Real Artists Have Day Jobs (and Other Awesome Things They Don’t Teach You in School)

While comedian Benincasa hits some of the same subjects here as in her previous book, Agorafabulous!, the 52 essays in this collection span a wider range of more relatable topics, such asking for a raise, using meditation and mindfulness, being nice to old people (but challenging them if they have “racist, old-ass beliefs”), dealing with physical abuse, and decluttering your home. She writes breezily, eschewing ornate literary language in favor of a conversational tone. Geared toward young women in their 20s, the advice Benincasa offers is grounded in her own experiences, recounted with humor, and punctuated with moments of earnestness; as she explains in her introduction, “The most authentic insight comes from those who acknowledge their own shortcomings.” Benincasa’s central message is one of radical confidence and self-acceptance. (Apr.)