you feel guilty about throwing out the leftovers, put them in the back of your refrigerator for five days and then throw them out.
it has been a long time since i have had a mother, and this is exactly the wrong time of year for me to be reading and reviewing a book celebrating that relationship, but when i was offered a copy of this book for review, i decided to THROW CAUTION TO THE WIND and so here we are.
it's a slight book, but funny and sweet. and although i am very susceptible right now to the feels, this book did not send me into the emotional tailspin i had feared it would, because although patricia marx’s mother is full of advice i never got: Never wear red and black together or you will look like a drum majorette.
(oops)
some of it is very useful, and roz chast’s drawings are a delight:
The only men who can get away with short-sleeved button-downs are butchers.
like all advice, some of it is worth heeding:
Some people like meat well done, but they are wrong.
and some of it needs to be sent packing:
You don’t need to spend much time in San Francisco. It’s all frosting and no cake.
everyone knows frosting > cake.
…don’t go overboard in the number of dishes you serve or your table will look like a Las Vegas buffet.
if you see how i handle thanksgiving-for-two, you know i’m not in agreement with this particular sentiment:
http://bloggycomelately.com/thanksgiv...
so, yeah, it’s just a teeny little gift book, but it’s one of those books perfect for gifting to all the mothers and children-of-mothers in your life, especially the booky ones:
If your book club chooses Absalom, Absalom!, that will be the end of your book club.
If you are writing a novel, I’ll tell you what to do: Don’t make it boring.
this is advice that patricia marx took to heart.
many thanks to celadon for sending the book and for not making me cry all over it!!
come to my blog!
January 11, 2024
Too short--I wanted more! It inspired me to try to read THE TIN DRUM (Gunter Grass) again.
April 4, 2019
A fun little comedic interlude. A fun gift to give a mom who has a sense of humor, and one who loves to offer advice. A quick explanation of her dad, following s lengthier description of her mom. Then pages of colored illustrations highlighting advice or criticisms her mother has given her through the year.
"If you use "me" or "him" in grammatically, people will think I did a bad job of bringing you up."
"Show me what you're going to wear to my funeral so I can let you know whether it's appropriate"
Many more, but some need to pictures for the full effect.
"If you use "me" or "him" in grammatically, people will think I did a bad job of bringing you up."
"Show me what you're going to wear to my funeral so I can let you know whether it's appropriate"
Many more, but some need to pictures for the full effect.
May 1, 2019
This book is...so funny????
Last time I checked, I am a Cool Young Person. (Ignore the subjectivity of the first part.) My sense of humor is Weird Internet Stuff That Does Not Make Sense. So while I was excited about this book because it seems amusing, and also is short and has pictures (I am a child), I didn't think it'd be uproarious, or anything. I mean, it's grown ass woman stuff. It's New Yorker illustrations, for god's sake.
And everyone knows The New Yorker humor is releasing a refined, breathy chuckle from time to time over The Economy and The State Of Global Affairs. It's this:
Yes, I am six years old.
Anyway, all of that is beside the point because this book is genuinely, truly, release-a-puff-of-air-from-your-nostrils-because-people-don't-really-laugh-when-they're-alone funny.
It was way too short.
Bottom line: So fun. Read it in 20 minutes and ENJOY YOURSELF!!
(thanks to Celadon Books for the copy)
Last time I checked, I am a Cool Young Person. (Ignore the subjectivity of the first part.) My sense of humor is Weird Internet Stuff That Does Not Make Sense. So while I was excited about this book because it seems amusing, and also is short and has pictures (I am a child), I didn't think it'd be uproarious, or anything. I mean, it's grown ass woman stuff. It's New Yorker illustrations, for god's sake.
And everyone knows The New Yorker humor is releasing a refined, breathy chuckle from time to time over The Economy and The State Of Global Affairs. It's this:
Yes, I am six years old.
Anyway, all of that is beside the point because this book is genuinely, truly, release-a-puff-of-air-from-your-nostrils-because-people-don't-really-laugh-when-they're-alone funny.
It was way too short.
Bottom line: So fun. Read it in 20 minutes and ENJOY YOURSELF!!
(thanks to Celadon Books for the copy)
March 27, 2019
"Why Don't You Write My Eulogy Now So I Can Correct It?" A Mother's Suggestions by Patricia Marx is a book of one-line witticisms coined by Patricia's mother. "My mother is a wellspring of certainty about what you should do, say, wear, and believe."
"When traveling, call the hotel from the airport to say there aren't enough towels in your room and, by the way, you'd like a room with a better view"
"If you wear a white top with a black bottom to a party, you will be mistaken for the caterer."
"Resist the temptation to buy clothes on your skinniest day."
Author Patricia Marx has lovingly provided the witty text that is beautifully illustrated by Roz Chast. Grandmothers, mothers, aunts,sisters....would find this whimsical book to contain many giggles and chuckles!
Thank you Patricia Marx, Roz Chast and Celadon Books for the opportunity to read and review "Why Don't You Write My Eulogy Now So I Can Correct It?"
"When traveling, call the hotel from the airport to say there aren't enough towels in your room and, by the way, you'd like a room with a better view"
"If you wear a white top with a black bottom to a party, you will be mistaken for the caterer."
"Resist the temptation to buy clothes on your skinniest day."
Author Patricia Marx has lovingly provided the witty text that is beautifully illustrated by Roz Chast. Grandmothers, mothers, aunts,sisters....would find this whimsical book to contain many giggles and chuckles!
Thank you Patricia Marx, Roz Chast and Celadon Books for the opportunity to read and review "Why Don't You Write My Eulogy Now So I Can Correct It?"
June 4, 2022
What a wonderful book! Really needed this to kind of balance out some of the darker stuff I have been reading - love the art! It is scary when I think of how well my mother knows me; better than I know myself! My mom has little things she says to me that truly are amazing; things that are simple yet very deep. This book reminded me of that.
April 4, 2019
I pre-ordered this book because I like Roz Chast.
I used to read her cartoon/drawings in “The New Yorker”, forty-something years ago.
When Roz’s graphic memoir, “Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant”, came out in 2014... I was sure I had discovered the best graphic book on the planet. I still adore that book!!!
I was also sure ‘this’ $20 book would at least be almost as good as past books by Roz Chast.
I might have enjoyed this more in the dentists waiting room..... ( $20???)... I hope I at least made a donation to somebody.
It’s cute - it’s ok.
The drawings are terrific... but too small. (Roz Chast did the drawings... but she didn’t write the words).
The storytelling is fair. ( Patricia Marx wrote the words).
A few funnies about Patricia’s mother....
but this tiny pint size book - has average witty sarcasm - average humor - average emotional & intellectual nuances.
Some of it was cute - produces an occasional smile....
But overall, it was a little flat. Not enough pizzazz.
3 stars if reading a free copy.
I used to read her cartoon/drawings in “The New Yorker”, forty-something years ago.
When Roz’s graphic memoir, “Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant”, came out in 2014... I was sure I had discovered the best graphic book on the planet. I still adore that book!!!
I was also sure ‘this’ $20 book would at least be almost as good as past books by Roz Chast.
I might have enjoyed this more in the dentists waiting room..... ( $20???)... I hope I at least made a donation to somebody.
It’s cute - it’s ok.
The drawings are terrific... but too small. (Roz Chast did the drawings... but she didn’t write the words).
The storytelling is fair. ( Patricia Marx wrote the words).
A few funnies about Patricia’s mother....
but this tiny pint size book - has average witty sarcasm - average humor - average emotional & intellectual nuances.
Some of it was cute - produces an occasional smile....
But overall, it was a little flat. Not enough pizzazz.
3 stars if reading a free copy.
May 14, 2019
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
3.5 Stars
Celadon Books was kind enough to send me a review copy of this just in time for Mother’s Day. Now, if you know me, you know I’m an easy sell for books like this. My desk at home features ashrine selection for my former cats and dogs who made their way over the Rainbow Bridge and you’re all aware of my other hobby. Pretty much there’s a book for everything and I think these are great little bits of fun to give either solo or in addition to the ever-present “scented candle” . . . .
For the woman who pretty much already has everything but will publicly shame you for life if you forget to bring her a present (a/k/a your mother).
They also would make a great filler for those of you with questionable morals who have items like the following in your lives . . . .
Why Don’t You Write My Eulogy Now So I Can Correct It was exactly what it was supposed to be . . . .
But I’m telling you the Introduction was gold. Patricia Marx should write a full length comedic memoir if she hasn’t already done so.
Copy provided by Celadon Books in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Stars
Celadon Books was kind enough to send me a review copy of this just in time for Mother’s Day. Now, if you know me, you know I’m an easy sell for books like this. My desk at home features a
For the woman who pretty much already has everything but will publicly shame you for life if you forget to bring her a present (a/k/a your mother).
They also would make a great filler for those of you with questionable morals who have items like the following in your lives . . . .
Why Don’t You Write My Eulogy Now So I Can Correct It was exactly what it was supposed to be . . . .
But I’m telling you the Introduction was gold. Patricia Marx should write a full length comedic memoir if she hasn’t already done so.
Copy provided by Celadon Books in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2019
“Why Don’t you Write my Eulogy Now So I can Correct it?”
That’s the best joke in this book. Don’t bury the lead, they say. Or better yet, with jokes, start with your best joke, or one of them, and that is it.
I am not the primary audience for this book, perfect maybe for Mother’s Day, a series of written by Patricia Marx, who used to write for Saturday Night Live, among other things, and illustrated by Roz Chast, focused on Marx’s mother but dedicated to all sorts of (long-suffering, but bemused) daughters.
If you are, as I am, a fan of Chast, this is the central attraction of this book. Oh, Marx is pretty funny all right, and the cartoons she does with Chast are sometimes amusing, and it is a small book, which also makes it marketably inviting. But it feels uneven, beginning with some mom-funny autobiographical prose, then a bunch of cartoons, most of them smile-worthy. But see above, I’m a son, not a daughter. I bet it sells a lot of books to daughters. Is it Manhattan-centric? Totally, but that’s okay with me.
Here’s some more highlights of cartoon captions of what Marx’s mom is like and believes:
“If you run out of food at a dinner party, your world will end.”
“If your book club chooses Absalom, Absalom, this will be the end of your book club.”
“If you feel guilty about throwing out leftovers, push them to the back of the refrigerator and throw them out after five days.”
“Show me now what you are going to wear to my funeral so I can let you know if it is appropriate.”
“In retrospect I should have raised you in a warm and loving home.”
That’s the best joke in this book. Don’t bury the lead, they say. Or better yet, with jokes, start with your best joke, or one of them, and that is it.
I am not the primary audience for this book, perfect maybe for Mother’s Day, a series of written by Patricia Marx, who used to write for Saturday Night Live, among other things, and illustrated by Roz Chast, focused on Marx’s mother but dedicated to all sorts of (long-suffering, but bemused) daughters.
If you are, as I am, a fan of Chast, this is the central attraction of this book. Oh, Marx is pretty funny all right, and the cartoons she does with Chast are sometimes amusing, and it is a small book, which also makes it marketably inviting. But it feels uneven, beginning with some mom-funny autobiographical prose, then a bunch of cartoons, most of them smile-worthy. But see above, I’m a son, not a daughter. I bet it sells a lot of books to daughters. Is it Manhattan-centric? Totally, but that’s okay with me.
Here’s some more highlights of cartoon captions of what Marx’s mom is like and believes:
“If you run out of food at a dinner party, your world will end.”
“If your book club chooses Absalom, Absalom, this will be the end of your book club.”
“If you feel guilty about throwing out leftovers, push them to the back of the refrigerator and throw them out after five days.”
“Show me now what you are going to wear to my funeral so I can let you know if it is appropriate.”
“In retrospect I should have raised you in a warm and loving home.”
June 21, 2019
I will first thank Celadon Books for sending me a copy of this book. I appreciate them contacting me and sending me a physical copy of the book. It only saddens me I didn't like it more.
The book started out great, the author was telling stories of her growing up and her interactions with her mother. I was enjoying it. But it ended so abruptly. It then switched to one-liners words of wisdom she has collected from her mother. Each one was also accompanied by a drawing. For me, there was just not enough substance there. Had there been more stories included along with the one-liners, it would have worked better for me. I don't mean to be harsh, but I just didn't see the point of it. Very sorry.
I read a lot of reviews and people thought it would be a great mothers day gift. I dunno, it's probably me but I would not do that. Then again, I always buy plants for the 'mothers', which they love. But I understand people also enjoy reading and probably comparing notes on 'whacky' parents.
The book started out great, the author was telling stories of her growing up and her interactions with her mother. I was enjoying it. But it ended so abruptly. It then switched to one-liners words of wisdom she has collected from her mother. Each one was also accompanied by a drawing. For me, there was just not enough substance there. Had there been more stories included along with the one-liners, it would have worked better for me. I don't mean to be harsh, but I just didn't see the point of it. Very sorry.
I read a lot of reviews and people thought it would be a great mothers day gift. I dunno, it's probably me but I would not do that. Then again, I always buy plants for the 'mothers', which they love. But I understand people also enjoy reading and probably comparing notes on 'whacky' parents.
May 12, 2019
Happy Mother's Day!
I received a copy of this book from Celadon Books for an honest review and Mother's Day seems like the perfect day to post it!
This book is perfect for what it is.
And, what is it you ask?
You know when you go into a bookstore looking for a last minute gift for someone? Up near the front is a rack of smaller books that are either condensed versions of larger books or collections of wit and wisdom. They might answer any of the following questions:
- How can I de-stress my life?
- What is the best advice for a new graduate?
- What are the funny differences between men and women?
In this case, the question being asked is:
- What sort of humorous wisdom might you get from a cynical but well-meaning mother?
I read this entire book in 15 minutes, so it would definitely fit into the "quick little gift" category. And, I am sorry to say that I am not sure it is worth the cover price.
It is probably best described as the sister companion to Sh*t My Dad Says. The format is one comic every two pages representing a nugget of wisdom from the author's mother. Before the comics, there is a fairly long intro from the author (long, based on the rest of the book - it probably took me twice as long it read it). I have read other short, humorous books where this didn't bother me quite as much. I think the reason for this is that it is obvious there is only about 20 pages of content here and they fluffed it up to make it a 100 page book.
So, while it is funny and, again, perfect for a last minute gift, stocking stuffer, etc. for your mom (especially if you have a comedic relationship with her), it is just way too short. Really, reading the Sunday Comics will take you longer and are a lot less expensive!
I received a copy of this book from Celadon Books for an honest review and Mother's Day seems like the perfect day to post it!
This book is perfect for what it is.
And, what is it you ask?
You know when you go into a bookstore looking for a last minute gift for someone? Up near the front is a rack of smaller books that are either condensed versions of larger books or collections of wit and wisdom. They might answer any of the following questions:
- How can I de-stress my life?
- What is the best advice for a new graduate?
- What are the funny differences between men and women?
In this case, the question being asked is:
- What sort of humorous wisdom might you get from a cynical but well-meaning mother?
I read this entire book in 15 minutes, so it would definitely fit into the "quick little gift" category. And, I am sorry to say that I am not sure it is worth the cover price.
It is probably best described as the sister companion to Sh*t My Dad Says. The format is one comic every two pages representing a nugget of wisdom from the author's mother. Before the comics, there is a fairly long intro from the author (long, based on the rest of the book - it probably took me twice as long it read it). I have read other short, humorous books where this didn't bother me quite as much. I think the reason for this is that it is obvious there is only about 20 pages of content here and they fluffed it up to make it a 100 page book.
So, while it is funny and, again, perfect for a last minute gift, stocking stuffer, etc. for your mom (especially if you have a comedic relationship with her), it is just way too short. Really, reading the Sunday Comics will take you longer and are a lot less expensive!
Read
June 2, 2019Thank you GR friends. Loved the text, loved the illustrations. Nodded my head, laughed right out loud Wish one of my relatives would write a book like this about me.
Many favorites but this one speaks to me:
"If you see me eating egg salad, you will know the diagnosis is terminal."
Many favorites but this one speaks to me:
"If you see me eating egg salad, you will know the diagnosis is terminal."
April 3, 2019
I received a review copy of this book from Celedon. It's a small book in size, and can be read in about half an hour. A perfect little gift book, or guest room bedside table book, or just for laughs for yourself. Every page is quotable, and Roz Chast drawings are the perfect compliment. Highly enjoyable.
November 29, 2020
This was a quick read, but there was nothing funny or entertaining about it, nothing even particularly interesting. It was all rather pointless.
April 19, 2019
Just in time for your mother's day gift shopping, Patricia Marx presents some of the short zingers her hypercritical mother would shoot off as advice and insight. The title sets the tone and Roz Chast's illustrations fit it perfectly.
Be warned, this thin book is only about half as long as it looks because every other page is simply a hand-drawn wallpaper design -- a step up from being blank, but not by much. Five minutes will get you through the whole thing, with a few chuckles and a lot more gratitude toward your own mother.
Be warned, this thin book is only about half as long as it looks because every other page is simply a hand-drawn wallpaper design -- a step up from being blank, but not by much. Five minutes will get you through the whole thing, with a few chuckles and a lot more gratitude toward your own mother.
March 26, 2019
I should probably state up front that I received a free copy of this from Celadon Books. It wasn't because of a contest or anything. They just sent me a message out of the blue, “Want a free copy of this book before it's released in stores?” I quite naturally replied, “Yes.” Anytime someone offers me a free book, the answer is almost always, “Yes,” which I admit could spell trouble if I ever run for public office or something. I assume they got my name from browsing the reviews on Goodreads for Roz Chast’s most recent book(s), and very likely I'm not the only one who got a free copy.
But enough about me. You're probably more interested in this book. You're in luck since it so happens that I’ve just finished reading it.
Why Don't You Write My Eulogy Now So I Can Correct It? is, in some ways, the female version of S--t My Dad Says. The main text is a series of quotes--presumably direct--from Patricia Marx’s mother, who has rather blunt views on many topics.
“Some people like meat well done, but they are wrong.”
“Nature, if seen at all, is best seen from a car.”
“Never wear red and black together or you will look like a drum majorette.”
These quotes are arranged one to a page, accompanied by an illustration by Roz Chast. Since each facing page features some sort of abstract pattern, the book does go by quite swiftly. While I’m normally somewhat skeptical of books whose text could fit into the average email, this one is a bit better than most. Chast’s illustrations are spot on, and the quality of the book in general is quite high. Nice, tight binding. Good paper stock. This is quite a handsome--albeit slender--volume.
While I did enjoy this book quite a bit, I’ll admit that it seems somewhat overpriced for what it is. This is a book that possibly works better as a gift for someone else--I can think of a few people I know who’d definitely love it--rather than something you buy for yourself. Definitely recommended though!
But enough about me. You're probably more interested in this book. You're in luck since it so happens that I’ve just finished reading it.
Why Don't You Write My Eulogy Now So I Can Correct It? is, in some ways, the female version of S--t My Dad Says. The main text is a series of quotes--presumably direct--from Patricia Marx’s mother, who has rather blunt views on many topics.
“Some people like meat well done, but they are wrong.”
“Nature, if seen at all, is best seen from a car.”
“Never wear red and black together or you will look like a drum majorette.”
These quotes are arranged one to a page, accompanied by an illustration by Roz Chast. Since each facing page features some sort of abstract pattern, the book does go by quite swiftly. While I’m normally somewhat skeptical of books whose text could fit into the average email, this one is a bit better than most. Chast’s illustrations are spot on, and the quality of the book in general is quite high. Nice, tight binding. Good paper stock. This is quite a handsome--albeit slender--volume.
While I did enjoy this book quite a bit, I’ll admit that it seems somewhat overpriced for what it is. This is a book that possibly works better as a gift for someone else--I can think of a few people I know who’d definitely love it--rather than something you buy for yourself. Definitely recommended though!
June 7, 2019
3.5 stars
A very small book made up mostly of one line euphemisms, dysphemisms, and witticisms. A little story at the beginning which leads you to believe that these are the lessons that the author has taken from her Mother. Some are cute - others blah.
The best thing about this whole book is the illustrations. Roz Chast is one of the best illustrators ever, in my opinion. She has a whole line of her own books, children's books, graphics, calendars and postcards.
A very small book made up mostly of one line euphemisms, dysphemisms, and witticisms. A little story at the beginning which leads you to believe that these are the lessons that the author has taken from her Mother. Some are cute - others blah.
The best thing about this whole book is the illustrations. Roz Chast is one of the best illustrators ever, in my opinion. She has a whole line of her own books, children's books, graphics, calendars and postcards.
March 22, 2019
So Mother’s Day is coming and you want to get a unique gift for mom (or grandma or your sister-who-is-now-a-mom), and you can’t quite figure out what to get. Or it’s NOT Mother’s Day and you are seeking a “just because I care” gift.
How can you go wrong with a graphic book written by Patricia Marx (a humorist and staff writer for The New Yorker) and the inimitable Roz Chast, a cartoonist for that same magazine? Marx’s mother—now 92 and a woman of very strong opinions—is the inspiration for these one-line witticisms (hilariously illustrated by Chast).
It’s hard not to fall in love with mother advice like this:
“Everyone has a pre-determined number of footsteps to use up in a lifetime. It’s reckless to exercise since you will only exhaust your quota and die.” Or: “If your book club chooses Absalom, Absalom!, that will be the end of your book club.” Or: “If you see me eating egg salad, you will know the diagnosis is terminal.”
If you’re fortunate enough to have a mother who left you a legacy of humor, you need to get this book. It’s very slim, it reads fast, and you’ll enjoy the chuckles.
How can you go wrong with a graphic book written by Patricia Marx (a humorist and staff writer for The New Yorker) and the inimitable Roz Chast, a cartoonist for that same magazine? Marx’s mother—now 92 and a woman of very strong opinions—is the inspiration for these one-line witticisms (hilariously illustrated by Chast).
It’s hard not to fall in love with mother advice like this:
“Everyone has a pre-determined number of footsteps to use up in a lifetime. It’s reckless to exercise since you will only exhaust your quota and die.” Or: “If your book club chooses Absalom, Absalom!, that will be the end of your book club.” Or: “If you see me eating egg salad, you will know the diagnosis is terminal.”
If you’re fortunate enough to have a mother who left you a legacy of humor, you need to get this book. It’s very slim, it reads fast, and you’ll enjoy the chuckles.
March 30, 2019
What a wonderful collaboration. Two brilliant ladies who know how to harness humorous snippets of life and make them feel relatable. Patricia Marx’s mother gave her plenty of advice and, of course, Roz Chast illustrated each bit perfectly.
For example, did you know that “Everyone has a pre-determined number of footsteps to use up in a lifetime. It’s reckless to exercise since you will only exhaust your quota sooner and die.”
Yep, if someone plans to give a eulogy at your funeral, they really should run it by you when you’re still alive. There just might be some much needed corrections that only you can make.
If you feel guilty throwing out leftovers, put them in the back of the fridge for five days then throw them out. (I do it all the time.)
A delightful little book that tickled my fancy.
For example, did you know that “Everyone has a pre-determined number of footsteps to use up in a lifetime. It’s reckless to exercise since you will only exhaust your quota sooner and die.”
Yep, if someone plans to give a eulogy at your funeral, they really should run it by you when you’re still alive. There just might be some much needed corrections that only you can make.
If you feel guilty throwing out leftovers, put them in the back of the fridge for five days then throw them out. (I do it all the time.)
A delightful little book that tickled my fancy.
May 13, 2019
An itty-bitty (absolutely hilarious!) book of the author's mom's one-line zingers. Almost like a memo for life, each page contains a witticism along with the perfect cartoon picture.
One of my favorites: "You only need to have one child, but make sure it's the right one."
And this one: "If your book club chooses Absalom, Absalom!, that will be the end of your book club."
I wish I could show you the cartoons to go with each of the above! The author is Patricia Marx, a former writer for Saturday Night Live and you can tell she inherited a wicked sense of humor from her mom.
I gave this book to my mom for mother's day and she laughed even more than I did! A timeless book of advice for all ages...pure gold!!
Many thanks to Celadon Books and the author for this lovely, hysterically funny book! All opinions are my own.
One of my favorites: "You only need to have one child, but make sure it's the right one."
And this one: "If your book club chooses Absalom, Absalom!, that will be the end of your book club."
I wish I could show you the cartoons to go with each of the above! The author is Patricia Marx, a former writer for Saturday Night Live and you can tell she inherited a wicked sense of humor from her mom.
I gave this book to my mom for mother's day and she laughed even more than I did! A timeless book of advice for all ages...pure gold!!
Many thanks to Celadon Books and the author for this lovely, hysterically funny book! All opinions are my own.
November 14, 2020
Ugh! This said a whole lot more about Patricia than it did about her Mother.
It only got the second star because of the sleeve and plaid comment pages.
Humor is no longer laughs but closer to scorn presently.
It only got the second star because of the sleeve and plaid comment pages.
Humor is no longer laughs but closer to scorn presently.
November 18, 2020
This was on my Most Anticipated list last year, I think because I loved Chast’s graphic memoir Can’t We Talk about Something More Pleasant? and figured it would have the same witty approach to an elderly parent’s decline. Apart from a brief introduction to her mother (from Philadelphia, outspoken, worked as a guidance counselor and for her husband’s office supplies company), there is hardly any text; the rest is just illustrated one-liners, sayings her mother had or opinions she espoused. Many of these have to do with fashion no-nos, dinner party etiquette, grammar pedantry, avoiding the outdoors and exercise, and childrearing. “My mother never hesitates to say what other mothers would not even think to think. She calls it constructive criticism.” She reminds me of Bess Kalb’s grandmother in Nobody Will Tell You This but Me, an overall much funnier and more complete picture of an entertaining figure.
May 7, 2019
“In retrospect I should have raised you in a warm and loving home.”
This little book was probably published with Mother's Day in mind, and it would make a cute gift for the occasion. I hadn't heard of the author before, and this is a collection of her mother's sayings, advice, rules, guidelines, etc. I picked it up because Roz Chast does the illustrations, and she delivers exactly as expected.
This is a bit of an uneven book. I enjoyed the prose memoir introduction, but then we quickly shift to a saying a page with an illustration. This is a very slim book, and as every other page is simply some painted wallpaper it can be read in about fifteen minutes. There is humor here, and almost every quip is smiling inducing, so there's that. This would not have worked as well for me without the illustrations, and I found it a fun, quirky, and quick read.
This little book was probably published with Mother's Day in mind, and it would make a cute gift for the occasion. I hadn't heard of the author before, and this is a collection of her mother's sayings, advice, rules, guidelines, etc. I picked it up because Roz Chast does the illustrations, and she delivers exactly as expected.
This is a bit of an uneven book. I enjoyed the prose memoir introduction, but then we quickly shift to a saying a page with an illustration. This is a very slim book, and as every other page is simply some painted wallpaper it can be read in about fifteen minutes. There is humor here, and almost every quip is smiling inducing, so there's that. This would not have worked as well for me without the illustrations, and I found it a fun, quirky, and quick read.
April 12, 2019
I agreed with Ma Marx on all sorts of stuff from bad plaids to white cars. Roz Chast's drawings are hilarious, as always. I wanted more!
One star deducted for brevity.
One star deducted for brevity.
March 27, 2019
I was so pumped to get my hands on this--a collaboration between Patricia Marx and Roz Chast!? And it's about a woman's relationship with her mother? Right there that's four stars, easy.
The book opens with a characteristically singular essay by Marx, then fills the rest of its pages with beautiful illustrations by the bizarre Chast coupled with quips and tips from Marx's mother, all profoundly judgmental yet largely anodyne--"Sweet butter is better than salted butter," "Keep the kitchen cabinets closed," and so on.
The only reason it's not five stars is it's kind of more a gift book than a book book--fun to find in your Easter basket, for sure, but you'll be done before you get through your third chocolate rabbit.
The book opens with a characteristically singular essay by Marx, then fills the rest of its pages with beautiful illustrations by the bizarre Chast coupled with quips and tips from Marx's mother, all profoundly judgmental yet largely anodyne--"Sweet butter is better than salted butter," "Keep the kitchen cabinets closed," and so on.
The only reason it's not five stars is it's kind of more a gift book than a book book--fun to find in your Easter basket, for sure, but you'll be done before you get through your third chocolate rabbit.
April 15, 2019
the title is the best part of this.
I was expecting more. I love Roz Chast’s memoirs Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant? and Going in to Town and expected similar. this is illustrated by Roz but written by her sister. It’s cute but too short and lacks depth and emotional connection. The mom’s collected one-liners aren’t even that original.
I took it out of the library which is probably the best way to read it.
I was expecting more. I love Roz Chast’s memoirs Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant? and Going in to Town and expected similar. this is illustrated by Roz but written by her sister. It’s cute but too short and lacks depth and emotional connection. The mom’s collected one-liners aren’t even that original.
I took it out of the library which is probably the best way to read it.
May 13, 2019
You could read this short book during a coffee break and have time left over. Still, it does have its humorous moments, although you probably have already heard most of it before. I’m not exactly sure what the author meant to accomplish with this book, (humor? advice? how not to raise children?) but readers can decide that for themselves.
January 9, 2020
Day began with today's article on the NewYorker titled "Rules for Couples" by the same author/cartoonist pair. It was funny because I know friends who say the same things to their partners.
So went on to read this, very excitedly. Funny at places but somehow felt it was not enough or complete.
I will go on to read more by Patricia as well as Roz though.
So went on to read this, very excitedly. Funny at places but somehow felt it was not enough or complete.
I will go on to read more by Patricia as well as Roz though.
May 4, 2019
Sweet little book. I recommend readers buy a copy for their moms. It's also a very quick read if you need help in boosting your GoodReads yearly challenge. :-)
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