How to Giggle Summary and Analysis

How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously by Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo is a humorous and candid exploration of the unlikely yet inspiring friendship between the authors, their careers in entertainment, and their rise to fame.  The book chronicles their personal and professional journeys, shedding light on their shared love for humor and their ability to turn life’s challenges into comedic moments.

Through witty anecdotes, advice, and a light-hearted tone, Hannah and Paige reflect on their experiences in reality television, their podcast, and how they built a brand based on authenticity and laughter.  In a world that often takes itself too seriously, their message is clear: laugh, embrace the absurd, and always believe in yourself.

Summary

How to Giggle takes readers through the dynamic friendship and careers of Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo, highlighting their rise to fame in the entertainment industry, especially through their collaboration on the reality show Summer House.  Their journey together began in 2018 when they first met at a media company.

At the time, Hannah was working as a comedy video producer, while Paige was a freelance writer.  The two connected instantly, and their bond grew, leading them to share their experiences and humor with a wider audience.

Their shared sense of humor became the foundation of their success, and it was during the filming of Summer House that their friendship began to evolve into something much larger—eventually giving birth to the Giggly Squad.

Hannah’s career had an unconventional start.  She moved from cold-calling sales to comedy video production, creating memes and scripts for social media.

After losing her first job in media, she discovered an opportunity that changed her life.  A casting director saw her videos and invited her to join the cast of Summer House.

Despite her initial reluctance and fear of reality TV, this opportunity transformed her career and led to an increased presence in the public eye.

Paige had a similarly unexpected rise to success.  Initially struggling with imposter syndrome while working as an assistant, she eventually found her niche in the entertainment world.

Her Instagram series Front Paige News gained a following, and soon after, she was invited to join Summer House.  The two women quickly formed a deeper connection, and their chemistry on the show resonated with audiences.

As their bond grew, so did their influence.

The Giggly Squad was born from the duo’s laughter in the face of absurdity.  They found humor in the chaotic situations they found themselves in, especially on reality TV, where emotions ran high and drama was common.

Their shared laughter and ability to laugh at themselves became one of the most defining features of their friendship and public persona.

Their success reached new heights during the pandemic.  With the world in lockdown, Hannah and Paige started doing Instagram Lives, offering spontaneous, humorous content that connected with fans on a deeper level.

These sessions, often filled with inside jokes, became a place where fans, affectionately known as “Gigglers,” could feel part of a community.  This laid the groundwork for their podcast, Giggly Squad, which took their bond and humor to a wider audience.

Throughout their book, the authors emphasize the healing power of humor.  They stress that laughter is not only a form of entertainment, but also a tool for emotional and physical well-being.

Humor became a way to cope with life’s challenges, and they used it to navigate both personal and professional hurdles.  They share that life doesn’t need to be taken too seriously and encourage readers to adopt the same carefree attitude when dealing with setbacks.

One of the book’s main themes is the idea of life being a series of “bits”—small, often ridiculous, inside jokes or experiences that make life more enjoyable.  This mindset helped Hannah and Paige build their brand and establish their place in the entertainment world.

They also share the importance of embracing what they call a “delusional” mindset—believing in oneself even when others might doubt you.  This belief has been key in their journey, as it allowed them to turn their dreams into reality despite the challenges they faced.

The authors’ personal stories are filled with moments of self-deprecation, humor, and a touch of humility, as they reflect on their unlikely rise to fame.  Hannah admits to her own anxieties about writing a book and shares her struggles with spelling and concentration, while Paige discusses the pressures of imposter syndrome and the importance of perseverance.

These moments make the authors relatable and their experiences accessible to readers who may have similar fears and doubts.

At the heart of their book is the message of resilience.  Both Hannah and Paige emphasize that success doesn’t come easily and that it often requires a healthy dose of delusion and the willingness to take risks.

Their careers were built on unorthodox decisions and a willingness to step outside of their comfort zones.  From auditioning for reality TV to starting a podcast and performing live shows, they encouraged each other to keep pushing forward even when faced with uncertainty.

The Giggly Squad brand was more than just a friendship; it became a movement rooted in authenticity and humor.  The two women built a loyal fanbase that appreciated their down-to-earth personalities and ability to laugh at life’s absurdities.

Their podcast became a platform to connect with fans, share stories, and provide advice, all while maintaining their comedic approach to life.

Their journey also reflects the importance of building a community, especially in times of crisis.  The pandemic was a turning point for Hannah and Paige, as they were able to maintain a sense of connection with their audience through humor.

The community they built through their Instagram Lives and podcast became a source of comfort and support, providing both entertainment and emotional respite during a challenging time.

Hannah and Paige’s message to their readers is simple: don’t take life too seriously, embrace the absurdity, and remember that humor can get you through even the toughest times.  They encourage their fans to keep laughing, stay true to themselves, and remember that success is often a result of believing in the impossible.

Their story is one of friendship, resilience, and the power of humor, reminding everyone that life is better when you can laugh at yourself and the world around you.

Key People and Characters

Hannah Berner

Hannah Berner is one of the two central figures in How to Giggle.  Her personality is a blend of humor, resilience, and self-deprecation, often using humor as a tool to navigate the ups and downs of life.

Throughout the narrative, she demonstrates a profound sense of vulnerability, sharing her challenges with spelling, attention span, and career changes.  However, her journey from a cold-calling sales job to becoming a comedy video producer shows a remarkable ability to embrace change and turn setbacks into opportunities.

Her humor and relatable nature shine through in her storytelling, which not only entertains but also reveals her deep commitment to her friendship with Paige.  As a co-founder of the Giggly Squad, Hannah’s quirky perspective on life, combined with her boldness and determination to make it in the entertainment world, make her a memorable and inspiring character.

Despite her initial fears about reality TV and the pressures of social media, Hannah grows into her role and, alongside Paige, transforms the Giggly Squad into a brand that resonates with fans.  Her ability to make light of difficult situations is an integral part of her character, and it serves as both a defense mechanism and a source of empowerment.

Paige DeSorbo

Paige DeSorbo is the other half of the dynamic duo in How to Giggle, known for her wit, ambition, and “delusional” confidence.  Paige’s story is one of resilience and embracing uncertainty, starting from her struggles with impostor syndrome to her eventual success in the entertainment industry.

Her journey took an unexpected turn after she was fired from her job, but instead of succumbing to this setback, she embraced the idea that new opportunities often arise from closed doors.  This mindset of delusional confidence became a driving force in her career, leading her to take risks like performing stand-up comedy with no prior experience and succeeding in front of a packed crowd.

Paige’s belief in herself, even in the face of ridicule from her Summer House castmates, fueled her persistence and determination.  This “delusional” self-assurance eventually led her to land her own Netflix special, We Ride at Dawn.

Paige’s character highlights the power of manifestation, self-belief, and taking risks, with humor and lightheartedness woven into every step of her journey.  Through her experiences, Paige encourages readers to take ownership of their dreams and defy societal expectations, ultimately becoming a symbol of self-empowerment.

The Giggly Squad

The Giggly Squad is not a single character but a collective presence in How to Giggle, representing the friendship and collaboration between Hannah and Paige.  It embodies their shared sense of humor, their ability to laugh at life’s absurdities, and the strength they draw from their bond.

The Squad, born from their spontaneous laughter on the set of Summer House, becomes an essential part of both women’s identities, transforming their friendship into a brand that resonates with fans who appreciate authenticity and humor.  The Giggly Squad is not only a symbol of their partnership but also a reflection of their journey in the entertainment world, turning their quirks and personal stories into something that is both relatable and empowering.

Their success highlights the importance of finding joy in the small moments and the power of a strong, supportive friendship.  Through their podcast, Instagram Lives, and humorous bits, the Giggly Squad becomes a symbol of embracing imperfections, taking risks, and celebrating individuality.

Lenore Berner

Lenore Berner, Hannah’s mother, plays a supportive and nurturing role in How to Giggle.  Her character is reflected through the concept of “mom math,” which refers to her intuitive understanding of Hannah’s needs.

This term, as described by the authors, highlights the deep connection and understanding that mothers often have with their children, especially in moments of uncertainty.  Lenore’s presence in the book is marked by her humor, pragmatism, and the way she embodies the nurturing qualities that have shaped Hannah’s growth.

Her character is integral in the backdrop of Hannah’s journey, providing a steady foundation of love and wisdom as her daughter navigates the entertainment world.

Kim DeSorbo

Kim DeSorbo, Paige’s mother, mirrors the role of Lenore in How to Giggle, offering her own version of “mom math” through her intuitive understanding of Paige’s needs.  Kim’s influence is seen in the way she raises Paige to be a strong, independent woman, offering a perfect blend of support and practical guidance.

Kim’s character is particularly significant in the context of Paige’s career, as she encourages Paige to pursue her dreams and believe in her potential.  Like Lenore, Kim’s presence is felt throughout the narrative, reminding Paige of the importance of self-love and the belief that she can achieve whatever she sets her mind to.

Her down-to-earth, nurturing attitude serves as a reminder of the grounding power of family and the wisdom that mothers pass down.

Michelle (Paige’s Friend)

Michelle, Paige’s friend who challenges her to perform stand-up comedy, plays a pivotal role in How to Giggle by acting as a catalyst for Paige’s growth.  While Paige harbors self-doubt about her ability to succeed in stand-up, Michelle’s challenge pushes her to step outside her comfort zone and take a risk that would shape the trajectory of her career.

Her character serves as a reminder of the importance of having people in one’s life who challenge and encourage growth.  Through Michelle, the book highlights the value of surrounding oneself with people who believe in you and inspire you to take chances.

Summer House Castmates

While not extensively explored in the same depth as the main characters, the castmates of Summer House provide an essential backdrop to the narrative in How to Giggle.  They are significant in their role as a source of both conflict and comedic relief, particularly in Paige’s journey.

The skepticism and mockery that Paige faced from her castmates, especially regarding her dream of becoming a comedian, acted as a source of external pressure.  However, this criticism did little to deter Paige, and instead, it became a motivating factor for her to prove them wrong.

The Summer House castmates represent societal expectations and judgment, but also the comedic environment that the duo, Hannah and Paige, thrived in as they navigated their personal and professional lives.

Themes

Humor as a Tool for Resilience and Connection

Humor serves as both a coping mechanism and a means of connection in How to Giggle.  The authors, Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo, demonstrate how humor helped them navigate personal and professional challenges.

They highlight how laughter, particularly in difficult or absurd situations, creates a bond between them and provides emotional relief.  The book frequently emphasizes the importance of not taking life too seriously, suggesting that humor can be a refuge from anxiety, self-doubt, and the chaos of reality TV.

Through their humorous anecdotes and light-hearted tone, the authors encourage readers to embrace laughter as an essential tool for maintaining mental health and resilience in the face of setbacks.  It’s not about avoiding hardships but transforming them into moments of connection or levity.

For the authors, humor doesn’t just entertain; it empowers them to face fears and uncertainties with a sense of ease, making it a central aspect of their success and authenticity.  Their “Giggly Squad” brand is built on this idea of shared humor and connection, reinforcing how humor can forge deep relationships and create a supportive community.

The Power of Delusion and Self-Belief

One of the most prominent themes in How to Giggle is the idea of embracing delusion as a means of self-belief and perseverance.  Both Hannah and Paige reflect on their personal journeys, which are marked by self-doubt and external skepticism, but also by a commitment to their dreams, no matter how unrealistic they may have seemed at the time.

Paige’s narrative in particular highlights how her belief in her own potential, even when others doubted her, propelled her to achieve what once seemed impossible.  The authors discuss how self-delusion—believing in your ability even when it doesn’t make sense—can act as a catalyst for personal growth and success.

Paige’s story of performing stand-up comedy for the first time, despite having no formal training, is a key example of how this “delusional” confidence led her to unexpected achievements, including her own Netflix comedy special.  The theme extends beyond just individual success, encouraging readers to adopt a mindset where they trust in their own abilities and pursue dreams relentlessly.

In this context, delusion is reframed from being a negative trait to a superpower, suggesting that sometimes the key to success is to believe in yourself even when no one else does.

Decentering Men and Embracing Self-Identity

The theme of decentering men from one’s life, and the broader message of prioritizing self-love and personal growth, plays a significant role in How to Giggle.  The authors critique societal expectations that often place male validation at the center of women’s identities.

They explore how, from an early age, women are socialized to seek approval from men, whether through romantic relationships or societal norms, which in turn influences their decisions and self-worth.  Throughout the book, both Hannah and Paige reflect on their own journeys to understanding how their relationships with men shaped their self-perception and choices.

The authors challenge the reader to decenter men not by excluding them from life, but by reframing how much importance their attention or approval should hold.  This theme ties into a larger narrative of female independence and empowerment, as they share how they became more authentic and fulfilled when they shifted the focus away from seeking validation from men and instead prioritized their own needs and aspirations.

This theme is reinforced through examples of public figures who thrived after leaving unhealthy relationships, illustrating how personal growth and independence can lead to success and fulfillment.

Personal Style and Self-Expression

In How to Giggle, personal style emerges as a reflection of self-expression and identity.  The authors explore how fashion is not just about wearing trendy or “perfect” outfits, but rather about how clothing makes a person feel and how it serves as a tool for self-expression.

Both authors delve into their childhood memories of fashion, from rating teachers’ outfits to emulating style icons.  They highlight the emotional connection people can have with their clothing, revealing that personal style is deeply tied to how individuals perceive themselves.

The authors encourage embracing imperfections in one’s style, showing that authenticity and comfort often outweigh the pursuit of a “flawless” look.  Fashion tips, such as investing in timeless pieces, are shared, but the overall message is about finding what feels right for you and not adhering to societal expectations of beauty or style.

The narrative encourages women to wear what makes them feel confident and true to themselves, regardless of trends or societal pressures, ultimately presenting fashion as a tool for expressing one’s unique identity rather than conforming to others’ standards.

Embracing Imperfection and Independence

The authors also promote a theme of embracing imperfection, especially in the face of life’s messiness and unpredictability.  In How to Giggle, humor becomes a way to cope with and find joy in imperfections.

The authors stress that life doesn’t need to be perfect to be enjoyable or successful.  By making light of their own flaws and challenges, they encourage readers to accept themselves as they are and find humor in their shortcomings.

This extends to how they view their careers and personal lives, particularly with regard to societal expectations and relationships.  The theme of embracing imperfection is closely tied to the idea of independence, where the authors assert that the pursuit of personal happiness and success doesn’t have to be perfect or follow a linear path.

Instead of seeking external approval, whether from men, society, or even the media industry, they encourage readers to focus on their own well-being and aspirations.  This message promotes the idea that women, in particular, don’t have to conform to traditional expectations of success, beauty, or relationships, and that embracing who they truly are—flaws, mistakes, and all—can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment.

The Role of Female Friendship

At the heart of How to Giggle is the theme of female friendship, which serves as the foundation for much of the authors’ success and personal growth.  Hannah and Paige’s relationship is portrayed as a source of support, humor, and mutual empowerment.

The book emphasizes how their bond, formed through shared experiences and laughter, has been instrumental in building their brand and navigating the often-chaotic world of reality TV and entertainment.  Their friendship, initially sparked by an unexpected meeting, evolved into a powerful partnership that allowed them to thrive in their careers and personal lives.

The authors showcase how female friendship, when built on authenticity, mutual respect, and shared humor, can be a source of strength and resilience.  This theme encourages readers to value their own friendships and the importance of surrounding themselves with supportive, empowering people who share their values and sense of humor.

Through their own story, Hannah and Paige highlight how strong female friendships can be both a refuge and a springboard for personal and professional growth.