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A review by christinecc
Patricia Neal: An Unquiet Life by Stephen Michael Shearer
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
4.25
Patricia Neal's biography by Stephan Michael Shearer is a real treat for Hollywood history enthusiasts and classic movie fans.
The book follows Neal's life story from her early childhood to her last years, all told in a really taking way. Biographies don't leave a lot of room for creativity in theory, but in practice they can really shine with compelling writing and a candidness that Shearer pulls off with wonders.
What I particularly appreciated was how much real-life detail went into Neal's movie career, as opposed to books that simply list a few anecdotes and movies before moving right along. Neal's life feels human and full, with good as well as terrible times. Her biography is a welcome surprise, especially to readers unfamiliar with her work. It's rare to find a book so interesting that you can read it without having in-depth knowledge of all the movies referenced.
All in all, I'd recommend this to classic movie buffs and anyone interested in the business & career side of Hollywood, where actors hustle for work and try to balance their personal lives with professional considerations. It's all strangely relatable given how distant Hollywood can feel at times.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tantor Audio for sharing an e-copy of the audio book in exchange for an honest review.
The book follows Neal's life story from her early childhood to her last years, all told in a really taking way. Biographies don't leave a lot of room for creativity in theory, but in practice they can really shine with compelling writing and a candidness that Shearer pulls off with wonders.
What I particularly appreciated was how much real-life detail went into Neal's movie career, as opposed to books that simply list a few anecdotes and movies before moving right along. Neal's life feels human and full, with good as well as terrible times. Her biography is a welcome surprise, especially to readers unfamiliar with her work. It's rare to find a book so interesting that you can read it without having in-depth knowledge of all the movies referenced.
All in all, I'd recommend this to classic movie buffs and anyone interested in the business & career side of Hollywood, where actors hustle for work and try to balance their personal lives with professional considerations. It's all strangely relatable given how distant Hollywood can feel at times.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tantor Audio for sharing an e-copy of the audio book in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child death