Review: The Girl With The Lower Back Tattoo by Amy Schumer

Amy Schumer. Schumes. One of the hottest comedians in the world right now, and my best friend. Ok, that second part is obviously not true, though I wish it was. I have admired Amy Schumer for awhile now, and after reading her book I feel validated in my (definitely not creepy and stalkerish) feelings.

Having had a stage, as well as her own TV show, as a platform to talk about many issues, such as body image, sexism and gun control, Amy has now used her book to discuss these serious issues in more depth. Always with her trademark sense of humour. With such sensible views on gun control that are so eloquently expressed, we can only hope that America listens, but let's be honest, these stubborn, close-minded people are probably unlikely to read views that don't align with their own. That's a topic for another day, but damn it, it's just infuriating.

Amy also writes candidly about her dad, who suffers from multiple sclerosis, which would be hard to live with yet alone discuss it publicly. Yet she provides these anecdotes in an entertaining way, without making a mockery of the situation. You can definitely feel the warmth in their relationship. There are also some fantastic stories about her sister (and best friend), Kim.

Exploring her past and childhood through a series of anecdotes and diary entries, we get to learn more about Amy, and how she came to be the engaging public figure that she is today. We vicariously experience Amy's adventures through life, as she volunteers at a camp for disabled people, works at some unique jobs and encounters a few romantic ups and downs. All the while striving for the career that she wants and maintaining a confident and self-awareness that few possess.

If you are already a fan of Amy Schumer you will either have read this book or have it lined up in your to-be-read pile. If you aren't a fan, for whatever reason, I would still recommend this book (unless your reason is 'women aren't funny' then you can just GTFO). You will find some honest stories, sometimes heartwarming, sometimes painful, usually hilarious, about a strong, successful woman. Who, despite (often misdirected) criticism, puts herself out there and continues to create things that both entertain us and make us think.

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Review: The Big HOO-HAA!

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival is back! One of my favourite times of year. It's just cold enough to bring out the cute scarves and jackets, but not so cold that you refuse to leave the house. The streets are full of happy people, and Melbourne seems a little bit more shiny, reminding us why we love it here. Unfortunately The Big HOO-HAA! is only on for a limited run this Comedy Festival, with just three shows, each featuring a different genre (horror, musical, sexy). But don't despair! If you can't make it to next Monday's show (the sexy one!), we are lucky enough here in Melbourne to be able to see them perform every Friday night (from April 26 onwards) at The Butterfly Club. However, make sure you get tickets in advance, because they do sell out! I went along to the musical-themed night, which I was very excited about because I love a musical. It was also very fitting for my week, which has already seen me cry at the series finale of Crazy E...

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