This week’s book recommendation is Robin by Dave Itzkoff. This is a thoroughly researched biography of Robin Williams. Nearly every account mentioned within these pages is told through first-hand experience by the people who were in Robin’s life at the time. It opens with the recounting of Robin’s childhood and education before quickly diving into his start in comedy. From there, it tells an unbiased account of Robin’s life all the way up until, and shortly after, Robin’s death in 2014.

Normally I’d add a quick statement about how a book like this might not appeal to many people, but in this case, I think this one does. Robin’s life and career has been experienced by millions of people. He was an icon and will continue to be one as future generations are introduced to his work. He was a well established film star by the time I was born but I was a huge fan of his. I was influenced by him. Inspired by him. I still am. Maybe even more now that I have a better understanding of who he was. I picked up this book simply to get to know him, and I’m glad I did.

I grew up watching several of his movies. His work in Mrs. Doubtfire, Hook, as Genie in Aladdin. I loved all of these movies (especially Hook). Some of his movies I think mean more to me now that I’ve grown up. I also still need to see many of his movies that I didn’t know he had made or were made well before my younger years. A few in particular that are on my watch list after reading this book are The Fisher King and Good Morning, Vietnam. This book does include a complete list of Robin’s works both on-screen and off and includes the awards he was nominated for or won. It’s always interesting to discover how a movie was received in its time when you only know it after it gained a reputation. Some of his movies that are iconic now did not fare well in theaters. His films successes and failures weighed heavily on him.

For anyone who may only be interested in this book as a means to find an answer, you need only read the final few chapters. Though I hope you care enough to read all of it to fully understand him as a man. After all, there is a difference between knowing and understanding.

I won’t say too much because this isn’t just a story. This is a man’s life. A man that you may very well already have an opinion of, be it high praise or possibly even no appreciation at all. To me, he was a man full of life and empathy. He genuinely cared about others more than you would expect from anyone. The world needs more people like him. I hope I can spread a fraction of the good that he did…I miss him.

This book is for anyone who wants a peek behind the exuberant force that was Robin Williams. I think you’ll be surprised what you find.

Happy Reading.