Harper Select provided an early galley for review.
I have always found Valderrama to be a likeable celebrity, from his very first role to those that caHarper Select provided an early galley for review.
I have always found Valderrama to be a likeable celebrity, from his very first role to those that came later afterwards for the past two and half decades. That likeability factor was enough to draw me to this memoir to learn more about his life story.
Though born in America, his is very much an immigrant story which he conveys in a very relatable and approachable manner. Despite the barriers of language, he and his family worked hard to fit in when they returned and to do whatever they could to make ends meet. It is from that need that Wilmer's drive to become an actor emerged.
Having grown up in the same small town as one of That 70's Show co-creators - Mark Brazill (he being just three years older than me), I was very interested in hearing about the audition process and Wilmer's time on the show. I was also pleased that he touched upon a few details regarding the follow-up That 90's Show from a few years ago. In between, he ran through many projects on which he worked (many with which I was not familiar).
Fans will definitely be interested in reading his story....more
Bloomsbury USA provided an early galley for review.
I am currently an adult services librarian in a public library, so books related to my career are aBloomsbury USA provided an early galley for review.
I am currently an adult services librarian in a public library, so books related to my career are a big interest. Also an interest is the growing challenges that we librarians are facing every day when it comes to censorship and the attempts to limit the materials we make available for all readers in our community. That is what drew me to Amanda's story.
The opening chapter describing the aftermath of the hearing is very powerful. I really felt for her and what she was going through. The story then shifts to a few chapters of background leading up to the hearing itself. It was good to get a sense for the community where she grew up, still lives and works as well as the sense overall with what had been happening with libraries in Louisiana up to that point. The climate at the time was tense indeed (and still is).
Where things got a little "uncomfortable", for me, is with how personal she was willing to go. Sharing details from her family life, conversations she had with friends, and even her ongoing thoughts of aggression against those who harassed her were a lot. I understand she is making known her truth, but I fear this book will just continue the cycle of attacks and harassment against her. Speaking out at the hearing put her in the public eye; this book along with the many interviews and appearances she has done (as noted in the book) continue to keep her in that spotlight - for the good of the cause and for ill in her own life. That is a brave thing to do for one's profession and beliefs. I am fairly sure that is not a level of notoriety I am willing put myself into, especially in the current social-political world we've been living in for the past several years. I would find myself instead standing behind the policies of our library, letting them speak clearly where I might not be able to.
Since the subtitle of this one is "The Fight Against Book Banning in America", I appreciated when the author included details of other libraries across the country who are responding to similar attacks and censorship. I wish there was more focus on these other libraries; what little we got was sprinkled in-between her personal fight and grievances.
In the end, she provides some good information on how to be a more vocal advocate against book banners. That will prove useful to those looking into this. All in all, it was an enlightening read and has plenty to offer even those not part of our profession....more
St. Martin's Press provided an early galley for review.
At age 74, Stein has experienced a lot of life. As a Blondie fan from almost their start, I wasSt. Martin's Press provided an early galley for review.
At age 74, Stein has experienced a lot of life. As a Blondie fan from almost their start, I was interested to read his story and about the music. To get to that point, though, there was quite a bit of wading in miscellaneous details as we make our way through his rollercoaster life up to his early 20's. While interesting in spots, it might have been less of a slog if it had been delivered with a bit more energy and structure.
I also would have appreciated the detailed focus when it came to discussing the making of the albums and the tours during the band's peek periods. While we get some of that, it also seemed very quick and fleeting. The focus would shift to drugs or random people (some famous, some not) and cats. I found myself quick scanning at parts rather than reading, and I found I did not feel like I had missed anything.
Stein has written other books previously. Maybe one of those might have more of what I am looking for than what this one presented....more
Dey Street Books provided an early galley for review.
I have been a fan of McDonald's music since the 70's. He has one of those distinct voices that juDey Street Books provided an early galley for review.
I have been a fan of McDonald's music since the 70's. He has one of those distinct voices that just harmonized so well with whatever he was collaboriting on. I was interested to learn more about his life.
Right out of the gate, I found the writing to be engaging and personal. Some of that might be due Reiser's input, but the story is all McDonald's. I was very fascinated by how he grew up and got into music at such a very young age.
I did not realize that McDonald spent time with the ranks of Steely Dan, time which actually overlapped some with his coming onboard with the Doobie Brothers. Looking at his discography, I was surprised with how few solo releases and hits he had through the 80's (my peak period of pop radio listening) even though his voice could be heard on so many tracks at the time (with the Doobies and with working with other artists). Funny how memory deceives you there.
Finally, I was glad we got a glimpse into his lasting marriage to Amy Holland and his family life. I've always been a fan of her debut album and hit single.
All in all, a nice casual autobiography from someone who made it through the excesses of the 70's and came out strong on the other side....more
After reading Moshe's 2024 follow-up Subculture Vulture, I wanted to jump back to his first book at the start of his life story. While there are a fewAfter reading Moshe's 2024 follow-up Subculture Vulture, I wanted to jump back to his first book at the start of his life story. While there are a few overlapping points, this one focuses very much on a youthful life out of control. If you have not read either but plan to, I would recommend starting with this one first.
Moshe cuts many of the dark moments of his young life with his wit and humor. It is definitely more dark comedy though with plenty of language. So, those who are triggered by swears and slurs will find themselves very uncomfortable here. But making ourselves uncomfortable is important, because it allows us to see the lives of others that are so different from our own.
Moshe's writing is so strong, so vibrant and so descriptive. At times, you'd think you were reading fiction rather than a memoir. This is the sign of a good storyteller, something that he's used as part of his stand-up career. It is amazing how well he can remember these events given how he was getting drunk and high, but these are the events that are such an unforgettable part of the road he has travelled....more
I have been a fan of Moshe's comedy for several years. With every appearance, I've found him to be a fascinaRandom House provided a galley for review.
I have been a fan of Moshe's comedy for several years. With every appearance, I've found him to be a fascinating individual whom I wanted to know about more. I'm glad he decided to continue to tell his own story here. His first book was Kasher In the Rye from 2012 where he covered his first fifteen years of his life (I need to read that one).
There were many moments reading this one that I found myself laughing out loud. When Moshe describes the history and tenants of AA, the evolution of house music, or the injustices against the deaf community, he does so in such an off-the-cuff yet totally hilarious manner that thoroughly entertains. In the end, not only did I know more about his life up to this point, but I also learned a few things too (sort of)....more
Knopf /Borzoi Books provided an early galley for review.
Growing up in the 70's, Williams was known to me by his movie roles in Brian's Song, Lady SingKnopf /Borzoi Books provided an early galley for review.
Growing up in the 70's, Williams was known to me by his movie roles in Brian's Song, Lady Sings the Blues, Mahogany and several Star Wars films. He was also the smooth spokesman on the ever-present Colt 45 malt liquor commercials. Still, I never knew his story, so I was eager to dive into this one.
Right out of the gate, I was completely drawn into Williams' life. By the time he reached early adulthood, he was partaking in a variety of experiences and encounters that made up a varied tapestry. No surprise that he tends to name-drop quite a bit as he was connected to so many people in so many walks of life (music, theatre, film and more). I found that all quite fascinating.
Of course, Williams makes sure to spend a lot of time covering his many roles on the stage and on screen (both TV and film). He also talks about the many women in his life, some of whom he was more intimate than others. Throughout, he comes across exactly how he did in all of his work - with class and charm....more
I have been a fan of Kenan's since his early days on Nickelodeon shows, which I watched with my son when he was a kid. From that early age, you could I have been a fan of Kenan's since his early days on Nickelodeon shows, which I watched with my son when he was a kid. From that early age, you could tell he had the gift of comedy and to make people laugh. Whenever he comes into a sketch on SNL, the smile already starts to form on my face. I know I am about to be entertained.
His story jumps around a bit, mostly fitting topics into neat chapters. It is like sitting down with someone who has some stories to tell. That means it isn't all chronological, but it works. I definitely learned a lot about his life which I had not known (the whole goal for an autobiography after all). Kenan's approach is very positive and even-tempered. Even when discussing more sensitive topics, he still does it in a controlled, measured way.
With two decades on SNL, I would have loved some more chapters about that. What we got seemed to just skim a large surface....more
My wife and I listened to John narrate his story while driving on our vacation. I very much enjoyed hearing about his life, especially from the man hiMy wife and I listened to John narrate his story while driving on our vacation. I very much enjoyed hearing about his life, especially from the man himself. I would strongly recommend the audio book.
I have always been a fan of his, and it was so nice to hear about a celebrity who had a normal, healthy upbringing and who genuinely has cultivated a good network of friends in the business. His stories come across as honest, funny and a bit self-deprecating too. There is also some sadness in there as well (like when his good friend Bob Saget passed). John offers positive, uplifting advice to readers as well....more
My wife and I listened to Sally narrator her life story while driving on our vacation last week. Hearing this powerful story, in her own voice, was veMy wife and I listened to Sally narrator her life story while driving on our vacation last week. Hearing this powerful story, in her own voice, was very moving. While I knew about her career and her involvement with Burt Reynolds, there was many eye-opening moments in her life. If you are a fan, I would strongly recommend the book - and recommend listening to the audio even more so....more
World Within a Song will be published on November 7, 2023. Penguin Group has provided an early galley for review.
Looking back, I was on the groundflooWorld Within a Song will be published on November 7, 2023. Penguin Group has provided an early galley for review.
Looking back, I was on the groundfloor when Tweedy's band Wilco released their first album in the mid-90's. I really enjoyed those early releases. So, given this book's author and subject, I was definitely interested in hearing him tell about some of the many songs that inspire him.
The approach of using songs to reflect on events in one's life is logical; music often triggers memories of where and when you were at a time that song was playing. Some of Tweedy's choices are integral to the moment while others come across as very tangential. With fifty chapters, averaging one to two pages, each is a quick moment in time recollection. Still, each one reveals a bit more about this musician, his life and how he got to where he is today.
Fans of Jeff Tweedy will likely get the most out of this book....more
The summer of 2016 was when we saw the all-female Ghostbusters in theaters. That's when I became an instant fan of Leslie Jones and Kate McKinnon. It The summer of 2016 was when we saw the all-female Ghostbusters in theaters. That's when I became an instant fan of Leslie Jones and Kate McKinnon. It lead me back to watching Saturday Night Live weekly (a show I'd watched on and off since the 70's) where my enjoyment of both their comedy grew immensely.
Leslie is a big personality - both in physicality and charisma. In my opinion, she's a hilarious force of nature. She is the type of person who is totally transparent - she is who she is. If you've seen any of her stand-up, you know she keeps it real and uses her booming voice (often cursing) to bring home her points. With her, audiences need to either get on board for the wild ride or get out of the way. That's what I enjoy about her. And her autobiography embodies all those traits.
I learned a lot from her book - about her family life, about her being an athlete in high school and college, about her comedy inspirations (some were a very pleasing surprise) and her early career. I did not know she started out on SNL as a writer before being made a cast member. I appreciated catching up on her work after she left SNL in 2019 (I was very bummed when she ended her run there).
Leslie is definitely one of those people who I think I would really get along with if I were friends with them. I still follow her on Twitter; you can never tell what she'll be up to or talking about in short video clips. I know I'll always be a fan....more
This autobiography will be published October 31, 2023. Celadon Book provided an early galley for review.
I have been a fan of this actor since the 70'sThis autobiography will be published October 31, 2023. Celadon Book provided an early galley for review.
I have been a fan of this actor since the 70's. I was a devoted watcher of Happy Days each week. I remember seeing the movie Heroes, a 1977 drama with co-stars Sally Field and Harrison Ford where he played a troubled Vietnam vet, in the theater at age 12 with my cousin. Something about his ability to do both comedy and drama made me appreciate his talents. When I saw this book was coming, it was a must-read for me.
And right from the start, I had a warm smile on my face. The cover is welcoming - with his smiling face as a greeting from an old friend. It reads exactly the way I would expect it to. I can "hear" his distinctive voice as I go. I do not need the audiobook experience (though for this one I might listen to it any way). It is honest, it is funny, and it is entertaining. Everything I was expecting and then some.
I learned a lot about his career, especially more recent things. I was not aware, for example, that he co-authored a successful series of children's books.
I am very pleased that he was able to put his story down in his own words....more
This autobiography will be released on September 5, 2023. Gallery Books provided an early galley for review.
I have heard it said that many comedians vThis autobiography will be released on September 5, 2023. Gallery Books provided an early galley for review.
I have heard it said that many comedians view themselves and/or the world as "broken" or "damagaged". They use comedy as a coping mechanism, a form of therapy. Laughter is the best medicine.
I have seen Maria's stand-up on cable. Her voices are fantastic, and her comedy utilizes them and facial expressions to the full extent. Her rhythms are different from most comedians as well. Having familiarity with all of this is beneficial when reading her book as her written delivery is similar to her stand-up delivery. I found I enjoyed her writing more when I could read it "in her voice". If she narrates the audiobook version, I think that will be an even better experience....more
This autobiography hits stores September 5, 2023. Hachette Books provided an early galley for review.
As a music fan, I knew Aaron's name and a few of This autobiography hits stores September 5, 2023. Hachette Books provided an early galley for review.
As a music fan, I knew Aaron's name and a few of his songs. I did not know his whole story until reading this book.
I instantly was taken to his writing style. Not surprising at all for a songwriter to be able to also craft lovely, lyrical narratives as well. And for a man of his age (82), he memories are very sharp and his descriptions vivid. Of course, like the book's title, he does indeed tell it like it is. There is no sugarcoating here, no painting the past in a better light. He gives the reader all the dirt from his past and let's us judge it for ourselves.
While music has been part of most of his life, it is mostly the second half of the book that focuses on his career success. As a huge fan of Linda Ronstadt's, I was pleased to hear his thoughts on recording and performing with her....more
Timed for the upcoming movie adaption Priscilla, 1985's Elvis and Me will be re-released on August 1, 2023. Berkley Publishing Group provided an earlyTimed for the upcoming movie adaption Priscilla, 1985's Elvis and Me will be re-released on August 1, 2023. Berkley Publishing Group provided an early galley for review.
The story opens with the summer of 1977, the day Elvis died. I was twelve at the time of his death, and his was probably the first celebrity death that registered on my young radar. I knew his songs and the timbre of his voice; I knew his movies that were a staple of Sunday afternoon reruns; I knew his look and presence.
Their story jumps back to when they first met in Germany where both her father and Elvis were stationed. She was only fourteen at the time (and he ten years her senior). Today's generation might find the age difference very troubling, but at the time it likely only raised some eyebrows (surprisingly enough - one was Elvis' own father). From her telling, she implies that she sensed the goodness and decency in him as their love was starting. And she explains away a lot of his questionable behavior and his temper, again all in the name of love.
Some of this could be written off as viewing the past through "rose-colored glasses" (remembering the good over the bad). However, she does not shy away from the bad as her story continues. She stops making the excuses for it. She even admits her own missteps as well. And, as she says in the end, her goal was to tell the story of a relationship coming together and falling apart....more
Sly's memoir, co-written with Ben Greenman and with a forward by Questlove, will be published October 17, 2023. Farrar, Straus and Giroux provided an Sly's memoir, co-written with Ben Greenman and with a forward by Questlove, will be published October 17, 2023. Farrar, Straus and Giroux provided an early galley for review.
From its opening, I could instantly tell this was a story that Sly wanted to tell but only on his terms. It was going to be more than just a look at the music and the career of a music master. It was going to be a story about personal struggle and facing the demons. It was going to have some weight and power to it.
I like that Sly starts out talking about family and how they were raised. Family was clearly an important part of his music and a big contribution to the songs. The music is very much the framework here as the years begin to be marked by the albums as they came. We get background on making the songs and details about publicity appearances. Some things are clear as day, while others have a haze to them - likely the effects on memory due to so much drug usage. Still, when Sly is "on" he comes across as really insightful and with a mastery of phrase construction. Not too bad for a man in his eighties.
I am finding, both with this autobiography and so many others I've read in recent years, that it is often about (to use Sly's own song title) everyday people - people who just focused their talents and passions towards their goals and shared the results with others. That's pretty much the key that we all should strive for; some just share those with a much wider audience....more
Not That Fancy: Simple Lessons on Living, Loving, Eating, and Dusting Off Your Boots by Reba McEntire will be published on October 10, 2023. Harper CeNot That Fancy: Simple Lessons on Living, Loving, Eating, and Dusting Off Your Boots by Reba McEntire will be published on October 10, 2023. Harper Celebrate provided an early galley for review.
I became a fan of Reba first through her sitcom in the early 2000's. Sure, I had seen a couple of her music videos on TV prior to that, and about a decade back when I got into a country music period I did a deep dive into her back catalog. But my first impressions of her was from her show. She came across as welcoming, fun and easy-going.
This book is a lot like what I expected from those impressions. The stories are casual and personal as if you're sitting on her back porch just talking. The over 200 photographs in the book come from her personal albums, so you feel like you're sitting there flipping through them in her living room while she tells you the tales behind them. And, of course, the more than 60 recipes come from her own kitchen, from her friends and family, and from her restaurant Reba's Place in Atoka, Oklahoma. It is easy to feel like these are all things she'd serve up if you were invited to her home for a meal.
This was a quick and pleasant read, and Reba's life advice is intuitive and universal. I appreciated the quick index in the back to all the recipes, making it easier to reference them when looking for a dish or drink to make....more
In the early 1980's, I was all about hanging out in the arcades on the weekends with my high school buddies - unloading quarters into those bright andIn the early 1980's, I was all about hanging out in the arcades on the weekends with my high school buddies - unloading quarters into those bright and colorful consoles to have some fun. Q*bert was one of my go-to games, even though I was not super good at it. For this reason, I was instantly attracted to Warren Davis' story.
Right from the start of his narrative, I totally connected with Davis. In the introduction, he talks about why he got into programming and his reasons very much mirrored my own in the early 80's when I decided to go to college to study computer science. I remember the wild enthusiasm that programming used to bring me. When that fire is there, designing and coding is a creative release, a joy. When that spark burns out, it becomes drudgery.
Having spent several decades in the software business myself, I found the details of the development, testing and release of Q*bert to be very engaging. It took me back. For those familiar with the field, this will resonate. However, I can also see it appealing to those completely unfamiliar with the process. Davis' delivery is entertaining and approachable, making sure to breakdown the technical details in easy-to-follow terms.
The rest of his career, bouncing from company to company and project to project, was relatable as well. Not every idea becomes a cultural icon but as noted, even some of the lesser hits are still fondly remembered by those that enjoyed them. I also appreciated that he kept pursuing his passions wherever they took him....more
I have been a Heaven 17 fan since I first heard their songs back in 1982. I owned vinyl of their earliest records and in recent years picked up the PlI have been a Heaven 17 fan since I first heard their songs back in 1982. I owned vinyl of their earliest records and in recent years picked up the Play to Win: Heaven 17 - the Virgin Years boxset on CD. They are one of my all-time favorite 80's synthpop bands. So, I was very excited when I saw Martyn's autobiography had been released.
One of the first things, outside of the music, that struck me was Martyn's interest in science fiction and even comic books. If I already hadn't felt a kinship (sharing the same first name albeit different spelling), this just adds to it. I suspect he and I would have gotten along swimmingly as mates.
I enjoyed the evolution of his career, especially going from his starter bands to the Human League and finally to forming BEF and Heaven 17. These are a part of the soundtrack of my late high school and my college years. It all took me right back to that time once again. I really appreciate hearing about how things really went down all those decades ago.
The final one hundred pages is an appendix that does a track by track breakdown of the music he wrote and produced. As a music fan, this is a most appealing section for me. I like that he put this all together in one spot rather than sprinkling it throughout his story as he told it (the exception being his discussion of the tracks he worked on for Tina Turner's Private Dancer album - which perfectly fits in the chapter where he talks about his work with her). It works much better this way, I feel.
I am looking forward to volume 2 to read about the latter half of Martyn's life....more
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