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Bad Habits: Confessions of a Recovering Catholic
Jenny McCarthy--actress, comedian, activist, and New York Times bestselling author--candidly recounts her humorous Catholic upbringing, from her childhood dream of becoming a nun to her Playmate of the Year centerfold, and all of the Hail Mary's in between.
In keeping with the theme of her comedic New York Times bestsellers, from Belly Laughs to Love, Lust & Faking It, McCarthy brings her trademark honesty, humility, and humor to bear as she chronicles her often embarrassing, occasionally outlandish, and always entertaining life as a born-and-raised Catholic girl.
Jenny attended one of the most prestigious all-girl Catholic schools in Chicago. While most young girls in Jenny's neighborhood were playing with Cabbage Patch dolls for fun, Jenny was playing with Jesus, Mary, and Joseph dolls. She had every intention of growing up and becoming a nun, but a few hilarious speed bumps and blinking red lights along the way changed her mind. Jenny never did accept Sister Mary's reasoning that she could avoid purgatory if she just bought a string necklace for $10. The fact that two of her aunts are simultaneously nuns and cops-yes, they carry guns and shoot people while wearing a habit-never made complete sense to her. And neither does her mother's insistence that Jenny bury certain religious statues in the front lawns of her houses before she sells them. But then again, Jenny does have four of them buried across Southern California.
This book tells the story of what went wrong during Jenny's Catholic upbringing, or, as Jenny puts it now, what went right. Chapters include: "I Knew I Should Have Worn Underwear to Church", "Jesus' Baby Mama", "Can Someone Kill Our Dog, Please?", and "Oh No, My Mom is Going to Hell."
BAD HABITS is a brutally honest, hilarious memoir that will delight the legions of Jenny McCarthy fans.
In keeping with the theme of her comedic New York Times bestsellers, from Belly Laughs to Love, Lust & Faking It, McCarthy brings her trademark honesty, humility, and humor to bear as she chronicles her often embarrassing, occasionally outlandish, and always entertaining life as a born-and-raised Catholic girl.
Jenny attended one of the most prestigious all-girl Catholic schools in Chicago. While most young girls in Jenny's neighborhood were playing with Cabbage Patch dolls for fun, Jenny was playing with Jesus, Mary, and Joseph dolls. She had every intention of growing up and becoming a nun, but a few hilarious speed bumps and blinking red lights along the way changed her mind. Jenny never did accept Sister Mary's reasoning that she could avoid purgatory if she just bought a string necklace for $10. The fact that two of her aunts are simultaneously nuns and cops-yes, they carry guns and shoot people while wearing a habit-never made complete sense to her. And neither does her mother's insistence that Jenny bury certain religious statues in the front lawns of her houses before she sells them. But then again, Jenny does have four of them buried across Southern California.
This book tells the story of what went wrong during Jenny's Catholic upbringing, or, as Jenny puts it now, what went right. Chapters include: "I Knew I Should Have Worn Underwear to Church", "Jesus' Baby Mama", "Can Someone Kill Our Dog, Please?", and "Oh No, My Mom is Going to Hell."
BAD HABITS is a brutally honest, hilarious memoir that will delight the legions of Jenny McCarthy fans.
222 pages, Hardcover
First published October 2, 2012
62 people are currently reading
1413 people want to read
About the author
Jenny McCarthy
47 books265 followersJennifer McCarthy is an American model, comedian, actress and author. She first appeared in Playboy magazine in October 1993 and was named Playmate of the Year in its June 1994 issue. She later began a career in television and film and has recently started writing books dealing largely with her pregnancy and motherhood of a child with autism.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 223 reviews
November 3, 2012
Any Catholic reading this book will notice that the stories were changed to make Jenny McCarthy seem funny and insightful while making those in the Church look dumb. No one in the clergy would ever respond with the theological inaccuracies stated in her book. Also, she kept stating how she was so poor yet she and all her sisters went to Catholic school...that's not poor...that's good parents sacrificing for their children. There was nothing really funny in this book other than the part where it's mentioned that Daytona Beach is on the Pacific Side....
December 29, 2012
It's hard to rate this book because it varies so much. The first few chapters are hilarious (if I recall correctly, especially Chapter 4)....then, it just gets kind of sad (sad that the book/her life went in crazy directions, not teared-up sad) but still funny in places. And finally, ick. It turns into some kind of poor treatise on new age religion; an Oprah conversation rather than a story I'd like to read. I had to press on at the end because I really lost interest in the book.
In a way, it reminded me of Carole King's latest memoir -- you just really can't believe she is telling you that she is this stupid, and it is clear to you that she doesn't know how bad it is. Embarrassing to read.
I didn't know who Jenny McCarthy was when I got this Kindle special-price book; but now that I am informed, I won't be reading any more of her books.
In a way, it reminded me of Carole King's latest memoir -- you just really can't believe she is telling you that she is this stupid, and it is clear to you that she doesn't know how bad it is. Embarrassing to read.
I didn't know who Jenny McCarthy was when I got this Kindle special-price book; but now that I am informed, I won't be reading any more of her books.
March 1, 2014
Great book about Jenny McCarthy’s journey of “spiritual enlightenment”. It’s a funny and easy read. Although I am Catholic, and still an active member in the church, I identified with many of her issues regarding some of the church’s teachings. We are, at times, a hypocritical group. I think it’s hard to live honestly as a modern Catholic according to the churches changing dogma, without occasional sinning (but of course there’s always confession). This is not to say I don’t know some Catholics that are saints! I really related to her writing about Catholic guilt and how she felt that her son’s autism was her fault, for past sins. Of course it’s not. I also have a son with autism, and it’s something I’ve often struggled with. Oh what years of CCD can do to you.
At the end of the day I agree with her that faith, in whatever form you practice, is important if it opens you up to God and brings you peace (or “satellite radio”). But it is also personal. McCarthy shares her own spiritual journey and the many instances when her faith was put to the test, as well as some very funny & naughty stories, but she does not preach to the reader. Amen sister.
At the end of the day I agree with her that faith, in whatever form you practice, is important if it opens you up to God and brings you peace (or “satellite radio”). But it is also personal. McCarthy shares her own spiritual journey and the many instances when her faith was put to the test, as well as some very funny & naughty stories, but she does not preach to the reader. Amen sister.
March 11, 2013
I happened to see this on the shelf when I was browsing in the library so I checked it out. I am a cradle Catholic so I was curious to see what confessions a "recovering" Catholic might have! Since this is told by Jenny McCarthy, I knew it would be a tad crude but very funny and I wasn't disappointed. I can totally relate to the Catholic guilt thing and giggled at her going to confession so much as a child. I completely got her comments about black marks on her soul and being terrified of going to hell while growing up. However, there were also some things I disagreed with too. First of all, Lent did not start in the 1960s and I don't know where she even got this idea. My mother was born in 1944 and certainly practiced no meat on Fridays during Lent way before this date Jenny throws out there. My husband told me once that he was told Lent goes back to the 13th century when a pope declared no meat on Fridays during Lent - don't know if this is true either, but I do know Lent and no meat were well honored before the date she threw out there. I also don't agree with her comments about the Catholic church reversing its stance on hell. Certainly, I feel the Catholic guilt is not the driving force today in the church but the concept of committing awful sins and going to spend eternity in hell is alive - isn't this part of all Christianity? I don't know anyone in the clergy or other postions of authority in my church who would say hell doesn't exist. That being said though, she is writing about her own experience about the church and she is entitled to it. her comment about people respecting everyone's religion rather than trying to save other people's souls would probably help to prevent more holy wars. Amen sister!
April 25, 2019
Great poolside read. Learning what an oasis the late summer can be in EP TX, I've come to terms with my deep reading drought. Let's get things moving along, was my single overbearing thought, and so perhaps I'll begin zipping my way through more "essentials." But McCarthy brought a fresh gust of newness--this is like having her on Howard Stern, entertaining us with anecdotes and quaint memories--and I am more than grateful to her. She talks like she writes--using "bitch" & inappropriate bodily functions to add sparkle to her 30+ life stories. I got involved--definitely those stories which don't follow the main (Catholic-religion-as-) theme are the most successful, i.e. funniest. Now to shake off the sun and fun... serious reading the next 15 books or so. Pinkie promise!
February 28, 2013
This book doesn't quite scan for me. How can this woman have been so smart about finding holes in Catholic doctrine at ayoung age and so dense when it comes to seeing serious warning flags in her personal life, as well as the new age stuff she promotes now? I don't get it. Given that, the book does have its moments, but not enough of them for it to be worth reading.
September 19, 2017
Reading this book a second time when I am a few years older and have a better perspective on the Catholic religion helped me to view this with an open mind, especially when I have strayed away from Catholicism myself and more into New Age Spiritual teachings.
Overall, McCarthy had a witty approach to how she viewed the Catholic religion. It was very relatable and in some ways was why I left the religious practices.
Overall, McCarthy had a witty approach to how she viewed the Catholic religion. It was very relatable and in some ways was why I left the religious practices.
January 30, 2013
Mundane drivel. Not even worth 1 star. A good friend wanted me to read it or I would have put it down after the first chapter. Other humorists as well as liberal theologians have dealt with this subject much more effectively twenty years ago or more. She had nothing new to say, and only succeeded in showing herself to be crude and superficial.
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June 3, 2015No stars. What a load of crap. I went to the same high school as Jenny -- a few years ahead -- and I know the neighborhood she is describing. While it was no doubt very challenging for her family to afford tuition for 4 girls to MMc, she still had her own room and a water bed, so they couldn't have been as hard up as she claims. I think it is attempted justification for her own path (Playboy)and idiotic choices with money and sex. I find it hard to believe any of the anecdotes in here happened, plus her manner is crass and ignorant in the true sense of the word. This is a simplistic exploration of faith -- merely a vehicle for Jenny to share outrageous stories and observations. I don't know why I was expecting anthing different, but was hoping for a few laughs and some jostled memories about high school and the South Side. Fail.
December 13, 2012
Growing up in a Catholic family I could relate to a lot, as well as the questioning everything and eventually becoming an Atheist/Agnostic. She sums up the Catholic Guilt well.
"As Catholics, we sort of collect sins like food at a grocery store. We throw them into the cart, then we go to church and look at all those sins in the basket and beg for forgiveness."
Even if you did not grow up Catholic the book is funny with chapters like "Jesus Was My Justin Bieber" or "I Knew I Should Have Worn Underwear to Church"
"As Catholics, we sort of collect sins like food at a grocery store. We throw them into the cart, then we go to church and look at all those sins in the basket and beg for forgiveness."
Even if you did not grow up Catholic the book is funny with chapters like "Jesus Was My Justin Bieber" or "I Knew I Should Have Worn Underwear to Church"
April 24, 2013
Beginning is mildly amusing, probably more so if you grew up Catholic. But by the time she gets a gig as a playboy bunny it seems self serving and more than a little exaggerated; the whole Vatican "tour" completely strains credulity. I have to admit I couldn't face the last 25 pages.
November 2, 2012
Fun read! Happy to hear my questions and concerns on organized religion are shared with a Playmate!
May 25, 2015
So funny! I couldn't believe some of the stories in this book lol. I definitely plan on reading more of Jenny McCarthy's books after this one! :)
December 1, 2013
funny!
October 20, 2012
I agonized over giving this five stars. I really, really wanted to, but felt like no memoir type book deserved five stars. I mean, they just talk about their lives. I obviously changed my mind.
When I tell you that this book is phenomenal I am really only saying phenomenal because I can't think of a word better than that. I devoured this book (literally, devoured) in about 4 hours. Not only can I not remember the last time I've finished a book in one day (it was probably Perks of Being a Wallflower YEARS ago) but I don't think I've ever finished a book in such a short amount of time. All 222 pages of it were hilariously written. There were parts where I was literally laughing out loud, and others where I had to stop because I was actually crying. I'm barely 21, so I haven't felt the need to read any of Jenny's other books, which I assumed were about her as a mother (I still think I might be right about that). I had no idea what to expect of her as an author, because I know that not-so-great authors get on the NYT Bestsellers all the time (i.e. Snooki). I was pleasantly surprised that Jenny is actually really, really great. She has a real knack for telling for stories. She's so good, that I felt like I had sat down to coffee with her and listened to her tell me everything as opposed to staying up until 4 in the morning reading her book. She has a way of making you feel almost bonded to her after reading her book, and that's rare.
The book is about how Jenny was raised a strict catholic, her love of Jesus (literally, she had Jesus posters on her wall) and her "fall from grace". Throughout the book she talks about different spiritual journey's she has been on. From being super religious, to finding her third eye, to not really loving Catholicism anymore. To becoming truly accepting of her faith. That was really impressive to me. I'm not Catholic. I was raised Greek Orthodox, which is still a form of Christianity. The problem is, I grew up to be agnostic. I so, so badly wish that I had some sort of faith or that I believed in God, but no matter how hard I try... I just don't. I won't ever be thanking God during my acceptance speeches and I don't pray at night, and I'm not even a little bit sorry about it. Reading about Jenny and how she was questioning her faith, or even just the church and how they keep changing things (no people in hell, WTF?!) made me feel better about not having any faith myself. It was relatable, even though I couldn't directly relate, necessarily.
While reading I took some notes of things I wanted to quote because they were so, so funny and I thought they could articulate things better than I could.
"I chose a beautiful new Cabbage Patch doll. It was my seventh one. My bedroom had started to look like Angelina Jolie's house."
In regards to sacrificing and giving things up for lent -
"Boy George: Do you really want to hurt me? Do you really want to make me cry? Catholic Church: uh, yeah"
There was one part where she was talking about wearing a scapular (like a rosary) and she described herself as Mr. T, then Flavor Flav for the "younger readers out of the loop". Even when she wasn't being funny, she was still being funny.
Hands down I think (I change my mind often, but I'm pretty sure) the best story was about her fear of being possessed after watching the Exorcist with her cousins as a child. She was terrified of Satan, and when she went to school the next day her classmates told her that Satan didn't go by the name of Lucifer because that was too obvious. Instead, he went by the simple name of Ben. First of all, my brother's name is Ben, so I can attest to their statement. She spent an entire chapter telling us about how the name Ben has plagued her since then, and how she still thinks Ben might be the devil. She talked about going out to get a cabbage patch doll only to find out its name was Ben. When she threw it in her backyard her neighbor returned it. Ben came back for her, and he kept coming back in the form of a bunny, a dog, a Michael Jackson song, and even Ben Stiller movies.
This is a book I could see myself rereading whenever I was in a bad mood. Or even whenever I just needed a good read. It really is hysterical, and it made me love Jenny even more than I already did.
Plus, she loves me too.
When I tell you that this book is phenomenal I am really only saying phenomenal because I can't think of a word better than that. I devoured this book (literally, devoured) in about 4 hours. Not only can I not remember the last time I've finished a book in one day (it was probably Perks of Being a Wallflower YEARS ago) but I don't think I've ever finished a book in such a short amount of time. All 222 pages of it were hilariously written. There were parts where I was literally laughing out loud, and others where I had to stop because I was actually crying. I'm barely 21, so I haven't felt the need to read any of Jenny's other books, which I assumed were about her as a mother (I still think I might be right about that). I had no idea what to expect of her as an author, because I know that not-so-great authors get on the NYT Bestsellers all the time (i.e. Snooki). I was pleasantly surprised that Jenny is actually really, really great. She has a real knack for telling for stories. She's so good, that I felt like I had sat down to coffee with her and listened to her tell me everything as opposed to staying up until 4 in the morning reading her book. She has a way of making you feel almost bonded to her after reading her book, and that's rare.
The book is about how Jenny was raised a strict catholic, her love of Jesus (literally, she had Jesus posters on her wall) and her "fall from grace". Throughout the book she talks about different spiritual journey's she has been on. From being super religious, to finding her third eye, to not really loving Catholicism anymore. To becoming truly accepting of her faith. That was really impressive to me. I'm not Catholic. I was raised Greek Orthodox, which is still a form of Christianity. The problem is, I grew up to be agnostic. I so, so badly wish that I had some sort of faith or that I believed in God, but no matter how hard I try... I just don't. I won't ever be thanking God during my acceptance speeches and I don't pray at night, and I'm not even a little bit sorry about it. Reading about Jenny and how she was questioning her faith, or even just the church and how they keep changing things (no people in hell, WTF?!) made me feel better about not having any faith myself. It was relatable, even though I couldn't directly relate, necessarily.
While reading I took some notes of things I wanted to quote because they were so, so funny and I thought they could articulate things better than I could.
"I chose a beautiful new Cabbage Patch doll. It was my seventh one. My bedroom had started to look like Angelina Jolie's house."
In regards to sacrificing and giving things up for lent -
"Boy George: Do you really want to hurt me? Do you really want to make me cry? Catholic Church: uh, yeah"
There was one part where she was talking about wearing a scapular (like a rosary) and she described herself as Mr. T, then Flavor Flav for the "younger readers out of the loop". Even when she wasn't being funny, she was still being funny.
Hands down I think (I change my mind often, but I'm pretty sure) the best story was about her fear of being possessed after watching the Exorcist with her cousins as a child. She was terrified of Satan, and when she went to school the next day her classmates told her that Satan didn't go by the name of Lucifer because that was too obvious. Instead, he went by the simple name of Ben. First of all, my brother's name is Ben, so I can attest to their statement. She spent an entire chapter telling us about how the name Ben has plagued her since then, and how she still thinks Ben might be the devil. She talked about going out to get a cabbage patch doll only to find out its name was Ben. When she threw it in her backyard her neighbor returned it. Ben came back for her, and he kept coming back in the form of a bunny, a dog, a Michael Jackson song, and even Ben Stiller movies.
This is a book I could see myself rereading whenever I was in a bad mood. Or even whenever I just needed a good read. It really is hysterical, and it made me love Jenny even more than I already did.
Plus, she loves me too.
July 22, 2013
I like Jenny McCarthy, in fact in her Sngled Out days I wanted to BE Jenny McCarthy. It's interesting to me because I remember clearly reading her biography, probably in like Jr. high, it was called Jen-X but it's never listed as one of the books she's written in the inside of any of her cover flaps. OK so with that being said, I enjoyed this book. It was a fast, easy read. Even though Im not a very religious person, was not raised in an very religious household like Jenny was (I received my 1st Communion, went to church on holidays when I was younger, went to CCD throughout Jr. high, that's about it-my mom however was raised in a VERY Irish-Catholic household & went to Catholic School her entire school life) anyway even though I can't relate to being brought up with religion and being in Catholic School, I still liked reading this book. There are a lot of humorous antecdotes about Jenny & her family, Jenny's questions to the nuns of school, how she felt about God, etc, growing up. I wish it was more of a biography type book like the Jen-X book I mentioned, but I understand she wanted to write a book about this aspect of her life. Also *SPOILER ALERT* I like how she spoke of the horrible withdrawals she had after taking Vicodin. I really enjoy Jenny's brutal honesty oh & PS I think she is a GREAT replacement for The View! Her VH1 show kinda sucked, can't lie, but in a setting like The View I think she's gonna do great, & I plan on tuning in to see how it goes. Oh and I absolutely realize this wasnt much of a "book review" lol. Bottom line is, if you like Jenny McCarthy, even just a little bit, and want an easy & fairly numerous read, I recommend this book. And if you can relate to being brought up in a religious household, Catholic or not, and having questions about religion and God and sins, etc. then I ABSOLUTELY recommend this book because you will probably enjoy it quite a bit. Oh, however anyone who's super uptight about anything to with Catholicisim or if you are the kind of person who believes the bible word for word, don't read it 'cos I'm sure it wil, end up offending you somehow.
February 26, 2014
You'd think I'd have little in common with a woman who wanted to be a nun and then became a playboy bunny. You'd be wrong. Jenny McCarthy is a "Recovering Catholic" with just the right amount of sarcasm and far too many questions for the Catholic church.
I also wanted to be a nun when I was younger. I did not aspire to be a playboy bunny but that's besides the point. I grew up Catholic and left the faith as an adult. Teachers didn't like the fact that I was so...questiony. I speak two languages: English and Sarcasm. This book is my spirit animal.
I giggled like a fool when I was reading about how Jenny went from a fun loving little girl who loved the Lord to being absolutely terrified to do anything wrong...Finally she comes to the realization that Catholicism has a huge number of, shall we say, loopholes? Then the questions started and never stopped.
When I began kindergarten I was a bright-eyed, God-loving little girl. It took about two weeks to fully convince me God was spying on my every move and He was just looking for the right minute to smote me. Needless to say, my already anxious little self instantly became neurotic about not sinning.
I relived every moment of my thirteen years of Catholic education with this book. Even the time after high school when I was out on my own and making terrible choices--God saw them but did I (should I) care? Hell no!
This book pretty much covered my entire life: from the innocent nun I wanted to be to the questioning hormone-driven teenager all the way to the wayward adult I am now. I loved almost every minute of it (I could have done without the random autism chapters at the end but that is McCarthy's M.O.) and I highly recommend this book to anyone who lists their religion as "Recovering Catholic."
I also wanted to be a nun when I was younger. I did not aspire to be a playboy bunny but that's besides the point. I grew up Catholic and left the faith as an adult. Teachers didn't like the fact that I was so...questiony. I speak two languages: English and Sarcasm. This book is my spirit animal.
I giggled like a fool when I was reading about how Jenny went from a fun loving little girl who loved the Lord to being absolutely terrified to do anything wrong...Finally she comes to the realization that Catholicism has a huge number of, shall we say, loopholes? Then the questions started and never stopped.
When I began kindergarten I was a bright-eyed, God-loving little girl. It took about two weeks to fully convince me God was spying on my every move and He was just looking for the right minute to smote me. Needless to say, my already anxious little self instantly became neurotic about not sinning.
I relived every moment of my thirteen years of Catholic education with this book. Even the time after high school when I was out on my own and making terrible choices--God saw them but did I (should I) care? Hell no!
This book pretty much covered my entire life: from the innocent nun I wanted to be to the questioning hormone-driven teenager all the way to the wayward adult I am now. I loved almost every minute of it (I could have done without the random autism chapters at the end but that is McCarthy's M.O.) and I highly recommend this book to anyone who lists their religion as "Recovering Catholic."
June 26, 2014
Filled with a lot of personal experience (good, bad, ugly), the autobiography is women-empowering. It has humour, insight and anybody can relate to Jenny. She's smart, inquisitive, strong, resourceful, intuitive... a true Wonder Woman.
August 3, 2015
In this memoir ,jenny talks about her education at catholic school and how she had a hard time there becoz of the strict rules of discipline and God-fearing attitude that was induced in her by the nuns and thus once she was in college ,tried to break all the rules
Going from religious into spiritual ,she recovered from Catholicism saying "“My new path of staying tuned in to satellite radio was what made me feel amazing and connected to the outside world as well as myself. I was empowered more than ever and compassionate toward others. I didn’t want to be part of this contradictory religion anymore. I was beyond twelve steps into recovery”
The thing I like most is that jenny questioned everything since she was young ,instead of being a blind follower of religion ,she searched for the truth and i believe if God just wants us to be followers ,he wouldn't give us brain to think to begin with!
She came to the conclusion that her religion wasn't giving her clear and definite answers and she found a better way to live by embracing spirituality
I always thought that spirituality makes you closer to God more than religion and religion I believe is what helps you stay on track but spirituality helps you reach the heights of evolution as a soul which makes you closer to God ,mixing religion and spirituality together for sure makes you stay balanced becoz going to one extreme may mislead you and I'm talking from experience
It's hilarious ,inspiring and so brutally honest like all of jenny's books ,also so entertaining ,although the topic is serious and heavy but jenny writes it in her unique style and make it all so lighthearted and funny that i totally enjoyed it :)
Going from religious into spiritual ,she recovered from Catholicism saying "“My new path of staying tuned in to satellite radio was what made me feel amazing and connected to the outside world as well as myself. I was empowered more than ever and compassionate toward others. I didn’t want to be part of this contradictory religion anymore. I was beyond twelve steps into recovery”
The thing I like most is that jenny questioned everything since she was young ,instead of being a blind follower of religion ,she searched for the truth and i believe if God just wants us to be followers ,he wouldn't give us brain to think to begin with!
She came to the conclusion that her religion wasn't giving her clear and definite answers and she found a better way to live by embracing spirituality
I always thought that spirituality makes you closer to God more than religion and religion I believe is what helps you stay on track but spirituality helps you reach the heights of evolution as a soul which makes you closer to God ,mixing religion and spirituality together for sure makes you stay balanced becoz going to one extreme may mislead you and I'm talking from experience
It's hilarious ,inspiring and so brutally honest like all of jenny's books ,also so entertaining ,although the topic is serious and heavy but jenny writes it in her unique style and make it all so lighthearted and funny that i totally enjoyed it :)
March 11, 2014
So I love Jenny McCarthy and I thought I couldn't love her more but I was wrong: I just finished reading Bad Habits: A Book of Confessions about Confession by Jenny McCarthy and I have to say that I absolutely love it. First off, it's friggin hysterical. Like seriously funny. But that's not the main reason why I love it; I love it because I can really relate to it. Throughout the book Ms. McCarthy raises questions about faith and religion (Catholicism) and I can really relate to that (except my questions are about faith and Judaism). I've always had questions about these things but never any clear answers, except to quit asking questions and believe what I was told because I was pissing people off with my questions. Ms. McCarthy appears to be a naturally inquisitive person and I feel the same way so it was nice to read about another person who didn't want to simply accept what she was told but to understand it. Throughout the book I had moments where (once I stopped laughing) I was like "yes, I get that!". I'm so glad I read this book because it really spoke to me, especially the final chapter about finding your own state of grace. Thank you Ms. McCarthy for writing this book! I would definitely recommend it!
P.S. This book also cemented my belief that Jenny McCarthy and I could be best friends....
P.P.S. I also now have to buy and read the rest of Ms. McCarthy's books! Except maybe not the pregnancy ones just yet... But I will in a few years after I finish college and everything...
P.S. This book also cemented my belief that Jenny McCarthy and I could be best friends....
P.P.S. I also now have to buy and read the rest of Ms. McCarthy's books! Except maybe not the pregnancy ones just yet... But I will in a few years after I finish college and everything...
September 2, 2013
I really wavered between 1 and 2 stars on this. If half stars were available I would give 1.5 but I rounded up because I didn't like it but it didn't make me angry like truly bad books do.
She makes some valid points when questioning the faith but the presentation is just too over the top, fair or not, to resonate with a large audience. I wasn't offended by this book, I just didn't like it.
You have to be familiar with the Catholic Church to understand the rituals and lessons she references but most practicing Catholics wouldn't like her tone. There are plenty of lapsed Catholics but I think it would be a tough sell for them as well...the story of when she visited the Vatican is outlandishly disrespectful. For her karma's sake, I hope it's not true, although she strikes me as a very honest person (and who would make something like that up?) It's too serious for people that like her funny books and too funny for people that liked her serious books.
Although she writes in a very readable tone and parts of this book were interesting, it's too uneven for me to recommend (and based on the reasons above, I'm not sure what audience I would recommended it to anyway).
Find all my reviews at:
http://readingatrandom.blogspot.com/2...
She makes some valid points when questioning the faith but the presentation is just too over the top, fair or not, to resonate with a large audience. I wasn't offended by this book, I just didn't like it.
You have to be familiar with the Catholic Church to understand the rituals and lessons she references but most practicing Catholics wouldn't like her tone. There are plenty of lapsed Catholics but I think it would be a tough sell for them as well...the story of when she visited the Vatican is outlandishly disrespectful. For her karma's sake, I hope it's not true, although she strikes me as a very honest person (and who would make something like that up?) It's too serious for people that like her funny books and too funny for people that liked her serious books.
Although she writes in a very readable tone and parts of this book were interesting, it's too uneven for me to recommend (and based on the reasons above, I'm not sure what audience I would recommended it to anyway).
Find all my reviews at:
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May 7, 2013
As a “Cradle Catholic” myself, I found Jenny’s reflections on her own Catholic upbringing to be hysterical. Chapters 5 and 6 were definitely my favorites. I do not remember the last time a book made me laugh so hard…and I read a lot of humor books. I am not talking the cliché “laugh out loud” funny. I mean tears running down my face, laughing so hard that it hurts funny. But, maybe that’s just me.
Admittedly, for Catholics that are sensitive about their own religion, they may find some of this book to be offensive. But for those of us that can laugh at ourselves, Jenny writes about many of the same experiences and grapplings we have all experienced. There is a serious side to this book – a very open and honest reflection on Jenny’s roller coaster ride of life, and the spiritual searching that she has carried throughout all of her ups and downs. I found her determination through her many struggles and setbacks to be inspiring. Finally, for those that have classified Jenny McCarthy’s books as “just for chicks”, they are not giving her the credit she deserves.
Admittedly, for Catholics that are sensitive about their own religion, they may find some of this book to be offensive. But for those of us that can laugh at ourselves, Jenny writes about many of the same experiences and grapplings we have all experienced. There is a serious side to this book – a very open and honest reflection on Jenny’s roller coaster ride of life, and the spiritual searching that she has carried throughout all of her ups and downs. I found her determination through her many struggles and setbacks to be inspiring. Finally, for those that have classified Jenny McCarthy’s books as “just for chicks”, they are not giving her the credit she deserves.
February 24, 2014
I really enjoy the idea of Jenny McCarthy. She has unapologetically gone from Playboy Playmate, to resident go to Party Girl in Hollywood, to health advocate and activist for the cause of Autism thanks to the very public diagnosis of her son with Autism. She is even now sits at the table of "The View" on ABC. I enjoy her balance between comedic to compassionate to concerned to just pissed off about the injustice in our country and in our medical fields. That being said, this book is eh. She is not a very strong writer and she tells her stories heavily using similes... i.e. he looked like Peter Griffin in a priests outfit. Her intentions are well positioned, but her execution of the subject matter left a lot to be desired. I think a big problem for me was that I read this book directly after reading the personal memoirs of Jane Fonda, "My Life So Far," which is, in my opinion, one of the greatest memoirs of anyone figure in Hollywood, so that was a big act to follow, and unfortunately Jenny McCarthy didn't really make it over the hurdle.
May 22, 2014
I found the first part of this book to be hysterical and ridiculiusly entertaining. As a Catholic, and right now a Catholic school teacher to boot, I was totally able to relate to what she went through as a kid. The first chapter was epic.
I wish I could say the same for the end, though. I respect her for what she went through and her determination to better herself but I felt like some of the chapters didn't fit with the rest of the story. It might also be because I grew up in about the same economic status she did but I don't think the struggles she depicted in her childhood were enough to constitute having a bad childhood. She has money now...but to most of us blue collar people, we are still used to scraping for money now and then.
All in all, the book was pretty entertaining and I would rec it to some other friends for some good laughs. I wish her the best of luck with her life, esp. with some of the challenges she is facing with her son. Quite an entertaining and honest read.
I wish I could say the same for the end, though. I respect her for what she went through and her determination to better herself but I felt like some of the chapters didn't fit with the rest of the story. It might also be because I grew up in about the same economic status she did but I don't think the struggles she depicted in her childhood were enough to constitute having a bad childhood. She has money now...but to most of us blue collar people, we are still used to scraping for money now and then.
All in all, the book was pretty entertaining and I would rec it to some other friends for some good laughs. I wish her the best of luck with her life, esp. with some of the challenges she is facing with her son. Quite an entertaining and honest read.
September 1, 2016
I read this only because it happened to come up on the top of the page of my e-library non-fiction section and I wasn't in the mood to browse around. It had no description with it so I didn't know what to expect.
There were a few bits of humor near the beginning regarding life in a Catholic school (likely funny only to those who also attended a Catholic school and can relate), but after that the book took an odd turn into what felt like a pitch for her new-wave "religion". I feel like she used an excessive amount of "creative license" in recalling her earlier experiences and probably outright made things up to enhance the anecdotes of her adult years. The episode at the Vatican for example was surely enhanced for comic effect, though it fell flat with me.
Because this did make me laugh once or twice near the beginning I give it two-stars for having some redeeming qualities, but that's the only thing saving it from my one-star skip-it category.
There were a few bits of humor near the beginning regarding life in a Catholic school (likely funny only to those who also attended a Catholic school and can relate), but after that the book took an odd turn into what felt like a pitch for her new-wave "religion". I feel like she used an excessive amount of "creative license" in recalling her earlier experiences and probably outright made things up to enhance the anecdotes of her adult years. The episode at the Vatican for example was surely enhanced for comic effect, though it fell flat with me.
Because this did make me laugh once or twice near the beginning I give it two-stars for having some redeeming qualities, but that's the only thing saving it from my one-star skip-it category.
August 24, 2013
This was a very funny book. The personal stories that Jenny shares of her childhood and her family make it feel like a conversation with a close friend, but she injects them with such humor that no matter how sad the story might otherwise be, you can't help but smile, if not outright laugh.
It was fascinating to read how she ended up being a Playboy Playmate, especially since I'd always believed she'd been famous already when that happened. But it was also interesting to read about her struggles to make it to where she is today, and the various ways in which her family helped - even if the help was only to provide the motivation to keep trying.
I enjoyed reading this book, and am looking forward to reading some of her others as well.
It was fascinating to read how she ended up being a Playboy Playmate, especially since I'd always believed she'd been famous already when that happened. But it was also interesting to read about her struggles to make it to where she is today, and the various ways in which her family helped - even if the help was only to provide the motivation to keep trying.
I enjoyed reading this book, and am looking forward to reading some of her others as well.
November 29, 2013
This is my first book written by her. It was kinda ok.
I didn't fall of the chair, I didn't go nuts laughing.. but this book does ask a lot questions about following a religion and it's reasons.
As a child, I think, all of us have these questions but the fear instilled by elders/etc doesn't let us ask them or anyone.
So, this book is more about questions being asked that can't be answered logically but when it gets answered, people ask her to have faith!!! And it also contains the activities of her life,when she got in playboy etc etc.
Overall not that funny, but the questions were really intriguing as we all want to have a logical answer of whether we will go to Heaven or Hell?
or do they even exist??????
I didn't fall of the chair, I didn't go nuts laughing.. but this book does ask a lot questions about following a religion and it's reasons.
As a child, I think, all of us have these questions but the fear instilled by elders/etc doesn't let us ask them or anyone.
So, this book is more about questions being asked that can't be answered logically but when it gets answered, people ask her to have faith!!! And it also contains the activities of her life,when she got in playboy etc etc.
Overall not that funny, but the questions were really intriguing as we all want to have a logical answer of whether we will go to Heaven or Hell?
or do they even exist??????
February 23, 2016
I'd say 2.5 stars. There were some very funny stories in this easy read. But I went to a catholic school from pre-K to 8th grade. A lot of these stories and/or rules were very exaggerated and simply didn't happen. While I grew up Catholic, I can honestly say, that I don't agree with about 80% of the congregation as a whole. But it's very easy to laugh at some of the more ridiculous "rules" and "traditions". Some are quite outdated and simply non-realistic for the year 2016. So like I said from the beginning, a few funny stories. A lot of exaggeration a and nothing really special about this book. I'm very glad I only paid $1 for it. It wasn't the worst though. I somewhat enjoy any book that can give me a few smiles or laughs.
April 14, 2016
I love Jenny! She is one of my favorite human beings! ❤
Always funny, sometimes crass, but always truthful. Jenny tells it like it is. She is not afraid to speak her mind and doesn't care what anyone thinks about her. She is not afraid to be bold, or daring.
This book talked about Jenny growing up Catholic. She went to Catholic school, church, and came from a vert religious family. The situations and beliefs she spoke about that happen when you are Catholic were hilarious and true.
You don't have to be Catholic to enjoy this book. Jenny also touches on other religions a bit and what she believes these days.
In the last chapter of this book I couldn't agree more with her.
Always funny, sometimes crass, but always truthful. Jenny tells it like it is. She is not afraid to speak her mind and doesn't care what anyone thinks about her. She is not afraid to be bold, or daring.
This book talked about Jenny growing up Catholic. She went to Catholic school, church, and came from a vert religious family. The situations and beliefs she spoke about that happen when you are Catholic were hilarious and true.
You don't have to be Catholic to enjoy this book. Jenny also touches on other religions a bit and what she believes these days.
In the last chapter of this book I couldn't agree more with her.
September 28, 2015
While I am not a devout religious anything - I found this book to be quite hilarious. Jenny McCarthy is so witty and quick, it's no wonder she written so many best sellers. I still think of her as that slightly obnoxious girl that was hosting Singled Out on MTV in the 90s. However, she is apparently much smarter than that. I admire her zest for understanding the craziness of religion, and how she will go to any extreme to get it.
As it was a lighthearted easy read, there isn't a lot to say about it. However, although I might disagree with some of her parenting ideas, I found this book to be cheerfully funny, and easily palatable. A great light summer read.
3 out of 5 stars.
As it was a lighthearted easy read, there isn't a lot to say about it. However, although I might disagree with some of her parenting ideas, I found this book to be cheerfully funny, and easily palatable. A great light summer read.
3 out of 5 stars.
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