New Book Review -- Magical Thinking

Augusten Burroughs has done it again. Magical Thinking is his latest collection of memoirs, this time from his late 20's and onward. Here we learn of his life in advertising, his desire to ditch it all and become a bona fide writer, the dating scene, as well as a collection of his daily observations. Once again he manages to entertain his readers with his wit, yet relate his experiences in a way that many can identify with.


I particularly enjoyed the chapters in which he describes his relationship with Dennis, his boyfriend. These are clearly two men in love, despite their differences. Despite his insecurities and flaws Dennis loves him for who he is, a point driven home in the chapter titled "Total Turnaround." An argument ensues over a seemingly inane incident, yet by the end of it Augusten realizes that what he's found in his boyfriend is true love. I smiled as I read this chapter, glad to see that one of my favorite, dysfunctional authors has found love.

As with Running With Scissors, Augusten Burroughs delves deep into his past to reveal more of himself, exposing his pink underbelly for all the world to see. Whether he writes his memoirs as a cathartic release or to make money off of his past, it doesn't matter to me; Augusten Burroughs is a wonderful writer, and I often find myself identifying with him throughout his books.