How to Weep in Public

by Jacqueline Novak
How to Weep in Public cover
Good Books rating 3.12
Comedy/Humor
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Technical
  • ID: 8988
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2026-01-04
  • ISBN: 9780804139700
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 2016-03-01
  • Reviews: 4

In her memoir and guide to the depressed life, Jacqueline Novak doesn't promise a cure but instead offers much-needed comfort and company. With a mix of practical tips like 'Do Your Crying on a Cat' and philosophical musings such as 'Make Peace With Sunshine,' Novak traces her journey from a suburban childhood to her current life in New York City. Her humor and honesty create a safe space for readers to regroup during their own dark times. The book is designed to be returned to as needed, providing a no-pressure sanctuary for those dealing with depression. Novak's unique perspective and relatable experiences make this a must-read for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of mental health with a laugh and a sense of camaraderie. Novak's writing is both laugh-out-loud funny and deeply empathetic, making it a perfect companion for those thriving in 'Picasso’s blue period' or just coping with the occasional down day. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the mundane to the profound, all while maintaining a tone that is both lighthearted and profoundly understanding. Whether you're dealing with the cheese display at the supermarket or the shadowy corridors of your mind, Novak's advice and anecdotes provide a much-needed respite and a reminder that you can 'fight this some other day.'

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.

Wife Then Mama · 2016-05-28
good 3.00

The book was intended to be a funny take on depression, but it falls short in delivering consistent humor. It offers a unique perspective but may not be for everyone.

The reviewer expected a consistently funny book about depression but found that the humor was not always on point. They appreciated the unique perspective Novak brought to the topic, but felt that the book might not resonate with everyone. The reviewer acknowledged that the book's approach to depression was interesting, but it didn't fully meet their expectations in terms of humor.

Quick quotes

    How to Weep in Public was SUPPOSED to be a funny book about depression.

    It offers a unique perspective but may not be for everyone.

    The book's approach to depression was interesting, but it didn't fully meet their expectations in terms of humor.

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.

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