You Look So Much Better in Person

True Stories of Absurdity and Success

By: Al Roker

Narrated by: Al Roker

Today coanchor Al Roker presents an entertaining guide to achieving a life of happiness and success through the power of "yes!"

These days, the road to success can feel jampacked with scheduling, networking, nonstop hustle, and flat-out absurdity. And no one knows that better than Al Roker—beloved cohost of The Today Show, weatherperson extraordinaire, and the man we all secretly wish we could turn to for wisdom and wisecracks in our everyday lives. From his college days as a polyester suit-clad weather forecaster in Syracuse to battling and buttering up the "Butter Man" during the legendary Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Al has learned worthwhile lessons over a long, successful career. And now, for the first time, Al is ready to unleash savvy advice on how to embrace happiness and the power of saying "yes," alongside a host of humorous tips and tricks about how to succeed in life.

In You Look So Much Better in Person, Al teaches us how we can weather the storm of life, no matter how torrential the downpour, and shares anecdotes from his own treasure trove of memories in the spotlight. And it hasn't always been easy—believe it or not, even Al has been yelled at by his boss, suffered an emotional breakdown at work, and been told he'd be better suited in another position. Within these pages, he looks back on his own career and shares valuable "Altruisms" that can be applied to our own endeavors, such as how to:

• Navigate the special hell that is socializing
• Craft the perfect comeback line during a confrontation—and know when to use it
• Get up early and actually make the most of your time
• Cry at work without freaking people out
• And much, much more!

Packed to the brim with cackle-inducing and cringeworthy behind-the-scenes insights and observations from over four decades in the media, this book reminds us all that long-term success in our personal lives and our careers is just within reach. You Look So Much Better in Person will leave you laughing out loud, inspired, and comforted during life's best and worst moments.

Critic reviews

*Amazon, "Best Biographies & Memoirs of the Month" (July 2020)*
USA TODAY, "Five Books Not to Miss!"
AARP, "Inspirational New Books"
Gretchen Rubin, "What I Read This Month: August 2020"

"Sharing a host of lively anecdotes, Roker reflects on what he's learned from his undeniably successful career. [...] Ebullient revelations of a contented life."—Kirkus

"This sunny, pleasant book is perfect for Roker fans or anyone in need of a quick pick me up."—Publisher's Weekly

"An easy recommendation."—Booklist

"[This book is] illustrated with great charm, and [shows] that you don't have to be the company chest-beater to be the winner."—The New York Times

"Full of amusing stories."—AARP

"A charming memoir that will inspire readers."—The Chicago Sun Times

"[Roker] talks straight up success..."—The Washington Informer

"I love aphorisms, so I loved the organization of this book by 'ALtruisms'-lessons for career and life that Al Roker has learned along the way. So many great insights."—Gretchen Rubin, author of THE HAPPINESS PROJECT

Relaxing and funny

A relaxing and funny read with great life and career advice. Also gives glimpses of Al’s personal life.

Put together

Wow, Al!
Thank you for a fun, entertaining and informative read! I LOVED the music in between the chapters. Wish I could listen to this band all day long!
Your life story was helpful to me even though we are about the same age... never too old to learn, right?
Loved the way you were yourself in this book. So much better IN PERSON! It was great getting to know you. Now I know you are serious nerd! With cool glasses! :)

So Much Fun!

I enjoyed all the crazy AL Roker voices and his puns. The silliness and seriousness he shared made this book an absolute joy to hear. There were important ideas shared, too. I will probably listen to this book again to be sure I didn't miss anything!

Al Roker sharing heartfelt wisdom and whimsy!

Easy and fun read. Like going on a road trip with a cool guy. Thanks Al.

Super fun listen

Utterly entertaining piece. Keeping it real with some practical live lessons Thanks for sharing Al!