My Horizontal Life
PG found a copy of My Horizontal Life: A Collection of One Night Stands, the Chelsea Handler book, at a yard sale. The asking price was fifty cents, which was talked down to a quarter. For the comedian daughter of a Jewish used car salesman dealer, this was an outstanding value.
The book is a hoot. The action starts with seven year old Chelsea going in her parents room to photograph them having fun. Miss Handler goes on to adventures with a midget, a black law student, assorted other ethnic types, and a gay gynecologist. The action is served up with one liners, which keep the reader in stitches. Maybe the lady is two pom poms short of a pep rally, but you are having fun.
The supporting cast is almost as funny as Miss Handler. Ketel One is a featured player, as is a roommate called Dumb Dumb. Her gay friend Nathan makes a spectacle at a wedding. Her African friend Shoniqua is loud and clear. Various family members make appearances. Would you buy a used daughter from Daddy? There are well practiced one liners for all the players and scenes.
After a while, the laughs get old, and the story is just a wee bit sad. Miss Handler seems to be chasing a rainbow, instead of looking for another hot man. The one last himbo stud turns out to be a cokehead wet noodle. Maybe, one day, the little girl will grow up. Pictures are from The Library of Congress.
















himbo… that’s a new one! As always interesting story/observation here with some nice images.
The guy in the uniform in the Jan 27, 1908 pic looks like my grandfather…gave me quite a start.
I like how your essay feels like you are chatting with a friend. Nice writing!
best,
MOV
What IS that thing she;s wearing on her head ?
Great book review! A+
Also love the Linotype pic.
Interesting how you have incorporated the prompt into your review. Like the “two pom poms” description.
Thanks for linking up!
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