Amy Schumer: By the Book
Which writers — novelists, playwrights, critics, journalists, poets — working today do you admire most?
Jonathan Ames has been my favorite at what he does for as long as I can remember. The honesty and rawness of his stories have definitely inspired me. I read everything by Elena Ferrante, whoever she is. But not right before bed, because I have furious nightmares. I think Jason Zinoman from The New York Times has an unparalleled understanding of comedy and comics. Emily Nussbaum, who is a television critic and writer for The New Yorker, is my favorite person to follow on Twitter, and her articles inspire me and make me think. I want her to be proud of me more than my parents, I think. Amber Tamblyn is my friend and a beautiful poet. Martin McDonagh is my favorite playwright. Samantha Bee is the breath of fresh air we all need right now. She’s in your face with the truth and makes me feel like I’m not alone. Jessi Klein, the head writer for my TV show, just wrote a book called “You’ll Grow Out of It,” and this is good news for everyone, because she is hilarious, smart and trenchant in any medium.