The Escape Manual for Introverts by Katie Vaz: Introvering at 100%

SYNOPSIS: The Escape Manual for Introverts

Disclaimer: I received an electronic ARC of This Escape Manual for Introverts from the publisher via Edelweiss.

Feeling cornered at a wedding reception by gossipy guests? Stuck at a holiday party that lasts forever? This beautifully illustrated book is the ultimate funny, sometimes absurd guide to escaping those painfully awkward situations.

review graphic showing the escape manual for introverts book by katie vaz

In her illustrated how-to guide, Katie Vaz shares tips for introverts seeking to ditch social situations. As she mentions in the foreword, the plans range from plausible and socially acceptable to kooky and wildly hilarious.

sample page from the escape manual for introverts by katie vaz — c/o Andrews McNeel Publishing

The book is divided into excuses for Friends, Relatives, Co-workers, Acquaintances, and Strangers. For friends, excuses range from “I already made plans with X” to pretending one’s phone battery is about to die mid-uncomfortable-conversation.

The excuses get crazier and more entertaining as the book progresses. This is a fun and engaging little book. I would definitely feel uncomfortable making some of these excuses as many are blatant lies. For example, she suggests saying “I have to go — I left X appliance on.”

However, as an introvert, I know I’ve dodged people I know in stores, just because I didn’t want to make small talk. So, I felt seen and understood by the Vaz’s fun illustrations.

I’d happily recommend The Escape Manual for Introverts to any introverts looking for a light, easy-to-read book on introversion. The illustrations are easy on the eyes and it covers a wide variety of scenarios — you just might catch yourself taking notes!

Overall

The Escape Manual for Introverts is a collection of illustrations empathizing with the plight of the introvert stuck in prolonged social situations. Author Katie Vaz recommends a variety of escape solutions in multiple scenarios. If you enjoy illustrations, graphic novels, or graphic memoirs, you’ll enjoy this little book!