Reviews

The Actor's Life: A Survival Guide by Jenna Fischer

laurenmichellebrock's review

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5.0

I feel like this book should’ve scared me a lot more than it did. So much good information. Still fascinated by the pursuit. Might ruin my life to chase the dream. Who knows?

singr10's review

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5.0

I am not an aspiring actor, but I really enjoyed this book. I am fascinated with the behind the scenes aspect of movies and television so this book was a really fun read. I've listened to the audio book on several long car rides and I enjoy it every time!

nickscoby's review

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4.0

Dare I say, this book is . . . inspiring. I’m not at all interested in acting but I loved reading about what it’s like to have that passion and to pursue it even when you don’t know the outcome. Besides, I’m a sucker for anything related to the hidden curriculum. Jenna, who is incredibly funny, offers some great advice that I can apply in my work in higher education, i.e., find yourself a community of like minded people, create work for yourself and stay busy and also have specific goals.

bngambill's review

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5.0

I listened to the audiobook version on a 7 hour drive for a work trip. I’m not someone looking to be an actor, but I really enjoy Jenna Fischer and her work. This was a great listen! If you want to be an actor, it’s for you. If you need something to hold your attention for 6-7 hours as you drive through flatlands, this is incredibly helpful.

veronicabane's review

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I am not an actor, aspiring or otherwise, but actors are the intended audience here. If you are an aspiring actor, this book is packed with useful tips and motivation to get you through the hard times. As as a non-actor, the motivation was still helpful for me as an artist. I also enjoyed the behind the scenes. It was also particularly good as an audiobook.

itsmejacs's review

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4.0

4.5 stars

wanderingmole's review against another edition

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4.0

I have never seen The Office and have no aspirations to be an actor, but I still enjoyed this book. It offers a great insight into the weird and brutal hurdles in the life of a working actor. While some tips are very specific (only pretend to eat in a food scene if you’re in the background so you don’t get sick) many are highly applicable to working in other industries: make your own work; always keep learning; foster your friendships; you never need to tolerate abuse; be the CEO and the product of your business, you; everything is an opportunity; and failure is inevitable. This list/ summary likely reads as generic and boring, but it so interesting when contextualised in this funny, personal narrative. Recommend!

*listened to the audio

alexlm's review against another edition

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funny informative lighthearted fast-paced

4.0

aimeebrand's review

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3.0

Fun read, definitely a good book for someone trying to head to LA to be an actor. But interesting to me even though I am not in that category.

lachimolala981's review

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4.0

This is more of a how-to style book, which is disappointing many people. I tried to read it and found it tedious, but the audiobook is excellent. It's read by the author and she gives so much life and passion to her words. The interviews at the end of the book with other actors was a great addition. I loved learning about this profession and about the awesomest TV show ever, The Office.