Eat Your Feelings

September 14, 2009
Though billed as "Amy Sedaris meets a warped Martha Stewart," this painful attempt from writer and actress Whaley falls far short on both counts. Ostensibly a tongue-in-cheek collection of dishes suitable for specific misfortunes and awkward moments, Whaley only manages to expand on the discomfort. Aside from listing props in ingredient lists ("Stir Fry for Stretch Marks," calls for an "old lady bathing suit"; "Moving to Russia To Look For Work Chocobanbutt Panini" calls for more accoutrements than foodstuffs), Whaley includes "recipes" like "MIL From Hell Taco Bell," a list of things to order from the fast food chain when mother-in-law is pushing your buttons. Subtlety and charm are not part of Whaley's repertoire, so crass comedy abounds: "Unwanted Pregnancy Kielbasa and Sauerkraut" lists qualities one should look for in an adoptive family ("must not be likely to sell child on black market"); "Mom's Old-Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup for Closet Cases" reminds readers to use dairy butter, not "boy butter." Readers dealing with depression, irritating family members or simply in the mood for a comfort food pick-me-up would do far better consulting the back of a box of brownie mix, or a pint of Ben & Jerry's.