Vacationland

by John Hodgman
Vacationland cover
Good Books rating 4.12
Comedy/Humor
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  • ID: 8956
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2026-01-04
  • ISBN: 9780735224810
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2017-10-24
  • Reviews: 4

In Vacationland, John Hodgman, known for his comedic work on The Daily Show, shares his real-life adventures with a blend of humor and sincerity. He explores the landscapes of Western Massachusetts and Maine, encountering everything from freshwater clams to the evolutionary purpose of mustaches. The book is a mix of funny anecdotes and introspective reflections on growing older and embracing the realities of middle age. Hodgman's unique perspective and witty commentary make Vacationland a delightful read. Whether he's offering advice on surviving the people of coastal Maine or pondering the best pets to keep, his stories are both entertaining and thought-provoking. It's a journey that will make you laugh and reflect on your own life.

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.

Amazon · 2017-10-24
excellent 4.50

The book is highly recommended for its storytelling and humor. The reviewer finds it satisfying and hopes for more from the author.

This review praises Vacationland for its storytelling and humor, noting that the book is both satisfying and entertaining. The reviewer finds John Hodgman to be a wonderful storyteller, and the book is seen as a delightful mix of comedy and introspection. The reviewer highly recommends it and expresses hope for more books from the author, indicating that the book leaves a lasting impression.

Quick quotes

    John Hodgman is a wonderful storyteller

    Vacationland totally satisfies, yet leaves you hoping for sequels

    Highly recommended

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