A few years ago Julie Klam wrote a book called "You Had Me At Woof." It was the story of Otto, a Boston terrier that stole Julie's heart and changed her life. Her relationship with Otto helped her to forge more enduring bonds with people. Klam has some very close friendships. Her latest book, "Friendkeeping - a Field Guide to the People You Love, Hate, and Can't Live Without," takes readers inside Julie's world. We meet her dearest friends.
"Friendkeeping" addresses some weighty topics. Yet even when the subject is a friend's serious crisis Klam has a feathery touch. Julie Klam is one of the funniest writers I know. Here's a sample from her chapter "My Friend Has Gone Nuts":
"I'm crazy. No two ways about it. I mean, I'm a high-functioning nut. A tax-paying, pants-wearing, law-abiding (except for the stupid ones) citizen. I shower and brush my teeth and present normally, but inside I'm a few clam strips short of a combo platter."
Do you see what I mean? She writes with a pithy wryness. I chuckled throughout this wonderful book. Julie Klam has a gift. I love all of her books. I cannot wait to interview her whenever a new one comes out.
We all want to be happy, right? The next time you are feeling blue pick up one of Julie's memoirs, "Please Excuse My Daughter," "You Had Me At Woof," "Love at First Bark," or this new one, "Friendkeeping." Read a few pages. I guarantee that your mood will improve.
