Books Like...

Improbable as it may seem, photographer Robert Mapplethorpe and rock icon Patti Smith were the closest of friends from the time they arrived in Manhattan in the late 1960s. This memoir is about their friendship, their artistic coming of age, and a very particular time and place, Manhattan in the late 60s and early 70s. Patti Smith's writing has a very poetic quality to it, unsurprisingly, being an incredible lyricist and poet. The book delves into the NYC art scene of the late 60's and early 70s, providing a glimpse into the artistic and cultural time of that era.

'Scar Tissue' by Anthony Kiedis is an autobiography that delves into the life of the lead singer of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The book takes readers on a wild ride through Kiedis' rockstar upbringing, touching on themes of abuse, addiction, and self-discovery. The narrative is described as a powerful and emotional rollercoaster, offering a glimpse into Kiedis' struggles and triumphs.

The writing style of 'Scar Tissue' is praised for being captivating and engaging, with readers expressing how they were unable to put the book down once they started reading. Kiedis' storytelling is noted for painting a vivid picture of his life growing up, filled with sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll, making it a compelling and unforgettable read for fans and non-fans alike.

'Life' by Keith Richards is a mesmerizing autobiography that takes readers on a journey through the life of the legendary rockstar. The book delves into Richards' long and tumultuous career with the Rolling Stones, providing intimate details of his experiences, struggles with addiction, relationships within the band, and his deep passion for music. Through a candid and honest narrative, Richards shares stories of his rock and roll lifestyle, songwriting process, and personal reflections, offering readers a unique insight into the life of a music icon.

'Born to Run' by Bruce Springsteen is an autobiography that delves into the life and career of the iconic musician. It provides a detailed account of his upbringing, struggles with mental illness, and the journey to becoming a rock superstar. Through honest and personal storytelling, Springsteen shares insights into his hardscrabble childhood, the challenges he faced in the music industry, and the emotional depths of his relationships with family and bandmates. The writing style captures the essence of his music, blending lyricism with raw honesty to create a compelling narrative that immerses readers in the world of Bruce Springsteen.

'Greenlights' by Matthew McConaughey is a memoir that takes readers through the author's life journey from childhood to young adulthood and up to age 50. The book is a mix of personal stories, advice, and poetry, reflecting McConaughey's unconventional childhood, his experiences in the acting world, and the life lessons he has learned along the way. The writing style is described as humorous, raw, vulnerable, and honest, with a focus on self-reflection, personal growth, and embracing life's challenges and opportunities.

'Finding Me: An Oprah's Book Club Pick' by Viola Davis is a deeply moving memoir that takes readers on a journey through Viola's life struggles, triumphs, and resilience. The book is written in a raw and honest style, showcasing Viola's courage and vulnerability as she shares her story of hope, survival, and self-acceptance. From her challenging childhood to her Hollywood stardom, Viola's narrative is a powerful reminder of the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity.

Viola Davis's memoir is not just a recounting of her life experiences but a testament to the importance of self-discovery and embracing one's true self. Through her poignant storytelling, Viola encourages readers to find themselves, to embrace their vulnerabilities, and to seek courage in the face of struggles. Her narrative sheds light on issues such as colorism, discrimination, poverty, and the impact of upbringing, inspiring readers to reflect on their own lives and the societal changes needed for a more compassionate world.

"A Very Punchable Face" by Colin Jost is a memoir that delves into the author's life growing up, his family dynamics, his experiences at Saturday Night Live, and the personal anecdotes that shaped his journey. Jost's writing style is witty, engaging, and self-deprecating, offering readers a glimpse into his humorous and sometimes touching reflections on various aspects of his life, including his mother's harrowing experience during 9/11. The book combines lighthearted storytelling with moments of introspection, providing a unique perspective on comedy, success, and personal growth.

"Me" by Elton John is an honest and candid autobiography that delves deep into the life of the legendary musician. The book showcases Elton's journey from his childhood as Reginald Dwight to the iconic Elton John of today. Through anecdotes and personal reflections, Elton shares his triumphs, failures, and the pivotal moments that shaped him as a person and as an artist. The writing style is described as frank, bawdy, and unflinchingly entertaining, capturing the highs and lows of his life with equal honesty.

Jennette McCurdy's memoir, 'I'm Glad My Mom Died', delves into her harrowing experiences with childhood abuse, manipulation, and the struggles of being a child star. The writing is described as straightforward and brutally honest, not shying away from the darker aspects of her life. Readers are taken on an emotional journey through Jennette's traumatic past, from her mother's abusive behavior to her battle with an eating disorder, all while navigating the complexities of fame and Hollywood.

The book is praised for its candid and vivid descriptions of Jennette's life, showcasing her resilience and courage in sharing her story with the world. Readers are left with a deep understanding of the challenges she faced growing up in the shadow of a narcissistic parent and the toll that child stardom took on her mental and emotional well-being.

'Hello, Molly!' is a memoir by Molly Shannon that delves into her life experiences, from her harrowing early years to her journey towards becoming a successful actress. Readers are taken through a rollercoaster of emotions as Shannon shares her personal struggles and triumphs, all while maintaining a courageous and positive attitude. The writing style is described as easy to read yet impactful, with moments that evoke both tears and laughter, making it a compelling and inspiring narrative.