This would have been right in time for the summer Olympics if they hadn't been postponed to 2021, a book looking back at interesting facts about the previous editions. Filled with some history, some remarkable people who competed in the various sports events, and also some discontinued sports this was a very nice read to get in the mood for Tokyo 2020.

While not everything was new to me, I did find out that the international parking sign (white on blue P) was invented for the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, and that initially it had been planned as a two-yearly rather than a four-yearly event.

I just found that the book, clearly marketed for the American market, focused a bit too much on American athletes. Especially chapter two, about the Legends, was at least 90% American where I’m sure there are also ‘legends’ from other countries. In the later chapter ‘Forgotten Heroes’ this is slightly less, but remains prominent still.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

So, the author of this has a cupcake shop, Nadia’s Cupcakes, near me. I bought a cupcake and a pupcake to take a picture with the book but Raiden (he starts humping when I walk in the door with their pupcakes) and I were so excited to eat them, that it wasn’t until an hour later that I realized I’d forgotten to take the picture.

Enjoy this fiesta chicken instead. And yes, I did eat dessert before my supper.

The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez pre-order (June 11) link 

Fiesta Chicken Casserole recipe

So according to BL, I started reading this December 16, 2017. That means it took me 9 months to finish this wonderful book. Since Jenny Lawson discusses her struggle with depression and anxiety disorders at length (in the best, funniest way possible) I had to take several long breaks when my anxiety and depression were not putting me in the right head space to enjoy reading it. But really, this book is hilarious and just what I needed during these past two weeks of total chaos in my life. 

I am not exaggerating when I say my "vacation" was surrounded with nothing but Murphy's law. Car accident, cancelled concerts, delayed flights, stomach flu, etc, etc. All unrelated to this review, but whatever, I'll do what I want. Furiously Happy does remind us to laugh at the absurdity of our lives and most of all, to remember that the lows eventually get better. 

Ray is a typical teenager just trying to get through high school and find something he enjoys. He spends most of his time playing video games by himself and crushing on a neighbor girl. Then his grandmother dies and everything gets turned upside down. Ray finds himself suddenly responsible for an entire trailer park and all that it entails.

I'm a big fan of coming of age stories and this one does not disappoint. What seventeen year old is ready to discuss the meaning of life? I certainly wasn't. Ray's search for understanding leads him on a hilarious and sometimes disgusting path towards enlightenment. The author does not shy away from the muck that is part of the daily grind of running a camp full of miners and misfits.

I have to say one of my favorite parts of the story was the pool iceberg. The simplest of problems can become overwhelming if we don't manage our expectations of them, including how long it takes for ice to melt once the weather warms up. The symbolism of this and Ray's interactions with Penny really warmed my heart.

There is a lot of depth to this story, family struggles, helping those in need, taking responsibility and of course growing up. Ray's family is an eclectic group of misfits who motivate him, intentionally and not, towards finding his meaning of life. You'll want to join in on this hilarious "spiritual" journey.

I recommend this book to readers who enjoy a fun coming of age story with a lot of heart.