Stuck in Downward Dog: A Novel

I decided to re-read this chick lit title. What can I say. It was the holidays and I wanted something light and frivolous to read.

Stuck in Downward Dog is the story of 20-something Mara who hates her job as a receptionist for a 2nd rate cosmetic surgeon, has been dumped by her boyfriend, and attempts to be a better 'Mara' by emulating her friends Mitz and Olivia with her OM list. Of course the crux of the story is how Mara fails miserably and comically at her attempts to be just like her friends.

I liked Stuck in Downward Dog in spite of itself and Mara's air-headedness because it's not about getting the guy, it's about figuring out who you want to be and being true to yourself; that's what redeems it for me.

If you're looking for a light read, are willing to stick it out to the end, and have any interest in yoga you'll like Stuck in Downward Dog.

It's a fun novel in a refreshing Toronto setting. The main character is undeniably lovable. I found myself smiling a lot while reading which was a bit embarrassing being in a train. It will take your mind off your own little problems, and reminds you that no, it's not always greener elsewhere.

Chantel Simmons created a frustratingly insecure 28 year old when she thought about Mara. The main character in this story has no idea what she's doing with her life or where she wants it to go. She looks at her two overachieving best friends and tries to benchmark her life against theirs. She decides to make a list of all of their unique qualities that she wishes to achieve ( learn to cook, get a real job etc). Success but mostly failures follow as Mara attempts to get her life on track.

This book was a quick and easy read. It did have its funny moments, think Bridget Jones. however I found myself wanting to slap some sense into Mara. Personally I would have dumped the two "best friends" and realised what was the perfect job about half way through the book. Having to wait until closer to the end for the character to figure it all out, made this a predictable story.

as a middle aged mother of three teens I was pleasantly surprised on how much i enjoyed this little novel about a 20s something girl being dumped and starting over.I thought it was both funny and relatable for woman of all ages.The authors sense of humor was definetly present throughout the book,.It is a quick and easy read.a nice little pik me up at the end of a long hard day.