(Agree with you on Silverman). I like Mindy Kaling, but I guess what you've said sounds pretty much what I'd expect from her. Not a bad thing but with some great south Asian comedic actors these days (like Aziz Ansari and Danny Pudi) I'd kinda like to hear more about her experience as a a south Asian woman (and, in my estimation, comedy is probably one of the most male-centered fields). Unexpected choice of books from you (again, not a bad thing :))

I love comedy, but it's hard finding something that rises above the chaff. I love it when it pushes social envelopes without descending into hate, and I've really enjoyed people I wouldn't have even expected--Kat Williams and Chris Rock do some fascinating, challenging stuff about race (I'm less fond of their female-focused material).

I'm guessing Mindy was doing her equivalent of Bossypants (which I have yet to read). Not a library choice, but I was at my friend's in NYC, and wanted something to break up my fantasy binge (Glass God and Golem and the Jinni) that was completely fluffy. It met the bill.

Ooh, Glass God? Looking forward to the review...
I think I find most race-based jokes at least potentially problematic. Even if the comedian is of the group being mocked, likely most of the audience isn't. Shades of a history I wish we could escape.

I agree that they have that potential, Bookaneer, which is why the comedians that do it well stand out in my mind. Rock does a brilliant bit about race and economic status, linking the two together.

Yep, Glass God kept me completely enthralled on a flight to Detroit and then the flight to LaGuardia. I finished the last few pages standing by baggage claim, waiting for my ride. I think I want to read it again before I review because I didn't even take any notes.

Thanks, Obsidian. It isn't fair, but sometimes I expect more :) Haven't read Bossypants yet, but I get the feeling its success has spawn imitators.

BTW, love your profile pic! One of my favorites.