Simon Rich

This was the first book I read by Simon Rich, but it won't be the last. I absolutely loved his sense of humour, his witty observations about the world, and his take on what it means to be human.

I adored some of the stories. "Learning the Ropes" was my absolute favourite, followed closely by "LaserDisc" and "Beauty and the Beast." A few were really good -- like "The Big Nap" (strong vibes of Boss Baby in this one!) and "Case Study." And while I admit to my eyes glazing over while reading "Screwball," I'm sure baseball fans will find plenty to enjoy.

Overall, this was a wonderfully quirky collection of well-thought-out, genuinely funny stories with lots of heart.… (mere)

"I know the first day of school can be scarier for kids. Trust me when I say: It's scarier for backpacks."

The teal backpack in question speaks to its carrier ("Sometimes you stuff me in a strange new locker") as it's dragged out of the closet and into the school year. Yet some of the backpack's feelings - of not fitting in or having a place to belong - are mirrored by its carrier, and it's only when they collide with another pair and become friends that things start to look up... "Because you don't have to carry everything alone."

See also: School's First Day of School; Puppy Bus… (mere)