Saturday, June 25, 2011

He's no dummy....

TITLE: All By My Selves: Walter, Peanut, Achmed, and Me

AUTHOR: Jeff Dunham

REVIEWED BY: Cleggy

BRIEF SUMMARY: "His YouTube videos have been viewed more than 400 million times by fans all over the world. He has played to sold-out venues across North America, Europe, South Africa and Australia. He has sold more than six million DVDs, Forbes has ranked him in their Celebrity 100 list of most powerful entertainers for two years running, and he has been the top touring comedian in the United States for the last two years. Whether he's breathing life into an old curmudgeon, an over- caffeinated purple maniac, or a screaming, skeletal, dead terrorist, Jeff Dunham is the straight man to some of the funniest partners in show business.

All by My Selves is the story of one pretty ordinary guy, one interesting hobby, one very understanding set of parents, and a long and winding rode to becoming America's favorite comedian. With wit, honesty, and lots of great show business detail, Jeff shares all the major moments in his journey. From the toy dummy he spotted at a toy store when he was 8 years old to playing to arenas filled with screaming fans, Jeff takes readers behind the curtain to explain how he turned an old fashioned art form into something truly modern and hip. Best of all, Jeff's story is accompanied by asides and interruptions from his characters-who share all the hilarious details Jeff himself is too embarrassed to include." (Summary from the published book)

WHY I PICKED IT UP: I have always enjoyed ventriloquists, and I remember Jeff's routine from years ago (pre-Achmed, when he mainly used Walter and Peanut).  I wanted to read his story and find out why he's one of the most popular standups today.

WHY I FINISHED IT: It was both fascinating and hilarious.  Jeff's personality really comes through.

WHO I’D GIVE IT TO: People who like biographies, comedy, or who are curious about ventriloquism or standup comedy.

OTHER NOTES AND CONTENT WARNINGS: Fascinating and funny, I would definitely recommend this to any of my interested adult friends.  There is quite a bit of bad language (mostly PG-13 level, although the F-bomb is dropped a time or two).

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