Celebrity Memoirs and Musings

I don't read much non-fiction, but when I do, it's usually biographies, memoirs, or autobiographies of celebrities. Here are two of my recent reads.

Bossypants by Tina Fey is a New York Times bestseller. It was also featured on several  "best books of 2011" lists. A few chapter titles include: "Peeing in Jars with Boys", "Sarah, Oprah, and Captain Hook", and "There's a Drunk Midget in My House".  I admit I have come late to the Tina Fey party, but I admire this woman who has made such a mark in a male dominated profession. In my opinion, Fey and her cohorts, including Amy Poehler, made SNL more woman friendly. This book is a hoot for anyone who likes Fey's humor. She discusses growing up, getting started in comedy, working for Lorne Michaels, and working with Alec Baldwin. "The Mother's Prayer for Its Daughter" is a stitch, and so true. This is a quick, easy, funny read. This is definitely a beach read. *If you are borrowing the book from the library, be careful of the sand and water damage that usually occurs when taking items to the beach. We don't want to have to charge you for damage (yes, I am a librarian to the core).*

Stories I Only Tell My Friends by Rob Lowe was published in 2011. It chronicles his life, beginning with the early years before acting. Lowe name drops throughout this memoir, beginning on the first page with JFK Jr. I found it annoying after a bit, but looking back, these may be the moments that define his life. It was surprising for me to realize how many celebrities or stars he has come in contact with over his career. This memoir is a bit shallow. The best part for me was when he described in detail the making of the movie The Outsiders. The movie featured almost the entire male "brat pack" from the 80's.  He does not talk much about his stint in rehab or his recovery for alcoholism. In fact, when reading it, I had no idea that his drinking had gotten to the point where he needed rehab. One minute he's talking about partying, and the next, he's in rehab. If you are looking for a light celebrity read, I can recommend this one.

More to come with celebrity memoirs and musings in upcoming blog posts.