In his book Beautiful People Are a Pain (Mondadori, 2023), the web’s most irreverent science communicator blends down-to-earth philosophy, self-mockery, and social reflection in a story that—between laughs and provocations—forces us to confront our obsession with appearances.
Barbascura doesn’t just talk about physical beauty: he tackles insecurities, roles, toxic expectations, and that constant sense of inadequacy we all carry, whether we’re considered attractive or not. His language is direct, sometimes brutal, yet incredibly honest. It’s one of those books that makes you laugh while feeling slightly exposed.
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“Being beautiful isn’t an achievement, it’s just genetic luck. The problem is that we seem to measure everything by the same filter: if you’re not perfect, you feel wrong. But the truth is that real life—full of irony, mistakes, and surprises—is infinitely more interesting.”
— Barbascura X (Mondadori, 2023) —
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And this is precisely where the book’s strength lies: in overturning contemporary aesthetics with irony and sharp insight. Barbascura digs right into the wound of digital narcissism —but without any moralising. He makes you laugh at it, then think, and then laugh again.
Beautiful People Are a F**ing Pain* is a small manifesto of modern disillusionment. It’s a book about real beauty —the kind that comes from the courage to be imperfect and unapologetic. Perfect for anyone tired of feeling “not enough” and wanting to feel comfortable in their own skin again. Maybe even laughing while doing it.
Available only in Italian (Mondadori Edition, 2023)
