I like to gossip... I am really interested in learning about other people's lives and this may be the reason I fall in love with autobiographies. Sometimes, the stories within them are really strange and unbelievable, but I always love the fact that it is all true (although, probably a bit exaggerated sometimes). I am really keen to hear about their lives from their own point of view as it often feels like you are having a personal conversation with them and they are entrusting you with secrets that they only tell their friends. Writing a biography is really brave because you have nothing to hide behind, so if people criticise it, they are really criticising you. My favourite autobiographies are the rags-to-riches (through hard-work, setbacks and determination) stories and comedian's autobiographies because usually they have actually had a hard life (much like the tears of a clown cliche). Here are my top three which I would recommend for a laugh, cry and inspiration (you can decide which is which).
Russell Brand - My Booky Wooky
At the time, I was probably a bit young to be reading about Mr Brand's escapades but when reading his book, I literally fell in love with the man. Following him from when he started school as the fat boy, having his first gloriously awkward and somewhat confusing sexual experience to his move to acting and drugs and his painful rehabilitation and consequential fame and success was simply inspiring. What amazed me about his life was ability to mess everything up and it was all still alright in the end because he had a passion for life and was surrounded by people who loved him. He is also really smart which is clear in his writing style which is witty but also intelligent, this helps you to understand the complexities of his brain and also his motivation. After reading his autobiography I was so inspired I became a vegetarian to be like him, unfortunately, my stand-up still needs a bit of work.
Ugly - Constance Briscoe
This story made me cry. Repeatedly. It recounts the childhood of Constance whose mother both emotionally and physically abused her on a daily basis. When Constance was thirteen her mother simply moved out and she is forced to fend for herself. Despite all of this, she goes onto become one of the first Black women in the UK to sit as a judge. This story demonstrates that anything is possible with a bit of determination.
I Love You Philip Morris - Steve McVicker
So, technically this is not an autobiography, but I'm sure if Steven Russell had time in-between repeatedly escaping from prison, this is the story he would have wanted to tell. Written by noted journalist Steve McVicker, this biography exposes the true story of how one gay man in his quest to be reunited with his lover escaped from a Texan jail four times in five years always on Friday 13th. Coined the 'Jailhouse Houdini' this man is stuff of legend. Unfornately, his knack for escaping was only equalled by his habit of getting arrested. This book is hilarious and also surprisingly heartwarming.
If you do not think you will have time to read the book, you can always check out the movie starring Jim Carrey and Ewan McGregor which, although not as good as the book, definitely comes close.
Have you read any great autobiographies lately?
Lots of Love
Elouise
xxx
