Openly Bob by Bob Smith

Bob Smith, gay comedian and author, compiled a book of his essays entitled “Openly Bob.” I recently finished the book and, unfortunately, discovered that I have an OCD quirk that hinders my ability to enjoy literature. Because all of the essays could be stand-alone publications, I had a hard time finishing it. William suggested I break every now and then to another book but because of my OCD I had to finish the book. It felt very stop-and-go. However, the format isn’t the book and does not affect its contents.

Smith’s humor is rich and intoxicating. Upon finishing the many essays, you’re likely to walk away with a new comedic view of everyday situations.

His essays of his life include such topics as coming out to his parents, having a boyfriend (Tom, whom the collection is dedicated to) and introducing him to his parents, travelling, antique-shopping behaviors, bird-watching, hurricane-survival and friendships in Provincetown, auditioning for films, family loss and mourning, turbulence in relationships and trying to survive in big cities with little dollars among others.

My favorite essay is Hurricane Bob, the essay of the aforementioned hurricane that struck Bob’s temporary home in Provincetown during one of his summers there doing stand-up at a bar. His housemates, also gay or lesbian, were a fun cast of characters and seemed to all have their quirks and talents – and some not-so-talented but feeling otherwise. The family-like feeling came through the words strongly and it was comforting to see such a diverse range of people living and sharing together. From the preparation for the hurricane to the aftermath, these people bonded and supported one another and kept a friendship alive and burning long after their parting.

If you don’t mind reading many mini-stories in one book, you’ll appreciate the humor if nothing else and most likely you’ll be able to relate. I promise you’ll chuckle at least once in each chapter if not each page. Bob has lived an interesting, exciting life and you’re sure to be inspired by its telling.