Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir

4.5 | 53,376 ratings

Price: 17.71

Last update: 12-22-2024

Top reviews from the United States

Chrissi G - BookDragon78

"... as I drove, I realized that I was leaning toward the windshield... I wanted to be tgere."

Reviewed in the United States on November 25, 2023

There are some books you want to look through the reviews before you decide if you want to pick it up or not, then there are others you just want to read for yourself. Matthew's book was one that I wanted to read for myself. Though in looking through the reviews now that I have finished it, I realize either someone loves it or does not, there is no in-between it seems.

Before I write any more of my review - I want to point out that I am 99.9% certain I read a Kindle version that was edited to remove whatever there was about Keanu. So if someone is reading my review wondering why I don't mention it, I cannot comment on what I did not read. --- One more observation, from the reviews I did look through, it seems that most people who *listened* to the book disliked it more than those who *read* it. Seems listening to it make it more difficult to follow the already jumping timeline. Again, just my observation.

From the beginning Matthew tells us how this story is going to be written/told. How? you ask? "Groundhog Day" is his favorite movie, do I really need to say anything more? If you do not understand this reference, please take the time (1 hour and 40 minutes) to watch the 1993 classic movie with Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell. Then perhaps more things will make sense for you.

Thankfully I have never been an alcoholic or an addict, however, I have known several in my life. For them every day is groundhog day. Every morning the question of, "How will I get through today without a drink/pill/smoke/etc." makes every 24 hours the same. Matthew shows that in spades with his repetition throughout his story. Many of the reviews I saw complained about the repetition; if they don't understand it, perhaps they should count themselves lucky not to. To have never known someone who lives every day like this; or to not be that person themselves.

Matthew's story didn't end all sunshine-and-rainbows with a happily every after. Not everyone's does. I appreciated the fact that he kept it real. That he kept it honest. That he shows his faults to us just as much as he shows us the goodness. Life isn't always polished and pretty no matter who you are or how much money you have. Matthew proves that. No matter how bad things seemed to be for him, Matthew always looked to his future, he always wanted to be there. Perhaps not always for the right reasons, but reasons that kept him moving forward nonetheless. There is something to be admired about that.

Interestingly, one of my favorite lines reads, "God looked down on me, just waiting it out. He's got all the time in the world. F*<k, he invented time." There is something raw and honest and scary and funny in those words that just made me stop reading and literally highlight it in my Kindle book. Follow that with another line I highlighted that reads, "It was an amazing moment and a terrible moment all at at the same time." Talk about defining life most days. Perhaps not Pulitzer winning writing, but powerful and truthful just the same.

I have to say my all-time favorite sentence is this one - "God is everywhere - you just have to clear your channel, or you'll miss it." Doesn't matter what version of God you believe in, that sentence has a profound truth to it. (That one got highlighted in pink) Not something I would have expected from Matthew. But I am grateful he wrote it.

I am easily giving this book all five stars for it's raw honesty, it's openness, it's imperfectness. Just like Matthew.

Yes, I finally read his story after his sudden death on October 28, 2023. As I'm writing this on November 24, 2023, his cause of death still has not been determined nor released. Which makes one last sentence stand out for me in a premonition kind of way as I wonder what COD will turn out to be... Matthew himself wrote, "I could have a cigarette right now, have a heart attack, and if no one was around to call 911, I was a goner." Well, he was home alone, and he did try to call 911 himself, but he was unable to save himself this time. Oh, Matthew.

I wonder if you have finally found peace and all the deep, full Love you have always desired. Thank You for leaving a light on for us with your story. I pray it helps more people so that you may continue helping people even after you've gone on ahead of us in death.

C.R.

Honest, humorous, and somewhat sad....

Reviewed in the United States on April 10, 2024

This is Matthew Perry through and through. His memoir is honest, yet humorous, and is honestly a little sad.

It's sad to see what he went through, and all his attempts to get sober that would last only so long before he relapsed again. It's sad to see that chase he always had for that "something" that would make him feel good or even just okay with his life, no matter if it was drugs, alcohol, or just love and attention.

But it's nice to see his humor with everything as well. As I read I could see Chandler Bing, could hear him in my head, and could see that smirk of his.

The pictures at the end made me smile to see his life with his family and friends and the fun he did have.

Irakli T.

A Heartfelt Journey Through Life's Twists and Turns

Reviewed in the United States on March 17, 2024

Rating: 4/5 Stars

Pros:
"Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing" offers a deeply personal and touching exploration of the author's life journey. The memoir is beautifully written, with raw honesty and vulnerability that pulls you into the author's world from the very first page. One of the strongest aspects of this memoir is its ability to capture the complexities of relationships - from the highs of friendship to the depths of heartbreak. The author's storytelling is compelling and immersive, making it easy to empathize with their experiences.

Cons:
While the memoir is captivating overall, there were moments where the pacing felt slightly uneven. Some sections delved into intricate details that may not resonate equally with all readers, potentially slowing down the narrative flow. Additionally, a bit more context or background information in certain chapters could have provided a clearer understanding of the author's motivations and decisions.

Conclusion:
With its heartfelt storytelling and profound insights, this is a memoir that leaves a lasting impression. While not without its flaws, it offers a deeply moving and relatable exploration of the human experience. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a compelling and introspective read.

@ks.yah

A raw and unfiltered glimpse into the life of one of television’s most beloved actors.

Reviewed in the United States on May 18, 2024

Matthew Perry’s memoir is a compelling read that goes beyond the glitz of Hollywood to reveal the human side of a beloved actor. It’s a story of pain, redemption, and the enduring quest for peace, told with the authenticity and humor that only Perry can provide. This book is a worthy addition to your reading list. I absolutely could not put it down.

Reese

Excellent

Reviewed in the United States on May 26, 2024

Just finished reading the Kindle version of this book and am struck by how sad I am about the book and the life of Matthew Perry. I'll preface what I'm about to say with I wasn't a huge fan of "Matty's" before he passed away. Of the 6 Friends, he was my least favorite as I often found Chandler's humor annoying rather than funny. I recently rewatched the entire 10 seasons of Friends, wanting to revisit a favorite, and I must say watching compelled me to buy and read Matt's memoir. I'm glad I did.

Yes, the timeline was a bit confusing at times, however Mr. Perry had a talent for writing. He bared his soul for all the world to see in a profound way. There are many things that he and I shared on many levels, one of which is the "unaccompanied minor" feeling. His life experiences led him in a different direction than mine, but I understand his journey better than I thought I would, which surprises me.

It's rare that I read a memoir let alone become affected by one. Love him or hate him, this memoir is worth a read.

Best Sellers in

The Storyteller: Expanded: ...Because There's More to the Story

4.8 34901

22.04