Books Like...

'Between a Heart and a Rock Place: A Memoir' by Pat Benatar is a candid and insightful look into the life of the iconic rock singer. The book details Benatar's journey from a young girl in a working-class town to becoming a rock goddess, navigating the challenges and triumphs of her career in the male-dominated music industry. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Benatar shares her experiences with sexism, record labels, relationships, and motherhood, offering readers a glimpse into the life of a woman who stayed true to her principles while pursuing her passion for music.

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.

"Broken Horses" is a deeply personal memoir by Brandi Carlile that invites readers into the intricate tapestry of her life as a musician and a queer woman. The narrative weaves together her experiences growing up in poverty in Washington State, the challenges of being an artist, and the relationships she has built with iconic figures in the music industry. Carlile's writing style is captivating and relatable, filled with emotional depth and a unique voice that resonates with readers. Through her prose, she shares not only her triumphs but also the struggles she faced along the way, including the impact of her upbringing and her journey through the music business.

The memoir is enriched with personal anecdotes, insights into her relationships, and reflections on her identity as an LGBTQ individual. It is structured in a way that keeps readers engaged, featuring song lyrics and photographs that enhance the storytelling. Carlile's ability to blend her life experiences with her musical journey creates a vivid picture of not just the artist, but the person behind the music. The book serves as both a biography and a heartfelt diary, offering an intimate glimpse into the moments that shaped her and the inspirations that drive her creativity.

'Each Little Bird that Sings' by Deborah Wiles follows the story of Comfort Snowberger, a 10-year-old girl who lives in a funeral home and faces various challenges including the deaths of her family members, changes in her friendships, and struggles with her loyal dog, Dismay. Through the eyes of Comfort, the readers get to experience a coming-of-age tale filled with humor, life lessons, and heartfelt moments that touch upon themes of grief, forgiveness, and the complexities of handling loss at a young age. Wiles' writing style incorporates humor, honesty, and a light-hearted approach to presenting difficult topics, making the story relatable and engaging for both young readers and adults.

'Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight: An African Childhood' by Alexandra Fuller is a memoir that vividly recounts the author's unconventional upbringing in Africa during the tumultuous period of civil wars and political turmoil. Fuller paints a raw and honest picture of her family life, filled with alcoholism, poverty, racism, and the struggles of white settlers in a changing continent. The narrative delves into the complexities of colonial Africa, capturing both the beauty and brutality of the landscape, while exploring the dynamics of her eccentric family and their resilience in the face of adversity.

Through a series of anecdotes and reflections, Fuller weaves together a compelling story of growing up in Rhodesia, Malawi, and Zambia, offering a glimpse into a world marked by war, cultural clashes, and personal hardships. Her writing style is engaging, blending humor with poignant observations, and providing a nuanced portrayal of her experiences as a white African child navigating a challenging and often chaotic environment.

Grief Is for People by Sloane Crosley is a memoir that delves into the author's experience of coping with multiple losses within a short span of time. The book explores the profound grief Crosley faces after losing her best friend, Russell, to suicide, juxtaposed with the theft of valuable family jewelry. Through her poignant writing style, Crosley navigates the complexities of friendship, loss, and the impact of grief, while also reflecting on the enduring importance of literature and storytelling. The narrative weaves together elements of humor, suspense, and introspection, offering a unique exploration of grief that is both moving and thought-provoking.

Eric Clapton's autobiography delves into his life as a renowned blues musician, showcasing his struggles with addiction, personal relationships, and musical journey through bands like Cream and the Yardbirds. The book provides a candid look at Clapton's personal demons, his growth as a musician, and his reflections on his past mistakes. Readers get insights into his music history, substance abuse problems, and his relentless pursuit of musical fulfillment beyond fame and fortune.

Clapton's writing style is described as honest, straightforward, and at times brutally honest. The book offers a glimpse into Clapton's personal redemption, his battle with addiction, and his introspection on his past actions. The narrative covers his experiences with various bands, his relationships with fellow musicians like Jimi Hendrix and George Harrison, and his journey towards overcoming his addictions and finding peace.

'These Precious Days: Essays' by Ann Patchett is a collection of essays that offer a deep insight into the author's life, experiences, and thoughts. The essays cover a wide range of topics, from personal reflections on her own life events to astute observations on living and dying. Patchett's writing style is described as brilliant, with sparkling prose that captivates the reader and offers valuable life lessons.

Scrappy Little Nobody by Anna Kendrick is a humorous and relatable memoir that offers readers a glimpse into the life of the actress. Through witty anecdotes and candid storytelling, Kendrick shares her experiences as a child actor, breaking into the film industry, and navigating the complexities of adulthood. Her writing style is described as chatty, self-deprecating, and filled with humor, making the book an engaging and enjoyable read for fans and newcomers alike.

'They Can't Kill Us Until They Kill Us' by Hanif Abdurraqib is a collection of essays that delve into the intersection of race, music, and personal experiences. Abdurraqib's writing style is described as elegant and emotive, blending cultural commentary with his own emotions and perspectives. The essays cover a wide range of topics, from music and sports to social justice issues in the US, offering a nuanced exploration of how these elements intersect in the author's life and in society.

The book is praised for its ability to evoke a range of emotions in readers, prompting them to reflect on the content and internalize the messages conveyed. Abdurraqib's essays are described as accessible, relatable, and moving, with a strong emphasis on personal connections to music and cultural touchstones. Readers appreciate the author's skill in weaving together individual experiences with broader societal issues, creating a narrative that is both intimate and thought-provoking.