It Was an Ugly Couch Anyway

And Other Thoughts on Moving Forward

Read by the author.

A collection of refreshingly honest and hilarious essays from Southern Living columnist Elizabeth Passarella about navigating change--whether emotional or logistical--and staying sane during life's unexpected twists and turns.

After Elizabeth Passarella and her husband finally decided that it was time to sell their two-bedroom apartment in Manhattan, she found herself wondering, Is there a proper technique for skinning a couch? The couch in question was a beloved hand-me-down from her father--who had recently passed away--and she was surprisingly reluctant to let the nine-foot, plaid, velour-covered piece of furniture go. So, out came the scissors. She kept the fabric and tossed the couch.

We've all had to make decisions in our lives about what to keep and what to toss--habits, attitudes, friends, even homes. In this new collection of essays, Elizabeth explores the ups and downs of moving forward--both emotionally and logistically--with her welcome candor and sense of humor that readers have come to love. She enters into a remarkable (and strange) relationship with an elderly neighbor whose apartment she hopes to buy, examines her own stubborn stances on motherhood and therapy, and tries to come to terms with a family health crisis that brings more questions than answers. Along the way Elizabeth reminds readers that when they feel stuck or their load feels heavy, there is always light breaking in somewhere.

It Was an Ugly Couch Anyway will make readers laugh, cry, and feel a little less alone as they navigate their own lives that are filled with uncertainty, change, and things beyond their control.

New Favorite Book

Southern charm with New Yorker spunk. I loved every minute of it. Listening to Elizabeth was like sitting with an old friend and catching up. She's such an extraordinary storyteller. I can't wait to read her next book and hope it's filled with stories of her beloved NYC building and apartment and, of course, Lois. ♡

Love ending this on Mothers Day!!

I loved this!! I want more essays like these. So heartwarming and honest about struggles. Thanks for another great read Elizabeth.

Loved this book!

Entertaining read! Well written! Great humor for real life experiences! Can’t wait to read her next book!

Excellent read!!

It Was an Ugly Couch Anyway is funny, poignant, & real, through & through! Readers get wonderful glimpses of Elizabeth’s life, faith, and humor on every page. You will be tickled, encouraged, and inspired by her words.

comfortable easy read

like a good conversation and an easy read you can pick up whenever you want
loved