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How to Be #2
How to Be a Movie Star
Josiah Erickson wants to be a movie star. The problem with that is so does half of Los Angeles. But he's on his way, what with memorable roles as a TV show background cadaver and a guy in a commercial for herpes medication. All he needs is his big break. And that break may come in the form of a novelist who goes by the enigmatic name of Q-Bert. Q-Bert, who is ready to make his directorial debut in a film Josy would be perfect for. Q-Bert, who Josy may or may not have a friend-crush on, and potentially something more. Being demisexual can be confusing. From the City of Angels to the small mountain town of Abby, Oregon, Josy will give his all to make sure his dreams come true - even the ones he never thought possible.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2019
117 people are currently reading
3,007 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Klune
66books57.2kfollowersTJ KLUNE is a Lambda Literary Award-winning author (Into This River I Drown) and an ex-claims examiner for an insurance company. His novels include The House in the Cerulean Sea and The Extraordinaries. Being queer himself, TJ believes it's important—now more than ever—to have accurate, positive, queer representation in stories.
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May 28, 2019Updated 5/28/19
Out today, the audiobook of How to Be a Movie Star! Michael Lesley (from the Tales from Verania and At First Sight series) narrates Josy and Casey and all the other inhabitants of Abby, Oregon (along with a rhyming, amorous Sasquatch). I'm so excited for you to hear it!
Audio Book:
Thank you for reading!
Dreamspinner: ...
Amazon: ...
Kobo: -...
B&N: -...
Out today, the audiobook of How to Be a Movie Star! Michael Lesley (from the Tales from Verania and At First Sight series) narrates Josy and Casey and all the other inhabitants of Abby, Oregon (along with a rhyming, amorous Sasquatch). I'm so excited for you to hear it!
Audio Book:
Thank you for reading!
Dreamspinner: ...
Amazon: ...
Kobo: -...
B&N: -...
May 30, 2020
Have you ever wondered if the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles were circumcised while stoned?
Wait... I don't mean while they were stoned, or like while the doctors (or mohel, could be Jewish??) were stoned, I mean have YOU wondered these things while YOU were stoned? Well if you have or if you want to read about people who ponder those same types of things while partaking in some Mary Jane, is the book for you. Or if you don't smoke, that's cool too, Josiah doesn't judge.
I've been eagerly awaiting for... well, it seems like forever. I'm a huge, huge fan of , and I just recently re-read How to be a Normal Person and LOVED IT, so I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one.
I was expecting it to be epic, and while I really liked it and I got those squishy feelings by the end, I had parts of the story that I struggled with a bit.
In my mind, Josiah and I have a lot in common. We both are amazingly awesome at winning radio contests (I've won between 25-30, I'm not sure of the full count), have irrepressibly sunny dispositions, and have been known to partake in some herbal refreshment from time to time (as my fellow GRL attendees who ran into me at the Colorado meet-up will probably remember), and... well, that's about it. Okay, yeah... we might not have that much in common...
I really liked Josy (love that nickname) and I enjoyed reading about his demisexuality. I consider myself fairly well-versed on asexuality by now, but Josy gave me a new perspective. To me, it seemed like he was both demisexual and demiromantic because he doesn't get romantic feelings without friendship and an emotional connection first. I thought demisexuality was more about just sexual feelings and attraction, but Josy's was a bit different than I was expecting. I loved seeing how his brain worked with friendship and romance, and I was excited to be in his head for the entirety of the story (it's single POV, like ).
However, maybe because Josiah was all over the place with his thoughts, I struggled to keep engaged in the first half of the story. It took me six days to finish this one, which is a long time for me. If I love a book, I'll read it all night long, and I just didn't get that urge here, which was unexpected. Josiah's thoughts were scattered and lots of things were happening in the beginning, and I just wasn't as fully into the story as I was anticipating. The friendship between the two MCs doesn't get going for awhile, and I felt eager to start things more than anything.
Thankfully, as the second half neared, I got more and more into it, which relieved me to no end as there is nothing I don't like more than not loving a book that I fully anticipated loving.
I think what really turned this book around for me was, Gus. Gus is Josiah's BFF, and I ADORED any scene with Gus in it. Combining Gus with Josiah, the internet, and telecommunications help lady was nirvana for me.
The romance crept up on me, and though it was slow-going, I was really feeling it by the end. It takes a LONG time for Josy to realize his romantic feelings, and that was okay with me as a reader, but be prepared to WAIT. There was one scene that was so sweet and so moving that I cried in public (as one does, naturally), so, rest assured, you will catch some major feels from this one.
has a lot of important lessons about mental health, sexuality, and self-care. It will resonate really strongly with readers who have struggled with depression, isolation, or feeling different, which is an important gift that gives to his readers. I thought the book was a great combo of fully, sweet, and didactic without being over-the-top, and I know that his fans will LOVE this one.
So light up a (only if legal!) joint, sit down and relax, and get to know these characters. You'll be happy you went along for the ride.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|||
Wait... I don't mean while they were stoned, or like while the doctors (or mohel, could be Jewish??) were stoned, I mean have YOU wondered these things while YOU were stoned? Well if you have or if you want to read about people who ponder those same types of things while partaking in some Mary Jane, is the book for you. Or if you don't smoke, that's cool too, Josiah doesn't judge.
I've been eagerly awaiting for... well, it seems like forever. I'm a huge, huge fan of , and I just recently re-read How to be a Normal Person and LOVED IT, so I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one.
I was expecting it to be epic, and while I really liked it and I got those squishy feelings by the end, I had parts of the story that I struggled with a bit.
In my mind, Josiah and I have a lot in common. We both are amazingly awesome at winning radio contests (I've won between 25-30, I'm not sure of the full count), have irrepressibly sunny dispositions, and have been known to partake in some herbal refreshment from time to time (as my fellow GRL attendees who ran into me at the Colorado meet-up will probably remember), and... well, that's about it. Okay, yeah... we might not have that much in common...
I really liked Josy (love that nickname) and I enjoyed reading about his demisexuality. I consider myself fairly well-versed on asexuality by now, but Josy gave me a new perspective. To me, it seemed like he was both demisexual and demiromantic because he doesn't get romantic feelings without friendship and an emotional connection first. I thought demisexuality was more about just sexual feelings and attraction, but Josy's was a bit different than I was expecting. I loved seeing how his brain worked with friendship and romance, and I was excited to be in his head for the entirety of the story (it's single POV, like ).
However, maybe because Josiah was all over the place with his thoughts, I struggled to keep engaged in the first half of the story. It took me six days to finish this one, which is a long time for me. If I love a book, I'll read it all night long, and I just didn't get that urge here, which was unexpected. Josiah's thoughts were scattered and lots of things were happening in the beginning, and I just wasn't as fully into the story as I was anticipating. The friendship between the two MCs doesn't get going for awhile, and I felt eager to start things more than anything.
Thankfully, as the second half neared, I got more and more into it, which relieved me to no end as there is nothing I don't like more than not loving a book that I fully anticipated loving.
I think what really turned this book around for me was, Gus. Gus is Josiah's BFF, and I ADORED any scene with Gus in it. Combining Gus with Josiah, the internet, and telecommunications help lady was nirvana for me.
The romance crept up on me, and though it was slow-going, I was really feeling it by the end. It takes a LONG time for Josy to realize his romantic feelings, and that was okay with me as a reader, but be prepared to WAIT. There was one scene that was so sweet and so moving that I cried in public (as one does, naturally), so, rest assured, you will catch some major feels from this one.
has a lot of important lessons about mental health, sexuality, and self-care. It will resonate really strongly with readers who have struggled with depression, isolation, or feeling different, which is an important gift that gives to his readers. I thought the book was a great combo of fully, sweet, and didactic without being over-the-top, and I know that his fans will LOVE this one.
So light up a (only if legal!) joint, sit down and relax, and get to know these characters. You'll be happy you went along for the ride.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|||
February 18, 2020
Stoners! Stoners as far as the eye can see!
I knew going in that, more than likely, I was going to end up LOVING this book, which I totally did. Maybe even more so than Gustavo's book. Maybe.
But this story's main character was a stoner, so be prepared to feel slightly lost more than a few times, as Josy loses the plot time and time again, going off on some marijuana-fueled tangent, ending with:
It was pretty hilarious and left me shaking my head and laughing on many, many occasions.
TJ has written many amazing characters over the course of his writing career, but Josy is for sure one of my all-time favorites. He came across as a bit simple, especially when high, but also lovable, utterly adorkable, and surprisingly insightful (but only sometimes with the insightful). ;- )
The other MC, Quincy, was also written with great care and thoughtfulness in regards to his anxiety and depression, but what hit my heart the hardest with Quincy was how he outright refused to let those dark parts of his life take it over completely. Yes, he had very bad days, but showed a lot of strength in picking himself up and carrying on, going so far as to create an online community where he could help others with their similar issues.
Heavy topics aside, one of my very favorite parts of this story was Josy's BFF status with Gustavo. Although, Gus would never ever admit it, his (reluctant?) friendship with Josy was very important to him, caring greatly about Josy, in spite of (or possibly due to) Josy constantly reaching out to Gus for help and advice.
I died when, every Tuesday, Casey would lie to Gus about who was calling, Gus would take the call, Gus would get pissed, then Josy and Gus would catch up for the week, all while Gus pretended to be a grumpy, "Why do you keep bothering me?" bastard. I'm telling you, PRICELESS!
“Josy, I am hanging up now.�
“But you haven’t told me how to fix this!�
“Don’t call me about this again. Until next Tuesday.�
I also loved, Loved, LOVED getting more on-page time with Gustavo and Casey and seeing Gus' soft, yet still prickly, underbelly.
“M,� Casey said as he pulled away, “you are just� I don’t even know. I love you. You’re such a dweeb, and I love you more than anything. You dork.�ALL the *snort*, folks.
Gustavo blushed as he scowled. “Oh my god. I’m not a dweeb. Or a dork. What the hell.� He glanced at Josy, then looked back at Casey. He leaned forward and kissed Casey on the cheek. “I love you too. Shut up.�
But "The ONE Thing" that I'd specifically hoped and prayed for going into this story was that we'd see Gustavo Tiberius tangle with the evil, all-knowing Interwebs again.
And guess what? WE DID! And the infamous support rep. Mitzi was even there.
I. Was. One. Happy. Bitch.
Gustavo stared off into the distance, a look of pain crossing his face. “I’m going to have to do something I swore I’d never do again.�
Josy felt goose bumps prickle along his arms and the back of his neck. “What’s that?�
Gustavo Tiberius squared his shoulders. “I have to ask the Internet for help. To the laptop!�
On the surface, this low-key, funny story came across as light and fluffy, but it was actually much more than that.
“WǷ,� Quincy whispered.Yes, it really was.
Josy laughed.
“No. Seriously. Wow. That was--�
5 stars and oh so highly recommended! Another great job, TJ. : )
** PS -- And speaking of "wow...", I can't believe I wrote that entire review without ever using the words "MONSTER PORN! (That's what Quincy writes.)" heh
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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)
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September 18, 2019
They are making a movie throughout this book and the reviewer of the movie said something that I thought was perfect for the book itself:
(when I finished) I didn't know what the hell I'd just experienced. It was stupid. And wonderful. And I was filled with joy....
That really sums it up.
This book is the next one in this bizarre series that has mostly hipster stoners as the stars. They are hilarious. And stupid. And hilarious again.
Ooooh, is that pumpkin spice?
Our focus is on a stoner named Josiah. He's an actor. And, he's about as smart as a box of doorknobs. But, he always wins radio trivia contests and this time he wins one to a poetry reading. He makes his other stoner friend go with him, and surprise, they are wasted. But, it's not poetry that's being read. It's .... monster porn!
That's right, my monster porn loving friends. This book has a bizarre monster porn excerpt in it. With a bigfoot and a bisexual frat boy who didn't realize his bisexuality until the bigfoot. Hey, once you see hairy, bisexuality ain't scary. I think I heard that somewhere.... Or made it up this very second... Either way...
He's reconsidering all of his life choices now.
Josiah meets Quincy, the author of said monster-porn, and wants to be his friend. But, don't forget the part where he's really really stoned. Things don't go as well as you might expect. Or, considering the weed, they go exactly like you would expect.
Josiah is dumb, but he was really funny and sweet. I loved how clueless he was about most everything. When he looked up how to flirt online, and it told him to whisper something personal about himself in his crush's ear, this is what he came up with:
It was going perfectly. His mouth felt fresh and clean. Now all he had to do was whisper something interesting about himself. "I don't like salamanders because wet lizards creep me out."
Okay, maybe that made me laugh more than it should have. But, I am creeped out by any lizard - wet or dry - so that line would have totally worked on me.
This book was super fun if you like the strange once in a while. For me, it's always good to roam around the genres to keep things fresh. This was very fresh.
(when I finished) I didn't know what the hell I'd just experienced. It was stupid. And wonderful. And I was filled with joy....
That really sums it up.
This book is the next one in this bizarre series that has mostly hipster stoners as the stars. They are hilarious. And stupid. And hilarious again.
Ooooh, is that pumpkin spice?
Our focus is on a stoner named Josiah. He's an actor. And, he's about as smart as a box of doorknobs. But, he always wins radio trivia contests and this time he wins one to a poetry reading. He makes his other stoner friend go with him, and surprise, they are wasted. But, it's not poetry that's being read. It's .... monster porn!
That's right, my monster porn loving friends. This book has a bizarre monster porn excerpt in it. With a bigfoot and a bisexual frat boy who didn't realize his bisexuality until the bigfoot. Hey, once you see hairy, bisexuality ain't scary. I think I heard that somewhere.... Or made it up this very second... Either way...
He's reconsidering all of his life choices now.
Josiah meets Quincy, the author of said monster-porn, and wants to be his friend. But, don't forget the part where he's really really stoned. Things don't go as well as you might expect. Or, considering the weed, they go exactly like you would expect.
Josiah is dumb, but he was really funny and sweet. I loved how clueless he was about most everything. When he looked up how to flirt online, and it told him to whisper something personal about himself in his crush's ear, this is what he came up with:
It was going perfectly. His mouth felt fresh and clean. Now all he had to do was whisper something interesting about himself. "I don't like salamanders because wet lizards creep me out."
Okay, maybe that made me laugh more than it should have. But, I am creeped out by any lizard - wet or dry - so that line would have totally worked on me.
This book was super fun if you like the strange once in a while. For me, it's always good to roam around the genres to keep things fresh. This was very fresh.
February 18, 2019
ALL THE STARS!!
How to Be a Movie Star is book 2 in the How to Be series by T. J. Klune. You may be able to read it as a standalone without getting to lost, but I highly recommend you read book 1, because it was an amazing story too.
Josiah “Josy� Erickson is a hipster stoner and is trying to make it in Hollywood. He is all happiness and sunshine and his friends are everything to him. So when he meets Q-Bert, a monster porn writer, he definitely wants to be friends with him. Of course, things don’t go as planned, and Josy is left confused and unsure of what he did wrong. It doesn’t take long until they meet again.
Q-Bert “Quincy� is definitely attracted to Josy, but he is left confused in almost every conversation they have, probably since Josy is quite the stoner. But Quincy can see Josy is all happiness and sunshine, the total opposite of Quincy, who lives with anxiety and depression. Now Quincy is stepping out of his comfort zone and trying something scary, but with his new friend Josy by his side, he feels braver and stronger than he ever has before.
Josy and Quincy end up going back to Abby, Oregon and so we also get to see the Three Queens, Lottie and of course one of my favorite couples, Gus and Casey.
I can’t tell you how much I loved this story!! I don’t know how many times I busted out laughing, but there were many times it pulled at my heartstrings. Great story, terrific characters, and definitely a must read.
How to Be a Movie Star is book 2 in the How to Be series by T. J. Klune. You may be able to read it as a standalone without getting to lost, but I highly recommend you read book 1, because it was an amazing story too.
Josiah “Josy� Erickson is a hipster stoner and is trying to make it in Hollywood. He is all happiness and sunshine and his friends are everything to him. So when he meets Q-Bert, a monster porn writer, he definitely wants to be friends with him. Of course, things don’t go as planned, and Josy is left confused and unsure of what he did wrong. It doesn’t take long until they meet again.
Q-Bert “Quincy� is definitely attracted to Josy, but he is left confused in almost every conversation they have, probably since Josy is quite the stoner. But Quincy can see Josy is all happiness and sunshine, the total opposite of Quincy, who lives with anxiety and depression. Now Quincy is stepping out of his comfort zone and trying something scary, but with his new friend Josy by his side, he feels braver and stronger than he ever has before.
Josy and Quincy end up going back to Abby, Oregon and so we also get to see the Three Queens, Lottie and of course one of my favorite couples, Gus and Casey.
I can’t tell you how much I loved this story!! I don’t know how many times I busted out laughing, but there were many times it pulled at my heartstrings. Great story, terrific characters, and definitely a must read.
December 25, 2020
Update 3
Another reason you should read this book...
The movie the MC is starring in is a QUEER retelling of The Wizard of Oz
YUP!!! Wizard of Oz BUT make it Gay!!
And the reason why they are making this movie is because they want to have a happy ending for the LGBTQ + community
And the discussion around this issue was done so well
Gustavo’s brow furrowed even more. “What kind of movie was this again?�
Quincy coughed as he wiped his mouth with a cloth napkin.“It’s a� fantasy movie? About, um, imaginary friends coming to life?�
“And happy queers,� Josy said. “Because Quincy wants queer people to be happy instead of sad or dead.�
“In movies,� Quincy said quickly. Then, “And also in real life too.�
Men can be mysterious and fickle creatures
Fortunately, they can also be rather obvious in their desires
Why the heck does this quote sounds like something Jane Austen would write?? LMAO
So this book follows our MC Josy who dreams of becoming an actor
NOw Josy is a character who is talented BUT can be a little naive at times
I swear to God you will end up LOVING him
Imagine a puppy's energy...Josy has the EXACT type of energy
This meme is relatble to MRIN AND JOSY
There were times when I wanted to hug Josy and tell him that everything will be fine
Then there is the love interest Quincy
he is an author who writes *clears throat* MONSTER PORN
Yup!! You heard that right!! NOT as good as Kissing the Coronavirus
BUT it can give Kissing the Coronavirus some competition imo
LUCKILY WE AKA THE READERS DO NOT READ ANY MONSTER PORN IN THIS BOOK *relived sigh*
So you don't have to worry abt accidentally reading Monster Porn
We are only shown the "titles"
Here's one example:
POUR SOME SUGAR ON ME: SEXY DINER ADVENTURES
Jokes aside...Quincy is not only an author BUT also a director
That's how these two have their meet-cute!!
Yeah..this was me after seeing these two being adorable and cute together
Ohhhhhhhh...and let's not forget the friendships in this book!!!
Now Josy was the one saying Oh and his friends were the fandom xD
You know...the way we fangirls react when our OTP gets together??!!
Yup!! His friends had the same reaction xD
The friendship in the books is *chefs kiss*
Josy also has a friend called Gus/Grumpy Gus
And their dynamic had me wheezing
Josy is the sunshine friend while Gus is grumpy
And their friendship made me realize we need more platonic friendship in books!!
I have a friend who is grumpy...won't write her name cause she will probably stab me
BUT if you have been my friend on GR for a while...you MIGHT recognize her
Extra points to you if you guessed her correctly!!
BUT Gus and Josy's dynamic reminded me a lot of ours
Josy insists that they are twins AND Gus won't admit it..
Honestly..you NEED to read it to understand xD
Josy,"Which means you’re awesome too. And that’s why I came to you for help.�
Gus,“That makes sense. But I must decline. I’m very busy, as you must know.�
“P?�
Gustavo sighed. “You’re not going to leave, are you.�
Josy, “Probably not.�
Gus, “And you think I can help you?�
“The only person,� Josy said earnestly. “Because you’re in love with an awesome dude, and he loves you back. I mean, I could ask Casey, but it’s not the same. I’m more like you than I am like him.�
Gustavo scowled at him. “That’s not even remotely true!!"
Josy, “We’re practically twins.�
“I don’t have ridiculous facial hair, nor do I dress like a traveling carney.�
“Feelings twins,� Josy amended. “We think alike.�
Gustavo looked horrified. “Why would you say that?�
Josy shrugged. “Because I always tell the truth about stuff. You know that.�
Gustavo stumbled toward the counter. “Oh my god. I do know that. What the hell.�
WE NEED FRIENDSHIPS LIKE THIS!!!!!
I had a similar conversation with my friend abt being my maid of honor ...
No..I am not getting married...even I don't know how the heck we ended up talking abt maid of honor and stuff SMH
Josy, "What if I get married one day and need you to be my best man?�
Gustavo flushed brightly. “That’s� that’s just dumb. I would never agree to such a thing. Why would you even say that? You have Xander and Serge and Casey for such frivolous things.�
“But what if I want you?�
“I don’t like speaking in front of crowds. I wouldn’t give a speech.�
“That’s okay,� Josy said. “Speeches are boring. We could do a choreographed dance instead.�
“Absolutely not. And the idea of planning a bachelor party gives me hives.�
“We can just watch TV and smoke out and eat Cheetos and waffles.�
“And I don’t like posing for pictures.�
“I won’t make you pose for anything.�
Gustavo looked relieved at that. “Okay.� He took a deep breath. “I’ll be your best man. Thank you. That was very nice of you to ask.�
Josy beamed at him. “Thanks, man! God, I’m so happy you agreed. I can’t believe I’m getting married and—� He felt the blood rush from his face. “Oh no.�
“What is it?�
“Gܲٲ!�
“W!�
“I’m not getting married! I haven’t even figured out how to ask him if we can date for real!�
“Then why would you even ask me?� Gustavo demanded.
See?? This is what I mean!! They make NO sense yet they make complete sense at the same time!!
I have AMAZING friends SMH
Seriously ....read this!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
Do read the first book tho!!
It's my fav!
Update 1
I think I am in a reading slump AGAIN *sighs*
Sooo..I am gonna read something by my trusted author !!
TBH I am just gonna swoon over the romance in this book *giggles*
This is me IRL...
BUT I have a different persona inside my head
A weird persona.. BUT it's MY persona xD
Soo..whenever I feel that my heart is going cold and that I am not feeling any love...I just read fluffy books
And TRUST me when I say T.J.Klune make you BELIEVE in trueeeeee love!!!
So I am just gonna read this awesome book and relax!!
* realizes she has THREE books which need to be read before New year*
*screams in Marathi*(Marathi is my mother tongue btw)
Another reason you should read this book...
The movie the MC is starring in is a QUEER retelling of The Wizard of Oz
YUP!!! Wizard of Oz BUT make it Gay!!
And the reason why they are making this movie is because they want to have a happy ending for the LGBTQ + community
And the discussion around this issue was done so well
Gustavo’s brow furrowed even more. “What kind of movie was this again?�
Quincy coughed as he wiped his mouth with a cloth napkin.“It’s a� fantasy movie? About, um, imaginary friends coming to life?�
“And happy queers,� Josy said. “Because Quincy wants queer people to be happy instead of sad or dead.�
“In movies,� Quincy said quickly. Then, “And also in real life too.�
Men can be mysterious and fickle creatures
Fortunately, they can also be rather obvious in their desires
Why the heck does this quote sounds like something Jane Austen would write?? LMAO
So this book follows our MC Josy who dreams of becoming an actor
NOw Josy is a character who is talented BUT can be a little naive at times
I swear to God you will end up LOVING him
Imagine a puppy's energy...Josy has the EXACT type of energy
This meme is relatble to MRIN AND JOSY
There were times when I wanted to hug Josy and tell him that everything will be fine
Then there is the love interest Quincy
he is an author who writes *clears throat* MONSTER PORN
Yup!! You heard that right!! NOT as good as Kissing the Coronavirus
BUT it can give Kissing the Coronavirus some competition imo
LUCKILY WE AKA THE READERS DO NOT READ ANY MONSTER PORN IN THIS BOOK *relived sigh*
So you don't have to worry abt accidentally reading Monster Porn
We are only shown the "titles"
Here's one example:
POUR SOME SUGAR ON ME: SEXY DINER ADVENTURES
Jokes aside...Quincy is not only an author BUT also a director
That's how these two have their meet-cute!!
Yeah..this was me after seeing these two being adorable and cute together
Ohhhhhhhh...and let's not forget the friendships in this book!!!
Now Josy was the one saying Oh and his friends were the fandom xD
You know...the way we fangirls react when our OTP gets together??!!
Yup!! His friends had the same reaction xD
The friendship in the books is *chefs kiss*
Josy also has a friend called Gus/Grumpy Gus
And their dynamic had me wheezing
Josy is the sunshine friend while Gus is grumpy
And their friendship made me realize we need more platonic friendship in books!!
I have a friend who is grumpy...won't write her name cause she will probably stab me
BUT if you have been my friend on GR for a while...you MIGHT recognize her
Extra points to you if you guessed her correctly!!
BUT Gus and Josy's dynamic reminded me a lot of ours
Josy insists that they are twins AND Gus won't admit it..
Honestly..you NEED to read it to understand xD
Josy,"Which means you’re awesome too. And that’s why I came to you for help.�
Gus,“That makes sense. But I must decline. I’m very busy, as you must know.�
“P?�
Gustavo sighed. “You’re not going to leave, are you.�
Josy, “Probably not.�
Gus, “And you think I can help you?�
“The only person,� Josy said earnestly. “Because you’re in love with an awesome dude, and he loves you back. I mean, I could ask Casey, but it’s not the same. I’m more like you than I am like him.�
Gustavo scowled at him. “That’s not even remotely true!!"
Josy, “We’re practically twins.�
“I don’t have ridiculous facial hair, nor do I dress like a traveling carney.�
“Feelings twins,� Josy amended. “We think alike.�
Gustavo looked horrified. “Why would you say that?�
Josy shrugged. “Because I always tell the truth about stuff. You know that.�
Gustavo stumbled toward the counter. “Oh my god. I do know that. What the hell.�
WE NEED FRIENDSHIPS LIKE THIS!!!!!
I had a similar conversation with my friend abt being my maid of honor ...
No..I am not getting married...even I don't know how the heck we ended up talking abt maid of honor and stuff SMH
Josy, "What if I get married one day and need you to be my best man?�
Gustavo flushed brightly. “That’s� that’s just dumb. I would never agree to such a thing. Why would you even say that? You have Xander and Serge and Casey for such frivolous things.�
“But what if I want you?�
“I don’t like speaking in front of crowds. I wouldn’t give a speech.�
“That’s okay,� Josy said. “Speeches are boring. We could do a choreographed dance instead.�
“Absolutely not. And the idea of planning a bachelor party gives me hives.�
“We can just watch TV and smoke out and eat Cheetos and waffles.�
“And I don’t like posing for pictures.�
“I won’t make you pose for anything.�
Gustavo looked relieved at that. “Okay.� He took a deep breath. “I’ll be your best man. Thank you. That was very nice of you to ask.�
Josy beamed at him. “Thanks, man! God, I’m so happy you agreed. I can’t believe I’m getting married and—� He felt the blood rush from his face. “Oh no.�
“What is it?�
“Gܲٲ!�
“W!�
“I’m not getting married! I haven’t even figured out how to ask him if we can date for real!�
“Then why would you even ask me?� Gustavo demanded.
See?? This is what I mean!! They make NO sense yet they make complete sense at the same time!!
I have AMAZING friends SMH
Seriously ....read this!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
Do read the first book tho!!
It's my fav!
Update 1
I think I am in a reading slump AGAIN *sighs*
Sooo..I am gonna read something by my trusted author !!
TBH I am just gonna swoon over the romance in this book *giggles*
This is me IRL...
BUT I have a different persona inside my head
A weird persona.. BUT it's MY persona xD
Soo..whenever I feel that my heart is going cold and that I am not feeling any love...I just read fluffy books
And TRUST me when I say T.J.Klune make you BELIEVE in trueeeeee love!!!
So I am just gonna read this awesome book and relax!!
* realizes she has THREE books which need to be read before New year*
*screams in Marathi*(Marathi is my mother tongue btw)
February 11, 2019
I have been looking forward to reading this book, ever since I found out about it. TJ is one of my all-time favorite authors and since everything he writes turns into gold...I knew I was in for a good one ;) We don't have to go into the fact that I am always right again..( but I am).
I am gonna be honest though and admit that it took me a bit to really get into this one... I don't know why that is. Maybe because Josy was all over the place, or maybe it was because I haven't read "How to be a Normal Person" and I didn't know what I was in for. Thankfully, once I got going...things were so much better...
Like most of TJ's books, I had the best of times and there were many ROTFLMAO moments
Josy was amazing !! Gotta love them hipsters !!![[crop output image]](https://images.gr-assets.com/hostedimages/1549756093ra/27040761.gif)
I felt a connection with Quincy as well though...mostly because I have also been struggling with depression, and especially anxiety, for 20 years now... I liked how he kept going and didn't give up, even though every day is another fight...
"It's part of me. But it's not who I am."
The funniest moments for me were with Gustavo and Casey. They were so freaking awesome, which means now I have to go back and read their book !!
"It's Tuesday. I always call you on Tuesdays."
"Yes, but why."
"I can't afford a therapist".
I had the best of times reading this one and I liked finally that I finally learned a bit more about demisexuality. It made me laugh out loud a lot..but I also had to blink away a few tears, because this is TJ after all !!
I highly recommend this one, and I myself am off to fix the error of my ways, by jumping into "How to be a Normal Person".
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January 23, 2021
4 Stoner Stars
A fitting sequel to .
Let me say this. Josiah is the Biggest. Man. Child. Ever. And I mean that in the nicest, most sincere, bestest way possible.
If you could take a Joey Tribbiani, instill him with hipster stoner vibes, take out the blatant sexuality, and fill him with all the innocent goodness around, then you’d have Josy.
Josy is the most lovable guy with the biggest heart of gold. He may not be the smartest kid on the block, but he sure is the brightest light with the biggest dose of optimism.
Of course you’ll laugh. A tear or two may be shed. If you want to put your own cynical grouchy self to the side for a few hours, Josy here, will help you do it!
If only more people were as giving and kind and earnest. The world needs all the Josy’s possible. Read this to get your dose!
A fitting sequel to .
Let me say this. Josiah is the Biggest. Man. Child. Ever. And I mean that in the nicest, most sincere, bestest way possible.
If you could take a Joey Tribbiani, instill him with hipster stoner vibes, take out the blatant sexuality, and fill him with all the innocent goodness around, then you’d have Josy.
Josy is the most lovable guy with the biggest heart of gold. He may not be the smartest kid on the block, but he sure is the brightest light with the biggest dose of optimism.
Of course you’ll laugh. A tear or two may be shed. If you want to put your own cynical grouchy self to the side for a few hours, Josy here, will help you do it!
If only more people were as giving and kind and earnest. The world needs all the Josy’s possible. Read this to get your dose!
June 7, 2019
Edited for audio: Michael Lesley is absolutely fantastic, he's a dream. I loved this so much I listened to it three times back to back to back because it was like bathing my brain in sunshine and I have no regrets.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**
For over two years, TJ Klune assured anyone who asked that he had no intention to ever write a sequel to How To Be A Normal Person. Well, you know what they say...never say never.
When TJ announced he'd written a full length novel featuring one of Three Ironic Amigos, Josiah Erickson, and that demisexual Josy would be falling for an author of monster porn à la Chuck Tingle with anxiety issues I couldn't hit the pre-order button hard or quick enough.
TJ describes Josy as "100% pure sunshine, someone who is unfailingly optimistic, and doesn’t let anything get him down." He's absolutely right. Josy is optimistic most of the time, but not in a way that rankles, offends, or makes you think he must have had a lobotomy. And while Josy knows he's not super book smart, he is smart, kind, and sweet. I grinned every time Josy was on page, which means my face really hurt by the time I finished reading. Totally. Worth. It.
I love these characters. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS BOOK! It was like bathing my brain in sunshine. 💓
I love that we end up back in Abby, Oregon and get to catch up with Gus, Casey, Lottie, and the We Three Queens. I love Quincy and his grandfather Robert, the new faces. Quincy is so unique and so perfectly matched with Josy. Quincy's triumphs and struggles are beautifully integrated into the story. I love how the friendship grows between Quincy and Josy and how it is slightly reminiscent of how Gus and Casey evolved from friendship to love.
There was nothing I didn't love about this book. There's not a single thing I would change.
How to Be a Movie Star is a happy, fun, no angst story told in Josy's single POV, and is almost impossibly sweet, with a fantastic (little wink to the fans) ending.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Advanced Review Galley copy of provided by in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at .
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**
For over two years, TJ Klune assured anyone who asked that he had no intention to ever write a sequel to How To Be A Normal Person. Well, you know what they say...never say never.
When TJ announced he'd written a full length novel featuring one of Three Ironic Amigos, Josiah Erickson, and that demisexual Josy would be falling for an author of monster porn à la Chuck Tingle with anxiety issues I couldn't hit the pre-order button hard or quick enough.
TJ describes Josy as "100% pure sunshine, someone who is unfailingly optimistic, and doesn’t let anything get him down." He's absolutely right. Josy is optimistic most of the time, but not in a way that rankles, offends, or makes you think he must have had a lobotomy. And while Josy knows he's not super book smart, he is smart, kind, and sweet. I grinned every time Josy was on page, which means my face really hurt by the time I finished reading. Totally. Worth. It.
I love these characters. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS BOOK! It was like bathing my brain in sunshine. 💓
I love that we end up back in Abby, Oregon and get to catch up with Gus, Casey, Lottie, and the We Three Queens. I love Quincy and his grandfather Robert, the new faces. Quincy is so unique and so perfectly matched with Josy. Quincy's triumphs and struggles are beautifully integrated into the story. I love how the friendship grows between Quincy and Josy and how it is slightly reminiscent of how Gus and Casey evolved from friendship to love.
There was nothing I didn't love about this book. There's not a single thing I would change.
How to Be a Movie Star is a happy, fun, no angst story told in Josy's single POV, and is almost impossibly sweet, with a fantastic (little wink to the fans) ending.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Advanced Review Galley copy of provided by in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at .
November 10, 2020
5 Stars
This was 422 pages of pure unadulterated joy, and MY GOD I needed that!!!
Josiah Erickson is a character I won’t soon forget. He’s an aspiring L.A. actor who loves weed a lot but loves his close-knit group of friends even more. He could be described as a bit of a hipster—he’s even got the cool beard and rad sense of style to prove it—but he’s completely unpretentious, loving what he does and who he is, believing above all that happiness and kindness are what it’s all about! AHEM!
Granted, Josy isn’t the sharpest tool in the shed, but his intentions are ALWAYS pure and come from a place of genuine caring and positivity. He simply radiates goodness—and we could all do with a bit more of that in the world right now.
He’s a gay man on the ace spectrum, defining his sexuality as demi, always craving that need to truly connect on an emotional level with someone before he endeavors into physical or romantic aspects of a relationship. Until now, Josy has never really found that perfect connection, but when he meets shy and lovely Q-Bert, Josy just knows he needs to have this guy in his life, wanting nothing more than to form a new friendship—which in itself is a rare occurrence in Josy’s world.
Before much can happen on the friendship front, Josy finds himself cast in his first ever movie role. Excited and enthusiastic beyond measure, Josy plans on throwing his entire heart into the project, especially seeing as how his new friend-crush, Q-Bert—also known as Quincy—just happens to be the writer and first-time director on the film.
Thrust together in this life-changing situation—filming back in the small-town of Abby, Oregon—provides plenty of opportunities for Josy and Quincy to get to know everything about one another. They laugh, they grow, and they support each other, and before Josy knows what’s hit him he’s fallen in love for the first time in his life.
This story was absolutely wonderful, start to finish. I adored the characters and all the amazing friendships they all cultivated. I loved the sense of humour and the gut-busting laugh-out-loud moments, that left my cheeks hurting. And I reveled in the ace representation and in the heartfelt and honest depiction of various mental health challenges which affect so very many of us.
This story was everything I didn’t even know I wanted or needed right at this moment, and I can not wait to read it again in the future.
Josy’s story left a positive impact on my heart and I couldn’t recommend this duology higher if I tried.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! <3
P.S. - Grumpy Gus from is back in a big way and I loved nothing more than I loved all the amazing interactions between polar-opposites, yet twin-souls, Gus and Josy.
This was 422 pages of pure unadulterated joy, and MY GOD I needed that!!!
Josiah Erickson is a character I won’t soon forget. He’s an aspiring L.A. actor who loves weed a lot but loves his close-knit group of friends even more. He could be described as a bit of a hipster—he’s even got the cool beard and rad sense of style to prove it—but he’s completely unpretentious, loving what he does and who he is, believing above all that happiness and kindness are what it’s all about! AHEM!
Granted, Josy isn’t the sharpest tool in the shed, but his intentions are ALWAYS pure and come from a place of genuine caring and positivity. He simply radiates goodness—and we could all do with a bit more of that in the world right now.
He’s a gay man on the ace spectrum, defining his sexuality as demi, always craving that need to truly connect on an emotional level with someone before he endeavors into physical or romantic aspects of a relationship. Until now, Josy has never really found that perfect connection, but when he meets shy and lovely Q-Bert, Josy just knows he needs to have this guy in his life, wanting nothing more than to form a new friendship—which in itself is a rare occurrence in Josy’s world.
Before much can happen on the friendship front, Josy finds himself cast in his first ever movie role. Excited and enthusiastic beyond measure, Josy plans on throwing his entire heart into the project, especially seeing as how his new friend-crush, Q-Bert—also known as Quincy—just happens to be the writer and first-time director on the film.
Thrust together in this life-changing situation—filming back in the small-town of Abby, Oregon—provides plenty of opportunities for Josy and Quincy to get to know everything about one another. They laugh, they grow, and they support each other, and before Josy knows what’s hit him he’s fallen in love for the first time in his life.
This story was absolutely wonderful, start to finish. I adored the characters and all the amazing friendships they all cultivated. I loved the sense of humour and the gut-busting laugh-out-loud moments, that left my cheeks hurting. And I reveled in the ace representation and in the heartfelt and honest depiction of various mental health challenges which affect so very many of us.
This story was everything I didn’t even know I wanted or needed right at this moment, and I can not wait to read it again in the future.
Josy’s story left a positive impact on my heart and I couldn’t recommend this duology higher if I tried.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! <3
P.S. - Grumpy Gus from is back in a big way and I loved nothing more than I loved all the amazing interactions between polar-opposites, yet twin-souls, Gus and Josy.
February 15, 2019
4.5 stars for another fabulous TJ book ❤️😎 yes it was OTT with hilarity & puns, yes it was frustrating as both Josy & Q-bert circled each other with vulnerability and naivety and yes it was like an emotional roller coaster. so Yes, I really enjoyed it ! All the major players were back and that made it even better.. Gus, Casey and even Mitzi the”internet stalker. � TJ is so much fun but deep down there’s a message... be kind, be accepting and look at life with joy - celebrate your vibe, regardless of your sexuality and preferences. This is why TJ remains one of my favorite authors.
January 15, 2022
Me while reading this book:
In the beginning: Nope, no, no this is not for me. It's waaaaay too over the top.
A little while later: Hmm, I guess it's a little funny.
In the middle: Rolling with it.
A little while later: Okay, I get it now.
In the end: Laughing out loud.
So, this was my first ever T.J. Klune and I guess he won me over.
In the beginning: Nope, no, no this is not for me. It's waaaaay too over the top.
A little while later: Hmm, I guess it's a little funny.
In the middle: Rolling with it.
A little while later: Okay, I get it now.
In the end: Laughing out loud.
So, this was my first ever T.J. Klune and I guess he won me over.
February 11, 2019
I'm still a relative neophyte in all things TJ Klune (yes, yes, I know, how big was the rock I was hiding under?) so delving into "How to Be A Movie Star" was an unexpected joy and I just regret that I'll never again have the incredible pleasure of reading this book for the first time. And for that reason, this review isn't about the ins-and-outs of the plot, which is a stinkin' masterpiece by the way, but rather some rambling thoughts that I hope will entice you to run out immediately and get this book.
And yes, the book is a bit long, and there were several points where I looked at my Kindle and went "Huh, only 72% done?" But then when it got to the end ... there was more and I was eternally grateful for another chapter or two plus a killer epilogue. Oh, I loved this book so much and I highly recommend it!
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
Hi, my name is Josiah. I like ferrets named after presidents, and sometimes I turn on music really loud in my apartment and dance in my underwear. [...] My life is in shambles and I've got a friend-crush on a guy who writes Sasquatch porn who I laughed at when he asked me out on a date.Josiah Erickson is almost literally "liquid sunshine" and he's sweet and kind ... and usually more than just a bit baked. Josy still isn't sure why he had to audition nude for that Japanese energy drink commercial or take off his pants for an audition with the Mattress Dictator and jump on a trampoline in a Speedo while he smoked a cigar ... but hey, he's working on his dream of being a movie star. And when he meets Q-Bert at this weird poetry-smash at a library, their first conversation is ... epic.
"Hi," Q-Bert said.It's easy to love Josy and also easy to buy into your own preconceived ideas of his intelligence, until TJ unleashes some Josy wisdom and you realize that yeah, "maybe, just maybe, he was exactly the way he was supposed to be." And if you read Josy's comments about his parents (location 3856 or so) ("But, I think sometimes kids are born to the wrong parents. You know? Not because the parents do anything wrong but because they don't know how to just .... parent.") without shedding a tear or two, you have a heart of stone.
"Hi," Josy breathed.
"Huh," Dee said again.
"Jesus Christ," Xander muttered.
And yes, the book is a bit long, and there were several points where I looked at my Kindle and went "Huh, only 72% done?" But then when it got to the end ... there was more and I was eternally grateful for another chapter or two plus a killer epilogue. Oh, I loved this book so much and I highly recommend it!
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
February 12, 2019
For fans of TJK and his legendary OTT snark, for fans of slowly-built romantic relationship told in single POV (from a stoned MC - emphasis on "stoned") and for fans of adorkable characters.
This is the second book in the “How to Be� series. Not really sure it’s a standalone as Grumpy Gus and Casey the Hipster (and our dear Mitzy, the best support help ever, LOL !) from the previous book are quite present in this second instalment. However, it’s not about Gus and Casey, it’s about Josiah and Q-Bert, aka Josy and Quincy and their quite “awkward� first encounter and further interactions.
As much as I loved and as much as I love TJK’s writing, this time, I struggled a bit connecting with Josy, the sunny and utterly optimistic demisexual stoner and Quincy, the monster-porn writer juggling with anxiety. Reading a TJK book is like riding a fast-speeding bike and I couldn’t keep up and follow everything on this new journey. But still, kudos for making me smile with endearing characters, some insightful thoughts and sweet moments. Let’s not forget a satisfying ending.
And now, I want to read again : because it’s from TJK and it’s about Gus and Casey and it takes place in Abby, Oregon !!
ARC of “How to be a movie star� was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the “How to Be� series. Not really sure it’s a standalone as Grumpy Gus and Casey the Hipster (and our dear Mitzy, the best support help ever, LOL !) from the previous book are quite present in this second instalment. However, it’s not about Gus and Casey, it’s about Josiah and Q-Bert, aka Josy and Quincy and their quite “awkward� first encounter and further interactions.
As much as I loved and as much as I love TJK’s writing, this time, I struggled a bit connecting with Josy, the sunny and utterly optimistic demisexual stoner and Quincy, the monster-porn writer juggling with anxiety. Reading a TJK book is like riding a fast-speeding bike and I couldn’t keep up and follow everything on this new journey. But still, kudos for making me smile with endearing characters, some insightful thoughts and sweet moments. Let’s not forget a satisfying ending.
And now, I want to read again : because it’s from TJK and it’s about Gus and Casey and it takes place in Abby, Oregon !!
ARC of “How to be a movie star� was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2023
I LOVED this book! It was completely ridiculous, strange and magical.
Josy wants to be a consistently working actor and stubbles into being a movie star with Quincy’s help.
We go from LA to Abby, Oregon where we meet up with Gus and Casey again. Ridiculousness ensues.
I mean� “Quincy looked him with wide, glassy eyes. “Josy, do I taste good?� Josy’s heart stumbled in his chest. “Um. Yes?� Quincy grinned. He had spinach in his teeth. He looked like he had spent the last hour fellating the Hulk.� Uhm wait what?!?
Quincy is the director of the movie that Josy is in. It’s a sweet and wonderful story of how they fall in love. As only Klune can do, this is a punch to the gut and heart. Loved it for all its quirkiness and heartfelt prose.
Quincy battles depression and anxiety. The way this was treated in the story was very real. Josy is there for him. They mesh well in their differences.
Josy wants to be a consistently working actor and stubbles into being a movie star with Quincy’s help.
We go from LA to Abby, Oregon where we meet up with Gus and Casey again. Ridiculousness ensues.
I mean� “Quincy looked him with wide, glassy eyes. “Josy, do I taste good?� Josy’s heart stumbled in his chest. “Um. Yes?� Quincy grinned. He had spinach in his teeth. He looked like he had spent the last hour fellating the Hulk.� Uhm wait what?!?
Quincy is the director of the movie that Josy is in. It’s a sweet and wonderful story of how they fall in love. As only Klune can do, this is a punch to the gut and heart. Loved it for all its quirkiness and heartfelt prose.
Quincy battles depression and anxiety. The way this was treated in the story was very real. Josy is there for him. They mesh well in their differences.
July 8, 2019
Audiobook reviewHow to Be a Movie Star is set in the same world as How to Be a Normal Person. This book would most likely stand on its own really well, but I think you’d enjoy certain parts much more if you read the first book before this one. And you might have a small idea of what to expect with this book. Possibly.
I don’t know what to tell you about Josiah Erickson, Q-Bert and the plot. They were outrageous that’s for sure and I found myself pondering questions I never knew to ask, or were even possible to ask. I marvel about Klune’s brain and thought process. At the same time he also brings these wonderful characters that resonates, feels real. The socially awkward and stoned characters, they are gay, bi, ace, demi, trans and all over the spectrum. He doesn’t shy away from writing characters that are different. And that’s not including the secondary characters that truly are one of a kind. He makes you laugh and cry, sometimes at the same time.
You know when some things just click, when they are that perfect fit. Well TJ Klune and Michael Lesley are that perfect fit. Klune typically write characters that are a bit out there, outside the norm. They are often loud and with a particular sense of humour. And Lesley truly brings each and every single one of them to life. From that dry, overly serious one liners, to the intimate conversations to the outrageous banter. Lesley does it all so easily and wonderfully that you can’t help but to be sucked into this world.
Also for some reason I seem to have a penchant for listening to humorous book in the grocery store. Let me tell you I got more than a few strange looks from people wondering why I was laughing for no apparent reason. 7 words: Gustavo Tiberius and a customer service call. Poor Mitzi is probably traumatized for life after that. So thank you Klune and Lesley, every glare was so worth it, and I’m looking forward to many more books by you to come.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
September 7, 2024
Reread 🥰🥰
How to be a Movie Star by TJ Klune
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Holy precious. I'm a sucker for a sequel and am super filled with joy right now. This book is the epitome of stoner happiness which isn't something I thought I'd enjoy, but Josy is the cutest thing ever. Quincy is equally adorable in his own way and I am here for stories like this. Please please please give me more books with queer people just living their life being precious with their happy endings.
Josy (Josiah) is demisexual which makes this the second books I've read with demi rep. We really need more please
Side note: how fucking cute is the nickname Josy though 😍
How to be a Movie Star by TJ Klune
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Holy precious. I'm a sucker for a sequel and am super filled with joy right now. This book is the epitome of stoner happiness which isn't something I thought I'd enjoy, but Josy is the cutest thing ever. Quincy is equally adorable in his own way and I am here for stories like this. Please please please give me more books with queer people just living their life being precious with their happy endings.
Josy (Josiah) is demisexual which makes this the second books I've read with demi rep. We really need more please
Side note: how fucking cute is the nickname Josy though 😍
February 16, 2019
If it were possible to give this book more than 5 Stars, I would gladly do so!
This book was fantastic and goes straight to my favourites for this year. I love TJ Klune(he's top 3 for me) so when I heard that this book was coming out, I was very excited and even though I hadn't read back then, I just KNEW it would be great.
Now I must say that to fully enjoy this book, you should at least have a working knowledge of to make the reading experience smoother. This would especially be helpful with certain secondary characters like The We Three Queens, Lottie and the Legend that is Gustavo Tiberius. I think if you read about him here, you'd like him but if you read his book before this one, you'd adore him and really appreciate the growth he's undertaken since then and also the dynamics of his relationship with Josy. Also, it becomes way funnier with that in mind.
Speaking of Josy, he didn't really feature heavily in Book 1 so I wasn't really sure what to expect from him as a MC but he just blew me away. I came to love him and all his perpetually runaway thoughts. He might not be the most put together person but kindness, loyalty and heart were just a few of his lovable qualities. I loved him from the very first page till the very last.
Quincy was also a great character though he doesn't feature as prominently as Josiah(of course). I liked him very much, Dee and Quincy’s Grandfather who I felt should've gotten more page time than he did. He was a such a unique character.
This was another great book my this awesome author and if your question for me is "Does Josiah Erickson become a Movie Star by the end of this book?" then I guess you'll just have to do what I did read this to find out!
*** eARC Was Graciously Provided By The Publisher, In Exchange For An Honest, Unbiased, Review ***
This book was fantastic and goes straight to my favourites for this year. I love TJ Klune(he's top 3 for me) so when I heard that this book was coming out, I was very excited and even though I hadn't read back then, I just KNEW it would be great.
Now I must say that to fully enjoy this book, you should at least have a working knowledge of to make the reading experience smoother. This would especially be helpful with certain secondary characters like The We Three Queens, Lottie and the Legend that is Gustavo Tiberius. I think if you read about him here, you'd like him but if you read his book before this one, you'd adore him and really appreciate the growth he's undertaken since then and also the dynamics of his relationship with Josy. Also, it becomes way funnier with that in mind.
Speaking of Josy, he didn't really feature heavily in Book 1 so I wasn't really sure what to expect from him as a MC but he just blew me away. I came to love him and all his perpetually runaway thoughts. He might not be the most put together person but kindness, loyalty and heart were just a few of his lovable qualities. I loved him from the very first page till the very last.
Quincy was also a great character though he doesn't feature as prominently as Josiah(of course). I liked him very much, Dee and Quincy’s Grandfather who I felt should've gotten more page time than he did. He was a such a unique character.
This was another great book my this awesome author and if your question for me is "Does Josiah Erickson become a Movie Star by the end of this book?" then I guess you'll just have to do what I did read this to find out!
*** eARC Was Graciously Provided By The Publisher, In Exchange For An Honest, Unbiased, Review ***
March 21, 2022
4 Stars for the Narration
I listened to this one right after How to be a Normal Person and it probably was not the best idea. Different narrators voicing the same characters really throws me off since I got use to one narrators take only to go into another. Michael Lesley is still great but I did like the other narrators take on some of the character voices better. His voice for Josy was absolutely perfect though. He really brought him to life like he does with all his performances. Still one of my absolute favs.
3 stars for the story
The beginning of this book was really great. Josy was like 3 of my favorite TJ characters wrapped in one. Unfortunately, it didn't hold up.
Positive:
Josy
Josy and Quincy's blooming friendship/relationship
Revisiting Abby and all the friends there
How, through Quincy, TJ talks about aniexty and depression
Checking in on Casey and Gustavo's relationship 😍
The negative:
Really there was just one but it took up the majority of the book. It was the whole filming of the movie. I get it, the book is about How to be a Movie Star but going into the Liam character was 😴.
Overall, it was just an ok read.
I listened to this one right after How to be a Normal Person and it probably was not the best idea. Different narrators voicing the same characters really throws me off since I got use to one narrators take only to go into another. Michael Lesley is still great but I did like the other narrators take on some of the character voices better. His voice for Josy was absolutely perfect though. He really brought him to life like he does with all his performances. Still one of my absolute favs.
3 stars for the story
The beginning of this book was really great. Josy was like 3 of my favorite TJ characters wrapped in one. Unfortunately, it didn't hold up.
Positive:
Josy
Josy and Quincy's blooming friendship/relationship
Revisiting Abby and all the friends there
How, through Quincy, TJ talks about aniexty and depression
Checking in on Casey and Gustavo's relationship 😍
The negative:
Really there was just one but it took up the majority of the book. It was the whole filming of the movie. I get it, the book is about How to be a Movie Star but going into the Liam character was 😴.
Overall, it was just an ok read.
March 7, 2019
This was another enjoyable, funny story, as only TJ Klune can write one. While it didn't live up to the epic, awesomeness of HTBaNP, and had a bit of a slower pace, I did enjoy it in the end. Josy and Quincy are wonderful characters, but being in Josy's head could be a bit draining (he is such a good person and ever optimistic, but damn he can ramble) and it did take me more than a couple of days to finish this book.
The story was the classic Klune combination of absurd humor, serious subjects, memorable characters, and some very touching scenes. HTBaNP is one of my all-time favorite books and I am beyond thrilled that we got more Gus in this story. He is after, all Josy's, BFF whether he wants to be or not.
The story was the classic Klune combination of absurd humor, serious subjects, memorable characters, and some very touching scenes. HTBaNP is one of my all-time favorite books and I am beyond thrilled that we got more Gus in this story. He is after, all Josy's, BFF whether he wants to be or not.
July 18, 2019
DNF at 34%
I had loved (LOVED) and was eager to read its sequel.
Unfortunately for me, I found the humor really obnoxious. Even worse was that the book's told from Josy's POV. Because he's high most of the time, his thoughts would roam every which way.
This meant that I ended up feeling more and more frustrated as the book went on. Josy and Q's slow-burning romance was cute. I wish I hadn't been so annoyed with Josy's ultra-distracted narration if only to see Josy and Q get closer.
Josy's circle of friends were great (though having Casey and Gus from the first book felt really forced to me.)
TL;DR: A v. disappointing sequel to a book I'd adored. Instead of quirky and funny, I found this novel to be obnoxious and twee. I guess I have ALL the unpopular opinions today.
THANKFULLY, I borrowed it from my local library. Can't recommend.
I had loved (LOVED) and was eager to read its sequel.
Unfortunately for me, I found the humor really obnoxious. Even worse was that the book's told from Josy's POV. Because he's high most of the time, his thoughts would roam every which way.
This meant that I ended up feeling more and more frustrated as the book went on. Josy and Q's slow-burning romance was cute. I wish I hadn't been so annoyed with Josy's ultra-distracted narration if only to see Josy and Q get closer.
Josy's circle of friends were great (though having Casey and Gus from the first book felt really forced to me.)
TL;DR: A v. disappointing sequel to a book I'd adored. Instead of quirky and funny, I found this novel to be obnoxious and twee. I guess I have ALL the unpopular opinions today.
THANKFULLY, I borrowed it from my local library. Can't recommend.
July 27, 2023
The first book in this series (How to be a Normal Person) is one of my favorite books. Sadly, this didn't live up to its predecessor. It had some good parts, but I lost interest a lot while reading it. And, while I like Josiah (Josy) as a side character, he's just too quirky and over-the-top for me to truly like as a main character.
August 2, 2022
Reread: September 2019
Read: May 2019
______________________
Omg what a great conclusion to this series 😭 TJ really pulled at my heart strings for this book! Josy was adorable, and he and Quincy were so cute together 😍 I also loved getting to see Gus and Casey again, and that we go back to Abby and see all those beloved characters again.
The talk about how important it is to see happy queer people in media was so important, as was the discussion around Quincy's mental illness. Thank you for such a sad but happy book, TJ!
Read this softe series!!
Read: May 2019
______________________
Omg what a great conclusion to this series 😭 TJ really pulled at my heart strings for this book! Josy was adorable, and he and Quincy were so cute together 😍 I also loved getting to see Gus and Casey again, and that we go back to Abby and see all those beloved characters again.
The talk about how important it is to see happy queer people in media was so important, as was the discussion around Quincy's mental illness. Thank you for such a sad but happy book, TJ!
Read this softe series!!
June 30, 2019
June 2019 audio review
The audio is sooooo much better than the written word alone. I highly recommend the audio. Michael Lesley did a superb job with this. I have not listened to book 1 just read it so I can't tell you HOW different the voices are though I am sure it IS different. Boosting to 5 stars. 😁
Feb 2019 ebook review
Haha, Josy and Quincy are so cute together. :) And the movie they are making? Well, I don't really know how it all comes together in the end, but Josy gets props for his acting, and the world is learning about Queer characters who DON'T die at the end of the movie. Oh how I wish this was really a thing. I would love to see movies about gay men who aren't destined to spend their life apart, or die. Gee, I wonder where Hollywood could get their hands on some good script material? ;)
I loved seeing Gus, Casey, Josey, the We Three Queens, Lottie (who likes you a Lottie!), and the rest of the townsfolk. I liked meeting Quincy and his grandfather, who was super cool! I am so happy that Josy is getting to live his dream - acting (forget the fame and fortune), and finding someone who loves him just as he is.
I do recommend this and I can't really say if you can read this as a standalone. I mean, why would you want to? Who in their right mind would skip a book in a TJ series? Of course you wouldn't. But I guess one could technically read this by itself, but you would so miss out on the happiness that is book 1 and all the Gusness. :D
4 stars! Becuuuuuuze, I kinda, maybe, sorta, possibly found some of the movie making parts
The audio is sooooo much better than the written word alone. I highly recommend the audio. Michael Lesley did a superb job with this. I have not listened to book 1 just read it so I can't tell you HOW different the voices are though I am sure it IS different. Boosting to 5 stars. 😁
Feb 2019 ebook review
Haha, Josy and Quincy are so cute together. :) And the movie they are making? Well, I don't really know how it all comes together in the end, but Josy gets props for his acting, and the world is learning about Queer characters who DON'T die at the end of the movie. Oh how I wish this was really a thing. I would love to see movies about gay men who aren't destined to spend their life apart, or die. Gee, I wonder where Hollywood could get their hands on some good script material? ;)
I loved seeing Gus, Casey, Josey, the We Three Queens, Lottie (who likes you a Lottie!), and the rest of the townsfolk. I liked meeting Quincy and his grandfather, who was super cool! I am so happy that Josy is getting to live his dream - acting (forget the fame and fortune), and finding someone who loves him just as he is.
I do recommend this and I can't really say if you can read this as a standalone. I mean, why would you want to? Who in their right mind would skip a book in a TJ series? Of course you wouldn't. But I guess one could technically read this by itself, but you would so miss out on the happiness that is book 1 and all the Gusness. :D
4 stars! Becuuuuuuze, I kinda, maybe, sorta, possibly found some of the movie making parts
February 16, 2019
Soooo.
This book is super fun over the top. There is monster porn (win for most unique job of a hero) ala Chuck Tingler, B film directors, stoners, demisexuality, happy go lucky, fandom, depression, anxiecity, circle of friends, actors, mmmm and a lot of random other stuff.
This tale is funny with two great and clueless heros, an amazing cast and a lot of wacko happenings and situations.
People are stoned a great deal and it shows.
This is a very compassionate book at its heart and that is what saves it from being too much for me.
Funny and tender.
This book is super fun over the top. There is monster porn (win for most unique job of a hero) ala Chuck Tingler, B film directors, stoners, demisexuality, happy go lucky, fandom, depression, anxiecity, circle of friends, actors, mmmm and a lot of random other stuff.
This tale is funny with two great and clueless heros, an amazing cast and a lot of wacko happenings and situations.
People are stoned a great deal and it shows.
This is a very compassionate book at its heart and that is what saves it from being too much for me.
Funny and tender.
February 26, 2019
LOOOOOOVED IT. Other 5 stars for my god, TJ Klune.
I loved everything about this book. From the dorkiness of the characters, to their deep and meaningful conversations.
I loved everything about this book. From the dorkiness of the characters, to their deep and meaningful conversations.
August 9, 2020
Book Reaction:
Rating: 4 Stars � minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
Rating: 4 Stars � minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
Shelved as 'dnf'
January 29, 2022gonna come back to this one day but dnf for now! i wish i was loving it like i loved the first one 😔
February 1, 2019
It was epic!
”You’re not a twink. Twinks don’t have beards or body hair.� “It’s so hard being queer.�
This was a perfect view into the lives of a stoned wannabe actor and a monster porn writer. And who wouldn't want to get a view into that?
This is the story of Josiah, the self proclaimed BFF of Gustavo, and his crazy segway into acting. After winning a radio contest, he's whisked away to a wild night at the library where he's treated to a live book reading. There, he gets 'deflowered' into Q-Bert's realm of monster porn. And he can't look away.
It turns out, Q-Bert is the pen name of Quincy, a sober, anxiety ridden, up and coming director. And when he gives Josy his first big break, they get the opportunity to discover what makes each other tick.
Okay, so there were so many things in this book that were just perfect! I'll make a list of a few...
--I loved that we still got to play with Gustavo and Casey
--There were so many "Oh my god. What the hell." moments
--Gus had another run in with the internet and Mitzi and it was classic
--Quincy was full of anxiety but it was written so well that it added so much to the story
--The BFF relationship between Gus and Josy was everything I never knew I wanted and more
--The scene at the end when Casey tells Gus he knows *sigh
I loved the blossoming relationship between Josy and Quincy. They each had their moments of discomfort but it was so satisfying to see them work towards a thriving relationship. Josy was so easy going and happy all of the time. It was really inspiring.
It was a long, yet effortless read, very typical for TJ Klune. When I made it to the end, I just wanted to start again. He's got a way with creating unique characters that just stick with you and leave you bereft when their stories end. This was a great addition to his work.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to *
”You’re not a twink. Twinks don’t have beards or body hair.� “It’s so hard being queer.�
This was a perfect view into the lives of a stoned wannabe actor and a monster porn writer. And who wouldn't want to get a view into that?
This is the story of Josiah, the self proclaimed BFF of Gustavo, and his crazy segway into acting. After winning a radio contest, he's whisked away to a wild night at the library where he's treated to a live book reading. There, he gets 'deflowered' into Q-Bert's realm of monster porn. And he can't look away.
It turns out, Q-Bert is the pen name of Quincy, a sober, anxiety ridden, up and coming director. And when he gives Josy his first big break, they get the opportunity to discover what makes each other tick.
Okay, so there were so many things in this book that were just perfect! I'll make a list of a few...
--I loved that we still got to play with Gustavo and Casey
--There were so many "Oh my god. What the hell." moments
--Gus had another run in with the internet and Mitzi and it was classic
--Quincy was full of anxiety but it was written so well that it added so much to the story
--The BFF relationship between Gus and Josy was everything I never knew I wanted and more
--The scene at the end when Casey tells Gus he knows *sigh
I loved the blossoming relationship between Josy and Quincy. They each had their moments of discomfort but it was so satisfying to see them work towards a thriving relationship. Josy was so easy going and happy all of the time. It was really inspiring.
It was a long, yet effortless read, very typical for TJ Klune. When I made it to the end, I just wanted to start again. He's got a way with creating unique characters that just stick with you and leave you bereft when their stories end. This was a great addition to his work.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to *
February 19, 2019
All my life I’ve read stories about people who were inspired, or saved, by an author or a musician. One song made them feel strong again. I’ve read books that altered my life, so I’ve always understood how it happened to other people. Words are powerful. It happened to me again last night, with one sentence.
It made my entire body vibrate with emotion.
Even though this is a book many people will read, I felt like like Josy was talking just to me. It was intimate. He said:
Even now I feel shaken reading that line. I’ve never read my feelings said so perfectly, and in that moment I know How to be a Movie Star was everything.
Frankly, as excited as I was for this sequel, I didn’t expect it to be as incredible as How to be a Normal Person. There’s something about Gus that’s unlike any character I’ve ever read before. Grumpy Gus is completely unique, and I love him. While it’s true How to be a Movie Star didn’t make me laugh as much as Gus’s book did, and maybe I was drawn more toward Casey and Gus’s relationship, I still ended up loving How to be a Movie Star just as much and the reason for that is Josiah Erickson.
TJ likes to talk about his upcoming books, and we as his fans love to read everything he says. He was very open that this was probably his happiest book, and how Josiah was probably his happiest character. I felt his light from the very first page. Every single character describes Josy as sunshine, and they are not wrong.
I know reading about him made me feel lighter, so I can only imagine how writing him felt.
He was pure joy, all the time. He takes every sucky moment in his life and finds a way to feel joy in it. He’s had a crappy time, but all he sees is the good he’s gotten out of it. He’s got to have the biggest heart of any character TJ’s written, or at least I think so.
He was perfect for me, and since I’m more like Quincy he was exactly what Q-Bert needed too. People like Q and I, we need friends like Josy in our life to remind us we don’t break, even if sometimes we need to feel small in this very big world. It’s okay to lay in the dark, safe in a fort (or in my case, under a weighted blanket). It doesn’t make us weak.
We all need a Josiah Erickson in our lives.
So, thank you TJ.
You gave us all someone very special.
Thank you to the publisher for providing a free ARC, in exchange for an honest review.
Originally posted on .
It made my entire body vibrate with emotion.
Even though this is a book many people will read, I felt like like Josy was talking just to me. It was intimate. He said:
“The world is a big place, and sometimes you just want to feel small.�
Even now I feel shaken reading that line. I’ve never read my feelings said so perfectly, and in that moment I know How to be a Movie Star was everything.
Frankly, as excited as I was for this sequel, I didn’t expect it to be as incredible as How to be a Normal Person. There’s something about Gus that’s unlike any character I’ve ever read before. Grumpy Gus is completely unique, and I love him. While it’s true How to be a Movie Star didn’t make me laugh as much as Gus’s book did, and maybe I was drawn more toward Casey and Gus’s relationship, I still ended up loving How to be a Movie Star just as much and the reason for that is Josiah Erickson.
TJ likes to talk about his upcoming books, and we as his fans love to read everything he says. He was very open that this was probably his happiest book, and how Josiah was probably his happiest character. I felt his light from the very first page. Every single character describes Josy as sunshine, and they are not wrong.
I know reading about him made me feel lighter, so I can only imagine how writing him felt.
He was pure joy, all the time. He takes every sucky moment in his life and finds a way to feel joy in it. He’s had a crappy time, but all he sees is the good he’s gotten out of it. He’s got to have the biggest heart of any character TJ’s written, or at least I think so.
He was perfect for me, and since I’m more like Quincy he was exactly what Q-Bert needed too. People like Q and I, we need friends like Josy in our life to remind us we don’t break, even if sometimes we need to feel small in this very big world. It’s okay to lay in the dark, safe in a fort (or in my case, under a weighted blanket). It doesn’t make us weak.
We all need a Josiah Erickson in our lives.
So, thank you TJ.
You gave us all someone very special.
Thank you to the publisher for providing a free ARC, in exchange for an honest review.
Originally posted on .
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