Popular

by Lauren Urasek, Laura Barcella

With more than 15,000 four- and five-star ratings, an average of 35 messages per day, and hundreds of thousands of profile views from interested suitors, Lauren Urasek was dubbed the most sought-after woman in the city by New York magazine. She then started a popular Tumblr detailing her experiences with Prince Charmings (and Not-So-Charmings) and now tells all in a series of frank, funny essays about the ups and downs of dating in the city that never sleeps.

She's run the gamut of the nominally "single and ready to mingle" males of New York City, from dudes who went in for a kiss within the first 10 minutes to one who conducted an impromptu "girlfriend job interview". And in between the horror stories and dating disasters, Lauren shares some real talk about what works - and what doesn't. Urasek's take on love and romance in the age of the right swipe will make anyone who's ever tried Internet dating laugh, cringe, or both.

Lauren's 22 essays are punctuated by cheeky yet informative sidebars on:




Red flags you should never ignore
Quirky/weird/offbeat ways to find out whether a guy's not right for you
The 15 worst usernames
A comparison between different online dating services (OKCupid, Tinder, Match, etc.)
And much more!

Genres: Memoir, Nonfiction, Humor, Biography

MP3 CD

First published September 1, 2015

Reviews

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What happens when you are deemed the Most Popular Girl in New York City strictly based upon your online dating profile? Only one person can tell us, and now she has.

I don’t personally know a lot about online dating sites, but based purely on the number of commercials I see for them and the number of people I personally know who have used them, I know that they are a popular place to meet and get to know others that you wouldn’t have had the opportunity to meet otherwise. Doesn’t sound so bad. For one girl in particular, Lauren Urasek from NYC, online dating might not have led her to her soulmate yet, but it has led her to be recognized as the most popular girl in New York.

And thankfully, she wrote a book to tell us all about it.

Lauren is a self-proclaimed “technology- and science-enthusiast-turned-makeup-artist” who unknowingly was making quite a mark on the online dating world with her own profile. She has since been highlighted on a plethora of sites anywhere from trusted big-time news sources to Buzzfeed and beyond. She’s experienced it all – accidentally becoming a sugar baby, guys who have absolutely no respect for her, and everything in between, she’s decided to share a few tips and experiences with us. Find out what red flags are worth ignoring, how to know whether someone is right for you, and even how to tell who is messaging you on the internet.

Useful? Useful.

Lauren’s book, Popular, is multi-faceted. It’s part dating advice, part how-to-put-together-a-dating-profile, and part online dating horror stories. And even if you’re in a relationship already or aren’t interested in giving online dating a go yourself, the horror stories and “OMG DID HE REALLY SAY THAT” moments are by far enough to make this read worth it. I promise I’m not ruining anything by telling you that being the “Most popular girl in New York City” is not as luxurious as you might imagine, and even sounds fun at moments.

Popular is the perfect read for anyone who has dipped their toes into the online dating world, has had a bad relationship that ultimately turned out to be a great horror story, or (like me) you just have a weak spot for stories of dates-gone-wrong. Not to mention, who could resist this brightly colored cover?! It’s an easy to read book and totally fun that will have you both laughing and cringing with every turn of the page. If there’s anything I’m confident of, it’s that this book will leave you thankful that you’re not actually the most popular girl in NYC…even though the title does have a nice ring to it.

I was provided with a free copy of this book in order to conduct this review.

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[Dove · Rating 5 out of 5]

I DONT EVEN KNOW WHAT GENRE THIS BOOK FALLS UNDER, BUT WHATEVER GENRE IT IS, IS MY NEW FAVOURITE GENRE. LIKE I HAVE BEEN READING SO MANY BOOKS LIKE THIS THIS YEAR AND THEY ARE SO ENLIGHTENING AND I AM SO ADDICTED TO THEM. I CAN NEVER PUT THEM DOWN, THEY MAKE ME LAUGH, AND THEY GIVE SUCH GOOD ADVICE. THEY HELP ME LIVE MY LIFE AND MAKE ME FEEL LIKE IM NOT ALONE. MOST OF ALL, THEY GIVE ME HOPE THAT THE FUTURE WILL BE BRIGHTER. AS USUAL, I DONT KNOW WHY IM YELLING BUT IM JUST VERY PASSIONATE ABOUT THIS BOOK. This book follows Lauren Urasek, who basically talks about relationships the entire book. She talks about the most talked about topic when it comes to dating in the 21st century- online dating. She talks about the perks, the negatives, and gives great advice. I really liked how she recounts all her stories with past dating experiences so that we realize we aren't the only cringe ones! She makes the guys we encounter seem okay! She tells hilarious stories that make me laugh super hard. I couldn't put it down, and I feel like I'm Lauren's friend now because relationships are usually something close friends talk about. She talked about relationships with all sorts of people she's dated- alcoholics, money-obsessed, mean people, emotionally detached, etc. She talks about how to deal with them, and realizing the fault is not yours. She talks about self confidence and self respect. I also liked how she had those red flag tips where she told us things about guys that are warning signs to look out for when talking to guys. They are 100% accurate, and I feel like this book would help a lot of young people who are new to dating because all the stuff she talks about is not something you can just search up, it's something you literally have to go through to understand. And above all, I love how she keeps such a humorous tone. I also liked how at the end of every chapter she had a segment of things that guys actually texted/said to her. They were so cringe and embarrassing, they will make you laugh and it's so relaxing!! I kept sending my friends pictures of things in the book because everyone should honestly read this book! This book also makes you think a lot, especially when she tells stories that remind you of other people.

[Nicole Amburgey · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this as a preview copy from the publisher. If I could give half ratings on Goodreads, I would set this as a solid 3.5 star review.

With a tagline that reads, "The Ups and Downs of Online Dating from the Most Popular Girl in New York City," I honestly expected a book full of essays that promised just that. Those stories from Lauren and from other contributors accounted for about half of the book. The rest of the book was filled with the do's and don'ts of online dating and brief reflections on the author's life over the last few years in NYC. I applaud the author for her honesty and candidness of her experiences and opinions. I found myself pulled in from the very beginning in which she describes the long-term relationship that she got out of that led her to online dating. I had a very similar experience and and found her easy to relate to.

On the flip side, I found myself pulling away from her the further that I got into the book. It could be as simple as geographical differences (I do not live anywhere near a city the size of NYC or LA) or age, or experiences, but I found her advice a little naive and contradicting. She talks about the importance of looks then says it's superficial, and then decides right away on a person based on their looks. I understand the proverbial spark that everyone looks for, but sometimes it can take a few meetings to light.

Overall, I would say that this was an enjoyable peek into someone's online dating experiences. I would definitely recommend this book to others - although, I think it is aimed more at the 18-25 year old market for sure. It was a fun read on a rainy afternoon.

[Erin Doyle · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this book, but it’s just not good. It’s not so much about being named OKCupid’s most popular woman (her life after that happened is only briefly discussed), but rather some generic tips on online dating, very short stories from random contributors, and quotes from dating app messages. It’s pretty boring. There’s nothing exciting or interesting that happens. The whole book reads like the author is trying to justify her use of dating apps and humble-brag.

[Anthony Pignataro · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book over two days during a really bad week, and it was exactly what I needed—funny, smart tales of bad dates from the woman New York Magazine dubbed “the most sought-after woman” in NYC in 2014. The book definitely made me cringe about a few internet dates from my past, but in the end, who doesn’t love to hear about all the stupid things guys say and do when dating (or trying to date) a woman?

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5 so I'll round up to 4. I follow her on Instagram, both at @loandthecosmos and @carlthesammy, where she has an adorable Samoyed named Carl, and once I saw she published a book, I was intrigued. I'm an online dating "veteran" as well (met my boyfriend through Tinder, and exes through OKC and eHarmony) so I found this book funny and very relatable.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had low expectations. Someone having a successful internet career has not been a good indicator in terms of my enjoying their book. Still, I thought this book was great. I enjoyed her writing, her written voice, her stories and her attitude. Ultimately this was the type of book I enjoy the best; someone telling the story of a life so far removed from own and telling that story well.

[Alicia Farrar · Rating 2 out of 5]

I got a few laughs out of this book, and walked away with a couple of nuggets of information...but overall, it was a bunch of boring stories about this woman's dating life. I understand being popular on dating apps, I was *hoping* for more direction from this book.

[Samantha Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

Relatable if you’ve ever been on a dating app.

[Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Slightly entertaining, but the author is a little too hypocritical and egocentric for me to give the book a higher rating. She tries to be witty but it usually comes across as mean and judgemental.

[EBaker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well I bought this book for 10p (new) and there weren’t even any reviews on the cover so my expectations truly were rock-bottom level.

Maybe because of this I actually had an alright time reading it. It’s written in very small, diary style chunks and is good for a snigger or two, especially the messages from men. The author occasionally strays into thoughts about self esteem and independence but every time I started to properly engage there was just a little bit of ‘not like other girls’ energy that put me off. All in all though, worth at least 20p.

[Cheyenne Teska · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a young woman who has recently experienced the ups and downs of online dating, Popular seemed like a book that I needed to read. From the first page to the last, it's filled with hilarious and cringe-worthy stories, which helped me realized that no matter which city you live in, the people really aren't that different. A lot of Lauren's experiences were scarily accurate to the dozens of less-than-stellar guys I've dates over the past year and a half.

It seems that online dating is more of a form of entertainment than an actual way to meet "the one". Don't get me wrong, I know plenty of people who have found love online, but for some, it's going to take a lot of digging through the bullshit. Unfortunately, I am one of those people. Like some of the stories mentioned in this memoir, I've spent time with perfectly nice guys that I just didn't connect with. I've also come across some of the worst people I've ever met. Popular isn't just a collection of tragic dates. In its own way, the experiences shared are surprisingly uplifting.

The book is filled with stories, lists, and contributions from other women around my age, which I enjoyed greatly. I think that even those who haven't gone the same route to find a partner will be able to read Popular in one sitting, because each of the essays pull you in deeper. Lauren's voice is that of a best friend or older sister. She doesn't dance around the truth, and that may be my favorite thing about Popular. I don't read nonfiction very often, but I definitely would if I found more books like this.

[Nemo · Rating 4 out of 5]

For more reviews visit: Blame it on the Book

I rarely ever touch nonfiction, but Popular has such an interesting premise. Who doesn’t want to know what it’s like to be the most popular girl in NYC? Even if it is on a dating website. Lauren's narrative is crass and honest as she tells us about the worst and best dates. Behind the glamour and the title Lauren is just really trying to find a partner in life.

I love that this book wasn’t just a collection of bad dates, there were also the good dates, the times she got rejected and the Do’s & Dont’s of online dating. My favorite thing about this book is how she constantly reminds the readers of the dangers of getting lost in a relationship. If you’re looking for someone to fix or to help fix you then your relationships will all be toxic. Instead you have to find yourself and then find someone who can complement you.

I have to admit I was expecting more stories, some of the chapters were just repeats of others and the same stories would keep getting mentioned, so it was a little repetitive. Lauren does not try to come off as an angel, in her stories she talks about what it was like having a sugar daddy and how she could use her dates for her benefit.

Overall, It was beyond entertaining to get lost in the world of the most popular girl on OKCupid.

[Barbara Desmond · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was kindly sent this book to read and review. I'll admit that the pink is what drew me to it. I really wish I had a copy of another book I read this year that was very pink too. I feel the need to find out which book out pinks the other. I think it is a pretty close race. I also love the spine which allows you to have the pink on a smaller scale with black which looks fabulous.

I also really love the feel of the names that are raised. You can feel them as you lovingly stroke your book. Doesn't everyone do that? They must be welcomed to their new home. Inside there's a collage of pictures of Lauren which could have worked as a cover as well but I like the pink.

This is an entertaining peek at the life of Lauren and it shows that even a hot chick with tattoos can have her ups and downs when it comes to dating. There are stories and tips sprinkled throughout about her experiences that I enjoyed. I'll admit that when it comes to book land that the non fiction books are the ones I read the least. Yep I can count on one hand the number of non fiction books I've read but I enjoyed this one and will likely start dipping my toe into this section of book land more although I'll confess that I'm always going to be more of a fiction girl.

http://www.ficgal.com/book-club/popular

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a lover of books, the first thing I noticed was the magnificent way this book was produced. The cover and insides were beautiful and unique. I loved the photo collages of Lauren! I was also initially intrigued by the description of this book. As a Midwestern mom and wife, I was looking forward to living the NYC single girl dating life through Lauren. While this book wasn't exactly what I anticipated (I thought there would be more stories), it was entertaining. Lauren shares many of her own dating tragedies as well as those of other daters. She also shares insight and tips on how to get the most out of your online dating experience. This book is a nice, light read with short chapters perfect to keep those who aren't dating engaged with the stories and keep those who are dating hooked with all of the tips and suggestions on how to avoid bad matches. I look forward to hearing ,ore from Lauren in the future.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a lover of books, the first thing I noticed was the magnificent way this book was produced. The cover and insides were beautiful and unique. I loved the photo collages of Lauren! I was also initially intrigued by the description of this book. As a Midwestern mom and wife, I was looking forward to living the NYC single girl dating life through Lauren. While this book wasn’t exactly what I anticipated (I thought there would be more stories), it was entertaining. Lauren shares many of her own dating tragedies as well as those of other daters. She also shares insight and tips on how to get the most out of your online dating experience. This book is a nice, light read with short chapters perfect to keep those who aren’t dating engaged with the stories and keep those who are dating hooked with all of the tips and suggestions on how to avoid bad matches. I look forward to hearing ,ore from Lauren in the future.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

*2.5 Stars*

This book was interesting enough to keep me reading but it wasn't anything remarkable. It was funny at times and it was cool to see into the dating history of "the most popular woman in New York." It was a bit repetitive though. She seemed to talk in circles and she went on unnecessary tangents quite a bit. I liked her personality and the stories from other women plus some of the "they actually said this" pages were hilarious. However, I feel like I didn't get much of what I was expecting when I picked up the book. It was okay. Not anything really all the special, but I don't regret reading it so there's that lol. It was a super quick read and something a little different from what I normally read.

(Btw she made this huge deal about being a grammar nazi and her book had two or three typos!!)

[Daniel Ginsburg · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read many books about online dating, mostly written by men, so it was very refreshing to read a book on the subject that was written from a woman's perspective. The book itself was well written, and it was a great story and easy to read, BUT, the narcissism that came from simply being a single woman living in NYC was a bit annoying. All the potty-mouth talk was equally annoying - I never read a book that was so frequented with the F-word before (used as an expletive here, not referring to the deed). All the talk about sex or working up to having sex, without any details after actually having had sex was a bit of a let down (one guy had a big P, so what???). Most books are the opposite, using curse words sparingly, but explaining the details very liberally. An overall 3.5 star rating is about right, and I do recommend the book for its entertaining value.

[Brian · Rating 2 out of 5]

I picked up this book as an uncorrected galley and was drawn to the plot: A book about online dating! Our author, Lauren, writes about what it's like to be the "most popular girl on OKCupid." She tells a few stories about some bad dates. The book is supplemented by stories from other people who also have had bad dates, but the book doesn't explain at all who these people are. The book also contains some annoying sections that are directed only at women, such as how to put on certain types of makeup, which didn't interest me. I wish Lauren had included a few more of her bad dating stories, instead of offering advice. The book itself didn't seem to have any idea of what sort of book it was supposed to be. It was a mishmash of dating advice, dating stories, humor and cosmetic advice.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is more of a dos and don'ts list for online dating. Having experienced the world of Plenty of Fish and Tinder, I could relate to a lot of it. Other than that, she included some funny/interesting/horrible dates and several what were they thinking??? online exchanges. Quick, funny. Really though (and kind of unrelated) my favorite chapter was a list of ridiculous gender-specific products that we're constantly bombarded with. It includes: 1. Bic Pens For Her ("THANK GOD there is now a pen made just for my dainty, little hands") 2. Sleep Pretty In Pink Ear Plugs ("Luckily, they came out with a version just for me!") and 3. Rhinestone-Encrusted Sports Jerseys ("I just love that I'm able to buy a cute, sparkly, and fitted jersey to show of all my curves, of course")

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I actually decided to read this after Cosmo mentioned it. Cosmo described it as silly stories from the most popular girl on OKC in New York and I thought "I'd love to hear crazy dating stories cause I have had some myself" about halfway through she starts giving tips on online dating and that's where I kind of lost interest cause I'm not a single girl.

Yes there are some silly stories, and sad ones, and crazy ones. Was it exactly what I thought? No, but I still thought it was a pretty interesting read.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

For what the book is, it's a good read. It's not an addicting thriller or enchanting love story but it was the perfect beach read for my vacation. The author's voice is humorous and thoughtful. I'd say it's half online dating adventures, half tips for navigating the world of online dating. As a former OkCupider myself, I appreciated the honesty and hilarity of these stories.

Four stars for being a quick, light-hearted read. Don't go into this book expecting a heavy, lose-your-whole-day story and you'll enjoy it too.

[Becca · Rating 3 out of 5]

Funny, relatable and easy to read. Doesn't give me much hope for my dating future, but I didn't have much before this, so...

One criticism: do you think you could mention just one or two more times how you're the most popular person on OkCupid? I didn't pick that up the first dozen times. :|

If Urasek is the most popular on the dating app and she's still single, there's literally zero hope for me.

[Trista Mcclure · Rating 2 out of 5]

I enjoyed Popular for the gossipy name dropping, bad dates, and shallowness of it all. I am not much smarter for reading it. It did make me feel that not doing the whole online dating thing is a good idea. Oh, also I learned the difference between foundation, tinted moisturizer, BB cream, and CC cream. So there's that.

[Marcelle Karp · Rating 3 out of 5]

library, harcover

Well. If you frequent online dating sites, so much of what happens to Lauren Urasek--outside of being the most POPULAR woman on OK Cupid--will sound familiar and hilarious to you. And therefore, enjoyable.

[Liz Keeney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lauren Urasek is incredibly likable and the information and anecdotes she includes are interesting, but far from groundbreaking. Aziz Ansari's Modern Romance covered this ground first, and did it better. Still, this is a quick and fun read, good as a break between heavier reads.

[Jen Johnston · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read this book in about an hour - nothing too groundbreaking but super light

[Elizabeth Alm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Refreshingly honest. At times hysterically funny. Would 100% recommend for a good laugh

[PENNEY GANLEY · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you for the free arc. This book was okay.

[Kaitlyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Entertaining stories, some of the content seemed a bit off topic. It did make me laugh at some of the outrageous things that happened. Some parts were kind of dull. It was a decent read.