Melvin Kaminsky, born in 1926, was the youngest of four sons raised by his mother Kate. His father died when he was very young. While trying his hand as a drummer, his stage name Melvin Brookman (his mother’s maiden name) didn’t fit on the drums, so he shortened it to Brooks. Soon Mel thankfully found his true calling. Comedy. And we now have this delightful autobiography detailing his journey from the Borscht Belt to receiving the highest honors given in entertainment and the arts.
There are some sweet stories of his early life in Brooklyn and lots of fascinating ones about the early days of television and Brooks' time as a writer for Sid Caesar. He writes of wife Anne Bancroft with such admiration and adoration that it is easy to understand how theirs was one of the most enduring marriages in Hollywood.
Once Mel began his career in movies, the book's hilarity starts. My favorite parts were about the making of his comedy classics The Producers, Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein. The inclusion of some of its funniest lines will remind you of his true brilliance, just in case you need reminding.
All About Me! My Remarkable Life in Show Business is a quick, fun read. If you enjoy stories about the world of entertainment and you’re a fan of Mel Brooks, put this memoir on your list.
Rated 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Non-Fiction: Autobiography/Memoir.
Publication Date: November 30, 2021.
Please "like" this post if All About Me! sounds like a book you might like to read. I'd love to know. Please scroll below the photo and click on the red outlined heart on the lower right-hand side of the page. Comments can also be left below.
