Joyful Recollections of Trauma

A Hilarious and Heartfelt Memoir on Trauma, Comedy, and Embracing Your True Self

Named a 2024 Book of the Year by Vulture & Booklist | Audie Award Finalist

"Paul Scheer delivers a deeply funny, personal, and moving account of how joy and pain are the perfect ingredients for a happy and funny life." — Amy Poehler

"A hilarious essay collection about trauma. Yes, really." — People Magazine

Award-winning actor and comedian Paul Scheer has spent years entertaining audiences with his wild and absurd stories, but beneath the humor lies a deeper, more personal truth. Now, in this candid and laugh-out-loud memoir-in-essays, he finally peels back the curtain, sharing the chaotic, surprising, and often poignant experiences that shaped him.

Blending his signature charm and fearless humor, Joyful Recollections of Trauma dives into Paul’s tumultuous childhood, the unexpected ways it has influenced his life and career, and the power of finding joy in embracing your authentic self. Known for portraying cringeworthy yet endearing characters, Paul brings that same raw honesty and warmth to his writing, proving that even our darkest moments can be a source of comedy, growth, and resilience.

Through a madcap mix of self-reflection, outrageous anecdotes, and hard-earned wisdom, Paul explores universal themes—growing up, overcoming adversity, staying true to yourself, and discovering happiness in the most unexpected places.

For fans of Molly Shannon, Maria Bamford, RuPaul, Jennette McCurdy, and anyone who loves a book that makes you laugh, cry, and feel deeply understood, Joyful Recollections of Trauma is an unforgettable and wildly entertaining ride.