TPL Book Review: 'The Book of (Holiday) Awesome' by Neil Pasricha

I love the “Book of Awesome” series.  Written by Neil Pasricha, and accompanied by the blog 1000 Awesome Things, these books are full of life’s little wonderful moments, like popping the bubbles on bubble wrap, or the smell of baking bread.  This year, Pasricha has produced The Book of (Holiday) Awesome, a countdown of great things that are associated with the holidays.

I’m always looking for books to get me into the holiday spirit.  I don’t like sappy or romantic holiday books – just funny, easy reads that can transport me away from the stress of finding all the perfect presents, getting them wrapped on time, and hustling to all my family obligations.  My previous favorites have included Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris and The Stupidest Angel by Christopher Moore.  The Book of (Holiday) Awesome is great because it highlights the perfect moments from the holidays.  You can’t help but smile when you’re reading it.  I mean, who doesn’t love eating the first freshly baked cookie from the oven, or putting a Santa hat on your pet?

Christmas is not the only holiday that’s covered – Kwanzaa and Hanukkah are both included in the realm of winter holidays, and Pasricha expands to include year-round celebrations like Valentine’s Day, Easter, the Fourth of July, and Diwali.  (Unfortunately, Festivus is not included.)

The book is a quick read.  You can check it out from the library or buy it for yourself, and  it’s a fabulous gift as well.  All the books in the “awesome” series contain universal truths, so no matter whom your gift recipient is, he or she will probably like it.  One less thing I have to worry about at the holidays.