Navel Gazing

True Tales of Bodies, Mostly Mine (but Also My Mom's, Which I Know Sounds Weird)

By: Michael Ian Black

Narrated by: Michael Ian Black

New York Times best-selling author and stand-up comedian Michael Ian Black delivers a frank and funny memoir about confronting his genetic legacy as he hits his 40s.

Whether it's family history, religion, aging, or his parents, Michael Ian Black always has something to say in the dry, irreverent voice that has captured a fan base of millions. When a medical diagnosis forces him to realize he's not getting any younger, he reexamines his life as a middle-aged guy - of course, in the deadpan wit and self-deprecating vignettes that have become trademarks of his humor.

The alt-comedy take on getting older, Navel Gazing is a funny-because-it's-true memoir about looking around when you're 40 and realizing that life is about more than receding hairlines and proving one's manliness on Twitter - it's about laughing at yourself.

©2016 Hot Schwartz Productions, Inc. (P)2016 Simon & Schuster

A more sincere MIB

What made the experience of listening to Navel Gazing the most enjoyable?

First, I love that this was read by Michael Ian Black who gives a great performance.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Uhhh the not that kind of book, but his mom had some solid one-liners

Have you listened to any of Michael Ian Black’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I'm a fan and have listened to everything by him. Navel Gazing is a much more mature read than his previous titles finding just the right balance between you're not doing it right and My custom van

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

This book is funny with just the right pinch of dark.

Any additional comments?

Naaahhh

Another solid listen!

I get you Michael! Have listened to all your books and you keep me laughing (and crying...).
Thanks for sharing your life.

Sardonic, yet touching

This author/narrator has always been a favorite of mine. A sarcastic, humorous telling of a very human story. Oddly relatable.

I love all his books

I need more Michael Ian Black books. I will surely listen to this one many more times. I really enjoy his narration. Definitely worth a credit!

MIB does it again

Michael Ian Black narrates his memoir in the same wry and sarcastic tone as his stand-up comedy. Continuing his themes from previous books of growing up and parenting, he adds health concerns and his ever decreasing middleagedness. A delightfully easy listen, even when the topics may occasionally turn somber or introspective. I'd highly recommend this title.

Man Turns 40, World Ends

Would you consider the audio edition of Navel Gazing to be better than the print version?

That's an excellent question to ask someone who has read the print version.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Navel Gazing?

There are so many, but I really enjoyed the chapter describing the half-marathon. Especially the last sentence. Amen.

What does Michael Ian Black bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

So much. His delivery, his sincerity, his humor. I'm sure it's all there in print but hearing him read allows his intention and timing to really shine.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, and I almost did. Devoured it over two afternoons and wanted more when it was over.

Any additional comments?

There is so much I can relate to in these stories. Michael Ian Black makes life's true tragedies and the bittersweet melancholy of aging and all its attendant indignities into moments of laugh out loud hilarity without ever being crass or pandering. His self-reflection shows moments of true vulnerability and he owns some of his own insecurities and shortcomings with his humor. Of course it's entirely possible that he's a raging narcissist and is just charming us, but I think he's a really good guy.

listen to in technical shirt for optimum experienc

If you have a body or know someone who does, this is a must listen.

Entertaining from start to finish and packed with relatable stories, Michael Ian Black recounts life events that highlight the confusing beauty that is life in these meaty vessels.

Loved it 100%

I went into this already loving Michael Ian Black's standup and was expecting it to be great. I was not let down one bit. Not only was it hilarious, but it was also so honest, poignant, and beautiful. I found myself laughing then feeling the need to immediately call my parents. If you're looking for a great listen: here it is.

Better than expected!

Any additional comments?

I thought I would like this book, but I ended up absolutely loving it. He had me cracking up every time I listened. Part of it was that I also live in the wilds of Connecticut so it was an unexpected surprise to hear some of the idiosyncrasies of living here explained so perfectly and humorously. Very funny guy and very honest. Loved hearing about his family and unique relationship with his mother. Made me want to have a sit down interview with both of my parents while I still have the chance.

Please keep writing memoirs!

Michael Ian Black, you are funny and poignant, no easy feat. Just chronicle your whole life, day to day, it's all I want to read about. I loved your first memoir and even your half of the book with Megan McCain. And this one. I much prefer listening but I bought both memoirs I book form also to send to my cheap friend who would never spring for an audio book. Two things I don't like about Audible, you can't share when you're done and you don't get any photos or illustrations that come with a book.