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Dear fellow adventurers in storytelling,

Listening to *Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns)* by Mindy Kaling felt like sitting down with an old friend over a cup of coffee, sharing stories that are equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and deeply relatable. The audiobook, narrated by Kaling herself alongside B. J. Novak, Brenda Withers, and Michael Schur, is a masterclass in comedic timing and personal reflection. It’s a journey that unfolds like a road trip through Kaling’s life, with pit stops at her childhood, her rise in comedy, and her unscientific yet endearing observations on friendship, romance, and Hollywood.

As a travel writer, I’ve always been drawn to stories that explore the human experience, and Kaling’s memoir does just that. Her voice—both literal and literary—is warm, engaging, and unapologetically honest. It reminds me of the evenings I spent in Oaxaca, listening to a grandmother spin tales with perfect timing and an intimate quality that made the stories feel alive. Kaling’s narration captures that same magic, making the audiobook experience feel personal and authentic.

The book is structured like a series of essays, each with its own rhythm and tone. Kaling’s humor is sharp but never cruel, and her self-deprecating wit is endearing. Whether she’s recounting her awkward teenage years, her early days in comedy, or her thoughts on the perfect amount of fame, Kaling’s stories are infused with a sense of joy and resilience. Her observations on friendship—what makes a great best friend, the dynamics of female friendships, and the importance of loyalty—are particularly poignant. It’s a theme that resonates deeply, especially for anyone who’s ever wondered if they’re the one being left out.

The audiobook’s ensemble cast adds another layer of richness to the experience. B. J. Novak, Kaling’s longtime collaborator and friend, brings a familiar dynamic to their interactions, while Brenda Withers and Michael Schur provide fresh voices that complement Kaling’s narration. The result is a listening experience that feels less like a traditional audiobook and more like a lively conversation among friends.

One of the standout moments for me was Kaling’s reflection on her identity as the child of immigrant professionals. Her story of navigating cultural expectations while pursuing a career in comedy is both inspiring and relatable. It reminded me of my own journey as a first-generation American, balancing familial expectations with personal passions. Kaling’s ability to find humor in these experiences while acknowledging their complexity is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.

Of course, no memoir is without its flaws. At times, the humor can feel a bit too self-aware, and some of the essays lack the depth of others. But these moments are few and far between, and they don’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the book. If anything, they add to its charm, making Kaling feel even more like the girl next door—someone who’s just as flawed and human as the rest of us.

For fans of Tina Fey, Nora Ephron, or any writer who blends humor with heart, *Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?* is a must-listen. It’s a book that invites you to laugh, reflect, and maybe even call up your best friend just to say hi. And with the convenience of several stopping points, you can easily pause to run errands or make those calls—though I suspect you’ll be too engrossed to stop.

In the end, this audiobook is more than just a collection of essays; it’s a celebration of life’s messy, beautiful, and often hilarious moments. It’s a reminder that, no matter where you are in your journey, you’re not alone. And if you ever feel like everyone’s hanging out without you, just remember: Mindy Kaling probably feels the same way.

With laughter and wanderlust, Marcus
Marcus Rivera