What I learned from this book: I am white. You might say to me, "Aren't you 24 years old? You should have figured that out by now." That is true and of course I knew that ...you jerk. However, until I read this man's blog & book, I never understood the vast depths of my white-ness.
Note: it should be stated (although obvious) that this book explores quirky and/or strange things that Christian Lander has observed in white culture a.k.a stereotypes. But these stereotypes are not intended to be negative just humorous. It does NOT say that these preferences are exclusively "white" or that every Caucasian loves all of the things that he mentions. Plus, keep in mind that he is a comedian, so cut him some slack.
Anyways, some of my favorite Stuff White People Like:
- Indie Music - "If you mention a band that you like and the other person has heard of it, you lose."
- Wes Anderson Movies - "If they don't get the joke and other white people are laughing, they'll all join in. It's pretty much the case that if one dude with glasses laughs, the entire theater will be in stiches within 15 seconds."
- Arrested Development - "Even though white people prefer to say that they don't watch T.V. one thing that they agree on is that Arrested Development was the best show ever."
- Bicycles - "Bike shops are almost entirely staffed and patronized by white people."
The only problem that I have with the book is that he often confuses "white" with being a southern Californian or a liberal. I wish he had more expansive commentary on other white areas of the country (i.e. Texas or Minnesota). But, whatever; it is all in good fun.
Hilarious book. Good coffee table book for sure.
Recommended to: White people and/or people with a sense of humor when it comes to race relations