It's incredible that I actually attented this book signing at Waterstones Piccadilly back in 2019. I marvelled at the queue I made friends, I waited extremely nervously to meet him. I said hello, he signed my book and I shuffled off! It was a really special day - yet I look back and I feel a bit guilty that I hadn't read the book.
So here is a moment of full disclosure. I finished the audiobook recently and this review is based off of that!
I noticed that it was included in my Spotify premium subscription and I went for it. Finished within a week while I was walking my dog. I set myself a lofty goal of books to read this year which I'm way behind on. My sister has also been remininding me that yes - it does still count. If you're like me and wondering if audio books count... Just accept that they do!
I was delighted to start the audiobook to Elton's voice and though primarily narrated by Taron Egerton, it was beyond perfect. It truly brought the story to life and the extra voices he put on were SO perfect for each character portrayed.
I was actually surprised in a sense how deep that this book went. On the one hand, I am not surprised, but on the other I am. I felt reading this that there were some incredibly vulnerable moments that many would have been nervous to write. It exposed a lot more than I thought it would going into it. The other thing I found very interesting and was actually probably my favourite part was how much self reflection seemed to happen. Understanding the nature of ones self is no simple task, and the fact that it was brought forward so often, and addressing and speaking to "mistakes" made in the past - while simultaneously accepting and moving past shortcomings with incredible grace. It proves again and again a big part of why Elton is such a legend.
I found myself tearing up and reflecting on pieces of my life as well. Relationships with friends, family, lovers, thinking about confidence and self worth. It was truly an incredible story that I learned a lot from. About his life and about life in general. Fresh insights and perspective which I do believe is the most spectacular thing to take away from an autobiography!
It is astonishing how much Elton has done as an artist throughout his career, but outside of the incredible influence on music and all pop culture he has had, the incredible work that he has done with the Elton John Aids Foundation and how many people he has helped. It is truly something to be admired.
I thought this book was very well put together, it flowed logically and told his story beautifully, openly and honestly.
Even if you're not an Elton John fan, you can't deny his tremendous impact on the world and I would suggest as a music lover, you pick this one up and give it a go! Even on audiobooks. You will absolutely fall more in love with Elton than you already were!
Are you going to check it out? Here's a picture below from Waterstones at the signing! An unforgettable day!
Let me know if you read it!
Ashley
Commentaires