The Book of Joan: Tales of Mirth, Mischief and Manipulation by Melissa Rivers

The Book of Joan: Tales of Mirth, Mischief and Manipulation– Audio

Book Blurb:

In The Book of Joan: Tales of Mirth, Mischief and Manipulation, Melissa Rivers relates funny, poignant and irreverent observations, thoughts, and tales about the woman who raised her and is the reason she considers valium one of the four basic food groups.

My Review: 3 stars

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The Book Of Joan: Tales of Mirth, Mischief and Manipulation was a good insight into Joan’s life from the most personal source there is. Mother and daughter had an extremely close relationship that is demonstrated through the essays shared in the book.

I found that listening to it while driving kept me highly entertained, but Melissa’s voice got to be somewhat irritating. Because this is told from Melissa’s point of view, much of the book was about their relationship. Anecdotes from her childhood were sometimes so out of the ordinary, you’d think they were made up. I’m shocked Melissa ended up as successful as she did.

What I enjoyed most was when she’d spill some celebrity secrets (think of the grudge between her and Jay Leno). Honestly, Melissa’s attempt at funny didn’t go over well; it was when she shared Joan’s stories and oddities. Those had me laughing out loud. Joan was and forever will be one of America’s iconic female comedians.

Quotes I liked:

“Most parents send their children off to school with little bromides like “Have a great day! I can’t wait to see you later!” or “Do your best at school today. We’re having your favorite pizza for dinner tonight!” My mother would send me off with “Enjoy yourself. We could all be dead tomorrow.”