Book Review: Why not me?

When I read Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? years ago, I had been watching The Mindy Project on my television. And the show was before it became famous, I was even worried they would cancel it off.

It may have something to do with the fact that there weren’t enough shows that revolved around a WOC, and an Indian woman at that, who did not look perfect (in the Hollywood standards). Or maybe it was just because it was damn funny. 

So I picked the book up and was absolutely surprised because not only this woman made the snarky early twenties in me laugh but also made me pause and think about things that were not spoken out so loudly then. Needless to say I loved this chirpy, crazy woman and her writing. Obviously when I heard she had another book out, I had to grab it.

I know I might be reviewing it a little late (as per my usual these days) but I am doing it anyway. So let us read ahead to know how Why Not Me? fared on my grown up scale, shall we?

About the book

Why not me?

Book Name: Why Not Me?

Author: Mindy Kaling

Genre: Non Fiction – Memoir

Plot

In Why Not Me?, Mindy Kaling keeps it real. She doesn’t sugar coat it nor make it sound like her life is a miracle. She says how the show’s success changed her. She talks about her insecurities which changed later into confidence, but she doesn’t belittle them. She talks about her flaws as they are. More than all, she is freaking hilarious. 

There were some chapters that were a little so-so but the ones that were good were really good. There is a chapter on her confidence which was the best of the book and I loved it. 

It’s just that, the truth is, I have never, ever, ever met a highly confident and successful person who is not what a movie would call a ‘workaholic.

Things that worked for me

  • Her cheerful yet honest voice that made it like we are best friends than a writer and reader.
  • I couldn’t help cheer a WOC who made it through sheer hard work. She is definitely a role model.
  • I loved her pieces on confidence and her imaginary alternate life.

Things that didn’t work for me

  • I didn’t find her as relatable as she was in Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? but maybe it was just me missing the dorky Mindy.
  • You might not enjoy this one as much if her shows didn’t appeal you.

Bottom – line

I love Mindy and that is exactly why I picked this book and I was quite happy with it. It is not a life changing book but it made me laugh a few times and kept me engaged till the end.

Though, I didn’t love it as much as I did the first book, I would recommend ‘Why Not Me?’ to anyone who wants to read a funny, celebrity memoir. 

Pin me!

Why not me?

Let us chat

Have you read this one? Do you read celebrity books? What is your favorite celebrity memoir? Let us talk.

Why not me?

21 Comments

  1. Lark @ The Bookwyrm's Hoard

    I’ve never seen her show, but from the interviews and clips I have seen, she’s both funny and real. I’m glad you enjoyed her book.

    Reply
    • Gayathri

      Mindy is definitely a funny person. You should catch this up.

      Reply
    • Gayathri

      I have not tried the audio books but I am sure it would be good.

      Reply
  2. Olivia Roach

    This is one of the ones on my wishlist because I have seen such good reviews for this one like yours! It sounds so funny but also like it is really important and discusses necessary topics! The balance sounds really well done. Great review x

    Reply
  3. Julia Swoons

    I love her! I loved the first book but still haven’t read this one! I definitely need to check it out!

    Reply
    • Gayathri

      Let me know hoe it goes.

      Reply
  4. DJ Sakata

    I enjoy her humor too

    Reply
    • Gayathri

      Yes I love her shows just for that.

      Reply
  5. Amanda McGill

    Great review! I didn’t enjoy this novel so much as her first novel, it didn’t seem necessary.

    Reply
    • Gayathri

      I share your views as well.

      Reply
  6. Tasha

    I am not familiar with the author. Great review.

    Reply
    • Gayathri

      She is a TV producer, actor and comedian.

      Reply
  7. Robin Taylor

    I enjoy Mindly Kaling. Terrific review.

    Reply
    • Gayathri

      Thanks Robin!

      Reply
  8. Jo Linsdell

    I’ve not seen the TV show but have seen her on social media. Think I will check out the first book.

    Reply
    • Gayathri

      She is such a fun person as well.

      Reply
  9. Laura Thomas

    I can definitely relate to her and I enjoy books that can make me laugh. Thanks for the fun review.

    Reply
    • Gayathri

      I love Mindy as well.

      Reply
  10. jennifer gaarder

    I like her. I have been the awkward one.

    Reply
    • Gayathri

      I kinda like loud mouthed, crazy women!

      Reply

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Gayathri

Gayathri

Gayathri has been reviewing books since 2010. When she is not reading books or creating online content, she works as a writer and a digital marketer. Head over to meet me!