Dave Itzkoff

Growing up I remember watching so many movies that Robin Williams starred in that made me laugh or cry but that I always thoroughly enjoyed. He was just one of those actors that was definitely my favorite. I don’t know what I expected when I started reading this biography but to me it really wasn’t anything special and, frankly, a disappointment. Some sources that he quoted seemed very unreliable, seeming to only want to spew ugliness and gossip for a quick buck (specifically his make up artist) which got a bit irritating throughout the book. Most of the book seemed to just be a compilation of information anyone could have found online quite easily. Overall it was a fairly interesting read about the man I remember seeing so much on the big screen as a kid, a sort of walk down memory lane and I did learn more about him as a father, husband and friend. I have to agree with another reviewer that I read recently who said that last line of the last chapter was crap and left me with a bitterness towards the author. I know there’s other biographies out there and I hope I can find one that’s more deserving of Robin Williams and the incredible and unique man that he was.… (más)

I have loved Robin Williams since Mork and Mindy. When critics didn't like his movies, I loved them. When my husband told me that Robin Williams had died I screamed. I told him he was a liar. I didn't believe it. I couldn't believe it. I cried. Robin Williams was a wonderful man and a genius comedian and actor. I was sad and angry that he was gone.
When I saw this book I knew I wanted to read it. This book is very well written. I listened to it on audio and the narrator did an amazing job. This is a wonderful look into Robin's life and work. It is a real look at what Robin's life was like and what he meant to people. It shows how Robin wasn't perfect, but he knew he wasn't. The saddest chapters were the end of his life. What he went through in his own mind towards the end of his life and how he tried to reach out in his own way, but couldn't is heart shattering. The signs were there that something was seriously wrong, but no one saw it. Those that possible did see him reaching out didn't know how to help. I cried again at the end of this book. I felt like the world had lost him all over again. I hope he knows that he was truly loved and is missed.
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Biography of Robin Williams, including his childhood, schooling, comedic performances, relationships, children, television shows, movies, substance abuse issues, recovery, and health issues. His suicide is covered in a respectful manner. Dave Itzkoff provides an in-depth profile. He includes many direct quotations from Robin’s friends and several family members.

The book seems candid, revealing Robin’s foibles as well as his gifts. It gives the reader a sense of the factors that may have contributed to his death. Robin is portrayed as a caring person with emotional insecurities and an agile mind. The book is well-organized and informative. I could have done without the discussion of the legal hassles regarding the settlement of his estate.

I listened to the audio book, brilliantly read by Fred Berman. Berman reads at a quick pace, and when quoting Robin, does a passable impression of his manic style. Recommended to those who are curious to learn more about the life of this unique and talented man.
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