I don’t read much true crime anymore but HOME OF THE HAPPY caught my eye because it was written by the great granddaughter of the victim. In January 1I don’t read much true crime anymore but HOME OF THE HAPPY caught my eye because it was written by the great granddaughter of the victim. In January 1983, Louisiana banker Aubrey LaHaye was kidnapped from his home. Ten days later his body was found in the Bayou Nezpique. Even with an eventual conviction in the case, there are lingering questions and the author is on a quest for answers.
It took me awhile to settle into a good reading groove. Given the LaHaye family tree is quite large, it was hard keeping track of everyone. But by the time a key suspect emerges, I was hooked. The author gives bits and pieces of the investigation, trial, and aftermath along the way, many of the details she is learning for the first time. Grief is a complicated thing and the murder of her great grandfather which occurred years before she was born was a subject rarely brought up among family members. It’s a twisted case and reading the 2nd half of the book, I’d come up with one theory and minutes later I’d switch gears and start thinking in a completely different direction.
A fascinating true crime read. Even if you aren’t a regular reader of the genre, it’s worth checking out.
Thank you Mariner Books and #MorrowPartner for providing a free copy!...more
Heavy earned a spot on the New York Times 100 Best Books of the 21st Cenutry list. A wise choice as it’s a powerful memoir. Kiese Laymon held on to seHeavy earned a spot on the New York Times 100 Best Books of the 21st Cenutry list. A wise choice as it’s a powerful memoir. Kiese Laymon held on to secrets for so much of his life but by putting pen to paper he has unleashed it into the wild and that’s a brave thing. As a Black kid growing up in the South and being raised by a single mother, he didn’t have an easy childhood. His mom is an intelligent and complicated woman. As her son, Kiese has had to make sense of how someone can love you but also be the source of pain. That complex dynamic is explored thoroughout the book as well as other tough issues.
I’ll admit nornally when I read a book within months or weeks I’ve forgotten details or even the basics. However, Heavy has stuck with me because Kiese bared his soul and it’s an incredibly thoughtful read. I gained something of value from the reading experience. I often would stop reading when a particular passage grabbed my attention just so I could process it. A book that opens your eyes and gives you a different perspective is a gift.Time is valuable and Heavy was certainly worthy of my time.
Thank you Scribner for sending me a free copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
Well I already had considered the possibility ghosts, spirits and alien life forms might exist, but after reading this book I’m gonna add Bi3.75 stars
Well I already had considered the possibility ghosts, spirits and alien life forms might exist, but after reading this book I’m gonna add Bigfoot to the list. Stanley Milford Jr. is a former Navajo Ranger and in this memoir he talks about his career with investigating odd cases. In the almost 30,000 square miles the Rangers cover, there have been some truly strange occurrences over the years. A fascinating read with some jaw dropping moments especially in the last few chapters.
Thank you William Morrow for sending a free advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion. ...more
Before even cracking open Moon Unit Zappa’s memoir, I figured she had an unconventional upbringing given her name and being the daughter of f4.5 stars
Before even cracking open Moon Unit Zappa’s memoir, I figured she had an unconventional upbringing given her name and being the daughter of famed musician Frank Zappa. I assumed she grew up in a hippie style environment but as I read the book, it became apparent it went far beyond that, to the point my heart actually broke for her and her siblings. To say her parents were self-involved is putting it in the kindest way possible. Moon Unit’s honesty and ability to articulate her feelings are the driving force of this memoir. An important takeaway is a person’s support system does not always include blood relatives.
Thank you Dey Street Books for providing a free advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion....more
Tom Selleck’s memoir is more career based so not a ton of talk about his personal life although you do get a good sense of he is as a human being. GivTom Selleck’s memoir is more career based so not a ton of talk about his personal life although you do get a good sense of he is as a human being. Given he’s been a working actor for over 50 years the book is a fascinating read. It’s very detailed starting with his early days as he managed to nab some bit parts in tv and movies and thru his entire run of starring on the hit tv show, Magnum P.I. My only criticism is not much is written about his career post Magnum, a few pages devoted to Blue Bloods but that’s about it. I was surprised he didn’t discuss his guest appearances on Friends. Still though it was an enjoyable read as I love learning about the tv and film industry.
Thank you Dey Street Books for sending me a free copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion. ...more
Susan Seidelman paved the way for female directors. While even now it’s still a male-dominated field, imagine how much more of challenge it was for heSusan Seidelman paved the way for female directors. While even now it’s still a male-dominated field, imagine how much more of challenge it was for her back in the late 70s and early 80s at the start of her career. Her “I’ll show them� attitude and sheer talent have been assets as she navigated the tough showbiz industry. Desperately Seeking Susan, which featured Madonna in her first film role, is the movie that really put Susan on the map with the general viewing public. (Her previous film, Smithereens, was screened at the prestigious Cannes film festival.) Susan continued to direct feature films as well as a few episodes of Sex and the City, including the pilot. A well-written memoir about the life and career of a trailblazer.
I won a free advance copy in a Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ giveaway. All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion. ...more
Susan Lieu’s family were refugees from the Vietnam War and escaped to California in the 1980s. Her mother opened up nail salons, employing most of theSusan Lieu’s family were refugees from the Vietnam War and escaped to California in the 1980s. Her mother opened up nail salons, employing most of the family, including a grade school age Susan. Sadly when Susan was 11 years old her mother died from a botched tummy tuck. Talk about her mother and what happened was forbidden. Understandably, that’s something Susan struggled with as there were so many unanswered questions. The Manicurist’s Daughter is about Susan’s journey navigating all these complex feelings that will hopefully put her on the road to healing.
Wow, this memoir really blew me away. My heart broke for Susan as a young girl but also Susan as an adult. She was able to channel her emotions surrounding the loss of her mother into this book and the result is something that is quite uplifting and heartfelt. Such a worthwhile read about strength and determination and finding your way.
Highly recommend if you are looking for a book that explores grief and complicated parent-child relationships.
Thank you Celadon for sending me a free copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion. ...more
Actor Billy Dee Williams has lived quite the life. He’s best known for his roles in Brian’s Song and Star Wars movies but he’s also a talented artist.Actor Billy Dee Williams has lived quite the life. He’s best known for his roles in Brian’s Song and Star Wars movies but he’s also a talented artist. His memoir is full of interesting tidbits about his childhood and family, career in Hollywood and on the Broadway stage, and the various public figures he’s interacted with throughout his 80+ years.
One of the things that really stood out for me is what a supportive family he had growing up and how he was given the chance to thrive. It’s something he doesn’t take for granted either. The love he has for his family really shines thru in his writing.
A book worth reading if you enjoy celeb memoirs.
Thank you Knopf for sending me a free copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion. ...more
I jumped at the chance to read an early copy of Henry Winkler's memoir partly because I like the genre but also because I realized despite seeing him I jumped at the chance to read an early copy of Henry Winkler's memoir partly because I like the genre but also because I realized despite seeing him in various acting roles over the years, I didn't know much about his life. It turned out to be an interesting read and a book I'd recommend if you are a fan of his work.
Born to German parents who fled to America right before World War 2 started, Henry didn't grow up in the most loving environment. When I read memoirs I don't expect the author to necessarily go into fine detail about every aspect of their life. Henry chose to keep things semi-close to the vest but it's enough for the reader to see the broader picture that unfortunately he did not have a great relationship with either one of his parents. It shaped who he was as a person but in a positive way as he is very close with his wife, children, and grandchildren and seems to be a wonderful friend to many.
Henry struggled in school and as an adult he was diagnosed with dyslexia. It's very inspiring he went on to co-author a series of children's books in which the main character also has learning differences. It's a great example for kids that you can face challenges in life and find success. This is just one of many examples of how he truly is a decent man who enjoys helping others.
It was interesting to me that he felt after his most famous role as The Fonz on Happy Days, that he had a massive career slump. In my view he popped up in so many memorable roles such as the principal in the first Scream movie or as the coach in The Waterboy, I thought his career was always in great shape. In general, from reading this memoir I do think Henry can be his own worst enemy and overthink things. As someone who tends to worry too much, I can totally relate.
Thank you to Celadon Books for sending me an advance reader's copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
The Howards are the gold standard when it comes to Hollywood families. Yes, they have experienced success working in the tv/film industry but what is The Howards are the gold standard when it comes to Hollywood families. Yes, they have experienced success working in the tv/film industry but what is most impressive to me is they are down-to-earth, good, honest people. I got teary-eyed more than once while reading this memoir written by brothers Ron and Clint Howard. The love they have for each other and their parents is so apparent and made for a heartwarming read.
Actor Rance Howard married actress Jean Speegle in 1949. In 1954, their son Ron entered the world. Perhaps you've heard of him. He played Opie on The Andy Griffith Show, Richie Cunningham on Happy Days, and transitioned into a not too shabby career as a director. Clint is five years younger than his brother, Ron, and he too was a child star. He played the role of Marc Wedloe on the tv series, Gentle Ben, and had guest roles on just about every popular tv series in 1960s and 1970s. With almost 60 years in the business, Clint has had a pretty awesome career as a character actor. (On a side note, I always get excited when I'm watching a movie or tv show and he pops up and totally will exclaim, "Hey, it's Clint Howard!" with a big smile on my face.)
So what's the secret to the brothers' success? They obviously have talent but a lot of the credit goes to their parents for giving them as much of a normal upbringing as possible. They valued the important things in life not the wealth or the fame. And both Ron and Clint recognize their parents' contributions as well the sacrifices they made so their kids could pursue their careers. Sharing their memories of their childhood in this book really honors their parents.
Highly recommend reading this memoir as it is full of humor, heart, and wisdom.
Thank you to William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion....more
Christopher Zara took a less traveled path on his way to a successful career as a journalist. He doesn't have a college degree and in his 30s got his Christopher Zara took a less traveled path on his way to a successful career as a journalist. He doesn't have a college degree and in his 30s got his start in the field as an unpaid intern. A good example of how hard work and determination can get you far.
So much food for thought in Christopher's memoir. It's estimated 67% of Americans do not have a college degree. While higher education has great value it's not the be-all end-all for determining success in the workforce. Part of Christopher's drive very well could have stemmed from feeling ashamed he didn't graduate college and knowing he would have to prove himself to employers. That extra motivation might not have been there if he had earned a degree. Who knows?
The author also talks about his mental health and drug addiction issues. He's overcome a lot in his life and his story is worth reading.
Thank you to Little, Brown and Company for sending me an advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
Michelle Zauner was 25 years old and living on the East Coast when her Korean American mother was given a terminal cancer diagnosis. Michelle dropped Michelle Zauner was 25 years old and living on the East Coast when her Korean American mother was given a terminal cancer diagnosis. Michelle dropped everything and moved cross country into her parents' Eugene, Oregon home to help her mom in her final days.
This memoir is heartbreaking and shows it doesn't matter how old you are, you never can fully prepare yourself for the loss of a parent. Mother-daughter dynamics can be complicated even when there is love to go around. There's honesty in Michelle's writing and how she describes her relationship with her mom. Michelle learning to cook more of the Korean dishes she grew up eating as well as fully embracing her roots, are ways that her mother will continue to live on through her. I can't think of a more lovely tribute.
Even if you don't typically read nonfiction, this memoir is worth reading.
Thank you to Knopf for sending me a copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion....more
Richard Gilman was a writer, theater critic, and a Yale School of Drama professor. Lynn Nesbit is a successful literary agent. Their daughter, PriscilRichard Gilman was a writer, theater critic, and a Yale School of Drama professor. Lynn Nesbit is a successful literary agent. Their daughter, Priscilla Gilman, wrote a memoir about her life growing up in the 1970s and 80s and how it shaped her as an adult. When she was ten years old her parents split up and it of course brought many changes in Priscilla's life. Her perception of her father changed throughout the years and essentially this memoir focuses on coming to terms with it all.
It feels weird to admit I cried multiple times while reading about a complete stranger's life but there was just so much I could relate to in regards to the father-daughter relationship. It takes a huge toll on you as a kid when you believe you are responsible for keeping a parent happy all the time and it's not something you are usually able to recognize is a problem until you get older. I was really impressed how Priscilla was able to tap into that mindset she had as a child. I also identify as the peacekeeper in my family, and this book really stirred up emotions in me which is why it was such a meaningful reading experience.
Incredibly well written. If you enjoy memoirs or books that explore parent/child dynamics, put this one on your to be read list.
Thank you to W.W. Norton and Company for sending me an advance copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion....more
I can honestly say I was a Matthew Perry fan years before he nabbed the role of Chandler Bing. As a child growing up in the 80s and 90s, I wa3.5 stars
I can honestly say I was a Matthew Perry fan years before he nabbed the role of Chandler Bing. As a child growing up in the 80s and 90s, I was a bit boy crazy, juggling many crushes, and he was one of them. I totally remember watching his starring role on the show Second Chance which later morphed into Boys Will Be Boys. And of course 9 year old me was upset when they killed his character of Sandy off on Growing Pains. So I was thrilled when Friends became a smash hit. Unfortunately, one can have money, fame, and success but still struggle and that's certainly the case with Matthew as he's battled addiction issues for many years. This memoir is a candid look at his life and he doesn't hold back and shares the good, the bad, and the ugly.
I listened to the audiobook which Matthew narrates and it was a bit of a disjointed experience because the timeline bounces around so much. There's a semi order of things going thru childhood, the start of his acting career, etc. but in between there are parts related to his addiction including rehab stays and other health issues. It was slightly confusing trying to figure out when certain things related to his addiction were actually taking place. Had I been reading a print copy instead of listening to the audiobook perhaps things would have flowed better.
Matthew has a biting sense of humor which doesn't always translate well. The two Keanu Reeves mentions are good examples of things that most likely weren't said with bad intentions but regardless seem unnecessary. But it actually was refreshing to listen to a memoir that was raw and honest rather than one a publicity team had to approve every word of before deeming it fit to print. His willingness to be frank about his struggles to be sober is a good reason why so many readers have responded positively to this memoir. It's hard to put yourself out there at the risk of being judged by the world and it's admirable he did so with the hope his story might help others. ...more
Oksana Masters was born in Ukraine with some radiation induced birth defects stemming from the Chernobyl disaster. She grew up in an orphanage under hOksana Masters was born in Ukraine with some radiation induced birth defects stemming from the Chernobyl disaster. She grew up in an orphanage under horrific conditions but at the age of 7 was adopted by a single American woman, Gay Masters. Oksana's legs were eventually amputated and she had surgery to modify her webbed fingers. At the age of 13, she was introduced to the sport of rowing and in 2012 competed in the London Paralympic Games.
I don't want to give away too much about her accomplishments in case you are learning about her for the first time, but wow, what an athlete! It really just goes to show you how sports can be life-changing and bring out the best in a person. Once Oksana got a taste of rowing it really fueled that inner drive and it's amazing and inspiring how she was able to push the limits as a competitor.
Overcoming adversity is a theme in her life and I can only imagine how difficult it would be to revisit old memories while writing her story. Oksana is a warrior and I highly recommend checking out her memoir.
Thank you to Book Club Favorites for sending me a copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion. ...more
Back in 1986, Paul Newman decided he wanted the truth out there about his life and started working on his memoir. His friend, screenwriter Stewart SteBack in 1986, Paul Newman decided he wanted the truth out there about his life and started working on his memoir. His friend, screenwriter Stewart Stern, was tasked with compiling an oral history of Paul's life by talking with friends and family of the actor. Afterwards, Paul would add his thoughts to the mix. The one stipulation Paul had was everyone involved must be open and honest, including himself. The project went on for 5 years but perhaps because it was an ambitious undertaking, it eventually was abandoned.
In 2008, Paul Newman died at the age of 83. While his kids figured the transcripts from their father's project were floating around somewhere, it took a decade to locate them. Piecing together what they found, they came up with this book, which is Paul's life in his own words with some relevant anecdotes from others, and it is an utterly fascinating read.
He had a reputation for being a private person so I was pleasantly surprised how much he shared his thoughts and feelings of his childhood, career, marriages and fatherhood. He sought therapy over the years and I'm sure that led to quite a bit of reflection about his life. He's self-deprecating, to a fault in my opinion, but it also shows he didn't have a massive ego. He knew he had flaws, he knew there was always room for improvement. I always liked him as an actor but after reading this memoir, I have mad respect for him as a man.
Highly recommend checking this one out if you are a Paul Newman fan and/or enjoy reading memoirs.
Thank you to Knopf Publishing for providing a copy of this book! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion....more
I did it, my first audiobook listen and I picked a good one. Jennette McCurdy's memoir is honest and reflective, key things you want from this genre. I did it, my first audiobook listen and I picked a good one. Jennette McCurdy's memoir is honest and reflective, key things you want from this genre. Even though I didn't know much about her beforehand given I was a Nickelodeon viewer from the You Can't Do That on Television and Hey Dude era of programming, having now read her book, I'm walking away with a ton of respect for Jennette. I can't imagine how hard it would be to wrap her head around the fact her mom was to put it mildly, not a good mother. Despite having success as a child actress, her life has been far from idyllic. Takes a lot of courage to open up and put yourself out there when the world can be so judgmental. I am glad though the general public seems to be overwhelming supportive with the publication of her memoir.
Highly recommend you give this book a look and on a related note, it's high time "The Creator", one of Jennette's bosses at Nickelodeon, face a reckoning similar to that of Harvey Weinstein. The stories about him have been out there for years. The fact children remain the most vulnerable in the entertainment industry is shameful. Do better Hollywood!...more
Be My Baby is one of those iconic songs and works perfectly as the title for Ronnie Spector's memoir. Originally published in 1990, this edition incluBe My Baby is one of those iconic songs and works perfectly as the title for Ronnie Spector's memoir. Originally published in 1990, this edition includes a postscript in which she gives an update on her life since the book first came out. Sadly, Ronnie passed away a few months after writing the postscript. Her memoir is full of stories of her career in music as well as her personal life and it's certainly a worthwhile read.
Ronnie was the lead singer of the girl group, The Ronettes. They finally were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007. Ronnie married music producer, Phil Spector, back in the late 1960s. Thankfully she was able to escape that horrible man and marriage. She battled addiction over the years but she was able to come out on top and experience love and happiness for a good portion of her life.
Ronnie went through some dark times but there's really something beautiful about the fact that when she stepped on stage she got to live out her dream. She fed off the energy of the audience and was a top notch performer with an incredible voice. I loved hearing about the passion she had for entertaining a crowd. It was interesting to learn about the various friendships she had with people like Cher, John Lennon, and Keith Richards. I give her credit for opening up about her past with her ex-husband as I'm sure rehashing those old memories couldn't have been easy. In general, she was pretty forthright in this accounting of her life and that's why it was a fascinating read.
Thank you to Henry Holt and Co. for providing me with a copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion....more
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