Summer Reading-Me Elton John

Summer Reading Continued....

Me Elton John has been on my radar since last year when I read the Julie Andrews biography. Biographies haven't really been something I've gravitated toward until recently. I think the year we did the reading challenge at school got me hooked on biographies. That year, in order to get in as many books as possible I started reading books in the Big Head biography series. If you are unfamiliar with these books, they are a series of biographies written on an elementary grade level. They are called Big Heads because of the caricature of the subject on the front cover. Learn more here: http://www.whowasbookseries.com/who-was/

Anyhoooo. Back to Elton John. I was never a huge fan. But growing up in the late 70's and then the 80's it's hard not to know who Elton John is or not heard any of his songs. However, his biography is another matter completely.

Now I'm going to give you the warnings first. There is interesting language in this book to put it mildly. Elton John is very frank and open with regard to the details of his life. From his lifestyle, to his struggles with drugs and alcohol, to his mental and physical health...HE. HOLDS. NOTHING. BACK.

There, I've warned you. 

Now for the good stuff. HE. HOLDS. NOTHING. BACK.  

It is because this is a wide open account of his life that it is so interesting and entertaining. His writing, while not what one would call classic literature, was so easy to read and enjoyable I found myself smiling and often laughing out loud. But between all that is a true and honest account of what his life was like even before, during and after he became famous. Yet, he doesn't tell the truth for us to feel sorry for him. He is quite practical about his life not being anywhere near "normal." Not once did I feel as though he was being arrogant, self righteous, condescending, or a braggart. I didn't get the sense he was looking for pity from the reader. It honestly felt like he just wanted to tell his story and the reader could take it however they wanted.

I personally took it as an enjoyable read. There were multiple lines from the book I would have highlighted or underlined if it had been my own personal copy. 

Here is my favorite line from the book. "Indeed, if you ever feel your life is getting a little routine, a bit humdrum, I can wholeheartedly recommend going on tour in the company of a hugely eccentric six-foot-seven gay blues singer with a drink problem. You'll find things liven up quite considerably."

Ha! Isn't that just a hoot? I feel like this quote sums up the entire book. And while you many not agree with Elton's choice of words or the example in this statement, the sentiment behind it is spot on. If you think your life is boring, do something to change it up. Bonus points if it is something absolutely crazy!

If you enjoy reading about people's lives; the good, the bad, the ugly, the crazy, and you don't mind a little inappropriate. Then this book is for you. Also, if you just like learning about the lives of famous people and how they got to be famous, then pick up this book. Elton John's friend list reads like a 70's and 80's Billboard Top Ten Hits list. It's worth reading just for that.

I wouldn't say this is a highly recommend or even a five star rated book. But it is a definite recommend just the same. Don't be surprised if I mention it when talking about good books.