How to Weep in Public

by Jacqueline Novak
How to Weep in Public cover
Good Books rating 3.17
Comedy/Humor
Buy online
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 8988
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-24
  • ISBN: 9780804139700
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 2016-03-01
  • Reviews: 3

In her memoir 'How to Weep in Public,' comedian Jacqueline Novak shares her journey through depression with dark humor and practical advice. From her suburban childhood to her adult life in New York City, Novak provides a no-pressure safe zone for readers to explore their own mental health struggles. The book is filled with laugh-out-loud moments and philosophical musings, making it a perfect companion for anyone dealing with occasional down days or thriving in their own 'blue period.' /n/n Novak's advice ranges from the practical, like crying on a cat, to the philosophical, like making peace with sunshine. The memoir is designed to be returned to as needed, offering a comforting presence for those navigating the shadowy corridors of their troubled minds. Whether you're facing a dark stint or just need a break, Novak's book provides a space to regroup and find solace in the company of someone who understands.

Reviews
Audible · 2020-09-08
harrowing 1.00

The book is criticized for being a pathetic and reductive exploration of depression. The reviewer finds it mocking and potentially harmful to real sufferers.

The reviewer strongly criticizes the book, calling it a pathetic and reductive excuse for exploring depression. They feel it mocks actual depression and risks making real sufferers worse. The reviewer finds the book's approach to be insensitive and potentially harmful, offering little comfort or insight. Overall, the book is seen as a missed opportunity to provide meaningful support to those dealing with depression.

Quick quotes

    This is a pathetic, reductive excuse for a book exploring depression.

    It mocks actual depression and risks making a real sufferer worse.

    The book's approach to be insensitive and potentially harmful.

Hardcover · Sarah · 2017-06-03
great 4.50

The book is a satire on self-help books and offers a comforting perspective on depression. The reviewer found it uplifting and enjoyable.

Sarah loved how Novak approached the book as a satire on self-help books, finding it both funny and comforting. She appreciated the book's ability to make her feel better while tackling a serious subject. Sarah also noted that the book's humor and unique perspective made it a standout read. Overall, she found the book to be a refreshing and enjoyable exploration of depression.

Quick quotes

    I loved the way Novak approached this book as a kind of satire on self-help books.

    It made me feel a little better.

    The book's humor and unique perspective made it a standout read.

All Behind A Smile · 2016-03-24
brilliant 4.00

Novak's writing is intensely satirical, capturing the essence of her voice. The book offers a unique and darkly humorous take on depression.

The reviewer highlights Novak's satirical writing style, which is so vivid that it feels like hearing her voice. They appreciate the book's dark humor and unique perspective on depression, making it a standout read. The reviewer also notes that the book's irreverent approach to a serious topic is both refreshing and thought-provoking. Overall, the book is seen as a clever and engaging exploration of depression that stands out in the genre.

Quick quotes

    Novak's writing is so intensely satirical that you can practically hear the words in her voice.

    The book offers a unique and darkly humorous take on depression.

    Novak's approach to a serious topic is both refreshing and thought-provoking.

Appears in Lists