Queue "Frolic" (aka Curb your Enthusiasm theme song) Dan Bozung knocked it out of the park with this one!
He and I are one, Bozung is my spirit animal. I am not alone in this world with my opinions on the behaviors and antics of other humans walking this earth or at least those in my vicinity.

Pajamas in Public and Other Crimes Against Humanity is a must read for everyone. Yes, I said everyone because the reader will fall into one of two groups.: offenders or the observers/victims. Hopefully, those who offend will learn some lessons in this book. Will second guess their behaviors or lack of manners, etc. for the days ahead. The victims will on the other hand know that we are not alone in our silent fight and will hopefully find some solace in that.

In all seriousness, Dan Bozung (who I was not familiar with prior to having received this advanced reader copy which I am leaving a review for) laid it all out. He laid out his personal experiences for all to read. There are a wide range of experiences which he shares with the readers, some much more relatable than others but relatable nonetheless. (Military stories to everyday civilian life) They will make you giggle, they will make you say WTH!, and you may have dry mouth from your jaw continuously hitting the floor so keep a glass of water nearby. Pajamas is a lighthearted read, an easy read and one you will refer to time and again when you need a quick pick me up from a dreary day.

Book Review: Pajamas in Public and Other Crimes Against Humanity by Dan Bozung

Dan Bozung’s Pajamas in Public and Other Crimes Against Humanity is a darkly comedic and unapologetically irreverent exploration of societal norms, personal rebellion, and the absurdity of modern life. Drawing from his background as a former U.S. Navy pilot and Harvard MBA, Bozung delivers a collection of essays and anecdotes that blend sharp wit with biting social commentary. The book’s title hints at its central theme: the trivial and not-so-trivial ways in which individuals defy—or are crushed by—the expectations of civilization.

Bozung’s writing is at its strongest when he leans into his military and civilian transition experiences, offering a unique perspective on conformity and resistance. The titular essay, Pajamas in Public, serves as a metaphor for the small acts of defiance that challenge societal rigidity, while other chapters delve into more serious critiques of institutional absurdity. His prose is conversational yet incisive, making complex observations accessible without sacrificing depth.

While the book excels in humor and insight, some essays feel uneven in tone, veering between satire and earnest reflection without always striking a perfect balance. Readers may also find that the military-to-civilian life comparisons, though compelling, occasionally overshadow broader thematic exploration. Nonetheless, Bozung’s voice is fresh and engaging, offering a provocative take on the contradictions of modern existence.

Rating: 4.2/5

Section Scoring Breakdown:
-Concept & Originality: 4.5/5 – Clever framing of societal “crimes” with a unique voice
-Narrative Style: 4/5 – Conversational and witty, though occasionally uneven
-Thematic Depth: 4/5 – Strong social critique, but some missed opportunities for expansion
-Humor & Satire: 4.5/5 – Laugh-out-loud moments with sharp edges
-Personal Resonance: 4/5 – Military-civilian contrasts add authenticity but may narrow appeal

Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Dan Bozung, for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The title jumped out at me immediately, and sure enough, this was a fun book. Dan Bozung is only a few years older than myself, but I saw myself in many of his stories. This is the kind of book everyone should write, because we all have a lifetime of fun stories. His experience in the military adds a level that I cannot relate too, but is fascinating. I have a feeling we would have been good friends had we known each other. And I must apologize, to Dan and the world; because once, back in the early 90's, I did indeed wear pyjamas in public because I was lazy and thought it would be funny. Who knew the world would shamefully follow in my footsteps. Thanks to the author and Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

A funny read, cultural commentary . Many of the things discussed here are our own complaints on society and we felt vindicated that we are not the only ones seeing the downfall of polite society (maybe we are just becoming Victor Meldrew !?)

Pajamas in Public and other crimes Against Humanity was the reality I was looking for in this crazy thing we call life. When I snatched this up I really hoped it gave me” Tuesday’s with Morrie “ vibes and it fit the bill! It’s real, it’s to the point and it’s funny all encapsulated in one book!

Reading through Dan’s life experiences make you go “ wow mine are just like his “ or “ I knew I wasn’t alone in this “and it’s exactly what I was looking for.

The Humor in this book is directly up my ally in a very “ straightforward “ and “ it is what it is mentality “ I truly ate this up!

Best of luck to Dan and his pub day, this was truly enjoyable and I feel like the majority of people who snag this up will also find all the short stories relatable and funny!