The Bad Decisions Playlist

Very funny albeit often cringe-inducing story of a 16 year old screw up. I am bemused by the number of GR reviewers who gave the book a lower rating because the main character, Austin, is unlikable. Have you met many 16 year old boys? They're usually pretty awful. Even though much of the book feels like watching a slow-motion trainwreck (complete with multiple points where I found myself yelling “Oh god, don't do that Austin, this can't end well!”), there is some slight sign of growth by the end. Bonus points for acknowledging the genius of Rhett Miller (lead singer of the Old 97s who also has a solo career) and for capturing in general the power of music to change your life, especially when you're a very confused, self-absorbed adolescent.

Not at all surprised that Rubens is a writer for Full Frontal with Samantha Bee, a TV show that also combines sharp, angry humor with just enough compassion to avoid smugness.