Going Bovine by Libba Bray

3.64/5.00

Published: 2009

Genre: Humor

Goodreads

Why have I not spent more time reading humorous books?

For writers wanting to know how to deal with terminal illness, I far recommend this book more than The Fault in Our Stars. Humor works better than strained attempts at pseudo-philosophy.

Going Bovine is about a boy, Cameron, the usual kind you find in these stories—white, awkward, non-athletic, sarcastic, virgin. You’ll find a lot of stereotypes in this book—the popular, hot girl; the religious jock; the “wannabes;” the distant father; the demure mother; the smart, kind of obnoxious sister—but they appear more as intentional comedy devices than crutches in poor characterization. We also have the more frequent side-characters--Gonzo, Dulcie, and Balder are great additions. 

Trying to explain a funny book fails just as hard as trying to explain a joke. It’s like The Devil’s Intern, funny in that stupid, out-with-friends way.

It’s funny. It’s weird. It’s nonsense. You should read it.

Libba Bray—you already know who she is, right? She’s one of those authors I’ve hear about often(ish) but never gotten around to reading. It seems the hype is valid, with this one. If you haven’t already, for whatever reason, start reading her books, at least Going Bovine.