Joyful Recollections of Trauma: A Hilariously Cathartic Memoir-in-Essays of Childhood Turmoil, Self Healing, and Finding Happiness

Joyful Recollections of Trauma by Paul Scheer is a New York Times bestseller, named one of the 2024 Books of the Year by Vulture and Booklist, and an Audie Award finalist.

In this candid and hilarious memoir-in-essays, the award-winning actor and comedian reflects on his tumultuous childhood, exploring how pain and joy have shaped his life and comedy. Known for his fearless humor and storytelling, Scheer opens up about the difficult truths behind his experiences, blending vulnerability with sharp wit.

Through funny, heartfelt, and surprising stories, he examines themes of growth, self-acceptance, and resilience, showing how humor can emerge from hardship. Both touching and laugh-out-loud funny, the book offers a hopeful and deeply human look at overcoming trauma and becoming one’s authentic self—perfect for fans of Molly Shannon, Maria Bamford, RuPaul, and Jennette McCurdy.