Preview
  • So Close to Being the Sh*t, Y'all Don't Even Know

  • By: Retta
  • Narrated by: Retta
  • Length: 6 hrs and 56 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (1,957 ratings)

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So Close to Being the Sh*t, Y'all Don't Even Know

By: Retta
Narrated by: Retta
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Publisher's summary

This program is read by the author.

"This book feels like a real conversation. When we enter Retta's world we are at the best party and in the hands of a gracious, self-perceptive, and deeply hilarious host." (Amy Poehler)

In this hilarious audiobook essay collection, Parks and Recreation star Retta shares the stories that led to her success in Hollywood.

In So Close to Being the Sh*t, Y'all Don't Even Know, Parks and Recreation star Retta takes us on her not-so-meteoric rise from roaches to riches (well, rich enough that she can buy $15,000 designer handbags yet scared enough to know she's always a heartbeat away from ramen with American cheese).

Throwing her hardworking Liberian parents through a loop, Retta abandons her plan to attend med school after graduating Duke University to move to Hollywood to star in her own sitcom - like her comedy heroes Lucille Ball and Roseanne.

Say what? Word. Turns out Retta might actually be on to something. After winning Comedy Central's stand-up competition, she should be ready for prime time - but a fear of success derails her biggest dream.

Whether reminiscing about her days as a contract chemist at GlaxoSmithKline, telling "dirty" jokes to Mormons, feeling like the odd man out on Parks, fending off racist trolls on Twitter, flirting with Michael Fassbender, or expertly stalking the cast of Hamilton, Retta's unique voice and refreshing honesty will make you laugh, cry, and laugh so hard you'll cry.

Her eponymous sitcom might not have happened yet, but by the end of So Close to Being the Sh*t, listeners will be rooting for Retta to be the next one-named wonder to take over your television. And she just might inspire you to reach for the stars, too.

©2018 Marietta Sirleaf (P)2018 Macmillan Audio
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Critic reviews

"Two things - 1) Don't yell 'Treat Yo Self' at Retta if you see her in person, a lot of people have done that already, just whisper it to yourself and give her a thumbs up. That'd be cool. 2) Check out her book. Stop reading this quote and buy it already, boo boo." (Aziz Ansari, best-selling author of Modern Romance)

Featured Article: Tune into the Best Audiobooks and Podcasts by Sitcom Stars


When you love a TV show and follow it for seasons, it almost feels like the characters are old friends. That's why audiobooks and podcasts by fan-favorite sitcom stars can feel so uniquely engaging and intimate. Whether they're letting you in on behind-the-scenes stories, recalling memories from their own lives and careers, or simply telling interesting or funny anecdotes, it's a joy to hear beloved actors share their points of view in their own voices.

What listeners say about So Close to Being the Sh*t, Y'all Don't Even Know

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Fun Listen

So relatable to my own childhood. I smiled through the entire listen, laughed out loud several times, and shouted, me too! a lot.

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So sad it’s over!

LOOOOOOOOOOVED it! Retta is not only an amazing storyteller, she’s a hell of a performer - even on an audiobook. I laughed out loud more times than I can count, and by the end, I honestly felt like I was saying goodbye to a great friend. This is the first audiobook where I was genuinely sad it was over. I need more Retta in my life!

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Excellent!!! Loved it!

so much fun to listen to :) Retta is so authentic and hilarious. definitely recommend to everyone.

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Laugh out loud funny!

I love Retta so much after reading this! She is humble, hilarious, and knows her value. I was laughing so much - this book is definitely meant to be listened to. Love, love, love. If you enjoy BossyPants by Tina Fey, you will love this too!

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Retta Retta RETTA!!!

I loved your book! I laughed out loud and feel like I know you better. Loved your Mom stories!!!

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Funny Lady

Retta is an awesome storyteller. She had me in stitches the entire book. 5 Stars.

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Love it!

Retta's book was really funny and honest. At times I wish there were more vulnerable stories because most of the chapters were funny. However, she's an awesome narrator and I loved it!

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unfoRETTAble

this story was freaking awesome. I loved Retta on parks and recs... to me she's been the shit

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Such an entertaining book!

This made me love her even more. I loved hearing her history and struggles that made her into the fabulous person she is today! Can’t wait for the next one!

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Retta IS the shit

LOVED IT!!! I WANT ALL MY AUDIOBOOKS READ BY RETTA!!! It was funny and heartfelt and her voice is so soothing to listen to. I felt like I was in the story next to her.

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