Dad Is Fat

Jim Gaffigan never imagined he would have his own kids.

Though he grew up in a large Irish-Catholic family, Jim was satisfied with the nomadic, nocturnal life of a standup comedian, and was content to be "that weird uncle who lives in an apartment by himself in New York that everyone in the family speculates about." But all that changed when he married and found out his wife, Jeannie "is someone who gets pregnant looking at babies."

Five kids later, the comedian whose riffs on everything from Hot Pockets to Jesus have scored millions of hits on YouTube, started to tweet about the mistakes and victories of his life as a dad. Those tweets struck such a chord that he soon passed the million followers mark. But it turns out 140 characters are not enough to express all the joys and horrors of life with five kids, so he's now sharing it all in Dad Is Fat.

From new parents to empty nesters to Jim's twenty-something fans, everyone will recognize their own families in these hilarious takes on everything from cousins ("celebrities for little kids") to growing up in a big family ("I always assumed my father had six children so he could have a sufficient lawn crew") to changing diapers in the middle of the night ("like The Hurt Locker but much more dangerous") to bedtime (aka "Negotiating with Terrorists").

Dad is Fat is sharply observed, explosively funny, and a cry for help from a man who has realized he and his wife are outnumbered in their own home.

Spot on re parenthood

I wouldn't recommend this book for anyone who isn't a parent of young children. But since I am one, I thoroughly enjoyed how Jim Gaffigan celebrates, mocks, and bemoans our state in life. It is spot on! Tears came to my eyes sometimes from laughter and other times from joyful "Hallmark" glowy feelings about my kids.

Hilarious parenting empathizer

What made the experience of listening to Dad Is Fat the most enjoyable?

The fact that JG is the narrator.

What did you like best about this story?

The fact that it is so personal and relatable to fellow parents.

Have you listened to any of Jim Gaffigan’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I have only heard his stand-up, but think this is right along the same lines, just with more of a central focus rather than many topics.

What insight do you think you’ll apply from Dad Is Fat?

Don't live in a 5th floor, walk-up, 2 bedroom apartment, ever- but especially when you are a family of 7.

Any additional comments?

For the people who said they didn't like it because there was too much parenting and marriage content...that is what the book is about! He wrote this with the intent to entertain people about his crazy life as a father and husband! It is funny.

Great Audiobook

What made the experience of listening to Dad Is Fat the most enjoyable?

Jim Gaffigan's sense of humor and observations on fatherhood/parenting are a scream!

What was one of the most memorable moments of Dad Is Fat?

The answer to the question "What is it like having five kids?"

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

His affection and devotion to his wife and family are palpable and real.

Any additional comments?

Confused at other postings here at Audible that said the delivery of Mr. Gaffigan was flawed. This is NOT a standup routine, it is an audio book. His delivery is very good and very entertaining.

This guy is the best!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would recommend this book to any new parent little ones yet come to think of it, maybe they wouldn't like being the butt of the joke BUT Jim delivers as a victim as well so you get someone who relates to the ups and downs of parenting.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Jim. He's honest!

Have you listened to any of Jim Gaffigan’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

At first, I was not really 'feeling' this book because I don't have kids myself. But continued to listen...I already bought the book...so might as well and glad that I did.

What did you learn from Dad Is Fat that you would use in your daily life?

It reaffirmed my stance on married parents raising children. I can't imagine doing it on my own.
It also reminded me to spend more time with my future children and/or those you love. Cherish the love (singing)

Any additional comments?

What are you guys paying this man that he can't afford more that a 2BR apt in NY? He deserves more or Jim - demand more!

New Parent Can Relate and Laughed the Whole Time!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I can definitely relate to many of these stories as a new parent. I think Jim Gaffigan is wonderfully honest and hilarious. He perfectly captures the stress, terror, and love of parenting. It is a hilarious, yet thoughtful, book and anyone who is a parent will love it.