Stay Sexy and Don’t Get Murdered by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
Reviewed by: Beth Weimer, Communications Specialist
Genre: Memoir, Humor, Advice
Suggested Age: Adult
*Disclaimer: the book contains profanity and mature themes.
What is this Book About? This book is a “dual memoir” from the creators of the phenomenal hit true crime/comedy podcast My Favorite Murder. Structured around themes from their show, Karen and Georgia discuss difficult topics like addiction, mental health, feminism, and cultural issues (and a little murder, of course) with the candor, insight, and humor that 19 million listeners adore them for. Sharing personal experiences along with the survival tips they’ve coined (such as f*** politeness, stay out of the forest, and don’t be a f****** lunatic), Karen and Georgia also express gratitude for their success and the supportive community of Murderinos (those who are obsessed with true crime) that has formed around the show.
My Review: If you’re a fan of the podcast, what are you waiting for?? Hearing the authors read their own words in the audiobook is almost as enjoyable as listening to an MFM episode. (Bonus: some sections were recorded with live audiences and Paul Giamatti appears as a nod to a joke from the show.) Admittedly, the writing feels a bit stilted and the jokes somewhat forced — the format of a book simply cannot convey the conversational intimacy and hilarious, raw moments Karen and Georgia create on the podcast. I was slightly disappointed because I know Karen’s a better writer (although the chapter about her mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s bumped it up a full star), and it’s evident the book was compiled in a rush while their fame was exploding (podcasting, touring, and launching their own podcast network Exactly Right). Regardless, I’ll happily consume most anything they make. It’s hard to explain the essence of the show and the incredible impact of their advocacy for therapy and self-care, so if you’re curious listen to the podcast before you try the book. SSDGM!
Three Words That Describe This Book: Empowering, Endearing, Relatable
Give it a Try if You Like: Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay, Stiff by Mary Roach, I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara
Rating: 4/5
About FDL Reads
FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.
