Medallion Status: True Stories from Secret Rooms

If you like David Sedaris you will be sure to like these hilarious memoirs.

It would probably be a fun Amazon review of John Hodgman’s well-observed and entertaining as all hell, “Medallion Status: True Stories from Secret Rooms” to list out only the many ways the author, here, a sort of Dominick Dunne of Hunted Unease, uses to describe himself as he presumes others see him. “A random person from television that we don’t recognize,” by the parents of a hospitalized child. “This weird bearded withered old man, a dark glimpse into the future of humanity,” by teenaged prom attendees. Even a member of “just another rich family who have convinced themselves that wealth makes them virtuous and thus deserving of special treatment,” by those his Disney VIP tour guide just cut him in front of in a line at Disneyland. But if all those things were true, would we delight in reading his adventures? Or is this another hedge against the impostor syndrome the author speaks to later even as he recounts his delight at the mini-perks of Medallion Status level of an unnamed, yet easily Google-able airline? The book promises a look behind the curtain of celebrity and celebrity-adjacent life in cities, hotels, sets, and tony functions around the country, but time and again, rather than sink effortlessly into the world of glitzy artifice, the author seems to have one foot out the door in each instance, already logging the experience to be retold later. Experiences, the book suggests are on the wane. “It’s good to know when you’re no longer on the list,” Hodgman tells us, referring to a guest list at the Chateau Marmont, in a refrain that rings throughout the book. “That time in your life is over,” he says elsewhere, in response to being offered pot by a fellow named Captain Weed. What’s so compelling about the narrative is trying to figure out whether he is trying to convince us or himself of his acceptance of this creeping obsolescence. All to say, the book is as laugh out loud funny—the phrase “jazzbo carny music for lonely boys” instantly the best description for Tom Waits music this Waits fan has ever heard—as it can be utterly, nakedly, emotionally brutal—I had to put the book down for a minute or two after the Petey chapter. You should read it, if only to know why should you ever be in Palm Beach looking for cheap, barely worn suits in the exclusive brand Custer was wearing when he died at Little Bighorn, they’re available to you in rack after rack. Or, well, to get to the final chapter which I read twice and will probably read again as it’s a whole book in and of itself.

I like John Hodgman. From his time on the "Daily Show" to his appearances as "PC" in those Apple vs PC ads from Chiat/Day. Hodgman is an excellent writer: erudite and witty. His bloviated characters from the Daily Show have Ivy League humor written all over it. What "Medallion Status" lacks is the wistful melancholy of "Vacationland." Hodgman even refers to his previous book a number of times, at least to recall portions of stories. In "Medallion," Hogdman bemoans his fall from grace, or at least near celebrity zenith: from sipping mimosas in private lounges, separated from the great unwashed, to flying economy coach like the rest of us. It sounds a bit whiny. The VP treatment and red carpet are all gone. Well, I'm sure not completely. I found his drone or kvetching is bit repetitive. I laughed out loud in the first few chapters. Like Vacationland, he sums things up in an emotional way: lessons learned, what's truly important like family, but it seems to lack punch (or something more revealing) but rather a go-to trite ending. The "Come to Jesus" moments seem cliche. Sure, trying to chase Premier, Platinum or rare-earth status is fruitless and meaningless. That's was easy to see coming. Maybe it would have been funnier if (Hodgman) kept cynical and superficial.

The stories in this book run the gamut from the exceptionally silly to the incredibly poignant; we know they are all true because it says so in the title. In any case, you do not have to be a TV personality running out of acting work and frequent flyer status points to appreciate this book as something of a field guide to what you might expect will happen to you in middle age. Published in hardcover and e-book editions in 2019, it may also turn out to have future historical value as a vivid description of what life was like during the “Peak Miles” period. I suspect that changes now occurring very rapidly due to the pandemic and global warming are here to stay. But there will still be some travel, and there have always been secret rooms, and even though phones haven’t been ringing off the hook for decades now, the greater truths about career arcs (including the fact that they do arc) will make this an interesting read for a long time to come.

Medallion Status is a hoot. I reluctantly started reading it --as a Book Club assignment-- but once I started, I couldn't put it down. The author's timing and phraseology is superb! He is witty and self-deprecating. I often felt like I was on 'his journey' with him, as I frequently laughed out loud ....while other times I found myself teary eyed. Medallion Status is the sort of book that deserves a second read. Well done, John!

Firstly, I recommend potential 3S'li-m, Zaders read Hodgman's book Vacationland before this one, another excellent book. Secondly, if you think you'd enjoy a glimpse into the mind of strange only children as they become adults and then minor TV personalities, this book is for you! Quite frankly, I'm too young to remember John from TV and instead I am a religious podcast listener of his. He really has a wonderful way of writing that feels like a fun, casual party conversation. For a fun read to make you think about your life choices and make you laugh at the same time, check out Medallion Status.

Change is hard. While I have never experienced the particular change in which my celebrity status diminishes (having never been any kind of celebrity) I think that change in which one feels a status or situation or relationship one enjoyed slipping away is pretty much universal. Hodgman describes his journey through events that forced him to accept the truth that the person we are in the eyes of the world inevitably changes, a realization that he shows to be unnerving but ultimately liberating. This book is a great read, sad and funny in turn.

If you liked Vactionland, you are who this book is for. This book could have been called, more Vacationland. Its excellent. I am ignoring other important tasks around my home/work in order to read this book. I hesitated buying it because it was a little pricey but damn' it, I'm worth it and so are you. Treat yourself, just buy it already.

A nice pleasant read. Like having a conversation with a friend about some old stories. Not laugh out loud funny, but enjoyable and a bit heartwarming.

Despite what it seems to think The author is an everyman, observing the funny and mundane and profound with a certain wonder that reminds me of the times when I most like myself. He is one of the few at least semi famous people that I would introduce myself to and pretend he is my friend for an uncomfortable 45 seconds.

If you like David Sedaris you will be sure to like these hilarious memoirs.

It would probably be a fun Amazon review of John Hodgman’s well-observed and entertaining as all hell, “Medallion Status: True Stories from Secret Rooms” to list out only the many ways the author, here, a sort of Dominick Dunne of Hunted Unease, uses to describe himself as he presumes others see him. “A random person from television that we don’t recognize,” by the parents of a hospitalized child. “This weird bearded withered old man, a dark glimpse into the future of humanity,” by teenaged prom attendees. Even a member of “just another rich family who have convinced themselves that wealth makes them virtuous and thus deserving of special treatment,” by those his Disney VIP tour guide just cut him in front of in a line at Disneyland. But if all those things were true, would we delight in reading his adventures? Or is this another hedge against the impostor syndrome the author speaks to later even as he recounts his delight at the mini-perks of Medallion Status level of an unnamed, yet easily Google-able airline? The book promises a look behind the curtain of celebrity and celebrity-adjacent life in cities, hotels, sets, and tony functions around the country, but time and again, rather than sink effortlessly into the world of glitzy artifice, the author seems to have one foot out the door in each instance, already logging the experience to be retold later. Experiences, the book suggests are on the wane. “It’s good to know when you’re no longer on the list,” Hodgman tells us, referring to a guest list at the Chateau Marmont, in a refrain that rings throughout the book. “That time in your life is over,” he says elsewhere, in response to being offered pot by a fellow named Captain Weed. What’s so compelling about the narrative is trying to figure out whether he is trying to convince us or himself of his acceptance of this creeping obsolescence. All to say, the book is as laugh out loud funny—the phrase “jazzbo carny music for lonely boys” instantly the best description for Tom Waits music this Waits fan has ever heard—as it can be utterly, nakedly, emotionally brutal—I had to put the book down for a minute or two after the Petey chapter. You should read it, if only to know why should you ever be in Palm Beach looking for cheap, barely worn suits in the exclusive brand Custer was wearing when he died at Little Bighorn, they’re available to you in rack after rack. Or, well, to get to the final chapter which I read twice and will probably read again as it’s a whole book in and of itself.

I like John Hodgman. From his time on the "Daily Show" to his appearances as "PC" in those Apple vs PC ads from Chiat/Day. Hodgman is an excellent writer: erudite and witty. His bloviated characters from the Daily Show have Ivy League humor written all over it. What "Medallion Status" lacks is the wistful melancholy of "Vacationland." Hodgman even refers to his previous book a number of times, at least to recall portions of stories. In "Medallion," Hogdman bemoans his fall from grace, or at least near celebrity zenith: from sipping mimosas in private lounges, separated from the great unwashed, to flying economy coach like the rest of us. It sounds a bit whiny. The VP treatment and red carpet are all gone. Well, I'm sure not completely. I found his drone or kvetching is bit repetitive. I laughed out loud in the first few chapters. Like Vacationland, he sums things up in an emotional way: lessons learned, what's truly important like family, but it seems to lack punch (or something more revealing) but rather a go-to trite ending. The "Come to Jesus" moments seem cliche. Sure, trying to chase Premier, Platinum or rare-earth status is fruitless and meaningless. That's was easy to see coming. Maybe it would have been funnier if (Hodgman) kept cynical and superficial.

The stories in this book run the gamut from the exceptionally silly to the incredibly poignant; we know they are all true because it says so in the title. In any case, you do not have to be a TV personality running out of acting work and frequent flyer status points to appreciate this book as something of a field guide to what you might expect will happen to you in middle age. Published in hardcover and e-book editions in 2019, it may also turn out to have future historical value as a vivid description of what life was like during the “Peak Miles” period. I suspect that changes now occurring very rapidly due to the pandemic and global warming are here to stay. But there will still be some travel, and there have always been secret rooms, and even though phones haven’t been ringing off the hook for decades now, the greater truths about career arcs (including the fact that they do arc) will make this an interesting read for a long time to come.

Medallion Status is a hoot. I reluctantly started reading it --as a Book Club assignment-- but once I started, I couldn't put it down. The author's timing and phraseology is superb! He is witty and self-deprecating. I often felt like I was on 'his journey' with him, as I frequently laughed out loud ....while other times I found myself teary eyed. Medallion Status is the sort of book that deserves a second read. Well done, John!

Firstly, I recommend potential 3S'li-m, Zaders read Hodgman's book Vacationland before this one, another excellent book. Secondly, if you think you'd enjoy a glimpse into the mind of strange only children as they become adults and then minor TV personalities, this book is for you! Quite frankly, I'm too young to remember John from TV and instead I am a religious podcast listener of his. He really has a wonderful way of writing that feels like a fun, casual party conversation. For a fun read to make you think about your life choices and make you laugh at the same time, check out Medallion Status.

Change is hard. While I have never experienced the particular change in which my celebrity status diminishes (having never been any kind of celebrity) I think that change in which one feels a status or situation or relationship one enjoyed slipping away is pretty much universal. Hodgman describes his journey through events that forced him to accept the truth that the person we are in the eyes of the world inevitably changes, a realization that he shows to be unnerving but ultimately liberating. This book is a great read, sad and funny in turn.

If you liked Vactionland, you are who this book is for. This book could have been called, more Vacationland. Its excellent. I am ignoring other important tasks around my home/work in order to read this book. I hesitated buying it because it was a little pricey but damn' it, I'm worth it and so are you. Treat yourself, just buy it already.

A nice pleasant read. Like having a conversation with a friend about some old stories. Not laugh out loud funny, but enjoyable and a bit heartwarming.

Despite what it seems to think The author is an everyman, observing the funny and mundane and profound with a certain wonder that reminds me of the times when I most like myself. He is one of the few at least semi famous people that I would introduce myself to and pretend he is my friend for an uncomfortable 45 seconds.

One of the few authors who can make me laugh until I cry. I pre-ordered back in April and am happy to say Medallion Status does not disappoint. Here's a mental picture for you: a certain author in a matted wig and loincloth, loitering at a certain famous southern California theme park. John Hodgman is a national treasure.

I loved reading this "everyman's" view into his life of fame (or almost fame, as John would tell us.) There's a wonderful mix of stories and reflections, many of which made me really laugh. John's books let you get a real, deep dose of his humor and intellect.

A book that you always read one more chapter than you planned because it is so easy to read. But it also makes you examine what matters to yourself as he explores similar concepts.

As a super-fan of Mr. Hodgman, my opinion cannot be trusted, I just really enjoyed this book. It was thoughtful, meaningful and just generally radiating in the kindness I have both seen in person at any type of live show he does and also in podcast form.

I like how john hodgman writes. it’s like he’s speaking to you. his book is comforting, like a warm pillow abd a glass of milk. i could not sleep last night, instead i finished this book. it was worth it.

Great read, funny and insightful. Hits especially close to home for me as a middle aged white dad that travels a lot for work. He nails it on so many fronts.

Went through this book faster than my last read , that I also have five stars, and being possible not someone considered the intended audience I am very pleased to have paid for it.

Highly recommend this witty book. It made me laugh out loud like a crazy person several times in public. It's the first I've read of Mr. Hodgman's and I will definitely be purchasing Vacationland post haste

Funny, charming, compassionate, sarcastic, with a completely original humor that is so completely his own. I loved it and now must go read all the rest of his books.

As always John Hodgman’s humorous spot on brand of wit and humor has made me smile and laugh out loud as I read this book. Thank you John!

Lots of wisdom here plus a dose of humor. Hodgman continues to grow a humorist and important cultural figure. I look forward to more.

Hilarious, great job as always. Could have done without the anti-trump stuff, as I was looking for a humorous escape from reality for a bit.

I loved this book. I also loved vacation land. Come to think of it, I think I loved all of his books.

Solid writing. Really spoke to me. Despite working in drastically different domains, I found the material very relatable.

Another amazing book by John Hodgman. Do yourself a favor and just order this book already. Thanks.

Love this book. John Hodgman speaks to me. Can't wait to see what's next.

Hodgman fans will delight in this book. Anyone who is not a fan will become one.

Amazing. Another smashing success from MacArthur Foundation grant award -winner John Hodgman.

Great author, great human. I wish John Hodgman was my dad!

Was a good book for those coming of (middle-)age and/or losing status.

It’s funny. It’s thoughtful. I’m glad I read this book.

Halfway through this book and ready to give up on it. Not much happens. Pretty boring all around.

funny and entertaining

So great!

Always amusing Hodgeman

Enjoyable humourous text

I needed something light to read. The past few weeks have been filled with fearful drama masquerading as news. The days are uncertain and full of restrictions. I wanted a book that was fun, well-written, and about nothing important ... kinda like Seinfeld. Medallion Status: True Stories from Secret Rooms is a serious of subtle, funny essays about a myriad of things: visiting Disneyland with your kids; acting and basking in temporary privilege, extinct hockey team logos, access to airport Sky Lounges, pets as surrogates for children (the author is definitely a cat person), and much more. In one chapter about Hodgman's favorite jobs (given as advice to 13-year-olds), I was surprised that acting and being on TV did not rank as his best job choices. Hodgman’s favorite job came when, as a teenager, he worked in an old movie palace near Boston. Hodgman lists his favorite aspects of that job, and one was “being locked into a box office and organizing the cash into neat stacks, all facing the same way, and being trusted to do this.” I loved the book. I love the humor most of all, but there are also wonderful moments of self-awareness if you choose to focus on them. Or, you can just laugh. Either way, a great read.

Like Jenkins' Missions Accomplished series, Medallion Status takes off on a journey of work trips. As in Vacationland, there are still stories of Maine, the last of which is the best read in the book.

The audio version is the way to go. Judge Hodgman has a voice of pure velvet. I liked vacationland better, but this is good too. Great for a long drive.

Hard to not read in Johns unique voice. Stopped to read passages out loud to my wife multiple times... one was the discription of Tom Waits mentioned by another reviewer. Another was a description of scrapple in which he clarified that people put it in their mouth “on purpose”. Lastly, I enjoyed a paragraph about how he went to Buenos Aries cause he saw there was money in the school budget and too bad for everyone else, he wanted it and he took it. Fun book. Vacationland isn’t a prerequisite but might be good to start with as it’s referenced several times throughout.

I enjoyed reading this book just like I enjoyed reading Vacationland. I find John Hodgman to be a sweet, funny, kind man. I listen to his podcast and see him on shows occasionally. I love how he tells real stories and hides his daughter and son's identities. I love how he shares his real feelings about events in his life in an open and honest way. I also love the insights into the life of a celebrity. Highly recommend.

As always John Hodgman delivers a wonderful and easy to digest book full of his special brand of wit and story telling. If you like middle aged bearded men who have been just off to the side of fame telling you about their experiences as a almost was then this is the book for you.

I really enjoyed the comedic behind the curtain look at not being as famous as you used to be, and how that changes your life. It's a very funny book, and of course John Hodgman will always be a star to me.

I'm giving this book 5 stars because getting external validation from a random person on the internet is even better than Medallion Status and it would make John Hodgman happy. Plus reading this book made me happy so I feel like should give something back.

I imagine this book is representative of 99% of anyone non-A List who has been allowed through Hollywood's doors where burning half as bright definitely doesn't extend your stay. It's a bummer compared to his other books, but still a great read.

John Hodgman's thoughtful perspective about his own blessings and misfortune are interesting and poignant. I love the way this guy tells stories, and I am always left wanting more. Thanks Judge John Hodgman you really did it.

Just like the author. His misadventures at Scientology headquarters and Mar-a-Lago will have you in stitches. And his stories of Maine are on the nose...a stranger and more wonderful spot than Maine does not exist.

This book is extremely well written and provided me with many laughs along the way. Loved hearing stories about the secret Yale societies!

What a lovely audiobook. It's like listening to a good friend tell you stories that you want to hear.

As thoughtful as it is hilarious. John Hodgman is a treasure.

Another great book from John Hodgman!

It's good. Just read it.

I guess you have to like John Hodgman a lot to appreciate it. And I don’t know why anyone would. He’s not very funny. He’s not very popular. He hasn’t lived through any great tragedies or demonstrated expertise with the written word. From the book, it sounds like his job is being a celebrity. But a celebrity of what, you don’t know. Like Kathy Griffin or Kim Kardashian. And it’s not even a big celebrity, more like vice-vice-vice-celebrity. And the essays in this book prove that. They’re not even funny, they’re just… diverting. Agreeable. But not fulfilling because there’s no conflict or drama here. You either get peeved at him because of his elevated status (e.g. his quest to be in the most prestigious Delta Sky Club) or tedious musings on Disneyland (celebrities are just like us!). High concentrations of meh.

Depressing and boring.

This is my second John Hodgman book and I enjoyed it as thoroughly as the first. He welcomes you into his nearly famous life with glorious self deprecation and makes you want to take him out for a long lunch to keep him talking. His podcast Judge John Hodgman is also fun so once you finish this book and want some more, take a listen there. Highly recommend all things Hodgman.

I enjoyed this book. John Hodgman tells stories in such a weird, wonderful and complex way. This is not a criticism. I could not put it down. A nice distraction.

Always a pleasure reading Hodgman's pleasant and relaxing form of comedic writing.

Great in parts but the celebrity references and discussions bore me to tears. I did enjoy it though, so let’s not be harsh. !!

Full of sharp wit and (mostly) relatable subject matter. A very enjoyable read.