BOOK REVIEW: Yes Please

I just finished the audio version of Amy Poehler’s memoir, Yes Please. I wasn’t sure what I expected. A good chuckle? Some juicy gossip? A behind-the-scenes glance into Amy’s life? I don’t know. In fact, I can’t actually tell you why I picked this up. I’m just glad I did.

I tend to be forgiving of books (of people in general, too). I look past their flaws and point out the good and let the rest fall away. I’m of the opinion that not everything is for everyone, and it’s ok if you don’t like something.

Here’s some things I liked:

• The chapter about Amy’s “demon” or the voice in her head that whispers to her about all her shortcomings, especially the physical ones. I don’t care how many stories there are about smart women battling this particular demon and overcoming the prevailing beauty standards with wits and charm, but it will NEVER be enough. We should continually tell girls and women that it’s ok to not fit the physical mold of models. You are enough when you decide that you are more than just one thing. You are more than legs or hair or eyes. What she said really resonated with me about finding what matters to you and focusing on that.

Decide what your currency is early. Let go of what you will never have. People who do this are happier and sexier.

• There’s a chapter about time travel that’s more about the power of memories and their meaning in our lives. Everyone has experienced the feeling of being in a place that pulls you back to a moment you didn’t know would mean so much. Picking up an old object will help you remember the quirk of someone you loved and lost; it brings them back to life if only for a moment. It’s universal because it’s true.

Memoirs can be self indulgent, an extended acceptance speech thanking everyone who has ever helped a famous person get where they are. This was no different. There were a lot of names of people I didn’t know and couldn’t IMDB while driving. I think it’s expected in this kind of setting, and one I easily forgive. Payment for a look behind the curtain.

I’d certainly recommend Amy’s book (and already have) as a fun companion during long drives. It felt like having Amy in the car regaling me with stories of her crazy days at SNL, commiserating as she is a mother of two boys as well, and talking shit about Tina Fey.

(Just kidding. Amy worships the ground Tina Fey walks on, as we all should.)