One of the most recent books to hit the improv world is Tina Fey’s Bossypants. This book is definitely marketed like a memoir, but that definitely is not what is between the covers. While Fey does utilize her life story as the subject for many of the chapters, the book reads like an improv show.
This book was the most hilarious book I have ever read! I have never read a book where I laughed out loud while reading, literally. I read part of the book while I was on a plane, and I really had to work to suppress my laughter so not disturb everyone around me. Sometimes when you read comedy books it reads like standup, while this one seems more like great improv. As I was reading, Bossypants poured out the keys to comedy, repetition and contrast, scene beats, action in three’s, and buttons at just the tright time. If you are in for a laugh, this is definitely the book to read.
I really enjoyed page 84 where Fey outlined the rules of improv, which she explains will change your life. It was also amazing to read how simply she can explain the rules of improv. Throughout the rest of the book Fey outlines all of the places where improv made a difference in the comedy she was writing and her everyday life. Tina and I must be two peas in a pod as I feel like she was describing my philosophy as her own.
The book starts off explaining how Tina was just like you and me, living a normal life as an awkward nerdy child. I love the reality of her world, and the feeling you could just as easily step into her world. Three of my favorite chapters happened later in the book where Fey describes her time on SNL, creating 30 Rock, and her time portraying Sarah Palin. It was great to hear her pitch on feminism, and see how she worked through the process of becoming a head writer on SNL. The 30 Rock chapter outlined which jokes written by her staff were the funniest and why. This was an amazing opportunity to get into the mind of a comedic genius. Last but not least her chapter on playing Sarah Palin was incredible. I hope one day I get to experience the zone she was in during that period of her life. She was playing a character with her friend, totally hitting the zone, through great writing and the whole world wanted to see more!
Overall Bossypants was a hard to put down, comedic ball of fun. I would recommend it to any improviser, but moreover to anyone who just wants a satisfyingly fun book to read. The book makes Fey seem like even more of a regular person, and brings you into her simple world. Prior to reading Bossypants, Tina Fey was on the top of my favorite funny people list. After reading this book, I feel like I know her life philosophy, and it makes me respect her even more. Bossypants is a must read!
