📖 Overview
Almost Interesting is comedian David Spade's memoir chronicling his path from childhood through his rise in comedy and television. The book tracks his early years in Arizona, his first attempts at stand-up, and his breakthrough on Saturday Night Live in the 1990s.
Spade details his professional relationships and experiences working in entertainment, including his collaborations with Chris Farley and his time on SNL. The narrative covers his transition to movies and sitcoms while maintaining his presence in stand-up comedy.
The book addresses both career highlights and personal challenges, written in Spade's recognizable comedic voice and style. It includes behind-the-scenes stories from major productions and insight into the comedy world of the 1990s and 2000s.
Beyond its entertainment value, Almost Interesting examines themes of persistence, friendship, and finding one's place in a competitive industry. The memoir reveals the work ethic required to maintain relevance in Hollywood while navigating personal and professional relationships.
👀 Reviews
Readers found Spade's memoir to be a quick, entertaining read that captures his dry, sarcastic comedic voice. Many noted it feels like having a conversation with him.
Readers appreciated:
- Behind-the-scenes stories from SNL and movies
- Raw accounts of his challenging childhood
- Details about his friendship with Chris Farley
- Self-deprecating humor throughout
Common criticisms:
- Jumps around chronologically
- Ends abruptly without covering recent years
- Some stories feel rushed or incomplete
- Occasional name-dropping
Ratings:
Goodreads: 3.8/5 (19,000+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.4/5 (1,800+ ratings)
Audible: 4.6/5 (12,000+ ratings)
Sample review: "He writes exactly like he talks - dry, sarcastic and hilarious. The audiobook version is even better since he narrates it himself." - Amazon reviewer
Several readers noted the audiobook surpasses the print version due to Spade's delivery.
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🤔 Interesting facts
🎭 David Spade wrote the entire book without using a ghostwriter, spending nearly two years crafting his memoir between acting projects.
🎬 The book reveals that Spade earned only $2,500 per episode during his first season on Saturday Night Live in 1990, despite it being network television's most prestigious comedy show.
👥 Chris Farley, Spade's close friend and comedy partner, makes frequent appearances throughout the book, including previously untold stories about their friendship and final interactions.
🎤 The title "Almost Interesting" was chosen after Spade realized his original title choice, "Low Man on the Totem Pole," was already taken by director H. Allen Smith.
🏠 In the memoir, Spade describes growing up in relative poverty in Arizona, where his family sometimes had to catch and eat gophers for food, and he worked as a busboy, valet, and skateboard shop employee before his comedy career.