Week 12 Prompt Response

1) Where is the book on the narrative continuum?

Highly narrative (reads like fiction)

2) What is the subject of the book? 

The author's life from growing up in Canada with a single mother and absent father to his most recent recovery process, and everything in between. 

3) What type of book is it? 

A celebrity memoir. 

4) Articulate appeal

What is the pace of the book?

This book reads quickly due to the high interest level of the subject matter, coupled with all of the actor's struggles and triumphs. However, it is all well-thought out and none of the story is every rushed, classifying it more of a medium-paced book. 

Describe the characters of the book.

The main character of the book is Matthew Perry, actor, comedian, humanitarian. Throughout his book, he tries to bring home the fact that he was so much more than the characters he played. He was a friend, a partner, a son, and an advocate for others battling addiction like he did. He dropped celebrity names every once in a while as their stories became entwined in his own. 

How does the story feel?

Nostalgic, honest, heart-felt. 

What is the intent of the author?

Reflect on his life, on and off the screen, and to be as open and honest about his battle with addiction. 

What is the focus on the story? 

The life of Matthew Perry and the events that led to his many rehab stints, as well as the fallouts from his on-going battle with addiction. 

Does the language matter?

Yes. Matthew Perry had a distinct way of speaking. He had his own tendencies and a very distinct tone that he brought to his character Chandler Bing on Friends. The language is even more prevalent and important in the audio version, as it is read by the author. Listening to it feels like going home. 

Is the setting important and well described?

The setting is not as important to the events in this book, as they are centrally focused on and around Matthew Perry, no matter where he is. The setting various, based on the timeline, from his childhood in Canada to his time in LA after Friends. In this book, the reader is more concerned with what happens to the author rather than where he is. 

Are there details and, if so, of what?

Yes. The author takes painstaking time to explain different aspects of his childhood, acting career, relationships, and battles with addiction. He does not shy away from uncomfortable truths and ugly facts. 

Are there sufficient charts and other graphic materials? Are they useful and clear? 

Yes. In the middle of  the book, as well as scattered throughout, the author included many different photos from his own personal collection to accompany the stories he told. The photos range from when he was an infant through childhood and teenage years into adulthood and his many accomplishments. 

Does the book stress moments of learning, understanding, or experience? 

Yes. Perry takes the time to reflect on the mistakes he made and the lessons he learned through everything. Throughout the entire book, Perry never once tried to push blame off on another, or downplay any aspect of his life. He took accountability for it all, and made sure the readers knew that. 

5) Why would a reader enjoy this book (rank appeal)? 

1. Characterization 2. Storyline 3. Learning/Experiencing