Member Reviews
A memoir about the IT girl who, at 42, has now been famous for being famous for most of her life.
Like many others, I had no idea of the abuse Paris suffered at the hands of an institution that advertised as helping 'difficult' teenagers which began with them kidnapping her from her
bed in the middle of the night.
The was written to reflect Paris’ own unique way of thinking with her ADHD brain, not following a traditional linear narrative and going off on little tangents. This made it feel more like an intimate conversation rather than a professionally written autobiography.
Here’s what I believe: Your reality is totally up for grabs; if you don’t create your own life, someone else will create something based on their own agenda and project that on you. Don’t let them do it, my loves. Don’t let them tell you that their something is bigger than your everything.
However, whilst there is a marketing focus on exposing the Trouble Teen Industry, I feel other memoirs have achieved this better - I’m glad my mom died, The opposite of butterfly hunting.
I don’t like rating memoirs that I don’t immediately feel changed me, or impacted me in a great way. Especially in this case where I didn’t know much about Paris before listening to this memoir!
Thank you to Harper Collins Audio for providing the audiobook in exchange for a review.
I have to be completely straight and say that if this hadn’t have been available to request on NetGalley I don’t think I’d have ever read it, I mean I don’t live in a bubble, I know who Paris Hilton is, but other than vague recollections of watching The Simple Life, and knowing that she’s one of “those” Hilton’s, I had no real idea about her.
So if you’d told me this book would crack my heart wide open and make me feel so much sympathy, empathy and respect for this woman, I’d have laughed. Which is ironic really, when you consider the whole point of her writing this memoir. What she suffered as a child was unbearable to hear let alone endure. So kudos to the survivor, the person she became and the courage to share the story, and the tenacity to keep working to save other kids.
I don’t know if there are enough characters allowed in a review for all the content warnings that should come with the title, so basically if anything is likely to trigger you, go gentle on yourself with this one.
Narrated beautifully by Paris Hilton - not the baby voiced one.
All the stars 🌟
#Jorecommends
My gratitude to HarperCollins UK audio for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review.
Paris: The Memoir by Paris Hilton (AALC)
Narrated by: Paris Hilton
Rating: 5/5
The pioneer of today's celebrity-focused, brand-driven, social media-centric culture, Paris Hilton, shares her candid and revealing memoir, challenging perceptions and revealing the depths of her persona. In this extended edition, a bonus chapter delves into her journey into motherhood, offering a comprehensive look into the multifaceted life of Paris Hilton beyond the headlines.
Despite its charming pink cover, this book delves into profound and somber subjects, including Paris Hilton's struggles with ADHD, experiences of rape, and traumatic encounters at institutions like CEDU and Provo. The narrative explores themes of PTSD, re-traumatisation, and more.
I thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in Paris Hilton's memoir through its audio version. Her voice was captivating and easy to follow, perfectly suited for her dynamic shifts between topics, which kept my ADHD mind engaged.
Paris Hilton's memoir reveals her candid discussions about living with ADHD and her traumatic experiences within the troubled teen industry. This newfound advocacy against the exploitation of young people signals a departure from her previous public image. Despite debates about the feminist implications of her past media endeavours, Hilton's savvy in the entertainment industry is undeniable.
Paris Hilton's memoir offers valuable insights into the entertainment industry and mirrors evolving attitudes toward behaviour and media commentary in the digital era. Through adept storytelling, Hilton peels back the layers of her public persona, transitioning from behind a digital facade to revealing her truth in a book. This journey enriches our understanding of celebrity identities and their construction in today's digital landscape.
Narrated by the author herself, the audiobook is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by pop culture or the digital media sphere. While it may not offer a definitive answer to the question of Hilton's true identity, it certainly adds valuable pieces to the puzzle, enriching our perception of who she is and how public personas are crafted.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK Audio| HQ, and the author, Paris Hilton, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
I read the book and couldn't wait for the audio. It was even better hearing Paris narrate her story. Very well done. Five stars. Thanks to NetGalley for the copy for the review.