You Can't Be Serious

Kal Penn's memoir, "You Cant Be Serious," chronicles his unconventional journey, rejecting traditional advice to pursue acting, writing, farming, teaching, and serving as a White House aide. The book offers a humorous and insightful reflection on his experiences, including struggles, triumphs, and learning to keep his head up.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 20 January 2022
Publisher: Simon & Schuster

In this captivating memoir, Kal Penn shares the compelling reasons behind his decision to deviate from the advice of his aunties and guidance counselors, choosing a path that defied convention. Instead of pursuing a traditional career as a doctor or pursuing something practical, he embarked on a remarkable journey that encompassed acting, writing, farmhand work, teaching at prestigious Ivy League universities, and even engaging in a hilarious encounter with a fake President of the United States while indulging in fake weed.

The book, titled "You Can't Be Serious," is a collection of humorous, consequential, awkward, and outrageous anecdotes from Kal's unique life experiences. It delves into his lineage as the grandson of Gandhian freedom fighters and the son of immigrant parents, whose vision of the American dream likely did not include their son's involvement in raunchy Ryan Reynolds movies or receiving a phone call from Air Force One while flying with the country's first Black president.

Through his witty and insightful storytelling, Kal reflects on the most exasperating and rewarding moments from his journey thus far. He sheds light on the complexities of opportunity and racism within the entertainment industry, revealing how he forged alliances, found encouragement, and navigated early reminders that he might not always fit in. He also shares the courageous decision he made after a decade and a half of thriving in Hollywood to take a sabbatical from a fulfilling acting career in order to serve his country as a White House aide.

Above all, "You Can't Be Serious" serves as a powerful testament that everyone possesses the ability to live multiple life stories. Kal exemplifies this by showcasing that regardless of one's background and circumstances, there are far more choices available to them than what is initially presented. The book encourages readers to embrace their individuality, pursue their passions, and never be limited by societal expectations or predefined paths.

In conclusion, "You Can't Be Serious" is a must-read for anyone seeking an entertaining and thought-provoking journey through the life of a remarkable individual. Kal Penn's candid and relatable storytelling will leave readers inspired to pursue their dreams, break free from conventions, and embrace the limitless possibilities that lie within them.

Weight: 550g
Dimension: 162 x 237 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781982171384