Paige DeSorbo ventured into uncharted territory by publishing her first book without the assistance of a ghostwriter, as she reveals in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. The former Summer House star and cohost of the Giggly Squad podcast, aged 32, shared her insights on the creation of her latest book, “How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously,” with her podcast partner, Hannah Berner. Initially taken aback by the proposition from Simon & Schuster, DeSorbo admitted, “I don’t know punctuation!” when faced with the prospect of co-writing the book in her own voice.
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In a candid discussion, DeSorbo disclosed that the process of writing the book was a challenge, especially without the assistance of a ghostwriter. Despite her initial hesitation, she, along with Berner and even Berner’s mother, Lenore DiLeo-Berner, collaborated to bring the book to life. DeSorbo amusingly recounted how her parts in the book were marked in red, with editing sessions feeling akin to a classroom experience. This behind-the-scenes look showcases the effort and dedication that went into creating a book filled with their signature humor.
“How to Giggle” encapsulates DeSorbo and Berner’s light-hearted yet practical advice on various topics, such as managing friendships and pursuing personal goals with a blend of delusion and manifestation. DeSorbo expressed her desire for the book to be a source of entertainment and inspiration, allowing readers to pick it up at any moment and find joy in its contents. Drawing inspiration from iconic magazines like Cosmopolitan, the duo aimed to create a relatable and engaging read that resonates with their audience.
Reflecting on the writing process, DeSorbo acknowledged the complexities of crafting a book and gained a newfound appreciation for authors. Despite the challenges, there were moments of levity, such as recording the audiobook with Berner and reminiscing on personal anecdotes that made their way into the book. DeSorbo shared a story from the book involving a memorable interaction with her mother, highlighting the blend of humor and personal experiences woven throughout the pages.
Looking ahead, DeSorbo hinted at potentially exploring deeper topics in future projects while emphasizing the importance of finding humor in life’s moments. The message of embracing levity and laughter resonates throughout the book, serving as a reminder to readers that navigating life’s ups and downs can be made more enjoyable with a lighthearted approach. As “How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously” hits shelves, DeSorbo and Berner’s collaborative effort marks a significant milestone in their literary journey.
The release of DeSorbo’s debut book signifies a new chapter in her career, showcasing her versatility as an author and entertainer. With a blend of wit, personal anecdotes, and insightful advice, “How to Giggle” offers readers a refreshing perspective on navigating life with humour and grace. As DeSorbo continues to explore new avenues in her creative pursuits, her foray into the world of publishing without a ghostwriter serves as a testament to her drive and determination in sharing her unique voice with the world.