What do you think?
Rate this book
Limp: A Funny Memoir
"Funny..." "Crazy..." "Uplifting..." "Scary..." "Compelling..." "Brutal..." "Amazing..."
All rolled into one.
Limp is the darkly hilarious life story of Australian Simon Eli Vella, and his epic battle with crippling introversion, substance abuse, and social anxiety.
As a child, Simon is convinced there is something wrong with him. He is plagued with illness, has a nose shaped like a mountain range, and a distracting voice in his head is hell-bent on ruining his life.
Thus begins his desperate search for normality.
In his early teenage years, Simon's linguistic constipation forces him to rely on his actions to build social credibility. As a young adult he finds acceptance in alcohol and recreational drug abuse, triggering a dangerous descent into a social underbelly that leads to an unwelcome familiarity with the local ambulance service.
And just when he thinks he has escaped his past demons, multiple unexpected hazards converge in Simon's life, pushing him to the brink of sanity...
Massively entertaining, Limp takes the reader on a funny, compelling and unpredictable journey that shows how everything we experience in life--every flaw, every fault, every ripple and tectonic shift--can lead to the place of our dreams.
"Comically chronicles a youth filled with social anxiety, drug abuse, and shiftless meandering. Impressive... satisfying... a humorous, free-wheeling account of youthful indiscretions." --Kirkus Reviews
You must buy this book immediately. It will save your life. Or ruin it. Definitely one of the two.
Follow Simon at simonelivella.com
All enquiries to surfeitpublishing.com
All rolled into one.
Limp is the darkly hilarious life story of Australian Simon Eli Vella, and his epic battle with crippling introversion, substance abuse, and social anxiety.
As a child, Simon is convinced there is something wrong with him. He is plagued with illness, has a nose shaped like a mountain range, and a distracting voice in his head is hell-bent on ruining his life.
Thus begins his desperate search for normality.
In his early teenage years, Simon's linguistic constipation forces him to rely on his actions to build social credibility. As a young adult he finds acceptance in alcohol and recreational drug abuse, triggering a dangerous descent into a social underbelly that leads to an unwelcome familiarity with the local ambulance service.
And just when he thinks he has escaped his past demons, multiple unexpected hazards converge in Simon's life, pushing him to the brink of sanity...
Massively entertaining, Limp takes the reader on a funny, compelling and unpredictable journey that shows how everything we experience in life--every flaw, every fault, every ripple and tectonic shift--can lead to the place of our dreams.
"Comically chronicles a youth filled with social anxiety, drug abuse, and shiftless meandering. Impressive... satisfying... a humorous, free-wheeling account of youthful indiscretions." --Kirkus Reviews
You must buy this book immediately. It will save your life. Or ruin it. Definitely one of the two.
Follow Simon at simonelivella.com
All enquiries to surfeitpublishing.com
292 pages, ebook
Published February 21, 2017
36 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Simon Eli Vella
1 book2 followersSimon Eli Vella is a reformed recreational drug addict and former club DJ, who now leads a beautifully boring life as a part-time author and full-time loathed cog in the capitalist machine of a major bank. He lives in Melbourne, Australia with his neuroticism and a very patient wife, and the ever-looming risk of abnormal situations disturbing his mundane existence.
His debut memoir, 'Limp', humorously chronicles his battle with extreme introversion as a child, and his maladjusted young adulthood.
He can be found at simonelivella.com.
His debut memoir, 'Limp', humorously chronicles his battle with extreme introversion as a child, and his maladjusted young adulthood.
He can be found at simonelivella.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 23, 2017
Limp is a wonderfully apt title as it encompasses everything in the narrator's life. Australian debut author, Simon Eli Vella, chronicles his life starting with his childhood in Melbourne as an extremely introvert boy with no self-confidence. Completely lacking energy or motivation, he finds remaining passive, the simplest way to be pushed through life. Growing up and wanting to fit in somehow, he discovers that "normal" interactions with people become easier under the influence of recreational drugs and plenty of booze. As a side effect, he then has to cope with his impotence, some difficult relationships, and a hilarious lawsuit. Always looking for the path of least resistance, Simon stays in education for as long as possible and then drifts from job to job before finally "growing up" in his forties.
This was a very humorous memoir with several laugh-out-loud moments and I admire the author's candor. It was very readable, but at times, I found it a little too light considering some of the rather serious topics (mental health, drug and alcohol abuse). I loved Simon's Mum and Dad with their laissez-faire parenting while always being there for him and supporting him when needed, but also happy to give their uncensored opinions on their son's choices. Overall, an engaging and entertaining memoir.
I received an ARC via NetGalley.
This was a very humorous memoir with several laugh-out-loud moments and I admire the author's candor. It was very readable, but at times, I found it a little too light considering some of the rather serious topics (mental health, drug and alcohol abuse). I loved Simon's Mum and Dad with their laissez-faire parenting while always being there for him and supporting him when needed, but also happy to give their uncensored opinions on their son's choices. Overall, an engaging and entertaining memoir.
I received an ARC via NetGalley.
February 25, 2017
“Limp: A Funny Memoir” is indeed a humorous and entertaining debut by Simon Eli Vella. A zany story complete with one liners, also a steady stream of consciousness that advised him in the voice of Morgan Attenborough, that defined World A and World B. Simon recalled his ordeal with a crippling anxiety disorder that began in boyhood-- he was often afraid of the girls and women who had hoped to get to know him better, and generally avoided others. For relief, he turned to alcohol and party drugs that led to a host of other problems. Simon Eli Vella is from Melbourne, Australia.
Growing up, Simon seemed like a Charlie Brown type. Unlike his brother, that was athletic, academically gifted, and very popular. Simon was just downright awkward; in middle school he reached a level of coolness selling playing cards of nude women to his peers. This ended abruptly after he was caught shoplifting more cards, and teachers warned students to secure their valuables from possible thievery.
As he matured, his idea was to avoid full time gainful employment. Simon attended the University for as long as possible, earning a degree in Marketing. To celebrate, he borrowed money from his parents and stayed in London on a work visa. Later, he took a Greyhound Bus tour of the U.S. that included visiting the neon glitz of the casinos in Las Vegas, Nevada. Not all the passengers on the bus were sane or friendly, and Simon discovered he could project an authoritative commanding presence if necessary, giving his self-confidence a much needed boost.
Reluctantly, Simon accepted a combination of assorted jobs; one included being a DJ in a dance club. Dismayed at his inability to date and connect with a beautiful co-worker, Simon sought medical attention for erectile dysfunction. When his doctor advised he would need to maintain a healthier diet and lifestyle free from alcohol and illicit drugs— this went over like a lead balloon! It would take several more years that included a failed relationship, encountering a frantic steroid addicted patron at his gym, trips to the emergency room from drunken accidents, a mentally ill psychotic roommate that refused to move out of his house, and a terribly stressful lawsuit—before Simon reached a new level of maturity. After accepting the fact that his doctor had been right all along, his life opened up to many new possibilities. ~ With thanks to Surfeit Publishing Australia via NetGalley for the DRC for the purpose of review.
Growing up, Simon seemed like a Charlie Brown type. Unlike his brother, that was athletic, academically gifted, and very popular. Simon was just downright awkward; in middle school he reached a level of coolness selling playing cards of nude women to his peers. This ended abruptly after he was caught shoplifting more cards, and teachers warned students to secure their valuables from possible thievery.
As he matured, his idea was to avoid full time gainful employment. Simon attended the University for as long as possible, earning a degree in Marketing. To celebrate, he borrowed money from his parents and stayed in London on a work visa. Later, he took a Greyhound Bus tour of the U.S. that included visiting the neon glitz of the casinos in Las Vegas, Nevada. Not all the passengers on the bus were sane or friendly, and Simon discovered he could project an authoritative commanding presence if necessary, giving his self-confidence a much needed boost.
Reluctantly, Simon accepted a combination of assorted jobs; one included being a DJ in a dance club. Dismayed at his inability to date and connect with a beautiful co-worker, Simon sought medical attention for erectile dysfunction. When his doctor advised he would need to maintain a healthier diet and lifestyle free from alcohol and illicit drugs— this went over like a lead balloon! It would take several more years that included a failed relationship, encountering a frantic steroid addicted patron at his gym, trips to the emergency room from drunken accidents, a mentally ill psychotic roommate that refused to move out of his house, and a terribly stressful lawsuit—before Simon reached a new level of maturity. After accepting the fact that his doctor had been right all along, his life opened up to many new possibilities. ~ With thanks to Surfeit Publishing Australia via NetGalley for the DRC for the purpose of review.
February 25, 2017
I was given an ARC of this book from Netgalley and Surfeit Publishing to read and review.
I found Simon Eli Vella's book to be quite brave, funny at times, outrageous at others, yet sad for him through much of it. His situation is a tough one, growing up a sickly boy in Australia with "sinus issues" that leave him an object of ridicule much of the time, while he carries around "hanky" as his shield from the world. An extreme introvert, he enjoys only times where he doesn't have to endure other people and especially having to interact with them by speaking. His best times are spent alone in his room, as he feels he has no friends, no redeeming qualities, and no reason at all to even try in the world. He goes along through life just letting the river of life wash him in whatever direction it will, with the negative consequences that come along. And through much of it, he's got the snarky voice in his head telling him in no uncertain terms what a total wanker he is. It's so ever present that he's even given it a name, Freeman Attenborough, a cross between Freeman Morgan and Richard Attenborough.
He finds that using drugs helps to drown out that voice a bit, so he dives right into drug use, becoming quite an addict and drinker through much of his life. He feels that being blitzed is the only way to get through times where he has to interact with others, to make him less of a non-entity, an unwanted and unlikable waste of air. He doesn't notice much of a downside to the addiction until eventually he's told by a doctor that it's making his impotence worse. It's written in a painfully entertaining way, relating how he goes from one bad situation to the next with little insight for many years. But it left me a bit sad for so much of his life, while inspired by the eventual turnaround.
I found Simon Eli Vella's book to be quite brave, funny at times, outrageous at others, yet sad for him through much of it. His situation is a tough one, growing up a sickly boy in Australia with "sinus issues" that leave him an object of ridicule much of the time, while he carries around "hanky" as his shield from the world. An extreme introvert, he enjoys only times where he doesn't have to endure other people and especially having to interact with them by speaking. His best times are spent alone in his room, as he feels he has no friends, no redeeming qualities, and no reason at all to even try in the world. He goes along through life just letting the river of life wash him in whatever direction it will, with the negative consequences that come along. And through much of it, he's got the snarky voice in his head telling him in no uncertain terms what a total wanker he is. It's so ever present that he's even given it a name, Freeman Attenborough, a cross between Freeman Morgan and Richard Attenborough.
He finds that using drugs helps to drown out that voice a bit, so he dives right into drug use, becoming quite an addict and drinker through much of his life. He feels that being blitzed is the only way to get through times where he has to interact with others, to make him less of a non-entity, an unwanted and unlikable waste of air. He doesn't notice much of a downside to the addiction until eventually he's told by a doctor that it's making his impotence worse. It's written in a painfully entertaining way, relating how he goes from one bad situation to the next with little insight for many years. But it left me a bit sad for so much of his life, while inspired by the eventual turnaround.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2017
I felt the author was doing a poor job of stand-up comedy rather than writing a funny memoir. After the first chapter I was bored with reading about his sinus issues. I did feel compassion for this nerdy misfit of a boy, and I admired the author's candor. But, after awhile I felt as if I was reading the same self-degradation joke over and over again.
February 24, 2017
I found this book refreshing and so humorous. I loved the way Simon had no problem making fun of himself no matter what the situation. And there were plenty of situations lol.
Simons story takes us a journey of his life from the beginning. He was a awkward kid who preferred his fantasy life to his real life so much so that he felt his fake life's narrator sometimes interfered with his focus in reality.
Every stage of Simons life is written in these pages and nothing is left unsaid from his snotty nose, drug and alcohol use to the obvious innuendo of the title.
I found myself rooting for Simon to get his happy ending and get out of his fantasy world and was happy to read he finally found his inner peace.
I voluntarily reviewed a arc of this book via NetGalley
Simons story takes us a journey of his life from the beginning. He was a awkward kid who preferred his fantasy life to his real life so much so that he felt his fake life's narrator sometimes interfered with his focus in reality.
Every stage of Simons life is written in these pages and nothing is left unsaid from his snotty nose, drug and alcohol use to the obvious innuendo of the title.
I found myself rooting for Simon to get his happy ending and get out of his fantasy world and was happy to read he finally found his inner peace.
I voluntarily reviewed a arc of this book via NetGalley
March 28, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book.
I honestly want to like this more than I did, and I want to like Simon more than I do (based off his memoir, though I'm sure he's a lovely person in real life), but I can't find it in me.
I started out feeling sorry for Simon as a child; he was plagued with what seemed to be an abusive father, a mother that didn't pay much attention to him, an unrelenting runny nose and very few friends. He very implicitly stated that his father was violent towards him and prone to bouts of rage when angry. But the reader is never actually shown that side of his father, and not long after, Simon sings the praises of his parents who were loving and supportive of him throughout his life. Did I miss something? Was it all in Simon's head, his angry, unloving father? I guess that just wasn't clear to me. That's when I started disconnecting from this memoir.
Things just didn't really add up, in terms of the treatment he received from his parents, as well as his medical issues. Seemingly, no doctor in Australia was able to correctly diagnose his sinus issues and then sort out the problem(s). That struck me as odd. Moreover, his sinus issues seem to abate after coming clean off of his drug and alcohol abuse during his adulthood, with no real explanation of it or even a mention of it after childhood. To me, it sounded like drugs were the root of the issue, but that couldn't be possible, because he wasn't using or abusing drugs as a child, when the problem was at its worst.
I don't know.
Throughout the last half or more of the book, I struggled to understand the point of the author writing it. Yes, he had some very interesting/strange things happen to him, and maybe writing it all down was therapeutic for him, but I didn't particularly come out of this book feeling happy for him, or relieved that he turned out all right. I didn't feel any real connection to him, I suppose.
I honestly want to like this more than I did, and I want to like Simon more than I do (based off his memoir, though I'm sure he's a lovely person in real life), but I can't find it in me.
I started out feeling sorry for Simon as a child; he was plagued with what seemed to be an abusive father, a mother that didn't pay much attention to him, an unrelenting runny nose and very few friends. He very implicitly stated that his father was violent towards him and prone to bouts of rage when angry. But the reader is never actually shown that side of his father, and not long after, Simon sings the praises of his parents who were loving and supportive of him throughout his life. Did I miss something? Was it all in Simon's head, his angry, unloving father? I guess that just wasn't clear to me. That's when I started disconnecting from this memoir.
Things just didn't really add up, in terms of the treatment he received from his parents, as well as his medical issues. Seemingly, no doctor in Australia was able to correctly diagnose his sinus issues and then sort out the problem(s). That struck me as odd. Moreover, his sinus issues seem to abate after coming clean off of his drug and alcohol abuse during his adulthood, with no real explanation of it or even a mention of it after childhood. To me, it sounded like drugs were the root of the issue, but that couldn't be possible, because he wasn't using or abusing drugs as a child, when the problem was at its worst.
I don't know.
Throughout the last half or more of the book, I struggled to understand the point of the author writing it. Yes, he had some very interesting/strange things happen to him, and maybe writing it all down was therapeutic for him, but I didn't particularly come out of this book feeling happy for him, or relieved that he turned out all right. I didn't feel any real connection to him, I suppose.
April 18, 2017
I think when you bill something as a "funny" memoir, you are already setting it up for failure just like with any memoir written by a comedian. There's too much expectation and then there was just too much of it in general, though I'm a big fan of the genre of failing forward or learning from my mistakes since I love the rich and authentic voice of Josh Sundquist but this one fell far, far short.
August 15, 2017
Limp is an interesting non-fiction book about one guy's journey through severe anxiety, depression, drug addiction, erectile dysfunction, a seriously runny nose and coping with society. What makes this book worth the read is that it is not clinical nor is it told by doctors or psychologists. Simon gives us the ability to crawl inside his head and experience life as he does. His constant self-narrator, Morgan Attenborough (the explanation of why his narrator has this name is definitely unique!) is sometimes funny, sometimes self-deprecating, and other times down right cruel. Simon's world is crazy, confusing, and scary at times. What makes this even more interesting, is that his journey is quite different from what an American would have. Simon is Australian and views Americans through the lens of Hollywood movies, which sometimes complicates his path to self-realization. His quick wit keeps the reader entertained and his writing makes the reader feel as if they are on the same journey with Simon, embarrassing parts and all. He is a man who willing let life take him on his journey rather than try to influence his own.
"I journeyed out to the ChemFix offices ready to leave the world completely unchanged."
He is a classic loser with no life ambitions, until a prolonged and expensive legal battle led him to some of his most important discoveries and decisions of his life. For Simon, life would no longer let him be a spectator, instead it forced him to join in.
"I journeyed out to the ChemFix offices ready to leave the world completely unchanged."
He is a classic loser with no life ambitions, until a prolonged and expensive legal battle led him to some of his most important discoveries and decisions of his life. For Simon, life would no longer let him be a spectator, instead it forced him to join in.
August 16, 2017
Limp is a memoir that follows one young man, Simon Eli Vella, through what would be called ‘misguided’ youth. His awkward childhood lead to a drug filled youth. We all have those voices in our head and many of us think that these voices are the ones that stop us from being stupid. We may have even been saved by these voices on more than one occasion.
I have that voice in my head as well, but that voice is an extension of me. My thoughts tend to continue to flow and emanate in this voice that is mine but magnified. I’ve never felt that it was talking to me but here we see someone whose voice takes on a life of its own. The relationship Simon has with his inner voice is as if it is a narrator/commentator on his surroundings. His voice is humorous and destructive all at the same time. I thought my voice was distracting, I can only imagine how distracting this voice would be.
Simon found a way to silence his voice but his cause so much other damage to himself. The only way to silence the voice was through his use of drugs. He used drugs for years and buried that voice so far that he was able to seemingly come out of his shell.
I say seemingly because he continues to have ‘allergies’ to women. This keeps him from dating and also seems to strengthen his inner voice. Finally, he takes the plunge and goes to a therapist. His advise…stay away from the drugs and learn to deal with stress in a healthier manner. I’m sure if we had a penny for each time we’ve all been told to learn how to breath through it, we’d be millionaires. If we had a penny for each time we ignored that advise, we’d be billionaires. So what more do we expect other than that he too ignores the wise words of the therapist.
I find it interesting that Simon is searching for a way to be normal and yet, his responses to many situations around him are exactly that. He still searches for normalcy because he views himself as wrong. Some how life brings him to sense of normal life until his past life brings forth more surprises. Everything turns upside down once again and then he comes out the other side while trying to keep his innocent friend from paying the price.
The connections with the main character of this book are plenty and can be difficult to face. It was difficult for me to admit that I saw myself within this character. I’ve never gone through these issues, I’ve never experienced the life he has and yet somehow I saw my introverted self. Although this story is humorous and memorable it is also difficult and painful but more than definitely a wonderful read!
I have that voice in my head as well, but that voice is an extension of me. My thoughts tend to continue to flow and emanate in this voice that is mine but magnified. I’ve never felt that it was talking to me but here we see someone whose voice takes on a life of its own. The relationship Simon has with his inner voice is as if it is a narrator/commentator on his surroundings. His voice is humorous and destructive all at the same time. I thought my voice was distracting, I can only imagine how distracting this voice would be.
Simon found a way to silence his voice but his cause so much other damage to himself. The only way to silence the voice was through his use of drugs. He used drugs for years and buried that voice so far that he was able to seemingly come out of his shell.
I say seemingly because he continues to have ‘allergies’ to women. This keeps him from dating and also seems to strengthen his inner voice. Finally, he takes the plunge and goes to a therapist. His advise…stay away from the drugs and learn to deal with stress in a healthier manner. I’m sure if we had a penny for each time we’ve all been told to learn how to breath through it, we’d be millionaires. If we had a penny for each time we ignored that advise, we’d be billionaires. So what more do we expect other than that he too ignores the wise words of the therapist.
I find it interesting that Simon is searching for a way to be normal and yet, his responses to many situations around him are exactly that. He still searches for normalcy because he views himself as wrong. Some how life brings him to sense of normal life until his past life brings forth more surprises. Everything turns upside down once again and then he comes out the other side while trying to keep his innocent friend from paying the price.
The connections with the main character of this book are plenty and can be difficult to face. It was difficult for me to admit that I saw myself within this character. I’ve never gone through these issues, I’ve never experienced the life he has and yet somehow I saw my introverted self. Although this story is humorous and memorable it is also difficult and painful but more than definitely a wonderful read!
June 10, 2017
Genre: Nonfiction - Memoir
5/5
One look at the books I've read and you can tell I'm not a big nonfiction reader. However I picked up Limp by Simon Eli Vella because of two words: "comedic memoir." The synopsis sounded like it would deliver on this promise and being a bit nosy I figured I'd give it a shot. I'm really glad I did! Limp definitely delivers on being funny while exploring the author's introvertedness and anxieties that lead him down the path of least resistance and substance abuse to cope with other people. As a fellow introvert I can definitely relate to a big portion of this book, especially living in two worlds: internal vs external.
This book was funny, honest and often brutal, especially in the author's portrayal of both himself and the others around him. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and recommend it anyone, especially to those who like memoirs.
I received this book for free from the author/publisher via NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
5/5
One look at the books I've read and you can tell I'm not a big nonfiction reader. However I picked up Limp by Simon Eli Vella because of two words: "comedic memoir." The synopsis sounded like it would deliver on this promise and being a bit nosy I figured I'd give it a shot. I'm really glad I did! Limp definitely delivers on being funny while exploring the author's introvertedness and anxieties that lead him down the path of least resistance and substance abuse to cope with other people. As a fellow introvert I can definitely relate to a big portion of this book, especially living in two worlds: internal vs external.
This book was funny, honest and often brutal, especially in the author's portrayal of both himself and the others around him. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and recommend it anyone, especially to those who like memoirs.
I received this book for free from the author/publisher via NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
March 11, 2018
I got this ARC from Netgalley for review. I picked it due to the description: "Limp is the darkly hilarious story of Simon Eli Vella's epic battle with crippling introversion, substance abuse, and erectile dysfunction."
It's not really that funny, mostly just sad, and more a series of chronological anecdotes than a memoir. I guess that passes for "memoir" these days, having read more than a few in that style in the last year or so.
The author was a sickly kid, who became an alcoholic and generally awful ahole. He finally met The One and became less awful and grew up at the age of 38.
My biggest complaint is that he never explains the cause of the horrendous sinus problem that caused him to continuously run snot out of his nose for years on end. Maybe he never found out the cause, but it would have helped had he said that.
Recommended for anyone interested in reading about anxiety that can leave a person paralyzed emotionally, or anyone with nothing better to do and would enjoy reading a memoir from a non-famous person.
It's not really that funny, mostly just sad, and more a series of chronological anecdotes than a memoir. I guess that passes for "memoir" these days, having read more than a few in that style in the last year or so.
The author was a sickly kid, who became an alcoholic and generally awful ahole. He finally met The One and became less awful and grew up at the age of 38.
My biggest complaint is that he never explains the cause of the horrendous sinus problem that caused him to continuously run snot out of his nose for years on end. Maybe he never found out the cause, but it would have helped had he said that.
Recommended for anyone interested in reading about anxiety that can leave a person paralyzed emotionally, or anyone with nothing better to do and would enjoy reading a memoir from a non-famous person.
June 30, 2017
I received this book courtesy of Net Galley and its publisher, Surfeit Publishing.
The book is intended to be humorous and at times it is a “laugh out loud.” If foul language isn’t offensive to you, you may find it humorous. There are plenty of one liners that will make you laugh.
It is a book with “serious” topics with attempts at lightheartedness. The author experienced serious issues: substance abuse and erectile dysfunction. It was painful to read about the challenges he encountered as a child – health issues, bullying and insecurities. The challenges he encounters as he is maturing including being an introvert. He seems to get his act together after making it through college and obtaining a job with responsibilities and growth potential.
I think is intended to be a lighthearted read but I found it more distressing than humorous. You find yourself rooting for him to succeed. The book gets better as it progresses.
The book is intended to be humorous and at times it is a “laugh out loud.” If foul language isn’t offensive to you, you may find it humorous. There are plenty of one liners that will make you laugh.
It is a book with “serious” topics with attempts at lightheartedness. The author experienced serious issues: substance abuse and erectile dysfunction. It was painful to read about the challenges he encountered as a child – health issues, bullying and insecurities. The challenges he encounters as he is maturing including being an introvert. He seems to get his act together after making it through college and obtaining a job with responsibilities and growth potential.
I think is intended to be a lighthearted read but I found it more distressing than humorous. You find yourself rooting for him to succeed. The book gets better as it progresses.
June 26, 2017
Source: Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
"A skinny runt, Dad regularly called me, a phrase that bore uncomfortable phonetic similarities to something more offensive, which I'm pretty sure is what he really meant."
Thus starts one of the strangest books I've read in a very long time. I had a really difficult time connecting to Simon's story for most of the story. The memoir really lost my attention when its focus turned to his addiction to drugs. During that point, I did a lot of skimming over those chapters because, while there is humor present, I had a very little interest in reading it. During that time, I was formulating my review of the book. I felt it would rank between one or two stars because I could NOT wait for the book to end. Then came the epiphany that turned my review into three stars. I felt that Simon's flooding the hotel room and wanting to do right by his friend the most redeeming quality of the book. I started caring about what happened to him at that point. I wanted everything to work out for him and I wasn't disappointed.
"A skinny runt, Dad regularly called me, a phrase that bore uncomfortable phonetic similarities to something more offensive, which I'm pretty sure is what he really meant."
Thus starts one of the strangest books I've read in a very long time. I had a really difficult time connecting to Simon's story for most of the story. The memoir really lost my attention when its focus turned to his addiction to drugs. During that point, I did a lot of skimming over those chapters because, while there is humor present, I had a very little interest in reading it. During that time, I was formulating my review of the book. I felt it would rank between one or two stars because I could NOT wait for the book to end. Then came the epiphany that turned my review into three stars. I felt that Simon's flooding the hotel room and wanting to do right by his friend the most redeeming quality of the book. I started caring about what happened to him at that point. I wanted everything to work out for him and I wasn't disappointed.
March 19, 2017
This book started out so strong I laughed out loud, numerous times. I wanted to savor this book so much I would allow myself to read only one chapter a night. I was immediately hooked. I was a little mislead by the title and description. "Limp" is stereo-typically an older persons problem so was taken off guard to learn this guy is my age. But still hilariously funny. Something happened in the middle when he starts travelling and choosing "alternative" activities he lost me. Part of it may have been the subject matter, but a lot of it was just that he wasn't that funny anymore. His one-liners were missing. His "unfortunate pathetic" just turned into "pathetic". Redemption was had in the final chapters though. The legal stuff was a riot, how he ends up as far as relationship status was also quite good. The ending is not what I expected, and clearly not really what he expected either. Overall this was a simple tale about a simple man who grows up within these pages. Overall I really did think this was quite funny, probably because the humor comes from things we can all relate to. In the end I have huge respect for him and thank him for sharing his story.
This would be a good book-club book. Lots to laugh about and discuss. Easy quick chapters.
This would be a good book-club book. Lots to laugh about and discuss. Easy quick chapters.
May 8, 2017
I'm really not sure what to make of this book or what to say about it. I definitely didn't hate it, but I definitely didn't love it. There were a lot of things to like about it and equally as many to dislike. The main character was a rather pathetic human being which made a lot of the story sad and frustrating - you want to slap him upside the head. Yet he was also very introspective and understood his own motivators which was quite interesting. So I'm going to go right down the middle with this review and say it's worth a read ...but you might also regret it.
June 19, 2017
I love memoirs, and Limp by Simon Vella did not disappoint! Simon is a guy who has endured some major insecurities in his early life. His entertaining book leads his readers through his humorous and not-so-humorous adolescence and young-adulthood. My heart ached for him, yet I found myself chuckling with the words he chose. I loved that he wrapped up his story with how all the events of his youth have contributed to the man that he is now, and how he can celebrate that. I read this very compelling memoir on the beach in record time!
May 9, 2017
I got the chance to read this for free through Net Galley.
I have to say, I'm barely giving it a 2. I found the author to be pretty much totally unlikable throughout the book. He just goes from one idiotic move to another and only at the very end manages to sort of pull his act together. There were some funny moments, especially after he meets his future wife. But for the most part, I just went from feeling sorry for him to wanting to knock some sense into him.
I have to say, I'm barely giving it a 2. I found the author to be pretty much totally unlikable throughout the book. He just goes from one idiotic move to another and only at the very end manages to sort of pull his act together. There were some funny moments, especially after he meets his future wife. But for the most part, I just went from feeling sorry for him to wanting to knock some sense into him.
September 29, 2017
Simon's favorite pastime is being left alone. Preferring not to speak and content with no social life. His memoir is an account of all the times he has been forced to do, to be different and to grow up. Self proclaimed hopelessly irresponsable, Simon shares his childhood memories, awkward teenage years and his attempt at adulting.
~ often funny, yet I found myself perplexed, wondering how all of these things could possibly happen to one person?!
~ often funny, yet I found myself perplexed, wondering how all of these things could possibly happen to one person?!
July 2, 2017
While calling itself a funny memoir, LIMP is a somewhat dark look at the Australian author’s life… from childhood to adulthood. The book’s appeal lies in the brutally honest way the author views himself and his past foibles. As a fan of this genre, I found it a quick read with a laugh or two sparingly scattered within its pages. My thanks to NetGalley for the advance reader copy…
February 6, 2018
This was an in depth look into a hardcore drug users life before he turned it around. I struggled a bit with his destructive behavior, but am glad that he found his moral compass eventually. There was humor, which made it an easier read, even though there were some tough themes. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2017
I received this book courtesy of Net Galley and its publisher, Surfeit Publishing.
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the way it built up and showed how Simon overcame his early hurdles. I found myself staying up later than usual to see what would happen next.
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the way it built up and showed how Simon overcame his early hurdles. I found myself staying up later than usual to see what would happen next.
September 12, 2017
The book, unfortunately, wasn't very funny, it was a pretty repetitive account of drug use and getting into stupid situations because of the drugs.
December 2, 2017
This was dumb and I never finished it.
March 18, 2017
A funny and at times sad story (sometimes at the same time). I enjoyed every word of this book, even the ones that reminded me of my own sad and funny life. This book was very easy to read and flowed smoothly throughout. I highly recommend it. (Just my opinion.)
February 23, 2017
The obstacles and calamities chronicled in this deeply-personal journey to self-awareness sound like they came straight out of a book... And, coincidentally, they DO!... Simon's OWN book!
Limp is Simon's story of triumph trumping tragedy... after tragedy... after tragedy through not quite-so-equal parts of hilarity and humility. Although, some of Simon's "befallments of woe" are more self-imagined than tangible or truly overly-concerning. Simon is raw and honest in his pain, transparent about his former addictions and owns his culpability is his vast array of mistakes.
Simon was never truly a "bad guy" or a delinquent in the conventional sense. He just wanted to fit in, be popular, be liked, be loved just like everyone else. In this memoir, he takes you on a vulnerable and revealing tour of his thoughts, feelings and emotions. The title of this book doesn't refer to Simon in just the obvious way. It initially sort of sums up "early model" Simon, as a whole, with regard to not only a particular bodily function (or lack thereof) but his struggles with self-image, his lack of motivation and his "go with the flow and make no waves" attitude.
Simon 2.0: A clear indication of Simon's personal progress, professional transformation and re-structured mindset is evidenced by the fact that he is now a confident, successful business owner and fulfilled husband and father who takes responsibility for his actions, takes ownership for the "hot mess" that used to be his life and shows that he has grown as a person and learned from his past mistakes . He can now "poke fun" and laugh at himself and, throughout his engaging narrative, unobtrusively encourages and gives permission to the reader to join in his humor-laden self-deprecation.
I can best sum up Limp (and Simon) in five simple words: Funny, Poignant, Endearing, UPlifting... Brilliant!
I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from NetGalley & Surfeit Publishing / Author Buzz in order to read and provide a voluntary and honest review, should I choose to do so.
Limp is Simon's story of triumph trumping tragedy... after tragedy... after tragedy through not quite-so-equal parts of hilarity and humility. Although, some of Simon's "befallments of woe" are more self-imagined than tangible or truly overly-concerning. Simon is raw and honest in his pain, transparent about his former addictions and owns his culpability is his vast array of mistakes.
Simon was never truly a "bad guy" or a delinquent in the conventional sense. He just wanted to fit in, be popular, be liked, be loved just like everyone else. In this memoir, he takes you on a vulnerable and revealing tour of his thoughts, feelings and emotions. The title of this book doesn't refer to Simon in just the obvious way. It initially sort of sums up "early model" Simon, as a whole, with regard to not only a particular bodily function (or lack thereof) but his struggles with self-image, his lack of motivation and his "go with the flow and make no waves" attitude.
Simon 2.0: A clear indication of Simon's personal progress, professional transformation and re-structured mindset is evidenced by the fact that he is now a confident, successful business owner and fulfilled husband and father who takes responsibility for his actions, takes ownership for the "hot mess" that used to be his life and shows that he has grown as a person and learned from his past mistakes . He can now "poke fun" and laugh at himself and, throughout his engaging narrative, unobtrusively encourages and gives permission to the reader to join in his humor-laden self-deprecation.
I can best sum up Limp (and Simon) in five simple words: Funny, Poignant, Endearing, UPlifting... Brilliant!
I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from NetGalley & Surfeit Publishing / Author Buzz in order to read and provide a voluntary and honest review, should I choose to do so.
Read
March 7, 2017Last updated on 06 Mar 2017
What an excellent read! A truly deep look into ones psyche. Simon very honestly goes through his life, covering adolescence to adulthood. A place that is difficult for all off us. However, Simon has the "blessings" of everything bad that a boy caname have, he has. He lives with the perpetual handkerchief held to his nose. He is super shy around girls and even other boys. Then he gets into drugs and the crap hits the fan!
A must read for all of us who lack the confidence to face life full on.
I loved this book, We'll written, sad, scary, funny. Exceptional!
5 Stars!
What an excellent read! A truly deep look into ones psyche. Simon very honestly goes through his life, covering adolescence to adulthood. A place that is difficult for all off us. However, Simon has the "blessings" of everything bad that a boy caname have, he has. He lives with the perpetual handkerchief held to his nose. He is super shy around girls and even other boys. Then he gets into drugs and the crap hits the fan!
A must read for all of us who lack the confidence to face life full on.
I loved this book, We'll written, sad, scary, funny. Exceptional!
5 Stars!
February 23, 2017
Australian Simon Eli Vella has ventured far outside the usual comfort zone in his memoir “Limp.” His use of the title word applies to many aspects of his life including his personality, resolve, and sexual ability. He approaches these shortcomings with humor and determination, sharing all the usually veiled failures with his readers.
His life is not one to be envied but he seems to accept the difficulties with a passivity that might be the root of his troubles. As a child he is aware of his oddities including constant illness and a large nose that is constantly on the run. His only claim to being popular with his male classmates, a standing often difficult to obtain, is because he is the purveyor of smut that he has shoplifted. As a young adult he is an alcoholic, a recreational drug addict, chronically unemployed because of his indolence, impotent, and the victim of numerous expensive lawsuits.
From these inauspicious beginnings he evolves into an investment banker at age 42, making good money, with a wife, family, mortgage, and the constant wonder of how it all came about.
It’s an entertaining book with moments of laugh-out-loud humor, stuffed between episodes of immense stupidity and clumsy attempts at having a normal life. I didn’t feel any attempts at generating sympathy by the author. It was a simple explanation of a screwy life that he seems to accept.
February 27, 2017
A well wriiten book that is so much more than what title implies..deep, funny but so well written and poignant. Excellent and wonderful debut novel. Bravo, "Standing BIG O", PUN INTENDED HEE HEE, I was a netgalley book reviwer choen by publisher.
February 27, 2017
Limp, by Simon Eli Vella, was an entertaining description of the author's struggles to overcome being extremely introverted, a drug abuser, and impotent. His success in overcoming his problems is a powerful story for others suffering from these issues. Despite the serious topics discussed, this book was very humorous, insightful, and entertaining read.
December 31, 2017
*I received this book via NetGalley*
As I read this, I was laughing and cringing at the same time. This author has a way with words, and throughout his narration (including his inner 'Morgan Attenborough'), he managed to be over-the-top and sublime at the same time.
The fact that he survived through all of the stuff that he put himself through is amazing. And disturbing...what part of Vella's brain made him so detached from life - even as a child - before his alcohol and drug indulgence? As he had stated on several occasions, he went wherever 'the river' took him. Strange...
Anyway - 'Limp' was a very entertaining read!
As I read this, I was laughing and cringing at the same time. This author has a way with words, and throughout his narration (including his inner 'Morgan Attenborough'), he managed to be over-the-top and sublime at the same time.
The fact that he survived through all of the stuff that he put himself through is amazing. And disturbing...what part of Vella's brain made him so detached from life - even as a child - before his alcohol and drug indulgence? As he had stated on several occasions, he went wherever 'the river' took him. Strange...
Anyway - 'Limp' was a very entertaining read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews