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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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