Bite-sized book reviews
Bite-sized book reviews
After a friend recommended Matthew Perry’s memoir (long before his death) I approached it with a different perspective reading it following his tragic passing. The experience of reading this book posthumously added a haunting layer, especially given Perry’s frequent reflections on near-death experiences due to his struggles with addiction. Knowing the outcome—his eventual death from an incident involving ketamine, a drug he mentions in the memoir as “not for him”—made his stories feel almost prophetic and deeply poignant. Perry delivers a compelling narration of his own life story, with the expected flair and wit that made him a star on “Friends.” His candor in discussing the raw and gritty details of his addiction and recovery is commendable, though comes with what seems like a significant ego, particularly referring to the impact Friends has had (which is no doubt significant, I won’t deny that). His narrative is engaging and filled with the kind of honesty that makes for a gripping memoir. This memoir is not just a recount of a celebrity’s life but a complex journey through fame, addiction, and the personal battles that often remain hidden behind a public persona. It’s an engaging read that becomes even more impactful considering the tragic context of Perry’s death.