Operating Instructions Book Summary

Operating Instructions is a raw and heartfelt memoir chronicling Anne Lamott's tumultuous first year of single motherhood. Navigating the chaos of newborn care, spiritual questioning, and the complexities of love, Lamott's wit and vulnerability shine through in every page. As she grapples with self-doubt and the weight of responsibility, readers are invited into her intimate journey of faith and resilience. With humor and honesty, she transforms mundane moments into profound reflections on life and growth. This compelling narrative leaves us pondering the beauty and challenges of parenting, ultimately sparking curiosity about our own stories of transformation.

By Anne Lamott

Published: 2011

"“Parenting is like a long trip in a strange place; you get lost and end up somewhere you hadn’t planned to be.”"

Book Review of Operating Instructions

With the same brilliant combination of humor and warmth she brought to bestseller Bird by Bird, Anne Lamott gives us a smart, funny, and comforting chronicle of single motherhood. It’s not like she’s the only woman to ever have a baby. At thirty-five. On her own. But Anne Lamott makes it all fresh in her now-classic account of how she and her son and numerous friends and neighbors and some strangers survived and thrived in that all important first year. From finding out that her baby is a boy (and getting used to the idea) to finding out that her best friend and greatest supporter Pam will die of cancer (and not getting used to that idea), with a generous amount of wit and faith (but very little piousness), Lamott narrates the great and small events that make up a woman’s life. "Lamott has a conversational style that perfectly conveys her friendly, self-depricating humor." -- Los Angeles Times Book Review "Lamott is a wonderfully lithe writer .... Anyone who has ever had a hard time facing a perfectly ordinary day will identify." -- Chicago Tribune

Similar books you might like →

Showing 8 of 29 similar books

Similar Book Recommendations →

John Green's Book Recommendations

John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.

Memoirs and BiographiesInspiring ReadsEducation

Dr. Harvey Karp's Book Recommendations

Dr. Harvey Karp is a renowned pediatrician and child development expert, best known for his groundbreaking method for calming infants, as detailed in The Happiest Baby on the Block. He is the creator of the SNOO Smart Sleeper, a robotic crib designed to help babies sleep safely and soundly. Dr. Karp has been a leading voice in pediatric health for decades, emphasizing the importance of sleep for both babies and parents. His methods have revolutionized infant care and parenting techniques. He continues to advocate for improved early childhood development practices.

Parenting and FamilyHealth and Nutrition

Aileen Lee's Book Recommendations

Aileen Lee is a distinguished venture capitalist and founder of Cowboy Ventures, a seed-stage venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology companies. She is widely known for coining the term "unicorn" to describe startups valued at over $1 billion, significantly impacting how the tech industry views high-growth companies. Lee's keen eye for innovation and her advocacy for diversity in tech have made her a prominent figure in Silicon Valley. Beyond her financial acumen, she has authored insightful articles on entrepreneurship and startup culture, contributing valuable perspectives to business literature. Lee's work continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and investors.

Business and LeadershipInspiring Reads

James Clear's Book Recommendations

James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.

Self-ImprovementProductivity

Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.

Business and LeadershipEducationSelf-Improvement

Jessica Hische's Book Recommendations

Jessica Hische is an acclaimed American lettering artist, illustrator, and author, renowned for her distinctive typographic style and contributions to the world of design. She gained widespread recognition for her work on the "Daily Drop Cap" project, which showcased her talent and creativity in lettering. Hische has collaborated with major clients such as Wes Anderson, Penguin Books, and The New York Times, further cementing her status in the design community. Her book, "In Progress," offers valuable insights into her creative process, inspiring countless designers and artists. Additionally, Hische’s advocacy for work-life balance and creative entrepreneurship has made her a respected voice in the industry.

Creativity and InnovationInspiring ReadsWomen Who Lead

Sarah Jessica Parker's Book Recommendations

Sarah Jessica Parker is an award-winning actress, producer, and entrepreneur, best known for her role as Carrie Bradshaw in the iconic TV series Sex and the City. Her portrayal earned her widespread acclaim and established her as a fashion icon. In addition to acting, she has her own shoe line, SJP Collection, and has produced and starred in HBO’s Divorce. Sarah Jessica is also active in philanthropy, supporting various causes, including arts and education. Her influence spans both entertainment and fashion industries.

Women Who LeadMedia and Pop CultureCreativity and InnovationInspiring Reads

Lena Dunham's Book Recommendations

Lena Dunham is an acclaimed writer, director, and actress, best known for creating and starring in the HBO series "Girls," which garnered widespread critical acclaim and several awards, including two Golden Globes. In literature, she is the author of the bestselling memoir "Not That Kind of Girl: A Young Woman Tells You What She's 'Learned'," which offers candid insights into her life and experiences. Dunham has also contributed essays to various prominent publications, showcasing her distinctive voice and sharp wit. Her work often explores themes of feminism, identity, and the complexities of modern womanhood. Beyond her creative endeavors, Dunham is a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and women’s rights.

Memoirs and BiographiesWomen Who LeadInspiring Reads

Showing 8 of 23 related collections

“Parenting is like a long trip in a strange place; you get lost and end up somewhere you hadn’t planned to be.”

Operating Instructions

By Anne Lamott