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A review by princessjasminefliesaway
Feel Good 101: The Outsiders' Guide to a Happier Life by Emma Blackery
3.0
'Feel Good 101' by Emma Blackery, is a book that tells you from the get-go that it won't change your life but that it might help you to do it yourself but did it? The marketing for this book makes it seem like a "self-help/advice book" but doesn't stick to that title or genre, it basically being an autobiography of Emma Blackery's life with the occasional life lesson morals. This becomes evident when the chapter about self-worth is the one Blackery states wanting to spend the shortest amount of time writing about. This can be argued to be expected in a "YouTuber" book but I thought the cover or blurb would have hinted towards it more. Though, this isn't a complaint as I bought this book because of Blackery and was generally intrigued by her nonchronological, relatable backstory told in her usual, loveable way. This book would clearly be an inspiration to any up-coming musician or other in show business.
Blackery points out that she is not in any place to give advice; simply using her years of knowledge to advise her younger target audience. This shows as she guides and tells her reader the stereotypical show business advice; to make connections, not to take rejection too harshly and never giving up. It can be used again in different career paths but it's also very clear who she is writing to in the main portion of her career chapters. This point about not being in a place of advice giving carries on with Blackery's advice on bullying, which could be summed up to 'tell someone and don't worry, in a few years the bullies will be gone' and not being helpful at all. However, do not let this deter you from reading, Emma does write from personal experience with a comforting big sister approach to multiple other topics such as relationships, education, and employment. Personally, I found her CV tips very helpful.
Finally, if you enjoyed this book, let me introduce you to another. 'Feel Good 101' heavily reminded me of Miranda Hart's autobiography ('Is it Just Me?') which is also partially big sisterly advice, comedy, and anecdotes. If you enjoyed this book, and like Hart's work, then I say add it to your reading pile.
Blackery points out that she is not in any place to give advice; simply using her years of knowledge to advise her younger target audience. This shows as she guides and tells her reader the stereotypical show business advice; to make connections, not to take rejection too harshly and never giving up. It can be used again in different career paths but it's also very clear who she is writing to in the main portion of her career chapters. This point about not being in a place of advice giving carries on with Blackery's advice on bullying, which could be summed up to 'tell someone and don't worry, in a few years the bullies will be gone' and not being helpful at all. However, do not let this deter you from reading, Emma does write from personal experience with a comforting big sister approach to multiple other topics such as relationships, education, and employment. Personally, I found her CV tips very helpful.
Finally, if you enjoyed this book, let me introduce you to another. 'Feel Good 101' heavily reminded me of Miranda Hart's autobiography ('Is it Just Me?') which is also partially big sisterly advice, comedy, and anecdotes. If you enjoyed this book, and like Hart's work, then I say add it to your reading pile.