Barnes & NobleMe- Elton John Official Autobiography by Elton John

Outstanding autobiography

I had been wanting to read this book ever since it first came out, as it had so many positive reviews. I had bought the audio version – and having finally seen ‘Rocket Man’ on TV last week, and loved it, thought that now was the time to learn more about Elton John. The audio book is twelve and a half hours long – narrated mainly by Taron Egerton (who played Elton John so incredibly well in ‘Rocket Man’), with the introduction and epilogue narrated by Elton John himself. Anyway, I normally allow myself one hour of an audio book a day – then get on with other things. I started ‘Me’ – and six hours later had to stop for dinner. I finished the book over the next two days – I just could not put it down for long. It was probably the best audio book I have listened to. There is so much humour – not laugh-aloud for the most part – but I had a smile on my face throughout. Elton John tells of his life – warts and all. He freely acknowledges that he was a drama queen dick during his drug fuelled years – and most of this time was narrated in a self-depreciating, humorous way. ‘Rocket Man’ finished when he went into rehab – and I was keen to learn what happened next. Of course, I knew the general outline from the news. But, it was so remarkable how he turned his life around. Having been told by his mother, that, as a gay man, he would never find love, have a family … he now has both, and his life is full to overflowing. His campaigning for AIDS treatments and LGBTQ+ issues, as well as his family, have given his life new meaning – and joy. And his music career continues to evolve, and be successful. As a book, ‘Me’ is extremely enjoyable. But as a biography of an exceptional musician, and a man who has become a wonderful role model in his mature years, this book is outstanding. Listening to it on Audible, makes you feel like Elton John is speaking directly to you, telling you all his secrets, his trials, tribulations – and moments of joy. There is little censorship. What you get is a fully rounded life history of a quite flawed – but eventually contented, altruistic - human being, whom you would love to have the privilege to call a friend. I can highly recommend this book – especially the audio book. You don’t have to be a fan to enjoy it, though that would add to the experience.