NONFICTION

Dad Is Fat

by Jim Gaffigan
Crown Archetype. 2013. 288p. ISBN 9780385349055. $25; ebk. ISBN 9780385349062. HUMOR
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Stand-up comedian Gaffigan's first book covers similar ground as his 2012 self-released Mr. Universe special (also a Grammy-nominated album), but his expanded reflections on fatherhood read more heartfelt than hilarious. He still makes the most of his experiences raising five kids in a two-bedroom, five-story Bowery walk-up, as well as the dichotomy of being driven crazy by his kids while hating to be away from them. In a series of vignettes, Gaffigan reflects on the similarity between bars and nursery school, evaluates children's literature (including bonding with The Giving Tree), and explains the horrific reality of a Disney vacation, all the while sanctifying his wife and playing up his ineptitude.
VERDICT Gaffigan joins the ranks of Bill Cosby and Paul Reiser with this comedic approach to parenthood. A quick read parents will appreciate. Recommended.
Reviewed by Terry Bosky, Madison, WI , Jul 12, 2013
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