Love, Pamela
Ratings6
Average rating3.5
15
Ratings6
Average rating3.5
The actress, activist, and once infamous Playboy Playmate reclaims the narrative of her life in a memoir that defies expectation in both content and approach, blending searing prose with snippets of original poetry. “The iconic Anderson uses a mixture of poetry and prose to present an impressionistic view of a fascinating life.”-BOOKLIST, *starred* In this honest, layered and unforgettable book that alternates between storytelling and her own poetry, Pamela Anderson breaks the mold of the celebrity memoir while taking back the tale that has been crafted about her. Her blond bombshell image was ubiquitous in the 1990s. Discovered in the stands of a football game, she was immediately rocket launched into fame, becoming Playboy’s favorite cover girl and an emblem of Hollywood glamour and sexuality. But what happens when you lose grip on your own life—and the image the notoriety machine creates for you is not who you really are? Growing up on Vancouver Island, the daughter of young, wild, and unprepared parents, Pamela Anderson’s childhood was not easy, but it allowed her to create her own world—surrounded by nature and imaginary friends. When she overcame her deep shyness and grew into herself, she fell into a life on the cover of magazines, the beaches of Malibu, the sets of movies and talk shows, the arms of rockstars, the coveted scene at the Playboy Mansion. And as her star rose, she found herself tabloid fodder, at the height of an era when paparazzi tactics were bent on capturing a celebrity’s most intimate, and sometimes weakest moments. This is when Pamela Anderson lost control of her own narrative, hurt by the media and fearful of the public’s perception of who she was…and who she wasn’t. Fighting back with a sense of grace, fueled by a love of art and literature, and driven by a devotion to her children and the causes she cares about most, Pamela Anderson has now gone back to the island where she grew up, after a memorable run starring as Roxie in Chicago on Broadway, reclaiming her free spirit but also standing firm as a strong, creative, confident woman.
Reviews with the most likes.
The 1990s had two sex symbols: Demi Moore and Pamela Anderson. Having read the memoir of the former one, it was only fair to read the latter one as well. I was expecting much of the same: abusive parents, toxic environments, unhealthy relationships. To my surprise, it was very far from that. Who knew that Hugh Heffner's mansion would be a safer place than Hollywood.
I saw Pamela in a totally different light. A woman that loves love in all forms. Granted some men took advantage of that, but nonetheless she lived a quite interesting life.
Pamela's Book: Expecting More
This book serves as a complementary piece to the Netflix movie, presenting Pamela's story in her own words. Surprisingly concise, it is evident that it is not ghostwritten, as it embraces a non-linear narrative. While it doesn't delve extensively into her relationships, apart from Tommy Lee, Pamela's emphasis on not wanting to be defined by the men in her life is a crucial aspect of her story. Interestingly, she discusses Julian Assange more than her husbands.
It may not be considered the most captivating read in the world, given its simplicity and occasionally uneven pacing with interspersed poetry. However, the book does exude a sense of authenticity and honesty.
Nevertheless, don't expect to find detailed accounts of Kid Rock, Scott Baio, or steamy encounters at the Playboy Mansion. Pamela is not their biographer, and that's actually quite cool. It's understandable that people may feel bored since they anticipate sensational stories about others, but Pamela isn't obligated to provide that. We should respect her choices regarding what she chooses to share.
So, while I didn't adore this book because I desired more, I came to realize that unfortunately, everyone simply expects more from her.
