Summary

Erma Bombeck's "The Grass Is Always Greener Over the Septic Tank" is a humorous and insightful look into the life of suburban families in America. Through a series of witty essays, Bombeck chronicles the trials and tribulations of settling down in the suburbs, from the initial excitement of discovering a 'septic tank' frontier to the everyday absurdities of neighborhood life.

The book vividly portrays the migration from city apartments to the promise of a house with a yard, capturing the challenges faced by the first suburban settlers. These include battling crabgrass, dealing with rising taxes, and navigating the winding streets. Bombeck introduces an array of memorable characters, such as the Welcome-Wagon lady and the ever-elusive Edward C. Phlegg, the builder of Suburbian Gems, making the story relatable.

Bombeck humorously delves into the major battles fought in the suburbs, including the quest to find the elusive builder for home repairs, the second-car war, and struggles over sex education in schools. She also navigates themes such as suburban isolation, the constant pressure to maintain a perfect lawn, and the obsession with material possessions, highlighting the rise of plastic home parties and their impact on suburban life. She expertly uses anecdotes and satire to explore the hazards of suburban living, including the infamous car pool crouch and the challenges of volunteerism.

The book examines the unique challenges faced by suburban mothers, divided into 'Super Moms' and 'Interim Mothers,' and it reflects on the complexities of family dynamics, social expectations, and the search for identity in a homogenized environment. Bombeck's wit shines as she explores the quirks of neighborhood life, such as garage sales, community events, and the humorous side of suburban law and order. She presents a nostalgic, yet critical look at suburban life, celebrating its sense of community while acknowledging its absurdities and challenges. "The Grass Is Always Greener Over the Septic Tank" is a timeless exploration of American suburban culture, offering laughter and reflection on the pursuit of the American dream.

In the final chapters, Bombeck explores the concept of the 'spiritual family feast,' a comical commentary on the challenges of achieving domestic tranquility and the realities of family dinners. She revisits Suburbian Gems, reflecting on the unique sense of belonging and community that got suburban settlers involved in their neighborhoods, reminiscing about the changes and evolutions that transformed the once-new suburbs into established communities.