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Stories from a Moron: Real Stories Rejected by Real Magazines
"Sorry, there's no way we can use this."
- Plumpers Magazine
"As a word of advice, it always helps for writers to be familiar with the publications they submit material to."
- Fencers Quarterly Magazin e
Ed writes short stories. He's prolific. And desperate to get published. But he sends his stories to the wrong magazines. As for the magazines? Well, they don't mind telling him
"Dear I'm not sure whether to laugh or cry..."
"Dear Thank you for your recent submission to Steamboat Magazine ; it was wonderful to hear how much our magazine has touched you..."
"Dear We do not publish stories about individuals like Conugal Cal, or about underwear-no matter how often references are made to fencing."
"Dear Mr. Thank you for providing the editors with an opportunity to review your manuscript, 'Luau Lester'..."
"Dear Mr. Thank you for the opportunity to review your article, 'My Car Ride with Daddy,' for possible publication in Mushing ..."
With this book, Ed Broth finally sees his work published. His "Stories of Hope & Inspiration" and his "Stories of Meaning & Sacrament" plus his passionate pitches to place his writing in our nation's premier publications-from Pest Control Magazine to Arthritis Today -are all to be found in the book you hold in your hands.
Some might have advised Ed not to send his story "I Love Dogs" to I Love Cats Magazine or to stop submitting revised stories to editors who have already turned them down. But, well, that's just not the way Ed's mind works. Studded like a rich cranberry strudel with nuggets of genius -from cartoons and advertisements to actual newspaper articles from across the country - Stories From a Moron is an addictive journey into the mind of a great talent.
- Plumpers Magazine
"As a word of advice, it always helps for writers to be familiar with the publications they submit material to."
- Fencers Quarterly Magazin e
Ed writes short stories. He's prolific. And desperate to get published. But he sends his stories to the wrong magazines. As for the magazines? Well, they don't mind telling him
"Dear I'm not sure whether to laugh or cry..."
"Dear Thank you for your recent submission to Steamboat Magazine ; it was wonderful to hear how much our magazine has touched you..."
"Dear We do not publish stories about individuals like Conugal Cal, or about underwear-no matter how often references are made to fencing."
"Dear Mr. Thank you for providing the editors with an opportunity to review your manuscript, 'Luau Lester'..."
"Dear Mr. Thank you for the opportunity to review your article, 'My Car Ride with Daddy,' for possible publication in Mushing ..."
With this book, Ed Broth finally sees his work published. His "Stories of Hope & Inspiration" and his "Stories of Meaning & Sacrament" plus his passionate pitches to place his writing in our nation's premier publications-from Pest Control Magazine to Arthritis Today -are all to be found in the book you hold in your hands.
Some might have advised Ed not to send his story "I Love Dogs" to I Love Cats Magazine or to stop submitting revised stories to editors who have already turned them down. But, well, that's just not the way Ed's mind works. Studded like a rich cranberry strudel with nuggets of genius -from cartoons and advertisements to actual newspaper articles from across the country - Stories From a Moron is an addictive journey into the mind of a great talent.
- GenresHumorNonfiction
256 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2005
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 5, 2009
For some of us – the book could be pure gold, while for others it will be a paperweight. I hope most of us see the gold.
The book, in retrospect, reminds me a lot of the movie Napoleon Dynamite because the whole thing is really in the style of an inside joke.
Broth is either a genius playing one of the best jokes ever on people (and it's funny to laugh with him), or he really is – in fact – a moron and is very funny to laugh at. After thinking about the book, I'd like to think it's the genius, because I don't really think anyone can accidentally write what he's got here.
In short, when you read Stories from a Moron, you will hear stories of the man's life, stories he's heard, and also just random words of wisdom. In most cases, he will then submit them to magazines. The inherent problem for Mr. Broth is he submits these articles to magazines that want absolutely nothing to do with him as his stories don't fit their publication. Broth will then try to make his stories fit and that's where you will find yourself crying laughing.
You'll read knowing that you're going to be listening to nonsense, but you keep reading anyway because you want to see what he is going to come up with next, and – surely enough – every single time he comes up with something you completely did not expect.
The book's forward, written by Jerry Seinfeld, pretty much sums it up. This is a humor that you will either completely get, or completely miss. I really don't think there's a middle ground to this book, but I would have to say for the core people who read this review, that this book is a must read.
The book, in retrospect, reminds me a lot of the movie Napoleon Dynamite because the whole thing is really in the style of an inside joke.
Broth is either a genius playing one of the best jokes ever on people (and it's funny to laugh with him), or he really is – in fact – a moron and is very funny to laugh at. After thinking about the book, I'd like to think it's the genius, because I don't really think anyone can accidentally write what he's got here.
In short, when you read Stories from a Moron, you will hear stories of the man's life, stories he's heard, and also just random words of wisdom. In most cases, he will then submit them to magazines. The inherent problem for Mr. Broth is he submits these articles to magazines that want absolutely nothing to do with him as his stories don't fit their publication. Broth will then try to make his stories fit and that's where you will find yourself crying laughing.
You'll read knowing that you're going to be listening to nonsense, but you keep reading anyway because you want to see what he is going to come up with next, and – surely enough – every single time he comes up with something you completely did not expect.
The book's forward, written by Jerry Seinfeld, pretty much sums it up. This is a humor that you will either completely get, or completely miss. I really don't think there's a middle ground to this book, but I would have to say for the core people who read this review, that this book is a must read.
May 30, 2011
If you have a strange sense of humor you'll love this book. If you like comedies like "Everybody Loves Raymond" you probaby won't. No in between. Nothing wrong with that. Except it's like tofu. Not everybody likes tofu. But I do.
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October 15, 2013Why would i want to read stories by a moron? Oh well. Maybe they'll be funny. Looking forward to it!
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April 2, 2025Book Review: Stories from a Moron: Real Stories Rejected by Real Magazines by Ed Broth
Overview
Stories from a Moron: Real Stories Rejected by Real Magazines, authored by Ed Broth and featuring a foreword by Jerry Seinfeld, is a humorous anthology that showcases the absurdity of the writing and submission process. This collection not only highlights the rejections of various stories but also provides readers with a glimpse into the quirky and often ridiculous world of aspiring writers. Broth’s witty commentary and Seinfeld’s well-known comedic insights make this book an entertaining read for anyone who enjoys satire and humor.
Content and Themes
The book consists of a series of short stories that were deemed “unpublishable” by traditional magazines. Each piece reflects Broth’s unique storytelling style, combining humor with insightful observations about the writing industry and the nature of creativity. The stories touch on various themes, including:
The Absurdity of Rejections: Broth embraces the reality that not all stories resonate with editors, and offers a lighthearted take on the rejection experience many writers face.
Creativity and Individuality: The collection celebrates unconventional ideas and the charm of being unapologetically unique in one’s writing, despite the mainstream’s tendency to favor certain narratives.
Satirical Reflection on Modern Life: Many of the stories serve as a satire of contemporary issues and societal norms, reflecting Broth’s keen observations of human behavior and culture.
Humor in Failure: By turning rejection into a source of laughter, Broth encourages readers to embrace their failures and see them as part of the broader creative journey.
Writing Style
Ed Broth’s writing is characterized by its sharp wit and playful tone. His ability to blend humor with poignant insights makes for an engaging reading experience. The foreword by Jerry Seinfeld adds an additional layer of comedic value, as Seinfeld’s own experiences as a performer resonate with the theme of navigating rejection. The combination of Broth’s stories and Seinfeld’s reflections creates a rich tapestry of laughter and inspiration.
Conclusion
Stories from a Moron is a delightful read that offers a refreshing perspective on the challenges of writing and the often-hilarious nature of the submission process. Ed Broth manages to transform the disappointment of rejection into an entertaining collection that resonates with aspiring writers and humor enthusiasts alike. This book is highly recommended for anyone looking for a light-hearted yet insightful look into the world of storytelling, as well as those who appreciate the comedic nuances of life.
In summary, Broth’s anthology is a celebration of creativity and individuality, proving that sometimes the most entertaining stories are those that never see the light of publication. Whether you’re a writer, a fan of humor, or simply someone in need of a good laugh, Stories from a Moron is sure to deliver.
Overview
Stories from a Moron: Real Stories Rejected by Real Magazines, authored by Ed Broth and featuring a foreword by Jerry Seinfeld, is a humorous anthology that showcases the absurdity of the writing and submission process. This collection not only highlights the rejections of various stories but also provides readers with a glimpse into the quirky and often ridiculous world of aspiring writers. Broth’s witty commentary and Seinfeld’s well-known comedic insights make this book an entertaining read for anyone who enjoys satire and humor.
Content and Themes
The book consists of a series of short stories that were deemed “unpublishable” by traditional magazines. Each piece reflects Broth’s unique storytelling style, combining humor with insightful observations about the writing industry and the nature of creativity. The stories touch on various themes, including:
The Absurdity of Rejections: Broth embraces the reality that not all stories resonate with editors, and offers a lighthearted take on the rejection experience many writers face.
Creativity and Individuality: The collection celebrates unconventional ideas and the charm of being unapologetically unique in one’s writing, despite the mainstream’s tendency to favor certain narratives.
Satirical Reflection on Modern Life: Many of the stories serve as a satire of contemporary issues and societal norms, reflecting Broth’s keen observations of human behavior and culture.
Humor in Failure: By turning rejection into a source of laughter, Broth encourages readers to embrace their failures and see them as part of the broader creative journey.
Writing Style
Ed Broth’s writing is characterized by its sharp wit and playful tone. His ability to blend humor with poignant insights makes for an engaging reading experience. The foreword by Jerry Seinfeld adds an additional layer of comedic value, as Seinfeld’s own experiences as a performer resonate with the theme of navigating rejection. The combination of Broth’s stories and Seinfeld’s reflections creates a rich tapestry of laughter and inspiration.
Conclusion
Stories from a Moron is a delightful read that offers a refreshing perspective on the challenges of writing and the often-hilarious nature of the submission process. Ed Broth manages to transform the disappointment of rejection into an entertaining collection that resonates with aspiring writers and humor enthusiasts alike. This book is highly recommended for anyone looking for a light-hearted yet insightful look into the world of storytelling, as well as those who appreciate the comedic nuances of life.
In summary, Broth’s anthology is a celebration of creativity and individuality, proving that sometimes the most entertaining stories are those that never see the light of publication. Whether you’re a writer, a fan of humor, or simply someone in need of a good laugh, Stories from a Moron is sure to deliver.
December 27, 2024
It was ok...I started it in October, put it down for a while...then tried again, put it down for a while........ then 52% in, I decided to just sit down and finish it. I did it! two months after starting it, I finally finished it. I made it all the way.
The stories were meant to be amusing.....a little bit of this humor goes a long way. It sort of feels like the author finds wasting other peoples time hilarious. I won't spoil it for you, but...there are better books by comedians.
The stories were meant to be amusing.....a little bit of this humor goes a long way. It sort of feels like the author finds wasting other peoples time hilarious. I won't spoil it for you, but...there are better books by comedians.
December 25, 2023
Couldn’t finish this. The correspondence with editors, whether truthful or not, is very funny. That said, the rest is nonsensical and boring, with a big “ooooo look how quirky I am!” feeling, in a very performative way. Also, I quickly tired of the fat people references.
Some will love this. Some won’t. I’m the latter.
Some will love this. Some won’t. I’m the latter.
May 12, 2023
It’s extremely dumb humor. I get that. However, after 90 pages (which I consider far) the novelty wore thin. I finished the book. Maybe twenty pages shy. I’ll place this gem in the book box for another to enjoy.
August 15, 2025
Started out a little funny but quickly became nonsense and not so funny. Only thing that kept me reading was thinking about the actual man Ed Broth. I would not recommend this one even though it’s a very easy read. Maybe I missed the genius of the whole thing.
January 22, 2019
I was hopeful about this book because I like stupid stuff. Unfortunately this was too stupid for me and I gave up on it.
November 19, 2023
Laugh out loud hilarity!
Broth makes me cry with laughing! Huh? Get this book and be inspired to laugh and write. Barry at his best.
Broth makes me cry with laughing! Huh? Get this book and be inspired to laugh and write. Barry at his best.
October 24, 2024
Another ugh. Awful, awful, awful.
June 8, 2009
I was severely disappointed with this book. I enjoyed Broth's first book, Letters from a Nut immensely. Broth (who may or may not actually be Jerry Seinfeld), in Letters, includes not only the amusing letters, but the original responses. Oftentimes, the responses are funnier than the letters, as the idea that people take these letters seriously is quite humorous (if this doesn't make sense, read that first book). Unfortunately, Broth did not understand this as he wrote this book. The cover of the book boasts "Real Stories REJECTED by REAL Magazines." That's fine, but the vast majority of rejection letters are form letters. Sure, the idiot at Fencers Quarterly Magazine takes the stories seriously (the funniest part of the book), but the other editors do not. What the reader is left with is a series of mildly amusing stories that not only did not deserve publication in the magazines Broth sent them to, but deserve no publication at all.
September 9, 2008
Ok. So, I guess this book was worth $3.00. The short stories are horrifying. The writing is not good and the content is just disastrous. However, the fact that he actually submits these stories to totally inappropriate magazines (rejections letters and Broth's replies are included) is simply ballsy. And, once you envision the editor of Fencing Quarterly Magazine reading a short story about Broth's evil pajama pants and taking the submission seriously, well that's when things start to get amusing. And then, Broth's response letters to editors, and his attempts to rewrite the story's content to better suit the magazine and resubmit to the magazine in question...well, that's when the book just gets laugh-out-loud funny. If you have about an hour to waste and you've completely run out productive things to do and there is no other book in your house that you want to read, then I say pick this book up and read it while sitting on the toilet.
September 26, 2014
I was in the mood for something light and funny. It was...certainly light. I actually didn't finish it. When I saw the Jerry Seinfeld foreword, I was excited. And the idea is funny enough. An aspiring writer, Ed Broth, submits completely inappropriate stories to a number of publications, and then publishes both his original pieces and the (often much funnier) responses from increasingly exasperated publishers. None of the stories are great. Which is kind of the point. I guess the irony is that a collection of highly non-publishable stories have now been published because of how unpublishable they were. If you see it around, you could read just a couple of stories and get the general picture. It never gets much funnier or different. If you really need some laughs, should probably look elsewhere.
January 28, 2008
about what you'd expect from the title.
February 7, 2008
Silly, silly good times...
March 25, 2012
Though it was funny at first, this kind of humor gets old fast.
October 7, 2016
I couldn't finish it. I tried, but I just didn't get the humor. I hate not finishing books.
June 5, 2011
It looked a lot better in the store than when I read it.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews