This book is based on the life of Artie Lange, a stand-up comedian who performed on MADtv and on the Howard Stern Show. Artie Lange grew up in a close-knit Italian family in Union, New Jersey. The book takes us throughout his life - from childhood to adulthood. Artie talks about his inability to have, and keep, girlfriends; his close relationship with his father who passed away and how this relationship defined him; and how, no matter how successful he became or how hard he tried, his self-destructive instincts were always just around the corner.
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This is the story of a guy who made it big in show business, yet he remained unsatisfied. From his numerous addictions, i.e., hookers, alcohol, heroin, cocaine - to a severe depression and a suicide attempt, Artie Lange was the victim of his own wrongdoings.
Best part of story, including ending:
You can see how desperate Artie is, through the acts performed and self-sabotage. Furthermore, this is also a story where family and friendships matter, even when someone close to one's heart is no longer by our side.
Best scene in story:
Artie was about to shoot a scene for MADtv in which he had to be dressed as a human pig. While in "character", he felt the sudden urge to snort cocaine and since he had none left, he decided to drive to his supplier's location while dressed as a pig, and he proceeded with snorting cocaine with a straw, as his costume barely allowed him access to his nostrils. This is a good example of a funny moment in Artie's life; however how tragic it is that his addiction is so deep that it drives him to make a fool of himself in public.
Opinion about the main character:
Like: Regardless of the tragedy that is is life, Artie remains humorous in his depictions and being the comedian that he is, manages to make the reader laugh.
Dislike: His self-destructive behavior is absolutely out of control.