I’ve wanted to read this for quite a few years. I grew up fascinated by the Star Wars universe. I can confidently say, whether I would or not is another question, I have probably read all Star Wars novels released prior to 2003. And probably owned 90% of them.
There’s not really a lot to say about the book – it’s a short and, at times, hilarious read. Sometimes the book went off on a rant, but considering this is an adaptation of her one-woman stage show I wasn’t surprised. Her writing style was conversational and made for a nice quick read (I read it between panels at the Boston Book Festival). She talks a little about her novels and I definitely want to check them out at some point, especially Postcards from the Edge.
Although I had some issues with Fisher not accepting responsibility for her own actions and role in her life at some points, she did a decent job of not laying all the blame on one party. She does have a valid argument against George Lucas and his ridiculousness (i.e. the Blu-Ray release), but she ends the book ironically and quite humorously, I must say, with her most famous speech:
“General Kenobi, years ago you served my father in the Clone Wars. Now he begs you to help him in his struggle against the empire. I regret that I am unable to present my father’s request to you in person, but my ship has fallen under attack and I’m afraid my mission to bring you to Alderaan has failed. I have placed information vital to the Rebellion into the memory systems of this R2 unit. My father will know how to retrieve it. You must see this droid safely delivered to him on Alderaan. This is our most desperate hour. Help me, Obi-Wan Kenobi—you’re my only hope.”
There were two quotes I liked, the first just sort of sums up the book and the second was from her acting school in London, which I of course kept trying to say out loud.
“I heard someone say once that many of us only seem able to find heaven by hacking away from hell. And while the place that I’ve arrived at in my life may not precisely be everyone’s idea of heavenly, I could swear sometimes—if I’m quiet enough—I can hear the angels sing. Either that or I’ve screwed up my medication.” (149)
“All I want is a proper cup of coffee,
Made in a proper copper coffee pot.
You can believe it or not,
But I want a cup of coffee
In a proper coffee pot.
Tin coffee pots
And iron coffee pots,
They’re no use to me.
If i can’t have a proper cup of coffee
In a proper copper coffee pot,
I’ll have a cup of tea.” (75)