Vacationland by John Hodgman

In Vacationland, John Hodgman embarks on a series of real-life wanderings through the hills of Western Massachusetts, the treacherous beaches of Maine, and the metaphoric haunted forest of middle age. His journey is filled with absurd observations and hilarious anecdotes, from the horror of freshwater clams to the evolutionary purpose of the mustache. Through it all, Hodgman offers a poignant and sincere account of one man facing his forties, a time when men must confront the reality of their aging bodies and the wisdom that comes with it. Hodgman's unique blend of humor and heartfelt reflection makes Vacationland a standout memoir. His observations on life, love, and the absurdity of existence are both laugh-out-loud funny and deeply moving. Whether he's discussing the best way to react when the people of coastal Maine try to sacrifice you to their strange god or offering advice on which animals to keep as pets and which to kill with traps and poison, Hodgman's wit and insight shine through.

Reviews

Cannonball Read · Cannonball Read · 2020-02-12

entertaining 4.25

The book is a memoir that delves into Hodgman's midlife crisis and his reflections on life. It's a mix of humor and poignant moments that make it a compelling read.

Cannonball Read's review emphasizes that Vacationland is more than just a collection of funny stories; it's a heartfelt memoir that explores Hodgman's midlife crisis and his thoughts on life. The reviewer appreciates the blend of humor and sincerity, noting that the book's introspective moments add depth and resonance. They highlight how Hodgman's self-deprecating humor and honest reflections make the book relatable and engaging. The memoir's exploration of themes like aging, privilege, and personal growth resonates with readers, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read. The reviewer also notes that the book's unique blend of comedy and introspection sets it apart from other memoirs.

Quick quotes

Vacationland is a memoir more than anything else; Hodgman has a little midlife crisis moment while writing in a used bookstore.

The humor in this book is a delight. It's witty, it's self-deprecating, and it made me laugh out loud.

The book's introspective moments add depth and resonance, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read.

Brevity Mag · 2017-12-15

engaging 3.75

The book starts with humorous anecdotes but gradually shifts to more serious and reflective themes. It's a memoir that balances comedy with introspection.

Brevity Mag's review points out that Vacationland begins with lighthearted and amusing stories, which are a joy to read. However, as the book progresses, the humor gives way to more profound and introspective moments. The reviewer appreciates this shift, as it adds depth and complexity to the narrative. They note that Hodgman's ability to weave humor with serious reflections on life makes the book a memorable read. The memoir's exploration of adulthood misadventures and midlife crises resonates with readers, making it a relatable and engaging journey. The reviewer also highlights how the book's blend of comedy and sincerity creates a unique and enjoyable reading experience.

Quick quotes

The description of nerdy foibles and adulthood misadventures is reason enough to read Vacationland.

Humor yields to more serious and reflective themes as the book progresses.

Hodgman's ability to weave humor with serious reflections on life makes the book a memorable read.

NPR · 2017-10-24

brilliant 4.00

The book is both hilarious and deeply satirical, offering a unique perspective on modern life. It blends humor with poignant reflections on aging and privilege.

NPR's review highlights how Vacationland is a delightful mix of humor and satire. The book's surface-level hilarity is underpinned by a deeper critique of contemporary issues, making it a compelling read. The reviewer appreciates how Hodgman's wit and self-deprecating humor shine through, while also tackling more serious themes. This blend of comedy and introspection makes the book stand out, offering a unique and enjoyable reading experience. The reviewer also notes that the book's exploration of aging and privilege adds depth, making it more than just a laugh-out-loud comedy.

Quick quotes

Hilarious on its surface, the trilogy also deeply satirized our country's drift toward a post-truth reality.

On a less alarming level, those moments of humor are balanced with poignant reflections on aging and privilege.

Hodgman's wit and self-deprecating humor shine through, making the book a delightful read.

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