I'm Not High

I'm Not High is comedian Jim Breuer's memoir chronicling his path from childhood through his career in comedy and entertainment. The book covers his early life in Long Island, his rise through the stand-up comedy ranks, and his time as a cast member on Saturday Night Live. Breuer recounts pivotal moments in his professional life, including his breakthrough roles and experiences with fellow comedians. He also shares stories about his family relationships, particularly caring for his father with dementia and balancing his entertainment career with being a husband and father. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Breuer addresses misconceptions about his persona and discusses his choice to pursue clean comedy despite industry pressures. The narrative presents an inside view of comedy culture while examining the intersection of family obligations, career ambitions, and personal values. The memoir explores themes of authenticity and staying true to one's principles in the face of commercial and social expectations. By focusing on both professional and personal experiences, the book reveals the complex reality behind public perceptions of comedic performers.

Readers describe the book as an honest, straightforward memoir that goes deeper than expected. Many note their surprise at the serious family themes and Breuer's openness about his father's decline and his mother's health struggles. Liked: - Balance of humor and emotional depth - Stories about SNL behind-the-scenes - Focus on family over celebrity gossip - Breuer's devotion to his parents - Clean humor without profanity Disliked: - Some found early chapters slow - Less comedy content than expected - Limited coverage of his comedy career - Writing style can be scattered Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (1,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (180+ ratings) Sample review: "Expected stoner stories and SNL dirt, got a touching family story instead. His relationship with his dad brought me to tears." - Goodreads reviewer "More about caring for aging parents than partying with celebrities. That's what makes it worth reading." - Amazon reviewer

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🎭 Jim Breuer turned down $1 million to continue on "Saturday Night Live" because he wanted to spend more time with his family and pursue other creative endeavors. 🎬 Despite his famous "stoner" persona and roles like "Brian" in "Half Baked," Breuer reveals in the book that he rarely used drugs and his naturally squinty eyes and laid-back demeanor led to this misconception. 👨‍👧 The book details Breuer's experience caring for his aging father while raising three daughters, showing a more serious side to the comedian known for his high-energy performances. 🎙️ Many of the stories in the memoir were first developed as part of Breuer's stand-up routines, including his popular impressions of AC/DC's Brian Johnson and Metallica's James Hetfield. 🤘 Before his comedy career, Breuer was the lead singer of a heavy metal band, and his love for metal music remains a significant influence on his comedy style and performances.