Quick Take

The # 1 New York Times bestseller A Girl Named Zippy was a rare and welcome a memoir of a happy childhood. Spunky, strong-willed, and too smart for her own good, Zippy Jarvis brought readers delight and joy. In She Got Up Off the Couch, Haven Kimmel invites us to rejoin the quirky and hilarious Jarvis family saga. Zippy is growing up and struggling with both her hair and her distaste for shoes. But this memoir strikes a deeper and more emotional chord, as now Kimmel shines the spotlight on her remarkable mother, Delonda. Courageous and steadfast, Delonda finally realized that she could change her life, and she got up off the funky couch in the den, bought a beat-up flower power VW bug (and then learned to drive it), and went back to school, which gave her the chance to gain both financial independence and, at long last, self-respect.A true pleasure for old fans and new ones alike, She Got Up Off the Couch is a gorgeous encapsulation of an innocent time when a child didn't understand that her mother was depressed or felt stifled, but just noted on her way out the door that Delonda was a fixture in the living room. Kimmel captures the seminal moments of her mother's burgeoning empowerment with the full strength of her distinctive, deft storytelling, and with the overflowing sense of humor that made A Girl Named Zippy a favorite of readers everywhere.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: She Got Up Off the Couch: And Other Heroic Acts from Mooreland, Indiana

Introduction

"She Got Up Off the Couch: And Other Heroic Acts from Mooreland, Indiana" by Haven Kimmel is a follow-up to the author's bestselling memoir, "A Girl Named Zippy." This book delves deeper into the life of Zippy's mother, Delonda, and her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. With its humor and poignant portrayal of a small-town Indiana upbringing, this memoir has captured the hearts of readers worldwide.

About Haven Kimmel

Haven Kimmel, the author of "She Got Up Off the Couch," was born in New Castle, Indiana, and grew up in Mooreland, a town that served as the backdrop for her memoir. Kimmel earned her undergraduate degree in English and creative writing from Ball State University and a graduate degree from North Carolina State University. She also attended seminary at the Earlham School of Religion in Richmond, Indiana. Kimmel's writing style is characterized by her distinctive humor and ability to capture the essence of small-town life.

Analysis of Views

Humor and Relatability: Readers praise Kimmel's ability to inject humor into even the darkest moments of life. The book's humor is described as "drop-dead hilarious," with readers laughing out loud and even reading passages aloud to their loved ones. The author's unique storytelling style, filled with witty observations and a child's perspective, makes the book relatable to readers of all ages.
Empowerment and Inspiration: The book's central theme of empowerment resonates deeply with readers. Delonda's journey from feeling trapped on the couch to achieving academic success and finding self-respect is seen as inspiring. Readers appreciate how Kimmel portrays her mother's strength and determination, highlighting the importance of perseverance and resilience.
Glimpse into Small-Town Life: "She Got Up Off the Couch" provides a glimpse into the life of a child growing up in a small town during the 1970s. Readers appreciate the author's ability to capture the essence of that time period, including the challenges faced by families without reliable electricity or plumbing. The book offers a unique perspective on life in rural America, making it relatable to readers from various backgrounds.
Emotional Depth: While the book is primarily known for its humor, readers also appreciate its emotional depth. Delonda's struggles with mental health and her husband's drinking are explored in a sensitive and honest manner. The book delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the impact they can have on a child's life. Readers find themselves emotionally invested in Delonda's journey and appreciate Kimmel's ability to balance humor and heartfelt moments.
Memoir Writing Style: Kimmel's memoir writing style is praised for its authenticity and lack of self-reflexive narration. Readers appreciate her ability to craft a written account of her life without resorting to meta-analysis or self-conscious reflection. This approach allows for a more immersive reading experience, allowing readers to fully engage with the story without feeling like they are reading a self-absorbed account.

Reasons for Recommendation

Humor and Relatability: The book's humor and relatability make it an enjoyable read for both new and old fans of Haven Kimmel's writing. Readers appreciate the author's ability to inject humor into even the most challenging situations, making the book a joy to read from start to finish.
Empowerment and Inspiration: The book's central theme of empowerment resonates deeply with readers who are seeking inspiration and motivation in their own lives. Delonda's journey serves as a reminder that even in difficult circumstances, it is possible to overcome obstacles and find personal growth. Readers find themselves inspired by Delonda's determination and resilience.
Glimpse into Small-Town Life: For those interested in exploring small-town life in America, "She Got Up Off the Couch" provides a unique perspective on life in rural communities during the 1970s. Readers appreciate Kimmel's ability to capture the essence of that time period, offering a relatable and immersive reading experience.
Emotional Depth: While the book is primarily known for its humor, readers also appreciate its emotional depth. Delonda's struggles with mental health and family dynamics add depth to the story, making it more than just a lighthearted memoir. Readers find themselves emotionally invested in Delonda's journey and appreciate Kimmel's ability to balance humor and heartfelt moments.
Memoir Writing Style: Kimmel's memoir writing style is praised for its authenticity and lack of self-reflexive narration. Readers appreciate her ability to craft a written account of her life without resorting to meta-analysis or self-conscious reflection. This approach allows for a more immersive reading experience, allowing readers to fully engage with the story without feeling like they are reading a self-absorbed account.

Conclusion

"She Got Up Off the Couch: And Other Heroic Acts from Mooreland, Indiana" by Haven Kimmel is a delightful memoir that captures the essence of growing up in small-town America during the 1970s. With its humor, relatability, empowerment themes, glimpse into small-town life, and emotional depth, this book has resonated with readers worldwide. Haven Kimmel's unique storytelling style and ability to balance humor and heartfelt moments make "She Got Up Off the Couch" a must-read for anyone looking for an entertaining and inspiring memoir.