Maezing Content

So I read a lot, not generally a fan of celebrity authors but…

So, I just finished reading BJ Novak’s One More Thing: Stories and Other Stories, and let me tell you—this book is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get, but it’s all pretty darn delicious. For those of you who don’t know, BJ Novak is the guy from The Office who wasn’t Jim or Dwight. Turns out, he’s not just funny on TV—he’s also a genius with words. Who knew?

The Art of Short Stories

Okay, let’s talk short stories. I used to think short stories were those things I wrote in school to avoid a full essay, recently I have been slowing changing my mind but Novak changed my mind completely. Each story in One More Thing is like a little nugget of wisdom wrapped in humor. Some of them are just a few sentences long, while others are full-on adventures. For example, there’s “The Girl Who Gave Great Advice.” It’s about this girl who’s super good at giving advice to everyone else, but her own life is a hot mess. It’s funny, relatable, and a little sad—kind of like when you realize you’ve been giving people Netflix recommendations but haven’t actually finished a show in months. I AM CERTAIN I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE GUILTY OF THIS!

Then there’s “Kindness Among Cakes.” Yes, it’s a story about cakes being nice to each other. I’m not sure how Novak came up with the idea, but I’m glad he did. It’s like a Pixar short, but in book form. Imagine cupcakes and slices of cake at a party having deep conversations about kindness. Sounds weird? It is, but also kind of perfect.

And don’t even get me started on “The Beautiful Girl in the Bookstore.” This one hit close to home because who hasn’t seen someone in a bookstore (or anywhere, really) and thought, “Wow, they’re out of my league, but what if…?” Novak takes that moment and spins it into a story that’s both funny and painfully real. Spoiler: it doesn’t end with a happily ever after, but that’s what makes it so good.

Novak’s Writing Style

Let’s just say Novak’s writing style is like that friend who tells great stories at parties. Not like me, I generally sit in the corner and take notes of off the things people are doing. You know, he’s the one who doesn’t need to yell or wave their arms around to get your attention. He’s subtle but sharp, and he gets to the point without wasting words. It’s like he’s saying, “I know you’re busy, so let’s make this quick.” And it works! His stories are full of surprises, too—just when you think you know where it’s going, he flips the script.

Themes Explored

Now, let’s get a little deep—just a little. One More Thing isn’t just funny; it’s also about life. Novak touches on everything from relationships to loneliness to the weird stuff we all think about but never say out loud. Like in “Sophia, This has to be one of my favorite pieces in this book. In this piece “a guy falls in love with a robot girlfriend. It’s funny at first, but then you realize it’s really about how lonely people can get, even in a world full of people.

And in “The Rematch,” which is a follow-up to the classic Tortoise and Hare story, Novak shows us that sometimes winning isn’t everything. Sometimes, it’s about realizing that life keeps going, whether you’re ahead or behind. Deep, right?

The Humor and Wit

But let’s not get too serious here, because let’s face it… I am never really serious! Novak’s humor is what makes this book shine. He’s got this knack for making you laugh and think at the same time. Like in “Kindness Among Cakes,” the idea of cakes talking to each other is so absurd, but the conversations are so spot-on that you can’t help but smile and maybe even tear up a little. And “The Girl Who Gave Great Advice” is basically every person who’s ever been the go-to advice giver in their friend group, wondering why they can’t get their own life together. It’s funny because it’s true, and it’s a little sad for the same reason.

Why One More Thing Is a Must-Read

One More Thing is the kind of book you can pick up when you’re in the mood for a laugh, or when you want to ponder life’s big questions—sometimes both at the same time. It’s perfect for people who love short stories, witty humor, or just need a break from their Netflix binge. Plus, it’s like having BJ Novak as your personal storyteller, and who wouldn’t want that?

Seriously, “The Beautiful Girl in the Bookstore” is going to make you rethink every missed connection you’ve ever had. It’s like Novak is reading your mind and writing it all down, but with a funnier punchline. I personally pick this book up all day long, reading different stories and new ideas. I carry it with me to soccer games and giggle out loud. People probably think I am a crazy lady. But who cares. Be you! Read On!

Do yourself a favor a check it out

So, if you haven’t read One More Thing: Stories and Other Stories yet, what are you waiting for? BJ Novak has created something truly special here—a book that’s as hilarious as it is thoughtful. Whether you’re a fan of his work on The Office or just love a good story, this book is a must-read. And who knows? You might even find yourself giving great advice—or at least laughing at those who do. As Novak says in one of his stories, “Happiness can only exist in acceptance.” So go ahead, accept this book into your life—you won’t regret it.

**Not an endorsement, just like the book.