I've Got a New Complaint by Laurie Notaro

October 9, 2026

I've Got a New Complaint by Laurie Notaro

Laurie Notaro is back with another collection of essays, this time on the joys (?) of growing older. She writes about dealing with aging parents who treat you like you're still a child, even though you are all senior citizens now, having to verify her identity two or three times just to order chicken bouillon cubes online (because apparently scammers are just waiting to steal her identity so they can charge their chicken bouillon to her account), and the insanity of getting a puppy when you are in your 60s (by all means, get a dog but get an older less active dog). Like all humorous essay collections, some are good, others miss the mark. But there are several good laughs.

The Murderess by Laurie Notaro

February 24, 2025

The Murderess by Laurie Notaro

In October 1931, two trunks arrive in Los Angeles on a train from Phoenix. At first, railroad employees think someone is smuggling meat, but once the trunks are opened, they discover a much more horrific cargo. 

Based on the crimes of Ruth Judd, aka the Trunk Murderess, who murdered and dismembered two women she called her closest friends (I would hate to be her enemy). The crime is described in gory detail, especially the disposal of the bodies, as is Ruth's descent into mental illness, so more sensitive readers should be aware. Extensively researched, this is a departure for Laurie Notaro, who is best known for her humorous essay collections. Readers who enjoy Megan Abbot's edgy novels will enjoy this true crime fiction.

Winnie Ruth Judd, dubbed the Trunk Murderess

Excuse Me While I Disappear by Laurie Notaro

February 27, 2023

Excuse Me While I Disappear by Laurie Notaro

A collection of articles/essays on the joys of getting older. Laurie Notaro is known for her IdiotGirl series. I am in Notaro's age group so I feel her pain. When a woman turns 50, she gradually becomes invisible to others (this doesn't happen to guys). Especially if you stop coloring your hair like I did about ten years ago - most men don't color their hair, so why should I? Like all collections, so chapters are laugh out loud funny, others fall flat.

This isn't me, but it is my haircut and my hair color