Go Ask Ali : Half- Baked Advice (And Free Lemonade) by Ali Wentworth

New York Times bestselling author Ali Wentworth presents her humorous and distinctive advice on navigating the absurdity of modern life in her latest collection of hilarious comic vignettes. In her previous works, Ali in Wonderland and Happily Ali After, Wentworth received praise from readers, critics, and fellow comedians. Entertainment Weekly even included Happily Ali After on its “Must List,” describing it as “hilarious” and noting that Wentworth’s perspective is refreshingly candid.

Notable personalities have weighed in on Wentworth’s comedic talents as well. Chelsea Handler declared Ali in Wonderland to be “truly hilarious,” while Kathy Griffin referred to it as “Chicken Soup for the Vagina.” Echoing their sentiments, Alec Baldwin characterized Wentworth as “funny, warm, and crazy all at once,” comparing her to Barbara Eden but “on something, like crystal meth.” And Jerry Seinfeld raved, claiming that everything that comes out of Wentworth’s mouth is funny.

Combining endearing and humorous elements, this third collection showcases Wentworth at her most astute and clever. Through a series of tips, observations, and clever remarks, she provides guidance on a range of perplexing situations and challenges that have shaped her unique worldview as a wife, mother, actress, comedian, and overall bon vivant. Bursting with entertainment, Go Ask Ali is a delightful compilation of thoughts and musings from “the girlfriend you’d love to share a glass of wine with; the one who brings laughter by finding humor and absurdity in everything” (Huffington Post).

“Ali Wentworth’s Book: Go Ask Ali – Half-baked Advice and Free Lemonade”

Hey everyone, welcome to the Build Series in New York City! I’m your host, Lauren Moravsky, and today we have actress and comedian Ali Wentworth as our guest. Ali is well-known for her roles in shows like “In Living Color,” as well as movies like “Jerry Maguire” and “It’s Complicated.” She is also a New York Times bestselling author, and her latest book, “Go Ask Ali: Half-Baked Advice and Free Lemonade,” offers tips for navigating life’s stickiest situations. Let’s give a warm welcome to Ali Wentworth!

We’re so excited to have you here today, Ali. Congrats on your fourth book!

Thank you! I’m thrilled to be back at Build. This book is a collection of my own mistakes, and I’m sharing them to save you from making the same ones. People come to me for advice, maybe because I make a mean chocolate-chip cookie or because I’m good at bullshitting. The book is full of cautionary tales and lessons learned the hard way.

Not Hiring a Hot Babysitter

One chapter in the book discusses the importance of not hiring a hot babysitter. It may seem obvious, but I’ve had three friends who lost their husbands to hot babysitters. I take readers through the reality of having a hot babysitter in your home, from the stained nightgown to the crumbs on your face. Babies are scientifically proven to respond better to symmetrical faces, and hot babysitters often have perfect faces. Ultimately, the babysitter and the husband end up together, and the wife is left seeing her kids every other weekend.

Social Media Addiction

Another topic I cover in the book is my mixed feelings about social media, specifically Instagram. My 14-year-old daughter convinced me to join Instagram, claiming it would be good for my “brand.” But I found myself constantly hurt by the curated lives I saw on the platform, and I became addicted to it. I would mock it, but at the same time, I couldn’t get enough. I saw photos of people I didn’t even know celebrating Halloween or getting a dog, and it just didn’t feel genuine. I also worry about my daughters and their use of social media, especially when they follow models with unrealistic body images. I try to set limits for them, like no phones at dinner or at night, but it’s a challenge in today’s world.

The Challenges of a High-Profile Marriage

Being married to George Stephanopoulos, a high-profile figure in politics and journalism, comes with its own set of challenges. We do talk politics at home, but there are times when he gets a breaking news alert and has to leave without telling me what’s happening. It can be unsettling, always being aware of the constant news cycle. But we find ways to balance it, like having phone-free dinners.

Making People Laugh

I’ve made a career out of making people laugh, and many things make me laugh too. Comedians like Chris Rock, the cast of “Will and Grace,” and even my girlfriends crack me up. I find laughter to be healing and a great way to cope with life’s challenges.

Future Projects

As for what’s next, I’ll likely write another book and continue working on scripts. Eventually, I’d love to get back into performing. I enjoy bringing humor to people’s lives, and it’s something I’m passionate about.

Thank you, Ali, for joining us today. Don’t forget to pick up a copy of “Go Ask Ali” for some hilarious and insightful advice. Let’s give Ali Wentworth another round of applause!