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Fall brings form-breaking memoirs from seasoned novelists, context-shifting biographies of Audre Lorde and MLK, and autobiographies by the likes of Al Pacino and Josh Brolin. TOP 10 Connie: A Memoir [...]

Rachel Cusk, Joan Didion, Louise Erdrich, Anne Lamott: some of the most recognizable names in contemporary Western literature have written about their experiences of parenthood. As a form, the parenting [...]

BookLife Reviews are paid reviews of independently published books. Each review contains the honest opinion of a professional Publishers Weekly reviewer. A lightning bolt([??]) indicates an Editor's Pick, a book [...]

"They Went Another Way: A Hollywood Memoir" by Bruce Eric Kaplan is a darkly funny memoir that captures the author's struggles to get a TV series greenlit in 2022. The memoir is presented as a series of diary entries, detailing Kaplan's efforts to sell a pilot script featuring Glenn Close and Pete Davidson. Despite receiving a Showtime offer, the project falls apart when Davidson backs out. Kaplan also discusses his other writing projects and personal life, offering a revealing look at the challenges of gig work in Hollywood. The memoir provides an entertaining and demystifying perspective on the realities of the entertainment industry. [Extracted from the article]

"Uprooted: A Memoir About What Happens When Your Family Moves Back" is a graphic novel memoir by Ruth Chan. Set in 1993, the story follows 13-year-old Ruth Chan, a Chinese Canadian, as her family moves from Toronto to Hong Kong due to her father's new job. The novel explores the challenges and difficulties Ruth faces as she adjusts to her new life in Hong Kong, including language barriers and cultural differences. Through expressive cartooning and nuanced character interactions, the memoir highlights the importance of perseverance and family support. The book is recommended for readers aged 8 to 12. [Extracted from the article]

The Covid-19 pandemic has made for a quieter political season. Rallies are off, primaries have been delayed or canceled, once heated ideological debates have temporarily cooled. It may not be [...]

The middle grade years--roughly defined as ages eight to 12 in the children's book world--are inherently a time of great change. As the world at large grapples with unprecedented change, [...]

"Village Voices: A Memoir of the Village Voice Bookshop" by Odile Hellier is a collection of interviews and profiles of authors who gave readings at her English-language bookshop in Paris from 1981 to 2012. The book provides a stimulating portrait of the Parisian literary scene during that time, featuring photographs and anecdotes. Hellier documents each author's activities at the shop, including snippets of Q&As that touch on contemporary conversations about identity and political correctness. While the sheer number of names and titles mentioned may be overwhelming, the book is a must-read for literature lovers. [Extracted from the article]

"Feh: A Memoir" by Shalom Auslander is a poignant exploration of the religious guilt the author experienced while growing up in an ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in Rockland County, N.Y. The book delves into Auslander's attempts to overcome the conviction that human beings are inherently flawed, a belief that had a profound impact on his personal and professional life. Although the memoir lacks a clear resolution, it offers a glimmer of hope and showcases Auslander's gallows humor. While not for everyone, "Feh: A Memoir" provides an often-brutal yet sometimes-rewarding journey out of darkness. [Extracted from the article]

"The Sugar Rush: A Memoir of Wild Dreams, Budding Bromance, and Making Maple Syrup" by Peter Gregg is a lighthearted and humorous account of the author's journey into the maple syrup business with his best friend, Bert Jones. The book follows their friendship, which began in a poker league and evolved into a shared passion for music and maple syrup. Despite facing challenges such as squirrels, equipment mishaps, and bad weather, the duo worked tirelessly to produce high-quality syrup. With its effortless humor and relatable anecdotes, this memoir is sure to entertain readers and leave them craving more. [Extracted from the article]

Sara Glass's memoir, "Kissing Girls on Shabbat," explores her journey as an ultra-Orthodox Jew coming to terms with her homosexuality. The book details her brief romance with another woman, the pressures of secrecy, and her subsequent arranged marriage. Glass eventually leaves her husband, pursues a PhD, and comes out as gay. The memoir offers a powerful account of her struggle and resistance. In another book, "Love in the Time of Self-Publishing," Christine Larson examines the success of the romance genre and the role of the Romance Writers of America (RWA). Larson highlights the RWA's inclusive and cooperative community, which helped the genre thrive, but also discusses the organization's issues with diversity and the subsequent fracturing of the RWA. Finally, Thomas R. Cech's book, "The Catalyst," explores the capabilities of RNA and its role in biochemical reactions. Cech recounts his groundbreaking research in the 1980s and discusses the real-world implications of RNA, including its role in the development of mRNA Covid vaccines and its potential for treating neurodegenerative diseases. The book provides clear explanations and analogies to make complex biological concepts accessible. [Extracted from the article]

Siobhán Gallagher's graphic memoir, "Full of Myself: A Graphic Memoir About Body Image," explores the societal pressures and personal struggles that women face in relation to their bodies. Gallagher shares her own experiences with negative body image, fear of being the "fat friend," and encounters with sexual harassment and mental health issues. Through her accessible and humorous artwork, Gallagher offers advice on unlearning harmful cultural messages and developing a healthy body image. This memoir will resonate with young adults and anyone interested in feminist issues. [Extracted from the article]

Griffin Dunne's memoir, "The Friday Afternoon Club," explores the impact of movies, madness, and murder on his famous American family. The book features a colorful cast of characters, including his father, Dominick, a Hollywood producer turned novelist, his mother, Ellen, who had multiple affairs, and his siblings, Alex and Dominique, who were both involved in the entertainment industry. The memoir delves into both the glamorous and darker aspects of their lives, such as Dominick's closeted homosexuality, Ellen's battle with multiple sclerosis, and Dominique's tragic death. Dunne's writing is vivid and filled with rich irony, making it an entertaining tribute to his extraordinary family. [Extracted from the article]

"Uvalde's Darkest Hour" by Craig Garnett is a harrowing account of the worst school shooting in Texas history, which took place at Robb Elementary in May 2022. The book explores the events leading up to the massacre, the day itself, and the unsatisfying aftermath. Garnett highlights the bravery of the children caught in the rampage and delves into warning signs exhibited by the shooter. He also emphasizes the ethical limits his team of reporters placed on their coverage, contrasting it with what he perceives as careless and mercenary reporting by nonlocal media. This book provides an essential perspective on the tragedy in Uvalde. [Extracted from the article]

In "Mothers and Sons: A Memoir," Greek novelist Theodor Kallifatides reflects on a weeklong visit with his elderly mother in Athens. The author returned from Sweden to write about his mother before her death, and their conversations covered topics such as her childhood, the family's migratory patterns, and ancestral secrets. Kallifatides beautifully examines his grief for his late father and contemplates the legacy he wants to leave for his own grandchildren. This slim but generous volume is a stunning tribute to both mother and motherland. [Extracted from the article]

In "Welcome to Pawnee: Stories of Friendship, Waffles, and 'Parks and Recreation'," Jim O'Heir reflects on his time playing Jerry Gergich on the NBC sitcom. He discusses auditioning for a different role, becoming a series regular, and his last day on set. O'Heir also shares his experiences as a character actor and the challenges he faced. He highlights the strong bonds he formed with his co-stars, including Amy Poehler and Chris Pratt, and their support for him. This memoir is entertaining and heartfelt, making it a must-read for fans of Parks and Recreation. [Extracted from the article]

Sean Manning has been promoted to publisher of Simon & Schuster's flagship imprint. He joined the company in 2016 and was previously the VP and executive editor. Manning has published bestselling books by various authors, including James Lee Burke, Bob Dylan, Val Kilmer, Jerry Seinfeld, Howard Stern, and Alex Trebek. He takes over from Jonathan Karp, who has been the CEO since Dana Canedy's departure in 2022. Karp praised Manning's editorial imagination and highlighted his background as a graduate of the fiction MFA program at the New School and an author himself. [Extracted from the article]

"True.: Moving Beyond Complex Trauma" is a memoir by Catherine Ada Campbell that explores her traumatic childhood and the repressed memories she uncovered at the age of 34. Campbell shares her journey of healing, cognitive behavior therapy, and breaking generational cycles of abuse. The book delves into the lasting effects of trauma and offers insights into healthy coping mechanisms. While not a self-help guide, Campbell's story serves as an encouraging example for others facing childhood trauma and mental illness. [Extracted from the article]

This document is a list of the top 10 bestselling books. The list includes titles such as "It Ends with Us" by Colleen Hoover, "Apprentice to the Villain" by Hannah Nicole Maehrer, and "The Book of Bill" by Alex Hirsch. The rankings are based on the number of units sold, with "It Ends with Us" taking the top spot with 72,384 units sold. Other notable books on the list include "Hillbilly Elegy" by J.D. Vance and "A Court of Thorns and Roses" by Sarah J. Maas. [Extracted from the article]

BESTSELLERSNEW & NOTABLE Nancy Pelosi#1 Hardcover Nonfiction"Former House speaker Pelosi recalls in this uneven memoir how her values both guided her through momentous decisions and made her and her family a target," according to our review. "Despite some exceptions, including a harrowing account of the 2022 attack on her husband, Paul, this is short on insight into the private person behind the historic figure."PHOTO (COLOR) [Extracted from the article]

"The Road to Appledore: Or How I Went Back to the Land Without Ever Having Lived There in the First Place" is a memoir by Canadian poet Tom Wayman. The book explores Wayman's move from the city to the rural community of Winlaw in British Columbia's Slocan Valley. Through evocative prose, Wayman reflects on his adjustment to a slower pace of life, encounters with wildlife, and the clarity he gained about his relationship with his partner. The memoir offers a captivating account of Wayman's experience and may appeal to both rural and urban readers. [Extracted from the article]

"The Silver Snarling Trumpet: The Birth of the Grateful Dead—the Lost Manuscript of Robert Hunter" is a memoir written by Robert Hunter, the late lyricist of the Grateful Dead. The memoir, written in the early 1960s and recently discovered by Hunter's widow, recounts his early relationship with Jerry Garcia, the future band leader. Set in Menlo Park, California, the narrative explores their experiences in the local counterculture scene, including parties, philosophical discussions, failed attempts at organizing a commune, and their short-lived folk-guitar duo. While the memoir provides rich observations and character sketches, some readers may find the meandering prose and retellings of hallucinatory dreams to be slow-paced. Deadheads, however, will likely appreciate this glimpse into the band's origins. [Extracted from the article]

Daniel M. Lavery's novel, "Women's Hotel," explores the significance of a women's hotel in the lives of its residents. Set in 1960s New York City, the story follows the experiences of various characters, including Katherine Heap, a longtime resident who now works at the hotel. The novel delves into the personal histories and struggles of the residents, highlighting their connections and the sense of community they find at the hotel. While the book lacks a strong plot, it offers colorful descriptions of the hotel and brings its diverse residents to life. [Extracted from the article]

"Alone Together" is a collection of essays that explores the special relationship between authors and readers. The author, who grew up in Haiti, describes how reading a book creates an intimate connection between the reader and the author. The essays in the collection flow into one another, creating an ongoing conversation about exploring and thinking about the world. The author finds that essays allow them to push past their comfort zone and dig deep, even though they consider themselves a private person. The collection also touches on the challenge of balancing artistic aims with the wishes of others, particularly when writing about family members. [Extracted from the article]

"We Choose To: A Memoir of Providing Abortion Care Before, During, and After Roe" is a memoir written by Curtis Boyd and Glenna Halvorson-Boyd, a married couple who have dedicated their careers to providing abortion care. The book chronicles their experiences, starting with Boyd's decision to perform illegal abortions in the 1960s despite his religious upbringing. The couple met after Roe v. Wade, and together they established the first legal abortion facility in the American Southwest. The memoir also explores the murder of their colleague, George Tiller, and highlights the stories of the women they have treated. The book offers a compassionate and urgent perspective on a sensitive topic and provides valuable insights into the consequences of overturning Roe v. Wade. [Extracted from the article]

"Connie: A Memoir" is an autobiography by pioneering journalist Connie Chung, in which she reflects on her career and personal life. Born to Chinese immigrant parents in 1946, Chung recounts her journey from a shy girl to a confident professional in a male-dominated industry. She discusses her experiences as an anchor on local network news in 1976 Los Angeles and her time co-anchoring CBS Evening News with Dan Rather. Chung also shares her struggles with infertility and offers insights into the challenges faced by women in the workplace. Overall, the book provides an intimate and insightful look into the life of a groundbreaking reporter. [Extracted from the article]

"Infinite Miracles: Memoir of a NICU Mom" is an inspiring memoir by Katie Simons McCarty that recounts her experience as a first-time mom with a baby diagnosed with omphalocele, a condition where the organs grow outside of the body. McCarty shares the harrowing journey of her son's first months in the NICU, highlighting the multiple complications and treatments he endured. The memoir offers valuable insights for NICU parents, addressing the challenges they face and providing advice on coping with well-wishers and finding support through faith and prayer. This raw and honest account will resonate with any parent, particularly those with children facing serious medical conditions. [Extracted from the article]

"The Miller's Angel Baby: A Memoir of My Alcoholic Father's Secret Life" is a compelling debut memoir by A.R. Miller. The author shares her complicated relationship with her alcoholic father, Alec, and his tragic death from prostate cancer. Through the process of handling his estate, Miller uncovers a family secret that changes her world and leads her to explore themes of faith, forgiveness, and the impact of dark family secrets. This emotional journey delves into generational family history and offers an uplifting and impactful narrative. Recommended for fans of memoirs such as Gail Lukasik's "White Like Her" and Judy Bolton-Fasman's "Asylum." [Extracted from the article]

"Who Could Ever Love You: A Family Memoir" by Mary L. Trump is a harrowing account of the unraveling of her family, which mirrors the unraveling of the nation. As a clinical psychologist, Trump explores her childhood trauma and its connection to her current condition of dissociation and social isolation. The memoir delves into her early years dominated by her grandfather, Fred Trump, and the stifling control and disapproval her father faced. Trump also reveals her experiences of sexual abuse, neglect, and the loss of her father, as well as the inheritance dispute with her uncle, Donald Trump. Despite the bleakness of the material, Trump's writing is clear and concise, offering a poignant insight into her family's struggles. [Extracted from the article]

"We Will Be Jaguars: A Memoir of My People" is an impassioned autobiography by Nemonte Nenquimo, a renowned environmental activist and member of the Waorani tribe in Ecuador. Nenquimo recounts her journey from a young Indigenous girl to her fight against oil companies' encroachment on her tribe's rainforest land. The memoir explores Nenquimo's attachment to Waorani traditions, her experience with Christian missionaries, and her efforts to protect her tribe's way of life. The book also highlights Nenquimo's role in a landmark 2019 court case that successfully blocked the development of oil infrastructure on half a million acres of rainforest. [Extracted from the article]

Chase Joynt's book, "Vantage Points: On Media as Trans Memoir," is a unique exploration of trauma and transitioning. Joynt combines his own personal experiences with the writings of media theorist Marshall McLuhan to create a literary montage. By drawing connections between McLuhan's insights and his own life, Joynt delves into topics such as childhood sexual abuse, biological processes, and the experiences of trans men. While the reasons for these connections may not always be clear, the book offers an enigmatic and thought-provoking perspective on these subjects. [Extracted from the article]

"Frighten the Horses: A Memoir" by Oliver Radclyffe is a personal history that reflects on the author's experience of coming out as transgender after starting a family. Radclyffe grew up in a privileged environment in England but struggled with his identity and repressed his true self. After marrying and having children, Radclyffe finally accepted that he was gay and then transgender, finding support and acceptance in New York City. The memoir explores Radclyffe's journey towards self-acceptance and the challenges he faced along the way. The book is praised for its poetic prose and candid storytelling, making it a compelling read for those interested in narratives of late-in-life self-discovery. [Extracted from the article]

Memoirs by and biographies about women dominate this season's list. Also, a bestselling author returns with an inspirational story, and a renowned travel writer takes readers to Mexico. TOP 10 [...]

People seem to learn best through personal stories. That's why in religion and spirituality books, memoirs are often used as a medium to teach life lessons and as a source [...]

The article offers information on Anita Lobel, a prominent figure in the world of picture books since 1965. Topics include Lobel's illustrated works for children, her nonfiction writings based on her own life, and her latest book "Stone Soup: Morsels of an Unsettled Life" which continues her life story from her previous memoir.

PW talks with Elio Morillo Space engineer Elio Morillo immigrated to the U.S. from Ecuador as a child and grew up to work on NASA's Mars 2020 mission. He spoke [...]

Since the success almost 20 years ago of Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America, Barbara Ehrenreich's account of trying to survive while working a series of low-wage [...]

"Pretty: A Memoir" by KB Brookins is a bold debut that explores the author's experiences growing up as an adopted, church-going, Black lesbian in Fort Worth, Texas. The memoir flits between their early childhood and young adulthood, highlighting their struggles as an outsider due to their masculine interests and religious antipathy. Through the aid of pop culture icons like Ciara and Frank Ocean, the author becomes their own mentor, navigating their gender expression and teaching themselves how to show up in the world. Brookins's writing combines playful internet slang with queer theory, creating a unique linguistic style. While the narrative lacks a strong direction, the author's captivating voice and perspective make this memoir worth exploring. [Extracted from the article]

Whoopi Goldberg's memoir, "Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me," reflects on the deaths of her mother, Emma, and brother, Clyde. Goldberg grew up in New York City's Chelsea projects, and she highlights her mother's hard work as a practical nurse and schoolteacher to support her family. The memoir covers Goldberg's career milestones, such as her Broadway show and her Oscar-winning role in "Ghost," but the focus remains on her mother and the happy memories they shared. Goldberg also discusses the overwhelming grief she experienced when both her mother and brother passed away. The memoir offers a comforting perspective on bereavement rather than a sensationalized Hollywood tell-all. [Extracted from the article]

This article highlights several upcoming graphic adaptations of popular books. Some of the featured adaptations include "Ali Cross" by James Patterson, "Amber Brown Is Not a Crayon" by Paula Danziger, "The Circuit" by Francisco Jiménez, and "Warriors: The Prophecies Begin" by Erin Hunter. The article also discusses the adaptation process, with editors and adapters working to balance the essence of the original book while translating it into a new medium. The enthusiasm and connection to the original material by the adapters often play a significant role in the success of the adaptation. [Extracted from the article]

"Still Phyllis: A Caregiver's Memoir of Dementia and CJD" is a memoir by Donald Friedman that explores his experience caring for his sister who was diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), a fatal neurodegenerative disorder. The memoir delves into the challenges and emotional journey of caring for his sister as her condition deteriorates. Friedman reflects on his decision to bring his sister into his home and shares poignant moments of connection and understanding amidst the loss of language and memory. The memoir is praised for its honest and insightful portrayal of the realities of caregiving and the complexities of familial relationships. [Extracted from the article]

"Men Have Called Her Crazy: A Memoir" by Anna Marie Tendler is a powerful and candid account of the author's struggles with mental illness and low self-esteem. Tendler shares her experiences with self-harm, a toxic high school relationship, and a series of failed romances that contributed to her deteriorating self-worth. The memoir also delves into her time in a psychiatric hospital and the solace she found in her dog, Petunia. Tendler concludes on a hopeful note, emphasizing her resilience despite ongoing challenges. This memoir offers a unique perspective on mental health and stands out among other works in the genre. [Extracted from the article]

The article titled "Manboobs: A Memoir of Musicals, Visas, Hope, and Cake" is a nonfiction book review that recounts the author's journey towards self-acceptance as a gay Pakistani. The author, Komail Aijazuddin, shares his experiences growing up in Lahore, facing insults about his weight and struggling with his sexuality. He dreams of escaping to North America for a more accepting environment and eventually moves to New York City. The memoir explores themes of identity, shame, and the challenges of coming out. Aijazuddin's writing style is both playful and sincere, offering powerful insights into his personal journey. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides brief summaries of several nonfiction books. "Group Living and Other Recipes: A Memoir" by Lola Milholland explores the author's experiences with communal living and includes recipes from friends and former roommates. "Why Animals Talk: The New Science of Animal Communication" by Arik Kershenbaum examines the meaning behind animal calls and highlights the complexity of animal communication. "Sell Like a Spy: The Art of Persuasion from the World of Espionage" by Jeremy Hurewitz suggests that salespeople can improve their skills by using espionage tactics. "The Slow Road North: How I Found Peace in an Improbable Country" by Rosie Schaap is a memoir about the author's journey to find peace after experiencing devastating losses. [Extracted from the article]

"The Slow Road North: How I Found Peace in an Improbable Country" is a memoir by Rosie Schaap that explores her journey towards healing after experiencing two significant losses. Following the deaths of her husband and mother, Schaap struggled to cope until a reporting trip took her to Glenarm, a coastal village in Northern Ireland. Inspired by the resilience of the community, Schaap decided to move there, forming connections with her neighbors and delving into the region's history as a way to move forward. The memoir combines regional history with humorous anecdotes, offering a unique perspective on grief and healing. [Extracted from the article]

"In the End: A Memoir about Faith and a Novel about Doubt" by Karie Luidens is a contemplative and introspective exploration of the author's relationship with God. Luidens reflects on her childhood as a minister's daughter and her evolving understanding of God as she grows older. The memoir delves into Luidens's experiences attending a Christian college and her subsequent disillusionment with organized religion. The book concludes with Luidens's journey to France, where she grapples with her newfound awakenings and attempts to reconcile them with her past beliefs. This memoir offers a thoughtful examination of religion, philosophy, and mortality. [Extracted from the article]

"Higher Love: A Psychedelic Travel Memoir of Heartbreak and Healing" is a debut memoir by Anne Kiehl Friedman that explores her search for self-worth and meaning in life. The author, financially secure from birth, grapples with insecurities and uses drugs to numb her emotions. After a devastating breakup and chronic illness, she embarks on a yoga retreat in Costa Rica where she has her first psychedelic experience and learns to accept herself. The memoir includes vivid travel descriptions and educative anecdotes about psychedelic substances, with a cautionary note about moderation. Friedman concludes with a call for conservative and measured use of psychedelics for healing and spiritual growth. [Extracted from the article]