Vodka Gets Healthier , Less Intoxicating, in the Second Round

In today's world of literature, biographies and autobiographies are not as cool as memoirs. And though I'm not entirely positive I'm clear on the distinction, I'm glad they're enjoying serious success because I love reading them. I don't tend to care much if it's a biography, an autobiography, or a memoir; I get a kick out of reading about real people and seeing what it is you can learn about them, even though they (or their families) have likely been able to filter what content you have access to. You're likely to find a story no one could have ever created.

I've read a number of Kate Hepburn and Anne Sexton books, a couple of specific runners or teams of runners, several nobody's with crazy childhoods, and a few nobody's in extreme circumstances. In fact, one of my favorite books, Truth and Beauty by Ann Patchett is a memoir. But no memoirs compare to the Chelsea Handler's memoirs.....not even Chelsea Handler's.

About a year ago, I read the first of the comedian's releases. And though she's rather more crude than is my general taste, I could not help but laugh at the escapades of My Horizontal Life: A series of one-night stands. The image of her climbing into a kitchen window dressed as a green m&m is particularly memorable. Having had such a good experience on the first go-round, I eagerly awaited the opportunity to ride again. This month, Handler's second book, Are You There, Vodka? It's Me Chelsea was released. I ordered it and read it in a matter of days (much like I had with the first). But I read this one quickly for a different reason than the first. The first time, I didn't want to stop laughing; the second, I wanted to find the place where I would laugh like I did in the first.

I do not mean to say the second is not funny or enjoyable or even worth the read but the topic of each vignette was less enjoyable than the sex-obsessed first book. It's no secret Chelsea is candid about everything (if you need a sample, watch her late-night show) and humorously so but her humor simply isn't at it's best when it focuses more on family outings than intoxicated soirées. Her story-telling capabilities can't be called into question (though her editor's proofreading can).

Summer is the season for an entertaining and easy read. I suggest you give Handler a shot, though odds are she's already had enough to drink. But if you're only going to have time for one read, stick with the original. The sequel doesn't live up to it.