I Was Told There'd Be Cake

by Sloane Crosley
I Was Told There'd Be Cake cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Essays / Essay Collections
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Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 8944
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-31
  • ISBN: 9781594483066
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 2008-04-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In this debut collection of literary essays, the author shares her wry and often hilarious experiences navigating the complexities of modern urban life. From despoiling an exhibit at the Natural History Museum to provoking the ire of her first boss, the author's misadventures are recounted with a profound sense of authenticity and humor. Each essay paints a vivid portrait of a character who, despite her best intentions, often finds herself in amusingly awkward situations. The collection is a celebration of fallibility and the unexpected beauty that can be found in the struggles of everyday life. /n/n Set against the backdrop of a vibrant and inimitable city, the essays explore the author's journey of self-discovery and growth. The author's unique voice and perspective offer a fresh and relatable take on the challenges and triumphs of modern living. Whether she's siccing the cops on her mysterious neighbor or aiming for the stars, the author's experiences resonate with readers, making this collection a must-read for anyone who has ever felt like they're doing life wrong.

Reviews
Reddit - IReadABookAndAdoredIt · 2025-12-22
delightful 4.50

The essays are hilarious, real, and sometimes heartfelt, showcasing the author's brilliant observations and unique perspective. The collection is a delightful mix of humor and sincerity.

This book is a gem for anyone who enjoys a good laugh and a touch of heartfelt storytelling. The essays are incredibly relatable, making you feel like you're right there with the author, experiencing her joys and mishaps. The humor is sharp and the observations are spot-on, making it a book that you won't want to put down. It's a perfect blend of wit and sincerity, making it a delightful read from start to finish. The author's unique perspective shines through, making each essay a joy to read.

Quick quotes

    Hilarious, extremely real and sometimes heartfelt essays.

    Crosley is brilliant with her observations and perspective.

    The essays are incredibly relatable, making you feel like you're right there with the author.

Curious Words Blog · 2020-06-09
engaging 4.00

The essays are a selective narrative over several years, offering a personal and engaging look into the author's life. The collection is a blend of humor and introspection, making it a relatable and enjoyable read.

This collection of personal stories is like a journey through the author's life, with each essay offering a glimpse into different moments and experiences. The writing is witty and heartfelt, making it easy to connect with the author's perspective. It's a book that will make you laugh and think, all at the same time. The essays are not just funny but also insightful, providing a deeper understanding of the author's world. It's a quick read, but one that leaves a lasting impression.

Quick quotes

    Crosley strings together a collection of personal stories to create a selective narrative over the course of several years in her life.

    The essays are not just funny but also insightful, providing a deeper understanding of the author's world.

    It's a quick read, but one that leaves a lasting impression.

Books Are My Favourite and Best · 2016-06-15
entertaining 3.50

The collection is a little uneven but the stand-out essays are hilarious. The author's keen baking skills add an extra layer of charm to the stories.

This book is a mixed bag, with some essays standing out more than others. The stand-out essays are incredibly funny and showcase the author's unique voice and humor. The author's baking skills add an extra layer of charm to the stories, making them even more enjoyable. While not every essay is a home run, the ones that are make the book worth reading. It's a quick and entertaining read, perfect for a lazy afternoon. The author's keen observations and witty writing style make it a book that you'll want to share with friends.

Quick quotes

    A little uneven but the stand-outs are hilarious.

    Crosley, a keen baker, makes a dark chocolate and pear tart.

    The author's keen observations and witty writing style make it a book that you'll want to share with friends.

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