The Escape Manual for Introverts
by Katie Vaz
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Pub Date Aug 06 2019 | Archive Date Jul 26 2019
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Description
Trapped in an airplane seated next to a chatterbox? Are you hosting a dinner party with people who just won't leave? Katie Vaz has the key to your escape. The Escape Manual for Introverts guides readers through different scenarios with themed chapters ("Friends," "Relatives," "Strangers," etc.). Each chapter covers a range of situations, from an invitation to karaoke night to group lunchtime. And she offers a number of escapes for each scenario: bringing odoriferous foods to lunch for a while, having a pet (real or imagined) that "requires" frequent check-ins, and even investing in a jet pack. This book features Vaz's full-page illustrated spreads, hand-lettering, and spot illustrations. From the silly to the sincere, Vaz's clever, hilarious escape plans and bizarre excuses speak to the introvert in all of us.
A Note From the Publisher
We regret that this electronic galley is not available for Kindle viewing.
Available Editions
EDITION | Other Format |
ISBN | 9781449493691 |
PRICE | $14.99 (USD) |
PAGES | 144 |
Featured Reviews
Being an introvert, this manual is the perfect guide to get out of certain situations which we sometimes find ourselves in. This was a fun, quirky read. The colors were bold and vivid and the art was brilliantly done. I would recommend this book to my fellow introverts.
As an introvert, I always enjoying checking out introverted humor books. And The Escape Manual for Introverts didn't disappoint. It's full of funny ideas - some of which I'm going to add to my real-life list of 'get out of social situations' tricks. The drawings are cute and added to the humor. This probably isn't the type of book that people would read through more than once, but it would still make a fun gift for your favorite introvert.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC. This review contains my honest, unbiased opinion.
Review to come to my blog/Goodreads/maybe Amazon in August.
*raises hand*I am very much an introvert, so I couldn't resist this book. I had to click that Read Now button. I was very much curious to see what kind things this one would give as a way of escaping.
There are various chapters each one dealing with a certain topic. Friends, relatives, co-workers to acquaintances and more. With each chapter we get scenarios that were just oh oh so true (really, I was nodding along) and what kind of things an introvert may do to escape, let people know they don't want to in a subtle way, tips for conversations which I do want to try myself though I kind of worry it will backfire for instance the ask questions that take long answers.. I can see that end up in a discussion of never endingness, and more. I had quite a laugh, but I was also noting down several of the nicer ways in my head. I think I can use some of these tips/excuses. :P Of course, not in abundance, as they do warn you against that which is totally logic, I think most people would be unhappy if their friends kept running away or making excuses. And some excuses went a tad bit too far (like in the co-workers part to just insist on going to a place no one wants to go) and some were just beyond silly, but I still couldn't help but snicker at them. Even though they weren't things one would use in real life, it is tempting. *grins* Maybe I should put a bag of potatoes and a blanket near the door.
A few of these excuses I have already tried myself. For instance the turning away when you see someone you know. Or even go into a nearby store even though you don't need to go there. :P
I was quite impressed with the amount of tips/excuses/etc. There are so many! And they are all accompanied by fun illustrations that made reading even more fun to read and, quite often, hilarious.
All in all a delightful escape manual for introverts. Tons of humour, several excuses are maybe not what you want to use in real life, but there are some that are actually doable (and yes, I can't wait to try them out).
The Escape Manual for Introverts is a tongue in cheek collection of simple comics that depict coping strategies for an introvert that get stuck in extroverted situations. It made me laugh and a lot of these situations were relatable. I am a social introvert that would prefer to be with a smaller grouping of friends and enjoys social time for smaller amounts of time. There is often the pull to see people I care about vs. the pull to be alone. Katie Vaz captured this real struggle in an easy to read text format accompanied by illustrations that really captured the emotions of these feelings. Thank you to NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for an advanced copy of this book.
This book made me laugh and I recognized myself in so many of the situations. I loved this book so much that I put it on my Amazon list because I would love to have a physical copy of this book! Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this. Love the illustrations!
Funny and clever and insightful, lots of tips for the introverted or socially awkward in common situations. I like how the book was organized along the spectrum from family to strangers. Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy.
#TheEscapeManualForIntroverts #NetGalley
This book is an amusing compilation of comedic drawings paired with excuses and tricks to get introverts out of social situations when you would much rather recharge your introverts batteries at home a bit. Many readers are introverts, as am I, and so this was a fun manual to come across, The Escape Manual for Introverts did have some good, clever tricks and some down right silly ones thrown in for fun. The advice is broken down by chapters for the different relationships you may have to the people you may need too use these tips on. Friends, acquaintances, family members, coworkers, and strangers. There were several examples in each chapters to cover a wide variety of situations. But I will say that some of the advice did become repetitive throughout the chapters, but they also warranted being repeated because some of the tips that could work on acquaintances could also work on strangers or coworkers. And tips for friends could also work for family members and vice versa. Over all this is a fun and amusing guide for introverts to come across, plus it's a very quick read.
I received a copy of this book from Andrews McMeel Publishing via NetGalley, this is my honest review.
This is a super fun, quick read with advice for introverts ranging from useful to outlandish. I'm definitely guilty of executing more than one of the milder escapes, and I think any introvert is going to see themself reflected somewhere in this book.
The illustrations are very cute and add a lot to each escape scenario.
Reading this book was like going on a rollercoaster ride: short but so much fun. I enjoyed every aspect of it and found myself laughing out loud reading some of the silly tips given here. I also saw myself in so many of the situations.
The art was so beautiful and different from any art style I've seen before.
I highly recommend this to any introvert who is fed up with having to suffer through awkward social encounters..
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC.
This was a cute book. It gave some good and some funny excuses to get out of certain situations. The illustrations went well with the words. This would make a fun gift for someone close to you.
More like 4.5 stars!!!
I had so much fun while reading this comic book. There are so many tips and guidelines to help you through some embarrassing situations, I simply couldn't stop laughing.
I, who is self-declared introvert, liked a lot reading about all those situations and scenarios that from time to time I see myself in. There were a lot of things that happened that I've already done it, so I couldn't help but laugh out loud about them, because they were so obvious hahahaha.
And there were others that I caught myself thinking, "Hmm interesting, I can use that tip next time."
Being an introvert sometimes is not easy and in a lot of the times you are seeing as a black sheep or considered a person who is snobbish, when in reality, there's nothing to do with that, WE JUST ENJOY BEING BY OURSELVES, and there's no problem with that at all.
I loved reading this because the author gave a shout out in a very funny and witty way about something that is real and that people tend to see as an issue, when I don't think it is!!! Really nice comic book, highly recommend it!!!
I thought that this was a good fit for me because like most book people I myself am a introvert. I especially like the part on how to deal with a Chatty Cathy at a wedding or party. Some of the advice on how to get out of things was very comical and some of the advice in this book was very good advice. I really enjoyed this because I saw myself in most of the scenarios In this guide
3.5 stars. A hilarious and cute manual for introverts on how to avoid social situations. The cartoons are funny and the way the scenarios are portrayed is so relatable. The humor for me though was either there or off the mark. A light read and a perfect companion after reading Quiet Power by Susan Cain.
*Thank you to NetGalley and Andrew McMeel Publishing for providing a free ARC
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This manual gives introverts excuses and escape plans to use in awkward social gatherings and interactions. From the more plausible excuses for friends and family members to the more creative and ridiculous for acquaintances and strangers, this book has it all!
I love this little field guide for social awkwardness! I've used several of these ingenious ideas myself and even created some of my own that weren't listed. This would make an excellent gift for the novice introvert, but beware...you may never see them again!
This is just hilarious! I don’t think I could pull off half of the excuses but I’m so glad that this exists! It’s so relatable and the art is fab!
I really enjoyed this graphic novel. It has a lot of great advice for introverts to get out social situations. I could relate to quite a few of these and will definitely use some of them in the future!
***Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me a free ARC in exchange for an honest review!***
I loved this. As an ambivert who leans slightly toward introvert, all of these concepts are just SO relatable! Some of the situations made me cringe, and that made me love them even more.
Plus, the "escape suggestions" are a perfect combination of "THIS COULD TOTALLY WORK" and "This is absolutely hilarious." My favorite was "My succulent has anxiety and can't be left alone for too long."
This is a book that I'll definitely want to buy and keep for myself when it gets published.
Wonderful book.
Made me laugh.
Highly recommended to those who are introverts as it helps them find ways out of situations. Will be trying out some of these when I get stuck doing something.
This graphic novel explores the different ways an introvert can escape social scenarios or minimize awkward social contact. Escape on a jet pack! Hire a kidnapper to get you away! Pretend you don't speak English.
Some of the suggestions are funny, but some are actually do-able. Some of the ideas would only last for a short time, and some are the perfect exit strategies.
If you are wondering how to escape an office party, how to get out of another dinner with your talkative aunt, or how to avoid eye contact with an acquaintance you barely know, this book will give you tips on excuses, disguises, small talk, and cover stories to get you out of any situation.
I loved the adorable comic illustrations! The hilarious subject material is highlighted by the high contrast artwork that uses only black, white, and purple. The whimsical lines enhance the comedy just as much as the text does.
Disclaimer: I received an ecopy of this book from the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
Super fast read. The intro is hilarious and very enjoyable. Any introvert that has been trapped in a social situation will appreciate these ideas of escape which are divided into 5 categories: Friends, relatives, coworkers, acquaintances, and strangers. Even includes a handy dandy Plausibility of Excuse Absurdity graph for reference.
I loved the simplicity of this book and it made me laugh a lot. Anyone who enjoys their own company, or feels awkward in that of others, should be able to relate to most , if not all, the scenarios with their various escape plans. Fun and entertaining. Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher, Andrews McMeel for an ARC.
Actually 3.5.
I’m more of an ambivert myself but oh boy cenario 4 of the friend’s chapter was so painfully me! It’s especially hard for me to be outgoing around my family for some reason and that chapter was definitely my favorite one. I feel like i’m more of an awkward person than an hardcore introvert but I could still relate to the need to be alone, to just spend time with myself and have no one else around me. This book is really funny and lightweight, the illustrations were really “casually cute” and I love stuff like that.
This collection of cartoons gives introverts ways out of unwanted social interaction in varying degrees of plausibility. As an introvert, there are definitely times some of these techniques would come in handy. Others? They are just comical. This is a quick read offering some good chuckles as well as some good advice.
Thank you to Andrews McMeel Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book was so relatable! I loved the art style and could appreciate these situations very much,.
Even though not all the strategies were perfect strategies to remove yourself from situations, I do think that some of them could work.
This book was a nice break from my normal daily read. It was quick.. I read it in a sitting and gave me a few chuckles here and there. Had me thinking I am not alone! Thank goodness there are other people in the world that probably feel the same way and think the same things.
All in all fun read, highly recommend.
This book is awesome! It's fun and entertaining and I found myself cracking up throughout. As an introvert I can certainly relate to trying to have an escape plan- but often fail miserably as I stumble over my words unable to come up with something to say other than I'd rather stay home alone! Sure, not all of the ideas are ideal or realistic (if you want to keep people in your life!) but there are several good tips in there that can work. I certainly will use some of these tips to avoid, escape and/or get out of certain social events. Thank you to Netgalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
Well, wasn't this a cute and amusing little read? This is such a fun book for introverts, and I'm sure that I'm not the only one who saw themselves in the depicted characters. There were some excuses here that I haven't used before, but I think I will now go ahead and make up an invisible boyfriend, so they can become my scapegoat :) I loved the artwork and soothing colors of this book! I think I probably would've bought it just for that honestly.
I would say this would make for a good coffee table book, but that would also mean divulging the long-held introvert secrets to the greater public so I guess not, but it would be a fun book gift for other fellow introverts! Thanks NetGalley for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I'd like to thank the publisher and netgalley for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a fun read and I genuinely chuckled at some of the 'suggestions' of the manual.
This was a cute humor book of comics in a similar style as Debbie Tung's Book Love. In this book, Vaz addresses the different ways that introverts may need to escape for some alone time. They were split into chapters and situations with helpful tips, many of them hyperbolic. The drawing style is cute, and the book is easy to read or skim. As an introvert, I related to the scenarios, and I would recommend this to other introverts or as a gift book for introverts.
The Escape Manual for Introverts is so cute and fun! A wonderful addition to the introvert cartoon collection.
This was a lot of fun. Not only was it hilarious and relatable, but some of the tips were actually pretty useful. I would gift this to all of my introvert friends and recommend it to extroverts so they can understand how far introverts will sometimes go to avoid being social.
This book was really funny! It had some practical advice, too. This would be a great gift to get someone as a gift to either poke fun or because they really need it.
ARC provided by NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing.
This book was way too on the nose for me, almost in a way that made me not like it because I felt a little cynical. It's hilarious with how accurately it depicts the thought processes of introverted people like myself who will go through great lengths of rationalization and maneuvering in order to avoid or minimize certain social interaction. The cynicism was brought out because it VERY CLEARLY and thoughtfully provides some tips on how to do these things, complete with illustrations of scenarios like large dinner parties and how to make social suggestions that others are most likely NOT to follow you up on.
It's the art of manipulation so introverts can have fuller control over things that might brain their batteries and result in dreaded moments out of their hands. I don't like a lot of social interaction, but I'm also of the mind that trying out new things is healthy. The silver lining is the book makes notes on how to minimize hurting relationships with people you care about. Yet, I can't help but feel like this is sort of an enabler book. It is a partner in crime for finding skillful ways to avoid other people. This Escape Manual is exactly that. It's a funny read, but it's also fully functional in its guidance. Yes, some of it is outlandish and probably won't work, like asking an accomplice to cut the power to the building so you have to leave the engagement. But for every few off kilter suggestions there is another that fully makes sense. For example, "starting the yawning train" that will covertly hint that the night is getting late and subliminally message to others that they may also be getting tired.
I love it, hate it and want a physical copy so I can spend time reading it instead of being with other humans.
This was so much fun! It's super relatable and some of the tips are laugh out loud funny. It gets more ridiculous as it goes on. I will say that there are a few too many uses of pets as excuses, and that felt a little repetitive. Still, it's an enjoyable read.
The illustrations are also very cute and fit perfectly with the tone of the book. It would definitely make a great gift for every shy person in your life.
A fun book of cute cartoons describing the perfect ways for introverts to escape any situation. A fun quick read!
***Thanks to the publisher and #Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
This book was perfect! Great illustrations, not too heavy on content, but funny and real enough to keep me interested. I, myself, am an introvert and find this a perfect and hilarious guide to dealing with awkward social situations. While "eating the tallest food at a restaurant" in order to avoid people is a little far-fetched, the feelings are real. I feel like this book was written specifically for me!
This LOVE this book. I've used many of those excuses to get out of awkward conversations (MOST conversations are awkward) and was inspired to be more creative with new ones. This not only rang very true for me, but it also made me laugh and feel less like I'm just "weird" about spontaneous conversations. Couldn't recommend this book more to fellow introverts. A real treat! Thanks to NetGalley for the copy for review!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novel from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was one of the best graphic novels that I've come across. I really liked the content and how I could totally relate to every single one of these situations, and wished I had this manual earlier on in my introverted life.
There are times where I feel like as I got older, that I became a lot more introverted than when I was younger. If you asked me maybe 10 or 15 years ago if I was introverted or extroverted, I would have said I was a full on extrovert. Today, not so much. There are times where I'd rather be at home with my dogs (all four of them) and either binge watch one of my favorite TV shows or curl up with a book and my dogs surrounding me on the couch or bed and that would be my idea of a good time. I think maybe that's even what I think about when I'm trying to get out of a situation that requires me to be social and I just am not in the right mindset or mood to do so.
I think I'm going to start saving these escape tricks for the future. Actually, I know I'm going to save these for the future, and I know I'm going to start using them. Maybe not the jetpack one, since I'm not cool enough to own one, but one day I'll use that one.
I really think that this manual was such a great idea - not just for introverts who would laugh and relate, but also for some extroverts who may not always understand that sometimes, we just don't want to be in the social scene at this time. It doesn't mean we don't like YOU. We just have our limits, and sometimes we need to just go home and be back in our own company for a while. Like a little recharge session or something like that. I think I'd get this for some of my extroverted friends and family members that don't always understand why I just don't want to hang out today.
Not to mention the graphics in this novel where the absolute cutest ever! Vaz did an amazing job. I know she's already an illustrator and graphic designer, but I really like her style of graphics. It feels so whimsical and happy. I just love it.
Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for this early copy.
I recommend that any introvert pick this up. Parts of it were unrealistic but I related to a lot of it. It was extremely funny.
Thanks NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
First off, I immediately got attracted to the cover and, of course, the title, being the introvert that I am. Needless to say, I really like the art in this graphic novel, it;s one of my favorite graphic novel art forms. For me, this is more of a coffee table book that I can pick up anytime. I don't agree with some of the *excuses* maybe because of cultural differences, but I had a good laugh out of them. It was fun and quirky and something really interesting and relatable for introverts. I had a fun time imagining some of the scenarios happening in real life and actually filling out the blanks for myself. A unique read, indeed.
The Escape Manual for Introverts, is a fun and quick read which not only features cute illustrations but actual advice. I will admit that when engaging socially with people, I tend to get emotionally exhausted and over the years I have found I do have a time limit on how much social interaction I can take. The Escape Manual for Introverts is a perfect guide for people who want ready made excuses to get out of social engagements.
The book offers scenarios and social activities that you may want to get out of, and then provides you a range of plausible and fun excuses. The author and illustrator Katie Vaz describes the purpose of the book in the below which is taken from her letter ‘to the fellow introverts.’
"I created this book to be a cheeky illustrated guide to strengthen your arsenal of cover stories for when ‘I just want to be home’ isn’t going to cut it. In addition to authentically plausible alibis, you’ll also find a catalog of exit strategies and preparation plans for protection in various future socialisations you may find yourself stuck in."
Taken from page 7 of The Escape Manual for Introverts
The book is broken up into different categories which provide scenarios which deal with friends, relatives, coworkers, acquaintances, and strangers. The section of the book that hit closest to home with me was the coworker one, I found that I had used a few of the excuses before and also made note of some offered.
I would recommend The Escape Manual for Introverts to people wanting to read a quick and funny graphic novel, as well as any introvert wanting to add some material to their ‘getting out of stuff’ arsenal. While a lot of the suggestions are quite funny and over the top, there is a lot of legitimate and useful content for introverts actually wanting to escape social scenarios.
Please note: I received a copy of The Escape Manual for Introverts from NetGalley.
A lovely graphic novel adaptation that is engaging with lovely lines and story arc. I would definitely recommend this title to my students and my friends!
This is a lovely book about all the public situations one might be stuck in and really wants to get out of. The solutions are helpful, funny, original and definitely gave me a good laugh or two while also being quite relatable. The art style is pretty nice as well!
The Escape Manual for Introverts is an illustrated guide to help introverts navigate the social landscape. The illustrations are cute and the colouring throughout the book compliments the art style very well. There are helpful tips as well as humour throughout the book. I would recommend this book to anyone who has found themselves in an uncomfortable social situation without having an exit strategy! It was a fun, light and easy read.
This is so much fun! As an introvert, I thoroughly enjoyed the realistic recommendations and the more unrealistic ones. I've also been in all of these situations described and really enjoyed the humor in dealing with them. The art is great and overall, I really loved this book!
Copy provided by Net Galley and the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
5 stars
This was amazing! So cute and the artwork was stunning. The scenarios never failed to entertain me and I chuckled out loud many times.
So excited to get my finished copy of this!
This is a very quick, cute, silly read that offers "tips" for introverts when in overwhelming social situations. The author wrote in her note at the beginning that it's meant to be cheeky and that's exactly what it was. Some of the tips are far fetched but pretty amusing, and some are more genuine and usable in actual real-life situations. I enjoyed it.
I really loved this book. It was quite funny since a lot of the suggestions are over the top however a lot of them are practical ways to avoid uncomfortable situations. I'm an introvert so a lot of these tricks, I have been using for years, but I did find several that I will be saving for next time I'm stuck. I really enjoyed this blend of humor with self-help suggestions and the format was perfect. The illustrations are simple and to the point, but they definitely add to the book.
This book is a fast and fun read, full of realistic situation and interesting ideas.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
As an introvert I enjoyed reading this book and agreeing with what makes us tick. Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for letting me review this book.
A short, humorous graphic novel about ways introverts can escape social situations.
Being an introvert myself, I can relate to the appeal of solitude and silence. The book presents various scenarios and different escape routes for the quiet ones. I liked the art, it was simple but clear and beautifully drawn.
Overall, I enjoyed it and recommend it to introverts who enjoy stories in graphic form.
Received ARC from the publisher via Netgalley
This was a delightful read that has hilarious as well as practical ideas. I like how it was divided up into sections for the five types of people you may encounter (like friends, relatives, and strangers) and then into category within those. The author really gets what it's like to be an introvert. I like how the humor is completely family-friendly with nothing crude about it so you can share this book with anybody. The illustrations are whimsical and the book is a fast and funny read. Thoroughly recommend.
brief summary
A humorous collection of illustrated suggestions for getting out of uncomfortable situations.
full review
Katie Vaz has created an entertaining volume of evasive maneuvers and escape tactics for introverts who have become trapped in untenable or uncomfortable situations created by friends, relatives, coworkers, acquaintances, and strangers. Under each of the above categories Vaz imagines some all-too-real scenarios in which an introvert might find themselves trapped, and then suggests means of escape. Some of Vaz's suggestions are good sense and entirely workable, while others are outrageously implausible, and yet tempting to people who are in awkward situations that fleeing via jetpack seems preferable to enduring another minute of awkward chatting with people whose only knowledge of you is that you go to the park at the same time of day.
Introverted readers will feel heard by this book, which in no way attempts to tell them to become more extroverted or try harder to muddle through uncomfortable situations. It is refreshing to get all that nonsense out of the way and jump straight to the part where you get to beat a hasty retreat mumbling an excuse about a pet goldfish who grows anxious if it doesn't see you every forty five minutes. Doubtless there are hundreds of other scenarios that an introvert might like to see turned into one of Vaz's comic panels, but this volume is just the right length to keep the suggestions fresh and funny, rather than continually riffing on a single theme or sliding into making lazy assumptions about introverts.
In The Escape Manual for Introverts Vaz has created a very shareable book. I hope that this book makes its way into my local library's collection so that I can have all my friends read it without having to actually purchase it for them, because it's good, just not $14.99 good. This is not to say that it's necessarily a one-time, read-and-toss book. As previously mentioned, many suggestions are actually feasible in addition to being funny, and after a first read for entertainment, it may be worth going back and looking into the viability of introducing some of these escape tactics to one's repertoire.
A book that every introvert need! This manual will be a perfect guide on what to do when you find yourself stuck in everyday life situations and you just need to escape. Although some of them are absurd suggestions, they might actually pull off in real life! (Please just don't hire a kidnapper) The art is unique and funny at the same time. A very quick and fun read.
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for providing me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I really enjoyed this fun and quick graphic novel! The perfect laugh for introverts like me. The drawings were simple and cute, and this read definitely had some relatable scenarios. Some of the “solutions” I could either see myself using or have already used! A fun and short pick-me-up.
The Escape Manual for Introverts by Katie Vaz – ⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Borrow your dog’s cone of shame” had me asking my friend whose dog recently had surgery if he kept the cone now that doggo is better….
Recommended: yes!
For those who want a laugh, and maybe some actually usable ways to escape people when you’re just not feeling up to it anymore
Summary:
If you’ve ever needed to find a way to say “hell no” to making plans or interacting with strangers, but also need to not destroy your relationship with the person, look no further! Inside is a bounty of ideas categorized by how much you can afford to alienate the person you’re saying “no” to. You’ll be able to cycle through your excuses so you won’t get called out for the same one over and over! And really, even if you don’t need reasons, it’s just a funny read with lovely illustrations.
Thoughts:
I knew going into this that it would mostly be for laughs, rather than too many actually usable ideas for leaving a party early-ish, or avoiding a family dinner. However, the care and attention Katie gives to the overall work is delightful. Categorizing by relationship and extrapolating how absurd you can be from that is a clever way of framing these. The artwork is simple in color and design, and it’s exactly right. It’s pretty and nice to look at, but I also feel like the simplicity allows anyone to connect to the ideas (even the most extroverted needs a break now and then!).
There’s quite a range of ideas, from reasonable excuses (ahem perhaps ones I’ve used before myself) to completely hilarious one that have me DREAMING of a time I could make use of it somehow!
Thanks to Andrews McMeel Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free copy to review!
This is so cute AF. This is a cute and quick read that gives a bunch of tips on how to survive various social situations. I've honestly recognized some of these tactics because I've been doing them all my life. I was grinning all throughout because its hilarious how I can clearly see my awkward self reflected back at me.
The Escape Manual for Introverts is a great gift for the introverts in your life (or yourself). It's a light, silly, comic take on ways to avoid human interaction. They range from useful (bring a newspaper to hold in front of you as an acceptable shield) to less-than-useful (borrowing your dog's cone of shame). If you are looking for a fun book to keep on your coffee table or nightstand to read a couple of pages here and there, this is a great choice.
this is simply brilliant and extremely relatable to the introverts out here! i'm definitely going to put some of this tips in practice and the illustrations are so cute
This book actually does have a lot of great tips for introverts. The illustrations were nice and informational. I really like how it was split up based on the kinds of people you'd be interacting with/scenarios and believe that this is a great book for anyone who is socially anxious and/or introverted. The scenarios they use are also more common and believable than you'd think too. Overall, this is funny and informational book that I think will resonate with a lot of introverts, myself included.
This book was really cute and definitely a inside joke type for all introverts. Since most of us have come across this scenarios and would LOVE to have a excuse to escape... ah what a world it would be if we could really do some of the things in this graphic novel. Anyway, I enjoyed this quick little read and I think this would make a really cute gift for any of your introverted friends.
A short and funny graphic novel that as an introvert I highly appreciate.
Some of the excuses are silly but even those feel like a logical response.
I recommend it to introverts who want to have a little fun.
This was such a cute book! It is the perfect thing to have lying on a coffee table to enjoy during an intimate tea party with close friends. I actually took notes while reading this book because some of these excuses are very useful to remember in case I need to escape from future social situations. I can’t wait to buy it and show it to my other introverted friends.
"Just because I don't want to go doesn't mean I don't like you". If only that came on a t-shirt, or better still, on the "decline" section of the RSVP to an invitation. There should be a checkbox that says "reason why I cannot accept this invitation" and one of the options should simply be "introvert". If any of this resonates with you - this book is for you! There is no situation that is not covered for you in this book and you will have a fresh supply of reasons to back out of awkward social encounters - from intimate family gatherings to bumping into someone in the supermarket. Of course, you will need to be a bit more clever with what you say to those who are closest to you because they know you well enough to know that you will want to back out of interaction and they may also know that you do not, in fact, attend karate classes! Katie has cleverly worked out a sliding scale of plausibility of excuses and with whom you must use them. In all seriousness you could indeed use this book as a manual - but also as a light hearted look at how it feels to be introverted amongst extroverted people. Five out of five stars!
A humorous book for introverts everywhere. Learn how to avoid uncomfortable situations by using one of the many excuses or exit strategies in this book. The author provides perfect examples of the types of situations that introverts dread and offers various ways to deal with them.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an earc.
I enjoyed this book and I feel like it helped for in future situations to get out of social situations which always I’m glad for. I gave this a 3 out of 5 stars.
A fun book to read and good illustrations. However, a lot of the suggestions are things that introverts already know. I was expecting actual tips but this read more as a humor book.
Katie Vaz combines words and images for a witty book. It’s well done and worth reading and sharing.
Katie Vaz's book, "The Escape Manual for Introverts" is a lifesaver for introverts. It has a list of precarious scenarios in which an unsuspecting or unwilling introvert might get sucked in to some sort of social setting and offers the introvert a bag of tricks, i.e. excuses to get out of almost anything.
This funny "guide" is filled with cute pictures and illustrations to help get her point across. Now, don't get me wrong, just because I am an introvert, that doesn't mean we can't hang out some time. What it means is that I need to have the right amount of energy and feel comfortable enough with the situation to make the endeavor.
I love the opening page's quote: "Just because I don't want to go doesn't mean that I don't like you." I think this is where many hurt comes in from extroverts who just want to be with their (introverted) friends, but said friend doesn't have the capacity to indulge him or her.
So if you are that extrovert, don't take it personal. Respect your friend's boundaries and "no," even if you are disappointed. We still want to be friends. Tonight just isn't the best time for us ;-)
This handy guide has lots of great insight to help the introvert let his extroverted friend down gently and still preserve the friendship. Win-Win!
I received this eBook free of charge from Andrews McMeel Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I did not receive any fiscal compensation from either company for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
Katie Vaz’ The Escape Manual for Introverts is a cute graphic novel which provides many ways to escape uncomfortable social situations.
It is divided into five categories:
1. Friends
2. Relatives
3. Coworkers
4. Acquaintances
5. Strangers
The art style is very cute. I really like the palette chosen for this graphic novel – everything is pastel colored. I think it is very fitting.
The escape routes provided in this graphic novel range from realistic to absolutely outrageous and even crazy. It is all very fun!
I think that everyone would enjoy this book. It is a pageturner and simply entertaining.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
“Use this “Plausibility of Excuse Absurdity” graph as a guideline to how eccentric your escape can safely be to maintain reasonable amounts of believability.” Does this book come in pocket form?
This is an adorable and hilarious book filled with excuses to help introverts avoid any and all social situations that make them uncomfortable.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Super fun and cute. I tell literature seekers to no look here, but anyone who is or knows an introvert will appreciate the humor, wit and cute graphics of this book. Loved it!
This book was a quick read and provided the reader with a variety of scenarios and ways to save yourself from being stuck in a situation you may not want to be stuck in. Some solutions were clever, some witty and some i do not think would work well at all (but may have just been for comical relief). Even someone that may consider themselves an extrovert may benefit from this book, as it will help them understand the introverts in their life better.
"Just because I don't want to go doesn't mean I don't like you."
Oh, how truer words have never been spoken. I want this to be on a little card I can slip over to friends and family while politely denying their invitations to huge gatherings. "That'll be a big, huge, gigantic no from me, but thanks for the invite! xoxox"
The Escape Manual is a funny little graphic novel that'll easily win over any introvert with its clever (and sometimes slightly absurd) excuses to avoid social interactions. The art is also beautifully done and so dang cute! I loved it.
I recommend to all of my fellow introverts. Enjoy!
As an introvert, I was immediately drawn to this book's title. If anyone spends too much time inside their heads coming up with hypothetical escape strategies from social situations, it would definitely be introverts like me. But I never knew it was something I needed, as I've never seen a beautifully illustrated book offering advice like this. At first glance, my interest was instantly piqued and I had to click to see what was inside. And I was not disappointed!
The Escape Manual for Introverts offers advice on how to escape several social situations with friends, relatives, strangers, you name it. And while much of the advice is humorous, I could relate to it all. I might have even used some of this advice already!
I love the concept of this book and I am in awe of how cute the drawings are. I believe this book would be a great gift for your introverted friend or anyone who experiences social awkwardness from time to time. Cute, funny read, for sure.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley!
Such a fun and enjoyable book! Loved the art style and I really related to the need for a good excuse to get out of social interactions 😂😂
This was a great little book on how to escape situations you don’t want to be in. Each page only has about one sentence, so this is a quick read. It’s half joking and half completely doable. If you’re an introvert some of these tips will get you out of socializing when you don’t want to.
A short graphic novel that’s cool and fun. This book is for all introverts, how to socialize, and how to escape unnoticed being socializing. The author being a fellow introvert has felt the need to write the book. There are five chapters each for the different situations we face every day. How and when can an introvert socialize with friends, relatives, coworkers, acquaintances, and strangers! is said in minimal illustrations?
Even though the illustrations were minimal and monotoned, the comic was fun to read. The tips were surprisingly useful, and I hope to try them soon.
E-ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. Thank you, Publisher!
I’ve been anticipating this book for a while, but I was a teensy bit disappointed that it seemed to equate being an introvert with being shy or disliking socialization. Introversions means we need to recharge after all the interaction we do, not necessarily that we dislike it. However, this was wonderfully illustrated and still an enjoyable read! I look forward to her next book too. :)
This was a cute book. Introverts who are sick and tired of being cornered by talkative, friendly, and sweet extroverts will get a good laugh out of the silly situations (and solutions) that Vaz provides. In terms of content, this is a very quick read, meant to be more of a joke (in my humble opinion) than a real guide to dealing with difficult social situations. (Keeping a swaddled butternut squash by your door--to make door to door solicitors think you're cradling a sleeping baby is a hilarious, but impractical--and honestly weird--idea).
This book would make the most impact as a thoughtful gift from one introvert to another, or from a well-meaning extrovert to their favorite loner friend. Readers will be sure to get a good chuckle out of the hilarious solutions to everyday frustrations, even if they won't be able to carry out most of them.
3 1/2 Caffeinated Stars
**I received this book in exchange for an honest review**
When I saw this book offered up on NetGalley, I knew I needed to read it. If you follow me on Twitter or know me in real life, you know that I'm an introvert. I am always looking for some new excuses, so naturally, this book was something that I had to request.
For the most part, I liked this graphic novel. The excuses ranged from usable to obscured, which entertained me. I'm sure that many introverts have utilized some of these excuses. I do hope my family never read this book because it feels like some of my tricks have been spoiled. All joking aside, it was a cute book. The artwork was good, and it was entertaining.
I’m an introvert, so this book seemed like the perfect option for me. With real scenarios which I want to get out of all the time, to some solutions which can be genuinely used whereas others which are downright humorous, this book was a good filler. The illustrations are fun, solutions which are witty but also can be used. Good light reading.
The Escape Manual for Introverts delivers exactly what it promises - how to escape social situation as an introvert. Being an introvert myself, I could relate and it made me feel better about having these emotions and anxiety in specific situations. Of course, it is more of a funny book, peppered with lighthearted humor but it definitely made me feel like it is okay to escape sometimes. And good friends will let you do that without making you feel bad :)
I would love to gift this book to similar friends, it is definitely something that makes you feel good.
I recieved a copy of this book in exchange of an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This was a quick and hilarious read. As an introvert I have found myself in several of these situations described in the book. I can say I picked up some skills and ideas to put to use in the future! I will be looking for other titles by this author. Thank you netgalley for the free copy in exchange for an honest review. #theescapemanualforintroverts #netgalley
Thank you NetGalley for this book in exchange for an honest review. Where has this book been all my life?
Having always identified as an introvert, I couldn't help but pick this book up, and I am so glad that I did. The Escape Manual for Introverts was such a light-hearted and fun read. There were so many awkward situations that were in some ways quite hilarious. I found it really resonating with my own experiences. I loved the illustrations and found them a great accompaniment with the book.
This would be the perfect book to give as a present to you introvert friends or family members. I wholeheartedly recommend,
3⭐️
A cute, fun little coffee-table-esque graphic novel about being an introvert and how to get out of situations you don’t want to be in.
I think it’s definitely relatable for any of us who want to back out of a social gathering we previously committed too and was a short, fun little thing to flip through!
This graphic novel is addressed to an audience who identifies as introvert and struggles to escape social interactions at times.
I found this content very relatable in some situations as I am an introvert myself.
The situations are approached with a lot of humour, it can be perceived as cynical in some cases.
I think there were many funny occurrences, I enjoyed the content through and through.
The illustrations were a clever addition, very relevant.
In conclusion it was a quick, easy and very fun read. A good surprise!
This is a cutesy, off-kilter "manual" on how to escape social situations you really don't want to be in. Not all of them will actually work* though they're sure to elicit a few laughs.
It's a quick read, so perfect for a short getaway from real life. Which is just what every introvert needs.
* not if you want to be an actual relatable, not-weird (adult) human being. And want to keep your job and your friends.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Andrew McMeel Publishing via Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Escape Manual for Introverts by Katie Vaz is currently scheduled for release on August 6 2019. Trapped in an airplane seated next to a chatterbox? Are you hosting a dinner party with people who just won't leave? Katie Vaz has the key to your escape. The Escape Manual for Introverts guides readers through different scenarios with themed chapters ("Friends," "Relatives," "Strangers," etc.). Each chapter covers a range of situations, from an invitation to karaoke night to group lunchtime. And she offers a number of escapes for each scenario: bringing odoriferous foods to lunch for a while, having a pet (real or imagined) that "requires" frequent check-ins, and even investing in a jet pack. This book features Vaz's full-page illustrated spreads, hand-lettering, and spot illustrations. From the silly to the sincere, Vaz's clever, hilarious escape plans and bizarre excuses speak to the introvert in all of us.
The Escape Manual for Introverts is a funny look at how to avoid social interaction when you really feel the need to be alone and recharge. As an introvert that works with the public, I often seek alone time for my off duty hours. Thankfully those closest to me are well aware, and understand my enjoyment of a cup of tea and a good book rather than getting dressed up and going out on the town. This book offers a variety of situations an introvert might feel the desire to escape from and offers some suggests that will help mitigate the small talk and awkward moments. I like that the situations and responses are organized by who you might be interacting with. Some of the suggestions are standard behavior for some of us already, such as bonding with the pets or "helping" in the kitchen to stay busy and out of the fray. Others are great, and slightly more involved- such as finding a cause to volunteer with to help avoid attending situations all together. I both love and dislike this solution. I love it- because getting out and doing good is fabulous, however it could just get you in more situations you might need to avoid- so choose wisely. I do not want to give away any more of the suggestions- because I might need them. The art style is fun, and matches the voice of the book well.
The Escape Manual for Introverts was a read that I really enjoyed and identified with on several levels. I think introverts, and those that love them, will all enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. Thank you NetGalley.
I"m a true Introvert, and this book was spot-on. I laughed a fair amount for sure.
As someone who likes to spend time alone, as soon as I saw the title I had to request it. I loved the artwork and although some scenarios seemed exaggerated, I could find myself using some of the excuses, and probably have used some form of them to get out of social situations in the past. This is a humorous, cute and fun graphic novel
I love this. The hypothetical scenarios were amusing, and the escape routes were even more entertaining to read. I might use a few of this route myself! I like the using of 'level of possibility' for the routes based on your relationship with the other person, I think it's fairly creative. The art style was simple but I enjoy them.
Thank you Andrews McMeel Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Final Rating — 3/5
A collection of ideas for introverts on how to get out of various uncomfortable situations.
I am most definitely an introvert and I identify with the feelings of wanting to avoid certain situations. This collection is like a daydream of ways to escape those situations that introverts would rather not have to experience. I say daydream because if you really followed all this advice you’d become a chronic liar (probably 75% of the comics involved lying in some way). It may be funny in a comic, but even introverts need friends and the steps outlined wouldn’t be a good way to keep friends. Definitely don’t hand this to someone who is going to take it too seriously. But if you and some fellow introverts want a chuckle about what you wish you could get away with at times, then give this a read.
Notes on content [based on ARC]: I read this sporadically over the summer and I can’t remember now if there were any content issues. There wasn’t anything glaringly horrible.
<i>I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</i>
I am a huge introvert so I absolutely adored this book! It's good to be able to laugh at yourself and the situations you find yourself in. The art was stunning and I will definitely be buying a physical copy of the book.
This is a fun way to read about yourself. A lot of things in this book is relatable something that I want to share to my introvert friends too.
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Comics, Graphic Novels, Manga, General Fiction (Adult), Historical Fiction