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Next Level Basic: The Definitive Basic Bitch Handbook
Discover how to embrace your best basic self in this instant New York Times bestselling, laugh-out-loud hilarious, and “refreshing to read� (The Cut) guidebook from the breakout star of Bravo’s hit reality show Vanderpump Rules.Millions of Vanderpump Rules viewers and podcast listeners know Stassi Schroeder as a major defender of Basic Bitch rights. There’s nothing more boring than people who take themselves too seriously. Stassi champions the things that many of us are afraid to love publicly for fear of being labeled lattes, pugs, bubbly cocktails, millennial pink, #OOTD (outfit of the day, obvs), astrology, hot dogs, the perfect pair of Louboutins, romantic comedies...the list goes on and on. “There’s something for everyone under Schroeder’s big basic umbrella� (Elle) and in Next Level Basic, the reality star, podcast queen, and ranch dressing expert gives you hilarious and pointed lessons on how to have fun and celebrate yourself, with exclusive stories from her own life and on the set of Vanderpump Rules. From her very public breakups to her most intimate details about her plastic surgery, Stassi shares her own personal experiences with her trademark honesty—all with the hope you can learn something from them.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 16, 2019
1,766 people are currently reading
6,863 people want to read
About the author
Stassi Schroeder
4books376followersStassi Schroeder is one of the stars of the hit Bravo TV series Vanderpump Rules. Originally from New Orleans, she now lives in Los Angeles, where she films and hosts her popular podcast Straight Up with Stassi.
(source: Amazon)
(source: Amazon)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,511 reviews
September 3, 2020
DID NOT FINISH- Quit at 55% mark.
I’m not sure how or why this book ended up in my library queue. 🤔 I cannot remember adding it to my holds. I’ve never watched Vanderpump Rules and had to google to find out what the show is about. So, needless to say, I had no clue who this person is. 🤷🏼♀� With all of that said, I figured it couldn’t be that bad, right?! 😉 Wrong!! She kept using the term “AF� which is super annoying. 🤬 Her breakup cure is going shopping on her ex’s credit card (or keying his car). She jokes about being drunk and taking medication, it’s okay, cause she doesn’t remember doing it. 🤦🏼♀�
Another reviewer shared on my update that she was fired from Bravo and to google to find out why... this lady is trash. I cannot continue to subject myself to this craptastic book any longer! 💩 Added to my DNF shelf, never to be picked up again. K. Thx. Bye Felicia. 👋
I’m not sure how or why this book ended up in my library queue. 🤔 I cannot remember adding it to my holds. I’ve never watched Vanderpump Rules and had to google to find out what the show is about. So, needless to say, I had no clue who this person is. 🤷🏼♀� With all of that said, I figured it couldn’t be that bad, right?! 😉 Wrong!! She kept using the term “AF� which is super annoying. 🤬 Her breakup cure is going shopping on her ex’s credit card (or keying his car). She jokes about being drunk and taking medication, it’s okay, cause she doesn’t remember doing it. 🤦🏼♀�
Another reviewer shared on my update that she was fired from Bravo and to google to find out why... this lady is trash. I cannot continue to subject myself to this craptastic book any longer! 💩 Added to my DNF shelf, never to be picked up again. K. Thx. Bye Felicia. 👋
November 14, 2019
"I've gone to therapy, but it was inconclusive."
I want to make something very clear right off the bat: I am not giving this book one star just because it’s written by a reality TV star. I gave Holly Madison’s Playboy memoir five stars and I meant every single one of them, so I went into this book with a pretty open mind, and wasn't prepared to dismiss it just because it’s written by someone who became famous for being awful on a Bravo show.
I’m giving this one star because it’s the lowest tier of ghost-written celebrity literature: the so-called “how-to� book. Sometimes a C-list celebrity will attempt to write a book, but because they’ve already laid so much of their life bare on TV, social media, etc (and have no particularly interesting thoughts or inner life to share), they have to brand themselves as an “expert� in some vague and difficult to define field like “entertaining�, “balancing life and family�, “keeping it real�, or “having it all� (ie, nothing so specific where you need some kind of degree or certification to prove your expertise). Stassi has apparently decided that her particular Thing is “owning it� and at my most generous, I’d say that the purpose of this book is to help you find your self-confidence.
Which is, weirdly, a very appropriate subject for the woman whose claim to fame on Vanderpump Rules is systematically destroying the self-esteem and emotional well-being of her enemies. Who better to teach us how to hone our self-confidence than the woman whose greatest skill set is identifying weak points in the emotional armor of others?
Unfortunately, Stassi has completely de-fanged herself for this book in order to appeal to the broadest possible audience and not appear controversial in any way. This book is not written by the Stassi who once threatened to send an acid-soaked dildo to her enemy, and that’s a real shame. Any declarative statement in this book is immediately followed by the caveat that if it’s not your thing, that’s fine too! Everything is fine! There is no wrong way to be! Everyone just get along!
A weirdly fascinating aspect of this book is seeing all the various ways Stassi essentially rephrases the same core idea of “you do you, girl� and stretches it over a couple hundred pages. In fact, that’s pretty much the only lesson to be gleaned from this � so really, Stassi didn’t need to write a book, she could have just gotten t-shirts made. (Also, the “girl� part of “you do you, girl� is crucial, as this book is not remotely interested in speaking to anyone who is not a cishet woman)
But my one-star review mostly represents this book’s wasted potential. Stassi is trying to be a bootleg Oprah here, but that’s not what we want from her. You can draw a direct line from Dynasty villains to Stassi Schroeder’s persona on Vanderpump Rules, and that’s the person I wanted to read a memoir from. This book reads like an audition for a bland lifestyle show on the Home network, and that’s disappointing.
And Now, A List of Things I Wanted From This Book That Were Never Delivered:
-detailed step-by-step descriptions of how Stassi forced multiple girls to quit SUR because she didn’t like them
-how to hack your boyfriend’s social media in order to keep tabs on him and exert full psychological control
-a lengthy chapter explaining the how and why of that time Stassi tagged along on Katie and Schwartz’s honeymoon
-a more honest memoir that would address the fascinating insight into Stassi’s adolescence that we got when her mother said that teenage Stassi would lie on the kitchen floor and eat bread every day after school
-becoming a reality TV villain for fame and fortune: how did Stassi do it, and was it worth it?
-a straightforward industry memoir about what it’s like to work in a West Hollywood restaurant that’s also a working reality TV set
At least I got this from the library and didn’t pay actual money for it.
I want to make something very clear right off the bat: I am not giving this book one star just because it’s written by a reality TV star. I gave Holly Madison’s Playboy memoir five stars and I meant every single one of them, so I went into this book with a pretty open mind, and wasn't prepared to dismiss it just because it’s written by someone who became famous for being awful on a Bravo show.
I’m giving this one star because it’s the lowest tier of ghost-written celebrity literature: the so-called “how-to� book. Sometimes a C-list celebrity will attempt to write a book, but because they’ve already laid so much of their life bare on TV, social media, etc (and have no particularly interesting thoughts or inner life to share), they have to brand themselves as an “expert� in some vague and difficult to define field like “entertaining�, “balancing life and family�, “keeping it real�, or “having it all� (ie, nothing so specific where you need some kind of degree or certification to prove your expertise). Stassi has apparently decided that her particular Thing is “owning it� and at my most generous, I’d say that the purpose of this book is to help you find your self-confidence.
Which is, weirdly, a very appropriate subject for the woman whose claim to fame on Vanderpump Rules is systematically destroying the self-esteem and emotional well-being of her enemies. Who better to teach us how to hone our self-confidence than the woman whose greatest skill set is identifying weak points in the emotional armor of others?
Unfortunately, Stassi has completely de-fanged herself for this book in order to appeal to the broadest possible audience and not appear controversial in any way. This book is not written by the Stassi who once threatened to send an acid-soaked dildo to her enemy, and that’s a real shame. Any declarative statement in this book is immediately followed by the caveat that if it’s not your thing, that’s fine too! Everything is fine! There is no wrong way to be! Everyone just get along!
A weirdly fascinating aspect of this book is seeing all the various ways Stassi essentially rephrases the same core idea of “you do you, girl� and stretches it over a couple hundred pages. In fact, that’s pretty much the only lesson to be gleaned from this � so really, Stassi didn’t need to write a book, she could have just gotten t-shirts made. (Also, the “girl� part of “you do you, girl� is crucial, as this book is not remotely interested in speaking to anyone who is not a cishet woman)
But my one-star review mostly represents this book’s wasted potential. Stassi is trying to be a bootleg Oprah here, but that’s not what we want from her. You can draw a direct line from Dynasty villains to Stassi Schroeder’s persona on Vanderpump Rules, and that’s the person I wanted to read a memoir from. This book reads like an audition for a bland lifestyle show on the Home network, and that’s disappointing.
And Now, A List of Things I Wanted From This Book That Were Never Delivered:
-detailed step-by-step descriptions of how Stassi forced multiple girls to quit SUR because she didn’t like them
-how to hack your boyfriend’s social media in order to keep tabs on him and exert full psychological control
-a lengthy chapter explaining the how and why of that time Stassi tagged along on Katie and Schwartz’s honeymoon
-a more honest memoir that would address the fascinating insight into Stassi’s adolescence that we got when her mother said that teenage Stassi would lie on the kitchen floor and eat bread every day after school
-becoming a reality TV villain for fame and fortune: how did Stassi do it, and was it worth it?
-a straightforward industry memoir about what it’s like to work in a West Hollywood restaurant that’s also a working reality TV set
At least I got this from the library and didn’t pay actual money for it.
April 24, 2019
This was a nice fun read, just a few years down the line this book is going to date itself with all the overuse of "AF".
April 7, 2019
5 Stars!
I think it can be hard to rate memoir/self help books. This one is a little of both. I'm a HUGE Vanderpump rules fan so for me I was going to read this regardless of the style or content of the book.
You may think that this is all the juicy gossip from the show, Vanderpump Rules but I'm going to be up front and tell you it is not. There is nothing mind blowing drama that comes up in this book. However it's right in the name that this is the next level basic handbook. Stassi takes us through the different aspects of her life and things that make her basic.
For those of you who don't know who Stassi is, she's on a famous reality TV show and she is the most Basic B you'll ever meet. She's also very unapologetically herself and that's why people love her so much. She brings the drama to the show, or did anyway, and I would call her the leader of her pack. She takes charge when she needs to (just watch any of her birthday episodes) but she is definitely a girls girl and will be there for you when you need it most.
I didn't go into this book with any expectations except knowing it would sound like Stassi. It helps if you read it in her voice too. From this book you will pretty much learn how to be yourself and embrace it. Do you love hot dogs and now caviar? Embrace that. Is your favorite snack Doritos instead of kale? Own that too. Find your own style, find the people that love and support you and best of all learn from your mistakes because they make you who you are today. She also throws in some past relationships and how she learned who she was from those as well. Just be your best Basic B you can be all day every day.
This book reads fairly quickly. I read it in a couple hours. It has short chapters on all different topics and good takeaways at the end. I learned that I am definitely NLB (Next Level Basic) in some ways in life and not so much in others but as Stassi would want me to do...i'm going to embrace it! If you love Stassi and her social media you will probably enjoy this book.
Thank you to Gallery books for my advanced copy. This publishes on April 16th. Vanderpump rules fans, you will want to get this one!
I think it can be hard to rate memoir/self help books. This one is a little of both. I'm a HUGE Vanderpump rules fan so for me I was going to read this regardless of the style or content of the book.
You may think that this is all the juicy gossip from the show, Vanderpump Rules but I'm going to be up front and tell you it is not. There is nothing mind blowing drama that comes up in this book. However it's right in the name that this is the next level basic handbook. Stassi takes us through the different aspects of her life and things that make her basic.
For those of you who don't know who Stassi is, she's on a famous reality TV show and she is the most Basic B you'll ever meet. She's also very unapologetically herself and that's why people love her so much. She brings the drama to the show, or did anyway, and I would call her the leader of her pack. She takes charge when she needs to (just watch any of her birthday episodes) but she is definitely a girls girl and will be there for you when you need it most.
I didn't go into this book with any expectations except knowing it would sound like Stassi. It helps if you read it in her voice too. From this book you will pretty much learn how to be yourself and embrace it. Do you love hot dogs and now caviar? Embrace that. Is your favorite snack Doritos instead of kale? Own that too. Find your own style, find the people that love and support you and best of all learn from your mistakes because they make you who you are today. She also throws in some past relationships and how she learned who she was from those as well. Just be your best Basic B you can be all day every day.
This book reads fairly quickly. I read it in a couple hours. It has short chapters on all different topics and good takeaways at the end. I learned that I am definitely NLB (Next Level Basic) in some ways in life and not so much in others but as Stassi would want me to do...i'm going to embrace it! If you love Stassi and her social media you will probably enjoy this book.
Thank you to Gallery books for my advanced copy. This publishes on April 16th. Vanderpump rules fans, you will want to get this one!
November 1, 2021
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I got this book from my sister who enjoys reality TV and I think she watches Vanderpump Rules. I do not, so I didn't know who this woman was until I looked her up. I have, however, had people call me basic, which I kind of find hilarious because after reading this book, I'm no longer sure if I'm basic or not. I mean, yes, I do have crystals in my purse, but I think anything bought at a Seven Eleven is disgusting and the idea of a vajazzle makes my "flower" want to wilt.
To be honest, I'm not even sure what this book is supposed to be. It's not really self-help, because it's not really solving or fixing anything (except, maybe, distress at being white and basic?), and it's not really a memoir, because so much of it feels impersonal and it isn't really a "story time" sort of book. And it's not a parody or a satire, or if it is, it failed, because it didn't make me laugh and it ended up getting so lost in its own joke that it became the joke.
Schroeder's book is weird because in trying to become self-effacing, she ends up revealing her privilege. Her talking about all-day pool parties and insisting that La Mer is the best facial moisturizer made me roll my eyes. Also, PLEASE DON'T GET A COLONIC. Most proctologists will tell you that they are dangerous and terrible for you, for so many reasons, and unless you need one for some sort of medical procedure, they will absolutely have the potential to do more harm than good. DON'T. Also, I am LOLing that she thinks wearing a "Free Winona shirt" and cheap sunglasses made her a goth when she was a kid. Girl, talk to me when you have a studded belt, spiked bracelet, and bondage pants. Also, how can you hate cats?
I ended up skimming through most of the book. The lists were the funniest parts of the book, but I was a little squicked out that she had a "favorite serial killers" list. Ew. Also, her taste in makeup? QUESTIONABLE. No K-beauty? Also, let's have some talc and paraben awareness, shall we? She gets a bonus point for pointing out how unflattering the Kardashians' clothes are and how it all feels like a joke or a scam or both, but I'm taking away said point because she doesn't think men in sweaters are hot and she's trying to shit on athleisure wear (WHICH IS THE BEST-- IT'S LIKE SOCIALLY ACCEPTABLE PAJAMAS, which, incidentally is why Juicy Couture tracksuits were also the best).
So meh. I think I'll be passing this one along.
2 stars
April 18, 2019
I feel like I’m Stassi’s Mom 😆. I’m just so darn proud of her. She’s come a long way and setting a fantastic example for youth today. When so many are struggling with identity she encourages all to just be themselves. Love this message and her humor.
March 6, 2025
stassi is TRULY the VPR queen and embodies the iconery of greats like regina george � i mean to kick off S1E1 with lines like “I am the devil and don’t you forget it� i knew she was quick-witted and someone i wanted to hear more from
� but this book was “average AF� (as she would say)
i wish she stuck to more of a memoir format and shared stories from her life rather than focusing on frivolous tips and time-specific trends + slang. it came out only a few years ago and most of the vernacular feels outdated.
ultimately, us fellow basic bitches do not need a manual. never have.
� but this book was “average AF� (as she would say)
i wish she stuck to more of a memoir format and shared stories from her life rather than focusing on frivolous tips and time-specific trends + slang. it came out only a few years ago and most of the vernacular feels outdated.
ultimately, us fellow basic bitches do not need a manual. never have.
November 5, 2019
2.5 stars
Phew, I actually managed to finish this.
It wasn't easy at all.
Maybe the problem (or at least part of it) was me picking up this book without even knowing who the author was, or what Vanderpump rules is (I think I got the show name right?).
But on the other hand, I feel like the title and the blur were misleading. It was more of an autobiography than a fun basic book.
And speaking of that, does this girl even know the definition of basic?
She was all like, oh I'm obsessed with haunted houses and ghosts and everything supernatural, I just love investigating them, I'm such a basic bitch! Umm, no? You're more like an aspiring Ghostbuster.
I don't know, this book and I just didn't click and wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
PS Saying all cats are pure evil and ranting about how much you hate them? Not cool.
Phew, I actually managed to finish this.
It wasn't easy at all.
Maybe the problem (or at least part of it) was me picking up this book without even knowing who the author was, or what Vanderpump rules is (I think I got the show name right?).
But on the other hand, I feel like the title and the blur were misleading. It was more of an autobiography than a fun basic book.
And speaking of that, does this girl even know the definition of basic?
She was all like, oh I'm obsessed with haunted houses and ghosts and everything supernatural, I just love investigating them, I'm such a basic bitch! Umm, no? You're more like an aspiring Ghostbuster.
I don't know, this book and I just didn't click and wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
PS Saying all cats are pure evil and ranting about how much you hate them? Not cool.
April 16, 2019
UGHHH I mean I wasn't expecting the next great novel but come on! I cannot believe how few pages there are and to make matters worse most them are filled with long lists where to buy good ranch dressing and hotdogs, as well as how much you suck based on how charged your phone is. Super Lame unless you are 13 years old.
April 21, 2019
"Excuse me, I am capable of watching the Kardashians and reading books. They're not mutually exclusive activities."
I feel like this particular quote was written for me, and I love it. I get shit for my love for reality TV, and frequently hear about how it's ruining the world and making people dumber, or whatever other nonsense assholes like to say. Yes, I love watching people being ridiculous on TV, but I also read almost 300 books last year, and have a college degree, so y'all can kiss my ass. I feel like this is a main point of Next Level Basic, and I appreciate the sentiments that Stassi expressed in the book.
This book was comforting to me, and I had fun reading it. It's not perfect, but I enjoyed it. I could have done without some of the charts and graphs, and I skimmed a bit, but it was entertaining. I loved the encouragement to embrace what you enjoy & of care what anyone else thinks. This book is a good pick-me-up, and I'll probably read it again one day. Now I'm off to watch Vanderpump Rules again!
I feel like this particular quote was written for me, and I love it. I get shit for my love for reality TV, and frequently hear about how it's ruining the world and making people dumber, or whatever other nonsense assholes like to say. Yes, I love watching people being ridiculous on TV, but I also read almost 300 books last year, and have a college degree, so y'all can kiss my ass. I feel like this is a main point of Next Level Basic, and I appreciate the sentiments that Stassi expressed in the book.
This book was comforting to me, and I had fun reading it. It's not perfect, but I enjoyed it. I could have done without some of the charts and graphs, and I skimmed a bit, but it was entertaining. I loved the encouragement to embrace what you enjoy & of care what anyone else thinks. This book is a good pick-me-up, and I'll probably read it again one day. Now I'm off to watch Vanderpump Rules again!
December 26, 2020
Such a fun, light, read, which was exactly what I was in the mood for. I definitely recommend it for fans of Vanderpump Rules!
July 4, 2023
1/2 Star
Shallow, pointless and very poorly written.
Shallow, pointless and very poorly written.
April 18, 2019
I don't have much in common with Stassi. I don't care about musicals or serial killers or astrology. I'm meh about ranch dressing and fully-charged cell phones. I'm an introverted book nerd who would rather get punched in the face than blast my personal life onto the screens of millions of people.
And yet, holy smokes, I loved this book. I watch Vanderpump Rules religiously. Like, religiously. I'm not proud of that (but I guess that can be my basic b**ch confession for the day?). I just love everyone on the show--especially the Toms ;)--and this book has a very similar vibe.
Stassi is honest and unapologetically herself. She confesses some pretty embarrassing facts: like how she awkwardly lost her virginity, how she experimented with a lot of, ahem, unflattering fashion stages, or how she is DEEPLY fascinated with serial killers. (Btw, I have definitely walked past a serial killer more than 36 times. The guy who sat behind me in class was absent one day and the next day we saw he walked into a university up north and murdered five people before killing himself. Creepy AF...)
What I love most about the book, though, is how uplifting it is. Stassi expresses a surprising amount of support for other women. I love her thoughts on relationships, sex, even hookups--how she says women are active participants in romantic relationships, not just there to passively be chased until they "give it up." It's actually pretty empowering. And her chapter on female friendships also surprised me by being really insightful. Honestly, I just wasn't expecting her to be as balanced and gracious in her relationships as she is in this book. I'm impressed.
In short, I loved Next Level Basic. It's a quick read and super entertaining. Five stars all the way.
And yet, holy smokes, I loved this book. I watch Vanderpump Rules religiously. Like, religiously. I'm not proud of that (but I guess that can be my basic b**ch confession for the day?). I just love everyone on the show--especially the Toms ;)--and this book has a very similar vibe.
Stassi is honest and unapologetically herself. She confesses some pretty embarrassing facts: like how she awkwardly lost her virginity, how she experimented with a lot of, ahem, unflattering fashion stages, or how she is DEEPLY fascinated with serial killers. (Btw, I have definitely walked past a serial killer more than 36 times. The guy who sat behind me in class was absent one day and the next day we saw he walked into a university up north and murdered five people before killing himself. Creepy AF...)
What I love most about the book, though, is how uplifting it is. Stassi expresses a surprising amount of support for other women. I love her thoughts on relationships, sex, even hookups--how she says women are active participants in romantic relationships, not just there to passively be chased until they "give it up." It's actually pretty empowering. And her chapter on female friendships also surprised me by being really insightful. Honestly, I just wasn't expecting her to be as balanced and gracious in her relationships as she is in this book. I'm impressed.
In short, I loved Next Level Basic. It's a quick read and super entertaining. Five stars all the way.
September 18, 2021
Full review to come.
3 ⭐️.
3 ⭐️.
May 3, 2019
I mean, did I make my local library purchase this book? Yes. Was it as terrible as I assumed it would be? Also, yes. Pros: it definitely appears to be written by Stassi. Cons: it definitely appears to be written by Stassi.
June 3, 2021
I loved Vanderpump Rules for many years and I really liked this book. Too bad those times are over.
April 26, 2019
“This book is for everyone out there who is tired of pretending they would rather read War and Peace or see a Daniel Day-Lewis movie about sewing than watch a Saw marathon and drink a delicious but basic AF cocktail like a Kir Royale.�
I have never seen Vanderpump rules or even knew who Stassi was when I saw this title at my library. But I must say this book was funny as hell! I listened to the audiobook and it felt like Stassi was just a friend talking to me on a trip. She was so damn relatable that I was asking myself does she know me personally.
I have been called basic quite a few times in life. So to have a book about owning your basic bitch self makes me smile. I love the way she added humor into her telling people not to care what others think about what they do or like.
So what if someone else says pink wine in a can is lame? Life is way too short to care what someone else thinks about what you think is cool, especially when it comes to something as personal as wine.
Don’t go into this expecting greatness or something that’s going to change your life. However, it was a light and funny read that left me feeling better after I read it. Seriously, I need to be friends with Stassi! If you want to read a book about someone who doesn’t take themselves too seriously, then pick this one up!
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I have never seen Vanderpump rules or even knew who Stassi was when I saw this title at my library. But I must say this book was funny as hell! I listened to the audiobook and it felt like Stassi was just a friend talking to me on a trip. She was so damn relatable that I was asking myself does she know me personally.
I have been called basic quite a few times in life. So to have a book about owning your basic bitch self makes me smile. I love the way she added humor into her telling people not to care what others think about what they do or like.
So what if someone else says pink wine in a can is lame? Life is way too short to care what someone else thinks about what you think is cool, especially when it comes to something as personal as wine.
Don’t go into this expecting greatness or something that’s going to change your life. However, it was a light and funny read that left me feeling better after I read it. Seriously, I need to be friends with Stassi! If you want to read a book about someone who doesn’t take themselves too seriously, then pick this one up!
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August 18, 2019
I wasn't expecting to like this book but I watch Vanderpump Rules so I just couldn't help myself but read it. I have read other actress or You Tuber books and I never really like them, I find the books have zero interesting content and are definitely just books because of the celebrity's name. But, I actually liked this more than I thought I would.
Yes it was kind of silly and ridiculous and I was so over the words basic and AF by the end. She definitely went way overboard with the theme. However, I loved the overall message of just being yourself and owning who you are. I love that she has a great sense of humor and that she doesn't take herself too seriously. The writing wasn't great but the message of the book was good and it left me feeling more confident when I was done reading it. What could be bad about that right? Tons of girl power and very feminist. She is definitely a strong woman who knows what she wants and goes for it and stands behind other women and encourages them to do the same. The book made me actually like Stassi so much more compared to the show.
This book won't be for everyone but I would recommend it to either fans of the show or young girls. I feel like the writing would appeal more to them and would be a fun and approachable way to get the message of confidence, being yourself and supporting other women to the teenage girls out there.
Yes it was kind of silly and ridiculous and I was so over the words basic and AF by the end. She definitely went way overboard with the theme. However, I loved the overall message of just being yourself and owning who you are. I love that she has a great sense of humor and that she doesn't take herself too seriously. The writing wasn't great but the message of the book was good and it left me feeling more confident when I was done reading it. What could be bad about that right? Tons of girl power and very feminist. She is definitely a strong woman who knows what she wants and goes for it and stands behind other women and encourages them to do the same. The book made me actually like Stassi so much more compared to the show.
This book won't be for everyone but I would recommend it to either fans of the show or young girls. I feel like the writing would appeal more to them and would be a fun and approachable way to get the message of confidence, being yourself and supporting other women to the teenage girls out there.
April 17, 2019
I am still thrown off by the fact that Stassi Schroeder wrote a book. And when I say she wrote a book, SHE WROTE A BOOK! Not a ghostwriter. Stassi, in all her glory. AND she narratedthe audio. I had pre-ordered the hardback, but when I saw she was the narrator, I downloaded the audio. I don't think I would have fully appreciated this book without listening to Stassi read it to me.
I want to say first that you most likely won't fully appreciate this book without knowing who Stassi is. So my advice, go binge watch Vanderpump Rules on Bravo. You need to be in the know with just who Stassi is to fully take in this book.
If you are expecting some life-changing, literary piece of work with this book, then you still don't know who Stassi is. That isn't a slam on Stassi, that's just the truth. I really don't know what I was expecting with this book, but I can tell you, I didn't expect some of it.
Believe it or not, Stassi gives us a deep message in this book. Even with her ridiculousness, silly stories, and obsession with ranch dressing, she has an important message.
I loved this book so much because she didn't spout a bunch of cliche' and overused quotes or ideas. She was real, open, and just herself in telling her message. It's not just about all of the basic things she loves. It's about embracing things YOU love. And she puts everything in such a realistic, unfluffed, uncliche'd way, I couldn't stop listening.
If you want to laugh and enjoy someone being absolutely real with you, then I encourage you to pick up this book. I am not ashamed or embarrassed that I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
I want to say first that you most likely won't fully appreciate this book without knowing who Stassi is. So my advice, go binge watch Vanderpump Rules on Bravo. You need to be in the know with just who Stassi is to fully take in this book.
If you are expecting some life-changing, literary piece of work with this book, then you still don't know who Stassi is. That isn't a slam on Stassi, that's just the truth. I really don't know what I was expecting with this book, but I can tell you, I didn't expect some of it.
Believe it or not, Stassi gives us a deep message in this book. Even with her ridiculousness, silly stories, and obsession with ranch dressing, she has an important message.
I loved this book so much because she didn't spout a bunch of cliche' and overused quotes or ideas. She was real, open, and just herself in telling her message. It's not just about all of the basic things she loves. It's about embracing things YOU love. And she puts everything in such a realistic, unfluffed, uncliche'd way, I couldn't stop listening.
If you want to laugh and enjoy someone being absolutely real with you, then I encourage you to pick up this book. I am not ashamed or embarrassed that I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
April 23, 2019
A huge fan of SS, VPR & her Podcast, but if I’m really living my Next Level Basic Life I have to admit this book was a let down. It was a shallow dive into what could have been a hilarious ride through Stassi’s drama & life lessons.
I didn’t learn anything that I didn’t know from listening to her podcast &/or watching her IG/ TV show. It plays back and forth between embracing what makes us “basic� & yes still finds a way to feel like school yard mocking if you don’t fall into what she considers basic. ( don’t fret- each chapter is wrapped in “if I offended you or whatever just take what you want & be your own basic�. Calling this self help is a stretch.
The whole book felt rushed and unfinished. Pages go on and on of unnecessary graphs repeated to take place of actual material. If you’ve ever read any of the “Betches� books you’ll recognize the layouts, drawings, & use of lists.
But I’m sitting on my couch, scrolling though her Instagram & the hashtags, writing reviews of her work so at the end of the day I guess the joke is still on me, right? IDK I guess just take from the review what you need.
I didn’t learn anything that I didn’t know from listening to her podcast &/or watching her IG/ TV show. It plays back and forth between embracing what makes us “basic� & yes still finds a way to feel like school yard mocking if you don’t fall into what she considers basic. ( don’t fret- each chapter is wrapped in “if I offended you or whatever just take what you want & be your own basic�. Calling this self help is a stretch.
The whole book felt rushed and unfinished. Pages go on and on of unnecessary graphs repeated to take place of actual material. If you’ve ever read any of the “Betches� books you’ll recognize the layouts, drawings, & use of lists.
But I’m sitting on my couch, scrolling though her Instagram & the hashtags, writing reviews of her work so at the end of the day I guess the joke is still on me, right? IDK I guess just take from the review what you need.
September 4, 2019
I rarely judge autobiographies too harshly, I often find reading public figures' stories and hearing tidbits about their lives super interesting!! It also gives them a chance to tell their story or air their laundry and privacy as they see fit. Which I appreciate.
But this book was just dumb, I couldn't even get through it all and it's only like 4 hours long on audio. I actually thought Stassi was a very entertaining character on VanderPump rules. Granted, I only watched the show for the first 2 seasons years ago....I'm not really sure what her character has grown into at this point? But, there was no memoir to this - is it not a story about her at all. It's just a bunch of chaotic thoughts and craziness. Sure she is a confident girl trying to let other girls know how to be confident and assertive, but can you be any more annoying with it...ugh. I have never really listened to a podcast before, but I imagine this book to be like 1 big podcast conversation - just chit chat about this and that - and end everything thing with AF. Did I say this was dumb?
But this book was just dumb, I couldn't even get through it all and it's only like 4 hours long on audio. I actually thought Stassi was a very entertaining character on VanderPump rules. Granted, I only watched the show for the first 2 seasons years ago....I'm not really sure what her character has grown into at this point? But, there was no memoir to this - is it not a story about her at all. It's just a bunch of chaotic thoughts and craziness. Sure she is a confident girl trying to let other girls know how to be confident and assertive, but can you be any more annoying with it...ugh. I have never really listened to a podcast before, but I imagine this book to be like 1 big podcast conversation - just chit chat about this and that - and end everything thing with AF. Did I say this was dumb?
April 19, 2019
Not the most cleverly written book I've ever read. This was definitely a run of the mill self-help book peppered with a montage of "embracing your inner basic self" steps - eat ranch dressing, never let your cell phone battery die, embrace some sparkle, and grab that 10 a.m. cocktail like you've always wanted advice. The book did give some insight into the inner workings of Vanderpump rules (which is what I was more or less looking for). Overall, its a quick read and if you are looking for a confidence boosting, self-help book that derives self-tanner, ranch dressing, and "gliterfy-ing" certain areas of your body then this book might just be for you.
April 16, 2019
I am so disappointed. I am a Huge Vanderpump fan, I also find Stassi humorous. Unfortunately this book is empty and void of any real substance at all. A third of the book is taken up with full page charts and graphs that mean nothing. Another thing that struck me was the lack of content the book was only 200 pages for $35 Canadian. I have read many of the housewives books and enjoyed them, I felt I at least went deeper into their history and lives. Not what I expected and I wanted to love it :(
June 9, 2021
New drinking game - drink every time she says "AF" in this.
Actually lets not do that, it wouldn't be a good idea.
Actually lets not do that, it wouldn't be a good idea.
April 27, 2020
I contributed this review to Really Into This
Check out all of our reviews at
Happy Reading, friends!
Oh, Stassi. I liked this book. The narration is great. While I do not care about the best way to take selfies, or how to navigate social media, I know there are people who will. <3 Both those are in here by the way.
I loved the true-crime chapters. I too would love to live in a haunted house, but maybe not a murder house. One thing I really liked about this book is that Stassi encouraged people to like what they like & do what they do. I try to live by that mantra & I think she's spreading positivity in a way that is relatable.
Be basic. Love PSL. Throw a themed party. Basically, (ha I see what I did there) you be yourself & make no apologies. If people don't accept your authentic self, MOVE ON. Life is too short. I think this is a message that will resonate in a powerful way with people. The fact that it comes from a VPR cast member, is even better!
Check out all of our reviews at
Happy Reading, friends!
Oh, Stassi. I liked this book. The narration is great. While I do not care about the best way to take selfies, or how to navigate social media, I know there are people who will. <3 Both those are in here by the way.
I loved the true-crime chapters. I too would love to live in a haunted house, but maybe not a murder house. One thing I really liked about this book is that Stassi encouraged people to like what they like & do what they do. I try to live by that mantra & I think she's spreading positivity in a way that is relatable.
Be basic. Love PSL. Throw a themed party. Basically, (ha I see what I did there) you be yourself & make no apologies. If people don't accept your authentic self, MOVE ON. Life is too short. I think this is a message that will resonate in a powerful way with people. The fact that it comes from a VPR cast member, is even better!
October 11, 2023
Yeesh. I hate not finishing books but I hated this even more.
I just finished VPR, so I didn't have expectations for this beyond entertainment, but it still managed to underwhelm. Stassi's shock humor works for TV, but doesn't translate in writing when she has nothing to comment on except her own opinions.
I got this and from the library, so we'll see if she has something more interesting to say after getting cancelled.
I just finished VPR, so I didn't have expectations for this beyond entertainment, but it still managed to underwhelm. Stassi's shock humor works for TV, but doesn't translate in writing when she has nothing to comment on except her own opinions.
I got this and from the library, so we'll see if she has something more interesting to say after getting cancelled.
April 21, 2019
I love Stassi!! I’ve been a fan of hers since season 1 Vanderpump. I don’t even watch tv anymore, but Vanderpump is my exception :)
I’m an avid listener of her podcast, and I felt like 95% of this book are stories and topics I’ve already heard. With that said, it’s a quick read. The book is fun, filled with diagrams, VPR hook up charts, and drawings.
Honestly my favorite part of the book is the GORGEOUS color of the cover & back. Stassi rocked it. It will be on display for years to come :)
I’m an avid listener of her podcast, and I felt like 95% of this book are stories and topics I’ve already heard. With that said, it’s a quick read. The book is fun, filled with diagrams, VPR hook up charts, and drawings.
Honestly my favorite part of the book is the GORGEOUS color of the cover & back. Stassi rocked it. It will be on display for years to come :)
October 21, 2019
I actually really love her and enjoyed this book a lot. Nothing revolutionary but entertaining if you’re a fan of her or the show
June 1, 2019
Kind of a fun read especially if you’re a fan of Vanderpump Rules. Nothing mind blowing but entertaining in a basic bitch girl kinda way.
August 15, 2019
I'm not ashamed to admit that Vanderpump Rules is one of my many TV guilty pleasures. I find Stassi and her adorable now fiance Beau hilarious and very entertaining on the show, so I figured her book would a fun, light-hearted break from the heaviness. But this book is annoying AF. Largely because Stassi wildly overuses trendy talk like "AF," "totes," "supe" and so many more ridiculous phrases that even my teen girls have outgrown. Seriously, I even googled "How many times does Stassi say 'AF' in her book?" to see if anyone had counted yet, because it's so obnoxious I was sure someone had. If I had the printed book, I absolutely would have circled all of them to validate my feelings.
Besides that, Stassi claims she's here to encourage the reader to embrace their authentic, unpretentious, "basic" self - yet she focuses most of the book on the superficial: makeup, fashion, plastic surgery, how to take the perfect selfie (no, seriously, she gives tips on lighting and angles). I honestly couldn't believe she was for real. It was truly hard for me to stomach as one of my biggest pet peeves is when women routinely greet each other, almost as congratulations, with superficialness such as: "I love your outfit!" "Adorb shoes!" "You look soooooo cute!" Like that's all a woman has to offer. Men never greet each other like this, and I wish women didn't put such value on the shallow and being fashion sheep and recognized each other for true accomplishments. But I digress...
I guess I shouldn't have been surprised as I know what Stassi is all about from the show. While I find her absolutely fascinating and amusing to watch, I couldn't take it in a book. Maybe the book wouldn't have been as annoying if I had read it instead of listened to the audio version, but, regardless, Stassi could've done so much better, gone so much deeper. She admits over and over in the book that she's lazy (yes, AF) and, honey, it shows.
Besides that, Stassi claims she's here to encourage the reader to embrace their authentic, unpretentious, "basic" self - yet she focuses most of the book on the superficial: makeup, fashion, plastic surgery, how to take the perfect selfie (no, seriously, she gives tips on lighting and angles). I honestly couldn't believe she was for real. It was truly hard for me to stomach as one of my biggest pet peeves is when women routinely greet each other, almost as congratulations, with superficialness such as: "I love your outfit!" "Adorb shoes!" "You look soooooo cute!" Like that's all a woman has to offer. Men never greet each other like this, and I wish women didn't put such value on the shallow and being fashion sheep and recognized each other for true accomplishments. But I digress...
I guess I shouldn't have been surprised as I know what Stassi is all about from the show. While I find her absolutely fascinating and amusing to watch, I couldn't take it in a book. Maybe the book wouldn't have been as annoying if I had read it instead of listened to the audio version, but, regardless, Stassi could've done so much better, gone so much deeper. She admits over and over in the book that she's lazy (yes, AF) and, honey, it shows.
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