Bitter Is the New Black: Confessions of a Condescending, Egomaniacal, Self-Centered Smartass, Or, Why You Should Never Carry A Prada Bag to the Unemployment Office : Book Review

"Bitter is the New Black" by Jen Lancaster is a memoir that follows the author's transformation from a high-maintenance, materialistic girl to a struggling, unemployed writer. Lancaster's honesty and humor make this book a hilarious and engaging read.

What sets this memoir apart is Lancaster's witty and sarcastic tone. Her storytelling keeps the reader entertained as she recounts the highs and lows of her journey. The book is filled with laugh-out-loud moments and provides a glimpse into the harsh realities of life, career setbacks, and personal growth.

Lancaster's narration is relatable and candid, allowing readers to connect with her experiences. She doesn't shy away from discussing her own mistakes and flaws, which adds an authentic and genuine touch to the story. Throughout the book, Lancaster shares valuable insights and life lessons, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and personal growth in finding happiness and fulfillment.

One of the highlights of the memoir is Lancaster's ability to find humor in difficult situations. Each chapter is filled with entertaining anecdotes, from failed attempts at becoming a reality TV star to hilarious encounters with eccentric coworkers. Beyond the humor, the book also touches on deeper themes such as self-discovery and finding one's own voice, making it more than just a lighthearted read.

Beyond the entertainment factor, "Bitter is the New Black" offers a commentary on the corporate world and the challenges faced by individuals trying to succeed within it. Lancaster's experiences of job loss and the pressure to conform to societal expectations are relatable and thought-provoking. This adds depth to the book, making it a compelling read for anyone navigating the challenges of adulthood and searching for meaning in their career.

What are readers saying?

"Bitter Is the New Black" is a memoir written by Jen Lancaster that chronicles her journey from a successful corporate job to experiencing unemployment and financial struggles. The book has garnered a variety of reviews from readers, ranging from highly positive to more critical.

Many reviewers have praised Lancaster's witty and humorous writing style, finding her storytelling engaging and entertaining. They appreciate her candidness and ability to laugh at herself, which adds depth and authenticity to the story. Readers enjoy her strong voice and feel that her humorous perspective on her misfortunes makes the book relatable and enjoyable.

Others appreciate the way Lancaster showcases her personal growth throughout the book. They find her transformation from materialism and self-centeredness to humility and self-discovery inspiring. Reviewers note that the memoir offers valuable life lessons about appreciating what one has and finding happiness even in difficult times.

However, some readers feel that the author comes across as too self-centered and unsympathetic, particularly in the beginning of the book. They believe Lancaster portrays herself as a victim and lacks self-awareness. Some reviewers also criticize her for being materialistic and shallow, questioning the genuineness of her transformation and whether it was solely a result of her circumstances.

Another common criticism is the lack of a clear narrative arc. Some readers feel that the story lacks direction and feels more like a collection of anecdotes rather than a cohesive memoir. Additionally, a few reviewers find the book excessively focused on material possessions and consumerism, which they find off-putting and shallow.

BitterIsTheNewBlack Memoir BookReview