Augusten Burroughs

Augusten Burroughs is an American author known for his memoirs, including 'Running with Scissors' and 'Dry'. His works often explore themes of addiction, family, and personal growth.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Running With Scissors

    A Memoir

    The memoir recounts the unconventional and chaotic childhood of a boy who is sent to live with his mother's eccentric psychiatrist and his bizarre family. Amidst the disorderly household, filled with unpredictable and often inappropriate behavior, he navigates a tumultuous adolescence marked by neglect, mental illness, and a search for identity. The narrative blends dark humor with poignant moments, capturing the resilience and survival instincts of a young boy growing up in an environment that defies norms and expectations.

  2. 2. Sellevision

    In this satirical and darkly comedic novel, the world of home shopping television is turned upside down as the personal and professional lives of its eccentric hosts unravel in spectacular fashion. The story delves into the chaotic backstage antics and the absurdity of consumer culture, revealing the hidden insecurities and ambitions of the characters. As scandals erupt and secrets are exposed, the hosts grapple with their own identities and the relentless pursuit of fame, leading to a series of hilarious and poignant moments that underscore the absurdity of modern media and the human condition.

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  3. 3. Dry

    A Memoir

    In this poignant memoir, the author chronicles his tumultuous journey through alcoholism and the challenging path to sobriety. Set against the backdrop of a high-pressure advertising career in New York City, the narrative delves into the depths of addiction, exploring the impact on personal and professional relationships. With raw honesty and dark humor, the story captures the struggle of confronting one's demons, the complexities of rehabilitation, and the fragile hope of recovery. It is a candid exploration of the human spirit's resilience and the transformative power of facing one's truth.

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  4. 4. Possible Side Effects

    This collection of autobiographical essays offers a humorous and candid glimpse into the chaotic and often absurd life of a man navigating the complexities of adulthood. With a sharp wit and unflinching honesty, the narrator shares a series of personal anecdotes that range from the hilariously bizarre to the deeply poignant. Each story peels back layers of his experiences, revealing the quirks and challenges of his relationships, career, and self-discovery, all while maintaining a tone that is both relatable and refreshingly irreverent.

  5. 5. This Is How

    Surviving What You Think You Can't

    A candid, wry collection of essays that blends memoir with practical advice as the narrator confronts depression, addiction, anger, and relationship pain, offering concrete strategies—daily routines, boundaries, therapy, honesty, and self-discipline—for rebuilding a more stable, fulfilling life; the tone is blunt and humorous while delivering actionable guidance on love, forgiveness, risk-taking, and finding meaning in ordinary habits.

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