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Based on a True Story

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Based on a True Story by Norm Macdonald is a unique novel that blurs the lines between truth and fiction, providing readers with a mix of hilarious anecdotes from Macdonald's life and imaginative tangents. The book follows Macdonald's journey from growing up to his time as a low-level comedian and his stint on SNL, all while interweaving elements of dry wit and comedic value that showcase his brash and uninhibited style. With a narrative that veers between reality and fantasy, Macdonald's memoir offers a humorous and entertaining exploration of his life experiences, peppered with self-indulgent yet funny moments that keep readers guessing about what is genuine and what is exaggerated.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is characterized by an absurdist narrative style, integrating dry humor and a unique comedic voice.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative features a combination of exaggerated truths and absurd fiction, reflecting Norm's comedic approach.

Setting:

The setting alternates between comedic and absurd scenarios, including Las Vegas.

Pacing:

The pacing starts slow, with some chapters feeling irrelevant, creating an uneven reading experience.
He was always Lorne, never Mr. Michaels. He was smart that way. I took a seat across the desk from him, and there was a container of pencils that had been sharpened that very day and a bowl of fresh p...

Notes:

Norm Macdonald's book is a mix of truth and fiction, often hard to distinguish what is real.
It includes absurd situations, like hiring a hitman and outlandish prison stories.
The book parodies the typical celebrity memoir format.
Readers found it more entertaining as an audiobook, narrated by Norm himself.
It features bizarre narratives and comedic tangents, resulting in a unique storytelling style.
The book contains elements of poignant truths interspersed with ridiculous humor.
While describing his life, Macdonald often exaggerates for comedic effect.
It has moments that are deeply personal, questioning themes of addiction and control.
The book's title, 'Based on a True Story,' indicates a playful take on autobiographical writing.
Norm's love for classic literature influences the book's writing style.
Many readers describe it as one of the funniest books they've ever read.
It reflects Norm's unpredictable comedic style - unapologetic and silly.
The subplot involving a ghostwriter adds to the book's absurdity and humor.
The book has sections that left readers wondering if he'd been abused as a child, illustrating complex and taboo themes.
Many fans believe Norm's humor is best experienced through his unique delivery, which is enhanced in the audiobook.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include references to drug use, gambling addiction, dark humor involving serious topics, and themes of mental health.

From The Publisher:

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

"Driving, wild and hilarious" (The Washington Post), here is the incredible "memoir" of the legendary actor, gambler, raconteur, and Saturday Night Live veteran.

When Norm Macdonald, one of the greatest stand-up comics of all time, was approached to write a celebrity memoir, he flatly refused, calling the genre "one step below instruction manuals." Norm then promptly took a two-year hiatus from stand-up comedy to live on a farm in northern Canada. When he emerged he had under his arm a manuscript, a genre-smashing book about comedy, tragedy, love, loss, war, and redemption. When asked if this was the celebrity memoir, Norm replied, "Call it anything you damn like."

Ratings (7)

Incredible (2)
Loved It (1)
Liked It (3)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (13):

Read It (8)
Want To Read (2)
Not Interested (3)

About the Author:

Norm Macdonald was a stand-up comedian, writer, and actor. He died in September 2021.

 
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