This book developed alongside a series of public readings in front of live audiences. First and above all I want to thank every person who attended one of these readings. You were the most inspiring of motivators and most honest of editors. I loved you and feared you.
Thanks as well to the staffs of the venues that coordinated these readings: most notably the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater in Los Angeles, as well as its counterpart in New York City; and additionally the Last Bookstore in Los Angeles, Vroman’s Bookstore in Pasadena, as well as Shakespeare and Company in Paris.
A few close and trusted friends read this book at various key stages and offered invaluable suggestions and support. I am deeply grateful and indebted to Jeremy Bronson, Lena Dunham, Steve Jeppson, Josh Lambert, Zara Lisbon, Alina Mankin, John Mayer, Mai-Lan Pham, Keri Pina, Rivka Rossi, Alexandra Ruddy, Brittney Segal, Chess Stetson, Jennifer Stetson, Ava Tramer, and Ricky Van Veen.
My literary agent, Richard Abate, took me from person-with-pages to author. His advice and insight along the way have been extraordinary.
My manager, Michael Price, devoted an eye of unmatched dedication and care to this book, from the earliest notions to the final copy edits. He improved every page.
Tim O’Connell and Robin Desser offered exceptional editorial guidance on matters big and small. Paul Bogaards, Gabrielle Brooks, and the entire team at Knopf/Random House all earn my continuing admiration and gratitude for their unparalleled skill and dedication.
Years ago, I shared a lunch with the actor John Stamos. While we did not discuss any aspect of this book, I felt that it would be fun to include his name as a surprise for anyone casually scanning this section for names of celebrities.
My father, William Novak, taught me early and by example that a writer is a perfectly fine thing to be, and that a clear voice is the best kind to aspire to have. His advice on this book was of the highest quality on every level, and the experience of discussing it with him was meaningful on another level altogether. My mother, Linda Novak, provided edits as incisive as anyone’s, as well as encouragement so articulate and persuasive that it didn’t occur to me until months later that she might be biased. My brothers, Jesse Novak and Lev Novak, offered smart suggestions whenever asked, and treasured support whether I asked or not. Keough Novak was no help at all.
Mindy Kaling gets her own line in the acknowledgments, as previously negotiated by her representatives. Thanks, Mindy. I love you and you’re the best.
Josh Funk and Hunter Fraser: we haven’t been in touch in years, but you made me feel like the funniest kid in the world. I would stay up late on school nights to write things to try to make you laugh the next day in class, and you inspired the one piece of advice on writing that I’ve ever felt qualified to give: write for the kid sitting next to you.
A Note About the Author Benjamin (B.J.) Novak is a writer and actor best known for his work on the Emmy Award-winning American television series “The Office,” on which he contributed as an actor, writer, director, and executive producer. He is also known for his appearances in films such as Inglourious Basterds and Saving Mr. Banks and for his standup comedy performances. This is his first published collection.