LOSER*: A Survival Guide to High School Popularity begins with a story on Lake Tahiti about reed island life, and author C.S. Beaty dwells on it at length. Throughout his memoir, Beaty tends to wander away from the main subject—often discussing secondary topics that can be funny or connect to the chapters in a roundabout way. The book serves as a user manual for surviving high school, making the interesting point that teenagers play roles as they aspire to identify with the "part" they emotionally assume. Beaty also highlights self-consciousness by implying that many people suffer from an identity crisis.

The references to Blockbuster and Hot Topic situate Beaty firmly within the next generation, resonating with Generation Y readers. At the core of the book is a clear fondness for his hometown Grand Island, Nebraska, including jokes such as, "It’s not an island, and it’s not grand." His self-deprecating humor encompasses himself, his town, and his stories, and the tone is one of fond reminiscence (both sarcastic and affectionate).

Beaty’s use of ingenious metaphors demonstrates the audacious way he laughs at himself, especially in his descriptions of the "Coney Island Lunch Room" and various yearbook pictures and quotes. These moments feel like inside jokes for those attuned to his style. The meticulousness and absurdity of his prose serve as his superpowers. Sometimes his detailed attention and love for the absurd cause an anecdote or two to stretch a bit too long, or a joke to land only for readers who grew up in the same era or region. This is the trade-off with a memoir so rooted in its time and place: readers who share those experiences will find it a treat, while others may occasionally feel left out. The frequent Generation Y shout-outs and winding explanations can leave the narrative feeling somewhat loose around the edges, but, in a strange way, that imperfection suits the story that Beaty is telling.

LOSER is a comedic and heartwarming collection about adolescence and forgotten contemporary trends, offering readers much to relate to and adore. Beaty creates a sense of connection for readers who may see their own struggles and growth in his childhood. Overall, the blend of humor and heartfelt reflection makes this collection especially rewarding for anyone who has ever felt out of place or nostalgic for the past.

Full of fun facts, dry wit, and a search for belonging that readers are sure to find alluring, C.S. Beaty's LOSER*: A Survival Guide to High School Popularity highlights his quirky mind. Its collage-like structure is charming, and readers attuned to Beaty’s millennial sensibility will find much to enjoy.

~ Felix Metiagi for IndieReader