“Official Book Club Selection”

Publisher’s Summary: Official Book Club Selection is Kathy Griffin unplugged, uncensored, and unafraid to dish about what really happens on the road, away from the cameras, and at the star party after the show. (It’s also her big chance to score that coveted book club endorsement she’s always wanted. Are you there, Oprah? It’s me, Kathy.)

Kathy Griffin has won Emmys for her reality show Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List, been nominated for a Grammy, worked and walked every red carpet known to man, and rung in the New Year with Anderson Cooper. But the legions of fans who pack Kathy’s sold-out comedy shows have heard only part of her remarkable story. Writing with her trademark wit, the feisty comic settles a few old scores, celebrates the friends and mentors who helped her claw her way to the top, and shares insider gossip about celebrity behavior – the good, the bad, and the very ugly. She recounts the crazy ups and downs of her own career and introduces us to some of the supertalented people she encountered before they got famous (or, in some cases, after fame went to their heads). Word to the wise: If you’ve ever crossed Kathy Griffin at some point in your life, check the index for your name.

Along the way, Kathy reveals intimate details about her life before and after she made the big time. She opens up about everything from growing up with a dysfunctional family in suburban Illinois to bombing as a young comedian in L.A., from her well-publicized plastic surgery disasters to her highly publicized divorce, and more. Only in this book will you learn how the dinner table is the best training ground for a career in stand-up, how speaking your mind can bite you on the ass and buy you a house, and which people in Kathy’s life have taught her the most valuable lessons – both inside and outside the entertainment industry.

Refreshingly candid and full of hilarious “Did she really say that?” moments.

©2009 Kathy Griffin; (P)2009 Random House

Long story short? Kathy Griffin is absolutely hilarious. I’ve been a fan for years and always DVR My Life on the D-List. She’s a nut, plain and simple. After I joined Audible, this was my first purchase and download because I couldn’t wait to hear the book.

Kathy is a superb storyteller and her narration of the book puts the icing on the cake. She chronicles her life and career from the beginning, even including the painful memories of her brother, Kenny. One of the best parts in Kathy’s book and life is her mother, Maggie. Maggie (who just released her own book!) is hilarious and just adds to Kathy’s comedy black book.

Kathy has knocked down barriers and clawed her way to… Well, the D-List. But it’s better than the F-List, right? Eh, anyways. She’s a strong advocate for gay rights and marriage and frequently gives shout-outs to “her gays”. She tells stories from her time with Groundlings, Seinfeld, Ellen and Suddenly Susan that will make you laugh out loud. I’m sure my husband thinks I’m nuts because I busted out with laughter while I was washing dishes and listening to my iPod. Yea, she’s hilarious and I’d listen to this again… and again… and again.

Overall opinion: This is a must read. Official Book Club Selection will keep you laughing from the start to finish and just proves that Kathy should be on the A-List. Dear Kathy, I love you. Sincerely, Maggie.