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Awkward Moments with Men
They may not mean to make you blush, but they will. In their debut collection of essays, Awkward Moments with Men, Shannon Miller and M Byrd create an uninhibited and earnest portrait of what it is to love and lust as young women stammering through perils of the modern world. Startlingly smart and vulnerable, the blonde and the brunette, the Canadian and the American, bear more than their fair share of snark and indignity as they tell stories of everything from going on a blind date in Bali to discovering a beloved relative's treasure trove of ethnic internet pornography.
Belonging in the hapless, hilarious, if not slightly sordid family of wordsmiths, Awkward Moments with Men introduces two strikingly original and endearing voices into the literary landscape. May you laugh, commiserate, and start a fund to help them pay for all therapy they're going to need once their parents read this.
Belonging in the hapless, hilarious, if not slightly sordid family of wordsmiths, Awkward Moments with Men introduces two strikingly original and endearing voices into the literary landscape. May you laugh, commiserate, and start a fund to help them pay for all therapy they're going to need once their parents read this.
164 pages, Paperback
First published January 19, 2012
1 person is currently reading
211 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 21, 2012
This book made me laugh throughout the different short essays that were compiled in it. I was lucky enough to win this in a Goodreads Giveaway and I loved it! It is equal parts absurd, touching and hilarious rolled into one wonderful package.
Women who read it will laugh and agree to the reactions and thought process of the authors. Men will gain some insight into why we do what we do. Although we may not have had all the experiences that the authors have, at some point in our lives (men or women) we have experienced something similar to the topics written about in this book. Overall, it is a fun, light read. I would recommend it to people who are looking for some humor about relationships and dating in general.
Women who read it will laugh and agree to the reactions and thought process of the authors. Men will gain some insight into why we do what we do. Although we may not have had all the experiences that the authors have, at some point in our lives (men or women) we have experienced something similar to the topics written about in this book. Overall, it is a fun, light read. I would recommend it to people who are looking for some humor about relationships and dating in general.
April 12, 2012
This book is a collection of essays about "what it is to love & lust as young women stammering through the perils of the modern world." Most of the essays are about dating, but Shannon is married, so some of them are about her husband. Don't worry, she doesn't over share, assuming you realize that couples copulate on their wedding night. Speaking of, that was one of my favorite chapters, "The Man On My Ice Bucket List". Here's the particular excerpt that made me laugh out loud:
"We're married," he cooed kissing me on the forehead.
I was definitely going to throw up. His freckles were making me dizzy & all I could think about was stuffed crust pizza.
Ha! I also loved the chapter, "The Man Who Adds Ten Pounds". See if this sounds familiar...
After three months of dating, I was finally treated to an expertly crafted dinner of chicken parts with my newly minted boyfriend, The Man Who Adds Ten Pounds. And simply because I hadn't done it in awhile & felt like being called pretty, I was complaining about the size of my pants. I knew I wasn't fat; sure I might have gone an Oreo or two past my daily bi-color cookie sandwich quota, but I was insecure & if I was told that my ass was the correct size & shape by somebody that loved me, I was confident that I would feel better.
Um, yes! I laughed a lot reading this book. Shannon & Megan's stories are entertaining without being raunchy. The writing is honest & good, which a lot of new writers aren't able to pull off. I've noticed a lot of new writers, especially humor writers, use way too many adjectives & analogies trying to appear as smart, established writers, which doesn't work & emphasizes how hard they're trying. Shannon & Megan write in a confident, straightforward fashion that lends you to believe that they've been writing books for years. Not to mention, it's grammatically correct, a big feat for a book independently published without the luxury of an editor.
I have so much admiration for these ladies. They did something most of us only daydream about. They had an idea, put pen to paper & then created a Kickstarter campaign to fund it. I forget how much money the ultimately raised, but it was an impressive amount. The last page of the book is a thank you & a list of everyone who contributed to their Kickstarter. I thought this was a gracious & classy way to close the book.
I loved this book & highly recommend it.
"We're married," he cooed kissing me on the forehead.
I was definitely going to throw up. His freckles were making me dizzy & all I could think about was stuffed crust pizza.
Ha! I also loved the chapter, "The Man Who Adds Ten Pounds". See if this sounds familiar...
After three months of dating, I was finally treated to an expertly crafted dinner of chicken parts with my newly minted boyfriend, The Man Who Adds Ten Pounds. And simply because I hadn't done it in awhile & felt like being called pretty, I was complaining about the size of my pants. I knew I wasn't fat; sure I might have gone an Oreo or two past my daily bi-color cookie sandwich quota, but I was insecure & if I was told that my ass was the correct size & shape by somebody that loved me, I was confident that I would feel better.
Um, yes! I laughed a lot reading this book. Shannon & Megan's stories are entertaining without being raunchy. The writing is honest & good, which a lot of new writers aren't able to pull off. I've noticed a lot of new writers, especially humor writers, use way too many adjectives & analogies trying to appear as smart, established writers, which doesn't work & emphasizes how hard they're trying. Shannon & Megan write in a confident, straightforward fashion that lends you to believe that they've been writing books for years. Not to mention, it's grammatically correct, a big feat for a book independently published without the luxury of an editor.
I have so much admiration for these ladies. They did something most of us only daydream about. They had an idea, put pen to paper & then created a Kickstarter campaign to fund it. I forget how much money the ultimately raised, but it was an impressive amount. The last page of the book is a thank you & a list of everyone who contributed to their Kickstarter. I thought this was a gracious & classy way to close the book.
I loved this book & highly recommend it.
June 1, 2012
I could write out some long, rambling review when all I really need is one word: hilarious! Every woman should read this book!
April 17, 2012
I wasn't sure I would like this book. I thought it might be a little too Chelsea Handler-ish for me (and I really, really despised My Horizontal Life: A Collection of One-Night Stands), but I was pleasantly surprised.
This is a short, readable collection of stories. I thought they would be all about trying to find love, but they're really about relationships--all kinds of relationships. Yes, there are a lot of stories about men, but they're not all about dating. There are a couple about neighbors, one about a best friend, and even one about Shannon's father. Shannon also writes quite a lot about her husband and the difficulties you can encounter in marriage.
I definitely don't share the perspective of the authors. I didn't appreciate their generalizations of women (like "In the end though, rationality can’t win out. Not with women. Not with me. Because there’s something my gender always wants more than truth: love.") or their negative characterizations of men (and how it's all right for a guy to ditch his best friend for his girlfriend), but you know what? I still thought it was funny. Some of the stories were even touching. Despite our different points of views, I thought I could be friends with Shannon and Megan. I've experienced some of the things they wrote about, and I've felt a lot of the feelings they expressed. I connected with them. You don't need to agree with everything someone says to be affected by her stories.
They bared their souls and took a risk, and this novel is a charming, hilarious product that they should be proud of.
I will definitely read whatever they decide to write next.
Received through Goodreads First Reads.
This is a short, readable collection of stories. I thought they would be all about trying to find love, but they're really about relationships--all kinds of relationships. Yes, there are a lot of stories about men, but they're not all about dating. There are a couple about neighbors, one about a best friend, and even one about Shannon's father. Shannon also writes quite a lot about her husband and the difficulties you can encounter in marriage.
I definitely don't share the perspective of the authors. I didn't appreciate their generalizations of women (like "In the end though, rationality can’t win out. Not with women. Not with me. Because there’s something my gender always wants more than truth: love.") or their negative characterizations of men (and how it's all right for a guy to ditch his best friend for his girlfriend), but you know what? I still thought it was funny. Some of the stories were even touching. Despite our different points of views, I thought I could be friends with Shannon and Megan. I've experienced some of the things they wrote about, and I've felt a lot of the feelings they expressed. I connected with them. You don't need to agree with everything someone says to be affected by her stories.
They bared their souls and took a risk, and this novel is a charming, hilarious product that they should be proud of.
I will definitely read whatever they decide to write next.
Received through Goodreads First Reads.
December 28, 2012
Basically, this book was a collection of autobiographical short stories by the authors describing awkward experiences they had with males in their lives. While the first few stories focused on ex-boyfriends and the like, I soon realized that these girls were describing a lot more than that. These stories also included awkward moments with fathers, roommates, brothers, and one even included a little boy at a park. And while the title and many of the stories would lead you to believe this book is a work of humor, there were a lot of stories in it that were sad and profound. Altogether, though, I felt as though this book was written for me, a woman, awkwardly trying to navigate around social convention with males in the 21st century, and I feel that a lot of other women could read this book and also come away from the experience feeling as though they are understood. And not just understood by their girlfriends - those who are obligated to nod and say, “I know! I know!” because of some best friend girl code - but complete strangers out there in the world who have not only gone through what you have with men but worse.
More than a book, Awkward Moments with Men was a discourse on womanhood. A wide variety of subjects were discussed, including hard topics like cervical cancer, miscarriages, and break ups. The book struck me really close to home. I would greatly recommend this to any woman, though, and especially as a gift for close girlfriends.
More than a book, Awkward Moments with Men was a discourse on womanhood. A wide variety of subjects were discussed, including hard topics like cervical cancer, miscarriages, and break ups. The book struck me really close to home. I would greatly recommend this to any woman, though, and especially as a gift for close girlfriends.
August 7, 2012
I won Awkward Moments with Men from firstreads on GoodReads a few months back and its been sitting waiting and starting at me (with all 6 eyes!) from my bookshelf ever since.
I finally started reading this book up last weekend when I was looking for something light to read on the beach and while relaxing in my backyard. "Awkward Moments" is a collection of short essays by two young women. The humorous essays relay tales of (as advertised) awkward encounters the two authors have had with men. Most of the essays tell of the dating/marriage variety of relationships but there are a few thrown in about other men such as a landlord, a dad, and a neighbor.
The essays were snarky and light and while many of them did talk about sex, they never got too raunchy. So don't worry, you shouldn't be too offended by this book! I related to some of the "awkward" tales in the book and there were a few laugh out loud moments.
I finally started reading this book up last weekend when I was looking for something light to read on the beach and while relaxing in my backyard. "Awkward Moments" is a collection of short essays by two young women. The humorous essays relay tales of (as advertised) awkward encounters the two authors have had with men. Most of the essays tell of the dating/marriage variety of relationships but there are a few thrown in about other men such as a landlord, a dad, and a neighbor.
The essays were snarky and light and while many of them did talk about sex, they never got too raunchy. So don't worry, you shouldn't be too offended by this book! I related to some of the "awkward" tales in the book and there were a few laugh out loud moments.
April 18, 2012
This book is sometimes laugh out loud funny. Favorite quote, when she finds out that her husband has slept with a LOT more women than she had imagined, "There had to be some sort of mistake. He couldn't have slept with that many people; he was a Republican. Were Republicans even allowed to have that much sex?" The authors sketch out relationships with family, friends, landlords and, of course, romantic partners. The sketches were a little on the thin side and, because both authors contribute to the book and you don't often know which chapter is which woman, I found that I didn't like the authors as much as I wanted to. I wish they had changed to a novel format and given the character a backstory so I would relate better. But if you like snarky (and I do) and if you have ever had an awkward moment with a man (and I have) you will probably enjoy this book.
November 6, 2012
I received this book months ago as a First Read winner. It has sat on the shelf (and then in a box) through the packing up of an apartment and a cross-country move. I shifted it from the the "Want to Read" box, to the "Begin Reading Next" pile and there it sat for another 6 weeks before I finally picked it up. I wasn't really sure what to expect; when I know I'm going to be reading a book, I try to avoid any other reviews until I've finished.
I laughed out loud, cringed, got a bit teary, and was done. It was a great diversion for a couple hours! Perfect for the beach or a plane ride, or a bit of time spent in a waiting room. Just be prepared for some strange looks and questioning glances if you laugh loudly. Witty and entertaining, I was happy I finally read these awkward moments!
I laughed out loud, cringed, got a bit teary, and was done. It was a great diversion for a couple hours! Perfect for the beach or a plane ride, or a bit of time spent in a waiting room. Just be prepared for some strange looks and questioning glances if you laugh loudly. Witty and entertaining, I was happy I finally read these awkward moments!
February 23, 2012
For one being known to snort laugh at hilarity, this book allowed me to do so in public while strangers thought I could be having a stroke. The witty one liners were what got me...ladies do speak this way and think this way. And I enjoy every second of it. For those of you who found your love in high school and never got to experience the joys of dating..you must read this to see what you missed out on by snatching him up so quickly. For those of you with your own awkward moments, do check out this mini delight. A quick read that will have you thinking about staying single. But what fun would that be to not have your own crazy stories to share. Check this one out...nice work ladies.
June 9, 2012
Lately I have been looking light, enjoyable reading that was a bit different from the genres I normally read and I found Awkward Moments With Men. Though the cover isn't the most appealing, it had mostly stellar reviews so, I thought I'd give it a try. I did find the book funny, though I only laughed out loud a couple of times, I still had some internal chuckles. I thought the authors a great talent in weaving their stories, and it actually reminded me of a less raunchy version of My Horizontal Life by Chelsea Handler. This book is short and fun to read, and great for a few hours by the pool or just to relax sometime.
April 22, 2012
I won this book through the Good Reads giveaway. It is a witty, sarcastic glimpse into dating by two uninhibited authors who seamlessly blend their stories into one voice. If you have ever anticipated a blind date with the feeling "this could be the ONE," only to end it thinking you should relocate to another state, you will enjoy this book. I enjoyed about half of the stories. Then felt the authors had run out of material as they reached further back into their childhoods and away from dating. Still, it's light and funny and embarrassing, at some point you'll think, "I wish I'd said that!"
May 1, 2012
I won this book as a goodreads give away. I did enjoy the stories of the random men they met, dated, and befriended. While the stories were entertaining and at times I was laughing trying to figure out what i would have done in those same situations. I was wanting more, I dont know if it was cause I do not know the writers. It seems like a book that my friend and I could have put together about our randoms. Over all it was easy to relate with and a fun, easy read!
May 8, 2012
This book is a collection of stories about experiences that these two women have had with men...and there are several 'laugh out loud' funny ones! I'll bet there are alot of women out there that can relate to these tales! This book was a quick, fun read. I won it in a Goodreads giveaway program, & would really rate it 3.5 stars! Definitely a 'thumbs up!'
May 27, 2012
What a fun book to read! I couldn't put it down! As an older woman, it took me back to so many awkward moments! It just goes to show you that the rather clumsy, and sometimes embarrassing man/woman dynamic doesn't change. The honest, straightforward, tell it like it is approach that these two take to telling of their experiences kept me in stitches, (borrowed)
April 10, 2012
"This book was a wonderful surprise. The authors have told stories that make you empathize with them, giggle at them (and with them), get all drippy eyed and feel their pain.... and wish it wasn't over when you've read through it in one sitting because you can't put the darn thing down! I really recommend this one if you enjoy a fast reading, heartwarming read.
April 25, 2012
I was very lucky to have won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. I had an absolutely marvelous time discovering Shannon and Megan's awkward moments. When I wasn't laughing at their clever, witty, and sarcastic remarks, I was reflecting about life. Why are we faced with certain challenges? What can be learned from this situation? Why me? ;) I found this to be a super fast and very enjoyable read!
July 29, 2013
There were some mistakes that should have been caught by the editor. Some stories were amusing, others were not. I don't regret reading it, but I won't read it again. Awkward Moments With Men will not have a permanent home on my bookshelf and I doubt that I will seek out future publications by these authors.
April 29, 2012
I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway. I was so excited to finally win a book and the first few stories had me laughing out loud. Some of the sections were really great, while others were just not that interesting or relatable to me. Still, this was ultimately a fun read.
August 3, 2014
Goodreads Giveaway Win.
I really liked how the chapters and stories we set up. I liked not fully knowing at times who the stories were pertaining to. I liked the comedy in it and I wouldn't mind reading another book from these lovely ladies. Job well done.
I really liked how the chapters and stories we set up. I liked not fully knowing at times who the stories were pertaining to. I liked the comedy in it and I wouldn't mind reading another book from these lovely ladies. Job well done.
May 29, 2012
A hilarious assortment of stories from the lives of two women as they navigate the oh-so-comical world of dating. This little book will make you laugh hysterically and will even leave you a little teary-eyed. Definitely a fun read.
May 24, 2012
This book is hilarious, yet so beautifully personal. It will resonate with every woman, in every walk of life. You will literally laugh out loud on every page, cringe, and have your heart break for the Blonde and the Brunette. Its a must read!
April 30, 2012
A delightful debut! I loved that the men they had awkward moments with weren't just dates, but also neighbors, family members, etc. It kept the stories fresh throughout the book. A very fun read.
June 12, 2012
On the entertainment scale, the vignettes were sub-par. And all were written from the perspectives of shallow, whiny women. I finally gave up after reading 44% (according to my Kindle).
July 10, 2012
Has some funny moments. It was recommneding on a blog that I adore and frankly was only $2.99 for kindle. How can you go wrong for $2.99?
June 23, 2012
I found myself reading as fast as I could just to finish this book, which didn't sit well with me, so I decided to just stop reading it.
July 1, 2012
Some very funny moments. Some not so much. Quite a few grammatical errors. Very annoying. Fire the editor.
July 18, 2012
Hilarious. But these ladies seem a little too hung up on gender roles.
July 17, 2012
Let's see, what words did I use?
Simply dreadfully disjointed, rambling, and whiny.
Simply dreadfully disjointed, rambling, and whiny.
September 2, 2012
Cute beach read but not as funny as I hoped
November 26, 2012
Hilarious
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews