How I deal with backlash
Pub week has been NUTS!
Weekly Q&A:
Q: How do you deal with backlash once you put out a piece of work?
Oh wow, timely question. Not well!!!!!!!! I’m kind of kidding, but honestly, it is SUCH a trip to go from writing your silly little thoughts alone in your silly little house to having them on paper in the real world, where zillions of strangers can then either really connect with you, dismiss you, or read you to filth, a behavior which sites like Goodreads actually incentivize because negativity gets more engagement!!!! Fortunately, people rarely slide into my DMs or send me direct emails full of vitriol, so if I don’t go out looking for threats, I can mostly avoid them. We are not meant to be exposed to limitless eyeballs and opinions, and allowing myself to look at that shit is not only bad for my mental wellness, it’s bad for my creativity! Let’s just say I have a parental blocker on a few choice websites. Here’s the thing: I stand by my books. And I can say that only because I’ve learned how to apply feedback (sometimes harsh—but always helpful—feedback!) from readers and editors I trust and respect. Beyond that, I definitely don’t need to see hundreds of random comments from strangers who happen not to like my work for whatever reason *shakes and cries in the corner lol*
Book tour has been beyond my wildest dreams.
These events in LA, NYC, Brooklyn, and Boston have exceeded my wildest expectations. I don’t know what I did to deserve such talented moderators, special guests, producers and readers. Every show has been sold out so far, which SHOCKS ME. This week has made all the stress and frazzled preparation WORTH IT!!!
There are still tickets left for my Philly show tomorrow!
It’s the one event that still has a good 30 tickets left. This Big Magical Cult show is so fucking chaotic and fun, I seriously hope you roll through!!! This one features my buddy Kelsey McKinney, host of the Normal Gossip podcast. We’re gonna go NUTS spilling culty celebrity tea!!! Tix start at $15.
Excerpts of the book came out in Marie Claire and Literary Hub.
In case you haven’t gotten your copy yet and want a lil taste :)
Did you catch my Fresh Air episode??? 💀
I’m normally fairly calm in interviews but this was FRESH AIR. I was so nervous throughout the whole thing I thought I was going to POOP MYSELF. But co-host Tonya Mosley was beyond lovely and assured me I didn’t sound as insane as I felt. You can listen to the interview here!!
A few other press highlights include profiles in Elle, the LA Times, and Marie Claire, plus interviews on some of my favorite pods: Be There In Five, iWeigh, Fluently Forward, and Add to Cart. So neat 🥹
This week’s Sounds Like A Cult episode will make you TEEHEEHEE.
You culties have been THIRSTING after this episode, and it’s finally here! With the help of the piss-your-pants funny duo from @addtocartpod, Kulap Vilaysack and SuChin Pak, host Amanda is unpacking the evangelical fanaticism surrounding these objectively not-that-special, too-big-to-fit-in-any-goddamn-cup-holder water vessels that contain not just the keys to hydration but apparently our very souls. Sit back and *drink it in* as Amanda and guests are going in on the accessory-cum-religion that is the Stanley Quencher—from its Mormon momfluencer origin story to its TikTok lore to the ever-present cult of consumerism. The episode goes live at 2am PST/5am EST!
BOOK: It’s Not You
Psychologist Dr. Ramani Durvasula is doing the lord’s work educating us all (and dispelling myths about) narcissism. Her communication style is incredibly clear and validating—this is her New York Times bestselling new book. Stay tuned for her appearance on my forthcoming Magical Overthinkers podcast!!
YOUTUBE: Tomei Nohito
Casey and I have been mesmerized lately by these soothing videos of a Japanese baker concocting surreal jell-o cakes that resemble outer space or clouds or under-the-seascapes. (These videos hit especially hard after an edible, just saying.)
CLOTHING: English Factory Matching Sets
This brand made the matching plaid skort set I wore for my NYC press junket and LA book launch event!!!! It’s well made and comfy for the price. Would def recommend, if the dark academia-meets-coquette aesthetic appeals to you.
GLASSES: Warby Parker Gladys Aventurine Tortoise
My dark academia sartorial pursuits would not be complete without this pair of Gloria Steinem-chic thick-rimmed specs!