Growing up under a dictatorship and the toil of academic life don’t seem like laughing matters, but the lighthearted stories in A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists find humour in all corners. Radu Guiaşu draws on his own experiences of academia, research, teaching, exploring nature, and growing up in Romania as inspiration for thirty-six short pieces that offer an entertaining escape from the mundane.
A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists is a wide-ranging collection that includes prose fiction as well as more inventive literary forms, such as lists, all-dialogue stories, and hermit-crab pieces such as a fake rejection letter. Full of clean, intelligent humour, this collection is unified by Radu Guiaşu’s wry, satirical voice, sure to put a smile on your face.
Even though Radu Guiasu grew up under dictatorship, he never let that dictate his life, or his outlook on life. This is short stories and list, that really make you think. I enjoyed this book.
A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists by Radu Guiaşu is a lighthearted commentary on a wide variety of topics. As the title implies, the book contains observational and experiential humor about the ridiculous and the banal, interspersed with Buzzfeed-style lists on a broad range of subjects.
The author opens by recounting a conversation with a fictitious mariner-turned-bar-prophet, who says that Guiaşu can’t possibly be an author because he hasn’t “lived enough.” The man recounts obviously exaggerated stories from his own life as if they were true and extols the virtues of experience as mentors are wont to do while simultaneously making his misadventures sound pretty unappealing to the reader. By starting his first published collection of stories with this piece, Guiaşu sets the ironically self-deprecating tone that acts as a unifying theme throughout the rest of the book.
Guiaşu then goes on to provide some context for his own life and accomplishments in the next two pieces; the titular anecdote, “A Good Day,” is based on reflections from grad school and describes a day during which a newly minted post-grad loses his job and his girlfriend, while also reflecting on his ugly city, rundown apartment, and broken-down car. However, all of these misfortunes are presented in a relentlessly positive tone, encapsulated by the last paragraph:
A day like this – a day of achieving unexpected freedom from some of the sticky attachments, big or small, that kept me anchored for too long to a life I never liked to accept as my own – doesn’t come around all that often. I decided to celebrate the momentous occasion by writing about it. Why wait for the trip? The story of my exciting new beginning would be fairly brief and relentlessly honest.
“My Mao Experience” sheds some light on the author’s childhood in communist Romania and establishes his reputation as a bit of a mischievous youth despite the rigid and highly controlled environment in which he found himself. The self-effacing and lighthearted tone of these stories builds rapport with the reader while also highlighting Guiaşu’s credentials and talent in an approachable way.
The rest of the book explores topics as diverse as critiquing the logic of the lead scientists in Jurassic Park and encouraging the conservation of the fictional yellow-bellied scumsucker (drawing on insights from the author’s own education in biology and zoology), reflections on the global COVID-19 pandemic, and fantasizing about things many of us would like to (but shouldn’t) say at our high school reunions.
Each story is well-written and entertaining in its own right, but the occasional departure from fictionalized anecdotes in favor of overly-literal interpretations of idioms such as “an elephant in the room” and capricious thought exercises about dentists implanting microchips in one’s teeth keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.
Guiaşu is able to bring his considerable experience and education to bear in a collection of stories that derive entertainment from his humility and the subversion of expectations. His writing style is approachable and likely to appeal to a wide audience and is a welcome addition to the genre of anecdotal humor.
Growing up under a dictatorship and navigating the challenges of academic life might not seem like sources for comedy, but Guiașu turns these experiences into sharp, witty observations that find humor in unexpected places. Comprising 36 distinct pieces, the collection delves into the absurdities of modern life, academia, and personal eccentricities. The stories and lists vary in length and focus, ranging from autobiographical musings to fictional escapades steeped in whimsy.
The titular story, “A Good Day,” sets the tone with its blend of dark humor and existential musings, detailing a protagonist’s day of incremental chaos and introspection. “Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow,” a humorous take on luxury and status, delves into the quirks of owning an extravagant car and the expectations that come with it. “You Haven’t Lived Enough” explores the tension between experience and creativity, while “Submission Guidelines” is a sardonic critique of academic publishing.
Lists like “Twenty-Five Reasons Why the Chicken Crossed the Road” and “Things That Go Through Your Mind as You Are Taking Part in the Running of the Bulls” add a playful interlude to the more narrative-driven pieces. ”Explaining the Reasons for the 1-star (out of 5 stars) Rating I Gave a Book on Amazon” humorously details the absurd reasons behind a low rating for a book, reflecting on the quirks of online reviews. “Subscribe Today!” is a satirical take on subscription culture, while “An Honest Rejection Letter” captures the often harsh realities of the publishing world. The collection oscillates between biting satire and light-hearted absurdity. Guiașu’s background as a scientist and academic permeates much of the text, lending an authenticity to his critiques of institutional rigidity and societal norms. Stories like “Logical Flaws and Other Problems with Jurassic Park” employ wit to question both scientific logic and cinematic tropes, while “The Day I Smashed My Guitar” finds humor in personal missteps and moments of vulnerability. Underlying the humor are themes of disillusionment, resilience, and the search for meaning. “In the Wilderness, Reading Hemingway,” for instance, explores the tension between solitude and connection, framed by a wry sense of self-awareness.
Guiașu’s prose is sharp, vivid, and laced with irony. He balances detailed descriptions—such as the oppressive urban landscapes in “A Good Day”—with punchy, impactful sentences that keep the reader engaged. The collection’s lists and shorter pieces, often structured as escalating jokes building toward a surprising or absurd conclusion, serve as a counterpoint to the longer narratives. Certain pieces may feel overly esoteric, and the shifts between longer narratives and short lists can sometimes feel abrupt. While the academic references add depth and richness, they might alienate readers unfamiliar with the subject matter. Despite this, the universal themes and Guiașu’s masterful storytelling ensure the collection remains broadly accessible and thoroughly engrossing. Readers who enjoy intelligent, offbeat humor reminiscent of David Sedaris or Douglas Adams will find much to admire in this witty collection.
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought: Title: A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists Author: Radu Guiasu
Star Rating: 5 Stars Number of Readers: 15 Stats Editing: 10/10 Writing Style: 9/10 Content: 9/10 Cover: 5/5
Of the 15 readers: 14 would read another book by this author. 15 thought the cover was good or excellent. 15 felt it was easy to follow. 14 would recommend this book to another reader to try. Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’. Of all the readers, 7 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’. Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’. 11 felt the pacing was good or excellent. 15 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments “I loved this set of shorts. Why? 1. He’s very good with dialogue. 2. He’s funny. Wide-ranging, thought-provoking – generally excellent.” Male reader, aged 19 “Highly satirical, the author offering the reader HUGE variety in terms of writing style and subject matter. Light, almost breezy, but there’s an undertone to it as well. As the blurb says: Growing up under a dictatorship and the toil of academic life don’t seem like laughing matters. Is the author, by writing this, putting a brave face on it? Maybe. But, golly, it’s a fun read!” Male reader, aged 72 “Very diverse and, generally, a good laugh. Enjoyed a Saturday evening with this book.” Male reader, aged 29 “The author is an academic and it shows in terms of the topics and the excellent, 100% accessible writing style. Pacing could be better in parts, but the characters are interesting, and you are never far from a comical gem.” Female reader, aged 55 “I’m not a big fan of shorts; I like big, fat books I can immerse myself in. But this was okay. I think, for me anyway, it was saved by the humour/comic timing of the author.” Male reader, aged 63
To Sum It Up: “An utterly absorbing set of shorts offering readers a wonderful variety of topics and writing styles. A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Satire meets sharp humor in Guiașu’s delightful latest collection. Through a mix of short stories, prose fiction, and inventive literary forms—ranging from lists to all-dialogue narratives and hermit-crab pieces—each piece offers a fresh, unique perspective on the absurdities of everyday life, societal norms, and the human condition. The titular story, “A Good Day” is a powerful exploration of the human desire for freedom and the joy that can come from breaking free of life’s constraints. “The Basement,” a comedic exploration of the mysteries and oddities found in a basement, reflects on the hidden aspects of life and the stories they hold. “The Edgar Allan Show: The Long-Awaited Interview with the Winner of the Latest Regional Poetry Prize for Beginners Dabbling in Versification” cleverly satirizes the pretentiousness often found in literary circles.
“Things You Probably Should Not Say at Your 40th High School Reunion” humorously captures the awkwardness and nostalgia of reunions. “Clues Indicating the Lion Tamer Job May Not Be for You” uses exaggerated scenarios to explore the signs of being ill-suited for a dangerous profession. “Premium Med-Care Express: Your Health is Our Obsession” uses humor to address the obsession with health and wellness, and the often ridiculous lengths people go to in pursuit of it. “Advantages of Having a New College Where All Courses Are in Klingon” critiques academic pretensions.
Guiașu’s style shines with clever wordplay, sharp dialogue, and a talent for observational wit. The layered humor invites readers to reflect on deeper societal issues while thoroughly enjoying the comedic elements. Throughout the collection, themes of identity, societal expectations, and the absurdities of modern life prevail. Whether you’re looking for a lighthearted escape or a reflective take on life’s quirks, this book delivers on both fronts. A keeper.
Often, before I write a book review, and especially when I’ve really enjoyed the book, I research the author. When I hunted down Radu Guiasu, I was delighted to learn he teaches botany at a local university and that his students say he “has the funniest stories to share with his class.” Well, if what he shares with readers in A Good Day and Other (Mostly)Humorous Stories and Lists is any indication, I almost wish I could attend university all over again…provided Radu is my lecturer. Whether Radu is sharing his childhood recollection of a class bully who demanded he turn over a prized model car or pointing out why Jurassic Park dinosaurs couldn’t survive in today’s climate, he keeps readers grinning. His clever dialogue piece, The Date, in which a woman is so intrigued by the unambitious date that she wants to get to know him better is an unexpected and delightful twist.
And then there are the “lists” Guiasu has compiled. I enjoyed these best of all. Lists like what not to say at your 40th high school reunion, e.g. “Please don’t feel you have to bring me up to date with everything that’s happened to you since high school.” Or, traits of other species that he admires like “a skunk’s talent for clearing the room” or “a chameleon’s tendency to blend in.” What an incredible wit Radu Guiasu has! I dare other humor writers to come out with so many funny one-liners. Honestly, there is enough material in his lists to keep a stand-up comedian’s audience in stitches. If Radu ever decides to leave teaching, he’d be a hit on Canada’s Got Talent. Speaking of writers, they are the ones who will most appreciate Radu’s “Submission Guidelines” and “An Honest Rejection Letter” which tells hopeful authors that “Sometimes, we encounter promising stories, but yours was certainly not among them.” Dear reader/writer, have you ever gotten a rejection letter like that? I’m trying not to laugh. A wonderful escape if you're having a no-good, horrible, terrible, very bad day!
Author Radu Guiaşu is a brilliant storyteller. Humoring us, frightening us, giving us a taste of reality, and then provoking fits of laughter once again - all signs “A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists” was an exceptional collection. From stories such as “The Day the Bear Came” to a letter to the founder of Jurassic Park titled “Logical Flaws and Other Problems with Jurassic Park” Radu proves writing great stories can be done regardless of age, experiences, or near-death encounters.
Over the course of a few short pages, Radu elicited such a range of emotions, over and over again, whether unraveling the travels of two dumb boys, detailing a desk housed in a basement, or explaining a brush with a bully. Try not to laugh, even as Napoleon Bonaparte is involved. Reassess your career choice, as maybe lion taming is a good fit for you. And certainly, take into consideration some blurbs he’s written for the back cover pages of books.
With a plethora of degrees behind him, research and peer-reviewed articles in his repertoire, Radu proves academics do have some humor in them, giving me hope for my own future in academia. Cycling readers through a variety of reactions ranging from panicked to dumbfounded, hysterical to amped up, readers will breeze through this collection of stories, lists, and letters in their pursuit of a good day.
Humor only scrapes the surface of what Radu has accomplished with this compilation, crack the pages and get lost within.
An amiable and whimsical collection of writing, ranging from childhood memories of defeating the bullies, and being inappropriate while signing books of condolence, and so on, to seeing how things look when the shoe is on the other foot as a teacher in later life. There's also a large thread about trying to get published in small literary magazines – the type you can never trust to actually produce what you've subscribed to, and certainly never trust to think well of your submission for entry, even if you did subscribe on the off-chance it helped. There is a good line in reductio ad absurdum, where the office apology, perfect eyesight – and even the author's own reviews – get taken to an extreme. I enjoy the style of writing that uses letters, lists and other approaches – and this is big on the list format, but it wasn't exactly hilarious, and felt a touch too much like a personal achievement, as the semi-self-published nature implies.
Not the vanity project that we see ripped apart in the Jurassic Park demolition here, but all the same… It's neither fabulous, nor open to being shredded like those shitty jeans that it gets to lampoon – three and a half stars, with some pieces individually a clear four.
A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists is a satirical expose on both daily life and funny, fantastical experiences. This book starts off with longer form content, then shifts to lists and very humorous parts such as fake rejection letters and an advert for a Klingon university. This book was resemblant of other narrative pieces such as The Bell Jar, Ulysses, Shop Girl, and Catcher in the Rye, but with an incredibly funny twist. These stories are fascinating, witty, irreverent, and were an overall joy to read. The book may start slowly and confusingly, but soon, that becomes part of its charm as you find yourself not wanting it to end. I genuinely enjoyed this silly book and hope others do, too!
Thank you to friesenpress for providing me this book via netgalley for review consideration!
I’m in my short story collection era and this was a great addition! With a mix of short stories and hilarious lists from a fresh Romanian voice, this book really had it all- and I was really impressed by how he fit 36 stories/lists into just over 200 pages!! From reflections on his past that drove introspection to silly lists designed to answer some of life’s toughest questions like why did the chicken cross the road, I was engaged and enjoying myself!
Thanks so much to Radu Guiasu and NetGalley for a chance to read this in exchange for an honest review.