Title: My Booky Wook
Author: Russell Brand
First published January 1, 2007
339 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780340936153 (ISBN10: 0340936150)
Rating: 3.44
Overview
Russell Brand took the comedy world by storm in 2006. He quickly became a household name, earning accolades such as Time Out’s Comedian of the Year, Best Newcomer at the British Comedy Awards, and GQ’s Most Stylish Man.
But his life wasn’t always glitz and glamour. In fact, he battled bulimia at age 12, began drinking and taking drugs at 16, and even visited prostitutes in Soho.
During his stand-up shows, he would take drugs on stage and even set himself on fire while on crack cocaine. But in 2003, everything changed.
He was told that he had six months to live unless he entered rehab. Now, three years sober, Russell’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination.
This is his incredible story.
About the Author
Meet Russell Edward Brand, a hilarious English comedian, actor, radio host, author, and activist. He’s known for his eccentric style, which he describes as “S&M Willy Wonka.” You’ll often spot him wearing black eyeliner, drainpipe jeans, Beatle boots, and sporting long, shaggy, backcombed hair.
In October of 2010, Brand tied the knot with pop singer . Sadly, their marriage came to an end in December of 2011.
Editoral Review
My Booky Wook by Russell Brand is a memoir about the comedian’s life before and after he became famous. The book is written in Brand’s signature irreverent, stream-of-consciousness style, and it deals with themes like addiction, fame, and love.
Brand was already a well-known figure in the UK when he published My Booky Wook in 2007, but the book catapulted him to international fame. His candid and often hilarious storytelling style won over audiences, and his reflections on his turbulent personal life struck a chord with readers.
The book covers Brand’s childhood in Essex, his early career as a stand-up comic, and his rise to fame in movies like Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him to the Greek. He also talks candidly about his struggles with addiction, his tumultuous relationships, and his eventual path to recovery.
One of the strengths of My Booky Wook is Brand’s ability to blend humor and honesty in his writing. He doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of his life, but he delivers them with a wink and a nod.
This balance keeps the book engaging and readable even in its more serious moments. That being said, the book does have its weaknesses.
At times, Brand’s self-deprecating humor comes across as insincere, and his attempts to be profound can fall flat. The book also suffers from some pacing issues, particularly in the later chapters.
Despite these flaws, My Booky Wook is a compelling read for anyone interested in Brand’s life or the world of comedy. It is a well-written, entertaining memoir that offers an intimate glimpse into the mind of one of the most audacious performers of our time.
If I were to give My Booky Wook a rating, I would give it a 4 out of 5 stars. Although it has its limitations, it is still a standout memoir that is worth reading for anyone seeking a laugh and an honest look at the ups and downs of fame.
