Back when I worked in the corporate world, I spent a lot of my lunch times hiding in a bookshop. I didn’t love my job, but because it was my first real inner city – grown up – job I thought it was just how things were meant to be. So I would go to the bookshop and see what new books they had on display and I bought a few lot of books where the covers popped out at me. I Was Told There’d Be Cake by Sloane Crosley was one of them.
This book is a series of essays about Sloane Crosley’s childhood and early twenties growing up in New York. Whilst I may have initially bought it in late 2008 (and was kicked out of the lunch room for laughing too loudly), I recently reread it, and found it to be just as witty and hilarious as ever.
I don’t read a lot of fiction but I do love a good story that I can relate to and this book of essays does a great job of that. Slone’s writing helps you feel like you are in there living the story with her. She explains the context just enough that places you’ve never visited feel familiar and then brings you on for what is often a hilarious ride.
The essays are a great length that means that even the busiest of people can fit one in before bed or on a train ride. Just be aware that some parts are so funny that it can be difficult not to wake the house (or draw attention to yourself on the train) because you’re laughing so much. It’s a mostly lighthearted and quick read for anyone looking for something that’s both well written and not too serious.
I love a book that can stand the test of time and this one has done it well. She shares essays on working in publishing in NYC, her time at the Natural History Museum and a great one about ponies. Along with some other great reads.
If you’re looking for something that’s a little bit different to what you’ve been reading lately, these essays are witty and clever.
You can grab a copy from Amazon here
This is one I’ll be keeping on my bookshelf to read again in another few years.
Have you read this? What’s your favourite book of essays?
*I’m an Amazon affiliate. I will make a little money if you choose to buy through the link. I will no doubt put it into more awesome books to share with you. x