One Sentence Summary:
Yes Please is an autobiographical memoir by Amy Poehler, where the beloved comedian offers up a story that is raw, vulnerable, and honest.
Book Genre:
The book is an Autobiographical Memoir.
Main Topic of the Book:
Yes Please is a humorous yet thoughtful exploration of Amy Poehler’s life, from her childhood through to her success in stand-up comedy and her career highlights in Saturday Night Live (SNL) in addition to her time at improv comedy institution, the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB).
Key Ideas:
- Humor is an essential tool for survival
- Success comes through hard work and perseverance
- It’s important to take risks and make mistakes
- Surround yourself with supportive people
- Be honest and open to opportunities
- Live in the moment and look ahead to the future
Main Parts of the Book and a Short Summary:
- Part One: Childhood: Amy takes us on a journey of her early years – school years, her experience of teen rebellion and her dream of being a performer.
- Part Two: Up and Out: Amy shares her struggles of trusting her own comedic talent. She discusses her move to Los Angeles, and her growth as an improv and sketch performer, including her involvement with UCB.
- Part Three: Engagements: Amy dives into her relationship with her former husband, her success on SNL, her eventual rise to a starring role on TV, and her passion for activism, motherhood and comedy outlets.
- Part Four: Acceptance: In the last part of the book, Amy opens up about her outlook on life and how to find grace, acceptance and gratitude in any situation.
Key Takeaways:
- Humor and positivity are important for personal and professional success.
- Take risks and don’t be afraid to fail.
- Surround yourself with kind and supportive people.
- Listen to your inner voice of authenticity and personal power.
- Be open to lasting change and finding grace in any situation.
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
Amy Poehler is a comedian, producer, writer, and actress most widely known for her work on NBC’s Saturday Night Live (SNL) and her Emmy Award winning series, Parks and Recreation. She was a head writer and cast member on SNL and also co-founded the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater, an improv comedy institution, which now has four locations nationwide.
Target Audience:
Yes Please is an inspiring memoir that’s suitable for all ages. Fans of Amy Poehler’s work and other fans of comedy and memoirs will all enjoy this book.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
Yes Please was published by Harper Collins and first released on October 28th, 2014.