REVIEW: Big Dumb Eyes by Nate Bargatze
Book #55 of 2025, done!
📖BOOK: Big Dumb Eyes by Nate Bargatze
🎧FORMAT: Audiobook via Prince William County Library and Libby
📚GENRE: Memoir/Comedy
📅RELEASED: May 6, 2025
⏱️AUDIOBOOK LENGTH: 7 hours (listened at 1.6x speed)
⭐RATING: ★★★★★ (5/5)
👉 PURCHASE: Click Here to Purchase
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🧳SYNOPSIS:
In Big Dumb Eyes, comedian Nate Bargatze brings his signature dry humor (which I ADORE) to the page…errr mic. I listened via audiobook. This collection of essays and observations feels like a stand-up set in book form, filled with everyday bafflements, gentle chaos, and the kind of humor that doesn’t punch down. From growing up in the South to fumbling through adulthood, Bargatze reflects with the same low-energy brilliance he’s known for on stage.
💬THE VIBE:
Unbothered and hilarious. It’s like you’re on a porch swing, listening to your funniest friend explain the absurdity of saving boxes settings and Vegas buffets.
💡STANDOUT ELEMENTS:
Nate narrates it himself, which makes every joke land perfectly. I HIGHLY recommend listening to it instead of reading but you do you.
Laid-back but smart humor that doesn’t need shock value to be funny
Comforting, cozy, and just the right amount of ridiculous
🧠WHAT STUCK:
His commitment to being exactly who he is…no flash, no shouting, just well-delivered weird observations. It’s feel-good comedy without being cheesy.
👎WHAT DIDN’T WORK FOR ME:
Honestly…nothing. This is the first time in a while I just hit play and grinned all the way through. I needed that.
🤔IF YOU LIKE:
Dry comedy with heart
Audiobooks that feel like conversations
🙅♀️IF YOU DON’T LIKE:
Slow-paced humor
Nonfiction that’s light on drama
Jokes that feel more like chuckles than gut-busters
Happiness. I mean honestly, if you don’t like happiness, pass this up
📝FINAL VERDICT:
5 stars.
This is a warm bowl of mac and cheese in audiobook form. A reminder that smart doesn’t have to be loud, and funny doesn’t have to be mean. Give it a listen…you’ll leave lighter.
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