I Know I Am, But What Are You? by Samantha Bee
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I liked Samantha Bee’s book. A lot. It was unexpectedly thoughtful and revealing. I did expect it to be funny and it did not disappoint. I laughed out loud in public.
I couldn’t help comparing it to Tina Fey’s Bossipants. I REALLY expected and WANTED to like Bossipants but I was disappointed. Fey’s book was sold as autobiographical but it was not. It was more of a stand-up session & verged on the condescending. I learned very little about Tina that I couldn’t Google.
On the other hand, Bee’s book reads more like a mini autobiography. Her life is revealed in essays that felt both insightful and genuine – as well as hilarious. I learned a great deal about her eccentric upbringing and the people and experiences which led her to the choices she’s made. It was sad, fun and informative. I finished it in two nights.
Why 3 stars? I loved the book but it is not great literature. That being said, we don’t always have to read great literature. Sometimes we can read something because it’s fun. I recommend it if you want to get to know this funny Daily Show woman better.