I do love a celebrity memoir, and I’m always adding new ones to my shelves, so here is what I’ve been reading:

How Y’All Doing? by Leslie Jordan
Whether you are a fan from American Horror Story, The Help, or even just Instagram – Leslie Jordan does not disappoint. He is so charming and adorable, even through print, and his book was a really nice and refreshing read. You can definitely hear his tone through his writing and his life did not always take the obvious route. His stories and memories are adorably shared and I enjoyed getting to know him a little more – his life was not what I would have expected. I’d definitely recommend this if you’re looking for something light and happy. Update: Read this a second time since Leslie’s passing, and fell in love with him all over again. He is such a beautiful soul that is so deeply missed. ♥

The Woman In Me by Britney Spears
Boy, is it nice to hear Brit’s own words! I absolutely loved reading her story, even though it was wildly frustrating for her at times. It really just makes you so mad at her family for what they did to her, but I’m happy for where she is now. It also just makes me feel so good that this book got Justin Timberlake effectively boo’ed into canceling the NSYNC tour. This book tastes like some justice after so much unfairness for Britney. Can’t wait to see how she lives her life now that she is free. Long live the queen of pop!

Down The Drain by Julia Fox
On one hand, WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK did I just read!? But on the other hand, I do see why this is a masterpiece if she does say so herself. Truly, this was one of the most wild rides that I’ve been taken on in a memoir, and I’ve read some FUCKED UP memoirs. I don’t want to spoil too much, but this has everything from drugs, sex, abuse and neglect, sex dominatrix work, felonies, and so much more. My only critique is that it ended very abruptly and could have used a reflection/closing chapter to wrap it all up. But otherwise, holy shit.

Reality Check: Making The Best Of The Situation by Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino
Being the fan of Jersey Shore that I am, I was stoked to see that Mike wrote about his story. We talk about how Mike has overcome addiction on my podcast, but this provided some intimate details that the world would not have known had Mike not shared. This memoir is real, dark, deep, and also packed with all the details that Mike knew the fans of JS would care about. It’s so inspiring to see how Mike has created a great life for himself after being in such a dark place from his disease. Such a fan, such a great read!

I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
I am very happy that Jennette McCurdy found her place to document the tumultuous life she has lived. Known best for her time on the Nickelodeon show iCarly, this is the memoir that sets her story straight. The title of the book gives the subject matter away, but it’s truly frightening how deep the abuse went that Jennette suffered. The manipulation started from a super young age, as Jennette’s mom was clearly unstable and narcissistic. This was only further enabled through the cancer diagnoses, as it gave Jennette’s mom even more of a reason to have life centered around herself. Overall, the book is a fast, intriguing, and emotional read that I really enjoyed. I hope that Jennette feels validation in documenting her story and her growth. I hope that justice is brought to the creator aka scum of the earth Dan Schneider. And I hope that through this, Jennette has found some sense of peace.

Yours Cruelly, Elvira by Cassandra Peterson
I love this woman! She has lived such a crazy life from start to finish, and it’s all covered in her book. From her childhood injury resulting in life-long scars to her teenage Vegas showgirl days to the famous character of Elvira, all the details of this wild ride are included – even the Elvis and Tom Jones hook-ups. I have so much respect for Cassandra and am even more excited to have her finally be out and loud about being a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. She’s had such an interesting and fabulous life and career and reading along was super fun.

The Sporty One by Melanie Chisholm
As a Spice Girls fan, this was really fun! It was cool to read her perspective from today’s mindset, since most of the other Spice memoirs came out over 10 years ago. While I really enjoyed reading this, it was definitely a little lengthy, but also easy to skim through. Also really cool to see her sorta *hint* at the relationship between Geri and Mel B, since it really did effect the whole group. Regardless of how long the book was, I still liked it. Zig-a-zig-a!

Becoming by Michelle Obama
I don’t usually do audio books, but I really enjoyed hearing this story read by Michelle Obama herself. The beginning was pretty typical for a celebrity memoir – lots of cutsie stories from growing up that showcase why she’s such a badass as an adult. But what I most appreciated was her commentary around political matters towards the end of the book. I also liked hearing about her meeting Barack, which was super adorable. Overall I’m such a fan of Michelle Obama’s, so there was no question that I would enjoy this one.

Black Friend by Ziwe
I’m absolutely obsessed with Ziwe, her YouTube show, her ShowTime show, so obviously I ran to read her book. It definitely didn’t disappoint, although I will admit that there were a couple of essays that felt a little filler. Overall though, she does a great job of tying the themes and funny moments from her show into book form. I guess this is sorta a memoir, sorta just personal essays, but either way it was definitely worth the read cause Ziwe is amazing. Goo goo ga ga.

Leslie F*cking Jones by Leslie Jones
I really enjoyed this because I’m a big fan of Leslie’s, and it’s a pretty standard celeb memoir if I’m being honest. It was great to learn more about Leslie’s path to fame, especially since she really didn’t get peak popular until later in her life. The beginning of her life was definitely dark at times, but she still writes about it from a place of humor and honesty. Nothing super groundbreaking here but still a good, solid read.

Master Of Me by Keke Palmer
This was cute! And I really love Keke Palmer, so it was fun to be able to hear her voice through the words of the pages. This was part memoir and part self-help book, which I think was a nice unique take on a celebrity book. I don’t know if I could ever picture her with the name Lauren, because Keke fits her so well, but it was really nice to see some of those sides of Lauren in these pages, but still in Keke’s voice. Like I said, super cute!

You Got Anything Stronger? by Gabrielle Union
I’m a big fan of Gab Union and there were certain chapters that I really liked – specifically her love letter to her Bring It On character (Isis) and her commentary on Blackness in Hollywood (and the world). I will say though that some of the other chapters I think I would have liked and related to more if I had a husband and children. Those parts almost made me feel bad for her? But maybe I just can’t relate to being married to a man! I still enjoyed the way that Gab writes and I would say that this was a pretty standard story-style celebrity memoir.

Finding Me by Viola Davis
This was a pretty tough read just because of how difficult of a childhood Viola Davis had. I would say that a majority of the book was focused on the horrors of her childhood, and the last three or four are a little more lengthy and get more into her life as an adult. It’s clear that her youth affected her romantic relationships up until she met her husband, and I also think that it train her in a messed up way for the rejection of the entertainment industry. I also really appreciated her commentary on “Black roles” in Hollywood and what her experience has been like. Overall though, I was just thankful to see how her life turned around and how wonderful her husband seems to be.

How To Make Love Like A Porn Star by Jenna Jameson
Despite my regular porn consumption, I actually discovered Jenna Jameson when watching this old VH1 show called “Couples Therapy”, where celebrities go on a retreat to work on their relationships. Jenna was on season 5 with some guy that she didn’t end up with long after the show ended, and this was a rather unique way to be introduced to this legend. Her book may be over 500 pages, but it reads quick, as Jenna knows how to put together a dynamic show even in print. It has actual sex and industry tips, tons of pictures and even some comics, and some really juicy celebrity stories. However, it also highlights the hardships that Jenna has had to overcome in her difficult life. Her story is interesting as fuck, just like Jenna.

Judge This Cover by Brittany Renner
I was fascinated by Brittany Renner since the first second I ever laid eyes on her, via Instagram of course. I pressed that follow button instantly and let @bundleofbrittany level up my Instagram feed. She has this incredible bad bitch confidence – someone you want to both be and be with at the time time. She published a “tell-all” book in 2018, where she told the stories of seven high-profile men she’s had experiences with. She has since gone on quite a journey – from starting a family, to being a single mom, to now taking on a new identity in faith. I’m honestly not sure what to make of it all? And it’s crazy that this compilation of salacious sex stories exists considering where she is now.

Nice Girls Don’t Win by Parvati Shallow
It took me a long time to read this one because the title is so unbelievably cringe that I did not want to be seen reading it, even if just on Goodreads. Once I got past that, it was actually really interesting to hear about her early life on the commune. Her story is very unique, and I didn’t think she needed some of the typical memoir “tropes” that were likely encouraged by her editors. Even still, it was an intriguing read, because Parvati is an intriguing person – both on reality TV and in real life.

Darkness To Light by Lamar Odom
I was right in the middle of my Kardashian deep dive when I heard Khloe talk about the fact that Lamar came out with a book about his life. Sign. Me. Up. Are you kidding?! I was such a huge fan of Khloe and Lamar when they were together, loved their show, and was really rooting for Lamar’s recovery. Lamar definitely dives into the shadows of his darkness, specifically surrounding his addiction with drugs and sex. He admits to heavy drug use as well as having sex with over 2,000 women in his lifetime. The book gets really deep and truthful, as Lamar admitted to his faults, his weaknesses, and his mistakes. There’s a lot of shit that’s been thrown at Lamar in his life, and yet he takes responsibility for the way he reacted. I think it’s so brave of him to share his story and his truth, and it was certainly worth the read.

Taste: My Life Through Food by Stanley Tucci
Such a fan of Stanley Tucci, and this was a very unique memoir compared to all the others that I’ve read. I’m sure he’s not the first one to do recipe-infused storytelling, but it feels very authentic to him and even the characters that he has played. I love the heavy Italian influence as an Italian myself, and I tabbed a few recipes to try later on. I think things could have been a bit shorter, but that’s really my only critique. Otherwise, I really liked this one, despite how hungry it made me while reading it! Pairs best with his show Searching For Italy and the movie Julie & Julia.

Talking As Fast As I Can by Lauren Graham
This is definitely a really fun read if you are a Gilmore Girls fan, because Lauren really goes in deep in her memories and what was important to her and the fans when it came to Stars Hollow. Aside from the Gilmore Girls inside tea, this was a pretty cut and dry celebrity memoir that talked about the path of rejection to success and some failed famous romances. I didn’t have a bad time reading this but I wouldn’t say there was anything truly groundbreaking that was unearthed in here. Still love you though, Lorlei!

Grimoire Girl by Hilarie Burton Morgan
There was a lot going on with this one! It was part how-to-be-a-modern-day-witch, part memoir, and part personal history with sprinkles of One Tree Hill tidbits mixed in. While it felt a little of an odd mix for me, I also think it was a cute insight into Hilarie’s mind and life. I wouldn’t come here if you’re just looking for One Tree Hill-related things, but if you’re into the witchy/potion/spells kinda stuff, then this might be a good beginners-guide.

The House of Hidden Meanings by RuPaul
I’ve read some of the other books that RuPaul has published, and this one was quite different and very interesting. This was a deeper look into RuPaul’s life pre-Drag Race, including his family life and childhood. It’s hilarious to me that in the beginning of the book, Ru gives us a warning that this was his version of events and that becomes quite evident in the way that he speaks so reflectively about everything. I liked hearing about his struggles with addiction, how his movie Starrbooty was made, and how he met his husband. But it was a bit all over the place for me, however, I still found this interesting to read.

Workin’ It! by RuPaul
I’m not sure the entire timeline of Ru’s life, but Workin’ It! was definitely written sometime after season 2 of Drag Race, but before Raven was working as her makeup artist. The book is a list of many tips, tricks, routines, and rules to live by – everything from make-up tutorials to professional advice. Since Ru has seen and done it all, she’s ready to pass on her knowledge to the generations to come. Truthfully, I’m not sure I needed to know all the ins and outs about Ru’s colon cleaning adventures, but it was a good read otherwise.

GuRu by RuPaul
GuRu actually makes for a really lovely coffee table book. It’s not so much a novel, but more a collection of Ru’s thoughts, stories, quotes, and pictures. You could really flip to any page in the book and start reading, since most of the pages stand independent from one another. It’s sort of like the most glamorous self-help book you’ll ever read. It’s very very visually appealing, and reminded me of Kim’s Selfie Book with all the pictures – although there’s way more writing. I’d definitely keep this on my coffee table if I was hosting some elegant extravaganza.

My Name’s Yours, What’s Alaska? by Alaska Thunderfuck
I’m a big big fan of Alaska’s – obviously from RuPaul’s Drag Race and her recap podcast Race Chaser with Willam, but also just as a human. I feel like I could relate to her so much, as a Pennsylvania girl myself, and because she super-fans over things the way that I do. I loved getting to know her better, especially seeing more insight into her relationship with Sharon needles. The behind-the-scenes info on Drag Race and fame was also really interesting, and the pictures were definitely my favorite part. If you’re a fan of Alaska’s, don’t hesitate to grab her book.

All About Yvie by Yvie Oddly
This was actually co-written by Yvie and Michael Bach, which made the book come off as sort of a fan-girl art project, if I’m being honest. I do like Yvie, and I feel like I learned a lot about her and the way that her Drag Race story came to be. A lot of the parts written by Michael felt sorta.. worshipy? But I enjoyed the quotes by Yvie and the other people in her life. I also won this for free in a book drawing from GoodReads, which was super fun for me.

Man Up! by Ross Mathews
Man Up! Tales of My Delusional Self-Confidence by Ross Mathews was perfect for a light read to make you happy. Most people remember Ross as “Ross the Intern” from the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and I absolutely loved hearing how this persona came to be. A lot of Ross’ career was built on creating opportunity and taking the chances that are presented to you. The lucky circumstances that land you in the right place at the right time is what brought Ross Mathews from the mid-west to our big screens. Hearing his voice on the podcast in my ears each week always makes me happy, and now I got some insight into who he is and where he comes from written in his own words.

Name Drop by Ross Mathews
Name Drop is a collection of the “really good celebrities stories” that he “usually only tells at happy hour.” The stories in the book include interactions with big names, such as Rosie O’Donnell, Christina Aguilera, The Spice Girls and sooo much more! He truly did not disappoint – these stories were amazing.  They were short, sweet, but packed full of the gossip you’re looking for. Plus, Ross makes everything fun! So not only is there the collection of stories, but he also includes original cocktails and “ROSSipes” with each chapter.

It Takes Balls by Josh Wolf
You may recognize comedian Josh Wolf from his thirteen years of stand-up, his tours with Larry the Cable Guy and Chelsea Handler, and his TV appearances on My Name Is Earl  and Raising Hope. I discovered Josh through Ross Mathews – they both worked on Chelsea Lately and continued their chemistry on a radio show. This book is collection of his own experiences and funny stories. He finds himself, as he is breaking into his comedy career, with 3 kids and questionable help. They made it work, of course, but not without some tales to tell along the way. Josh is hilarious, and I was highly amused.

Diva Rules By Michelle Visage
I bought this book during Drag Con, where I actually got to meet Michelle! She even signed the book for me, which honestly made it a little more exciting to read. Diva Rules is partly about her life, but also largely a self help book for the misfits and freaks who consider themselves fabulous enough to be a diva. Definitely read this if you are ready to start feeling your oats. Michelle is inspiring because she works hard, empowers others, believes in herself, and never gives up. She is loving, kind, full of wisdom and also not afraid to clock you for the wrong hemline. Her end goal is always to make those who shine, shine their brightest, including herself. Follow her Diva rules to do just that.

The Last Black Unicorn & She Ready by Tiffany Haddish
The Last Black Unicorn is something that everyone should be reading and listening to. Tiffany’s life was ROUGH, and yet she manages to tell her story in a way that made me really laugh. After listening to that, I opened up She Ready – which was noticeably shorter in length than The Last Black Unicorn. I honestly wish I hadn’t downloaded She Ready without more knowledge, because it was really just a stand-up version of a lot of the stories that were showcased in her book. I do love her stand-up, it was just repetitive after listening to her first book. I HIGHLY recommend downloading The Last Black Unicorn, but you can skip She Ready if you do.

Pretty Boys Are Poisonous by Megan Fox
Okay, technically not a memoir but I’m putting it on this list even though I do NOT recommend this. I thought it would be cool to see what kind of poems come from the mind of Megan Fox, but it’s basically just glamorization of domestic violence (with no trigger warnings at all???). It’s giving “tumblr girl” meets “just gonna stand there and watch me burn well that’s alright because I like the way it hurts”. Not a fan, y’all can skip this one.

Thanks for reading! (Last Updated: August 2025)