Is this book mainly a comedy?

No, it blends humor with serious reflections on Izzard's life experiences.

Should I read the print version or listen to the audiobook?

The audiobook captures Izzard's voice and unique storytelling style, making it highly recommended.

How does the narrative structure work?

It follows a chronological path but includes many tangents, making it a reflective journey.

What themes are explored?

Key themes include grief, identity, sexuality, and the pursuit of dreams.

Is this memoir suitable for everyone?

While it's insightful, it may resonate more with fans of Izzard's comedy or those familiar with his work.

Summary of 'Believe Me: A Memoir of Love, Death, and Jazz Chickens' by Eddie Izzard

Introduction

What is Believe Me about? This memoir shares Eddie Izzard’s journey from a troubled childhood to comedy stardom. With humor and honesty, Izzard explores grief, identity, and the passion that fueled his career. His reflections invite readers to understand and empathize with the complexities of personal transformation.

Book Details

Title: Believe Me: A Memoir of Love, Death, and Jazz Chickens

Author: Eddie Izzard

Page Count: 400

Publish Date: June 6, 2017

Goodreads Rating: 3.8/5 (based on 869 ratings)

Price: Kindle $14.99

Synopsis of Believe Me

Childhood and Early Loss

In “Believe Me,” Eddie Izzard opens the door to his formative years, offering a candid reflection on childhood loss. He recounts the heart-wrenching experience of losing his mother at just six years old. This pivotal moment shapes much of his life, influencing his journey into comedy and performance. The recollections unfold against the backdrop of Yemen, Ireland, Wales, and post-war England, detailing the complexities and challenges of growing up in various cultural contexts. Izzard writes about being sent to boarding school, feeling displaced and navigating early grief. Memories from this period are poignant, revealing a young boy grappling with the absence of maternal comfort. He paints a vivid picture of his emotions, showing how this loss left a deep indelible mark. Streams of humor occasionally cut through this sadness, illustrating his growing resolve to find joy despite adversity.

Finding His Voice

Dropping out of a university accounting program, Izzard transitions from student life to the bustling streets of London. Here, he finds an outlet for his creative expression, first as part of a two-man escape act and then as a solo performer. This transformation sparks the beginning of a long and impactful career in stand-up comedy. Eddie recalls unforgettable moments from his early performances, including the whimsical and absurd lines that would later become iconic in his routines. His trademark humor is showcased in sketches featuring “Cake or Death?” and “Death Star Canteen,” gaining cult status among fans. The narrative details how he embraced his identity as an “Executive Transvestite,” breaking barriers in the comedy scene while also championing LGBT rights. The evolution from street busker to a celebrated artist is a central theme. Izzard shares the blend of hard work and serendipity that shaped his unique style. His anecdotes provide a glimpse of that exhilarating ascent to the stage at prestigious venues like Wembley Stadium and Madison Square Garden.

The Intersection of Identity and Performance

Another significant aspect of “Believe Me” is Izzard’s exploration of his transgender identity. He discusses his journey with refreshing honesty and humor, revealing the challenges of coming out in the public eye. Izzard narrates his experiences with grace, discussing the duality of his identity, feeling equally at home in both “boy mode” and “girl mode.” His narrative emphasizes authenticity, shedding light on the evolving perspectives on gender identity over the decades. Izzard’s deep-seated desire for acceptance and belonging resonates with many readers. It’s a heartfelt testament to the struggles many face while trying to navigate their identities in society. Amid moments of vulnerability, Izzard sheds light on the importance of visibility and representation. He offers insights on navigating societal perceptions of gender, revealing how humor became a vital aspect of his journey. The book intertwines personal anecdotes with broader observations about acceptance and understanding in a changing world.

Success, Activism, and Reflection

As the memoir progresses, Izzard writes about his sustained success, delving into his work as an actor, comedian, and political activist. He chronicles tearing down walls within both the entertainment industry and social justice movements. Izzard’s humor remains sharp, tackling topics ranging from politics to existential musings and historical events. He takes readers through his immense physical challenges—his dedicated fundraising efforts, running 43 marathons in 51 days for charity. Through these experiences, Izzard’s message is one of perseverance, urging readers to pursue their passions relentlessly. The reflective tone in later chapters reveals Izzard’s thoughts on mortality and legacy. He contemplates the impact of his mother’s death, revealing how it has driven his creative pursuits. His candid discussion of trauma, triumph, and aspirations leaves readers with a mix of inspiration and introspection.

In Conclusion

Eddie Izzard’s “Believe Me” is more than a memoir; it’s an invitation into a life of laughter, loss, and learning. The richness of his narrative captures the essence of being human—navigating the complexities of identity, love, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Izzard’s approachable writing style, filled with footnotes and personal asides, creates a conversational tone allowing readers to feel as if they are sharing coffee with a friend. The intertwining of humor with life lessons offers readers golden nuggets of wisdom amid laughter. Ultimately, the memoir is a journey through the intricacies of Eddie Izzard’s life, celebrating resilience and artistry. “Believe Me” is an engaging read that resonates deeply, leaving behind laughter, tears, and a sense of connection. In Eddie’s words, he encourages us all to “aim for the stars.”

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Quotes

“Don’t get somewhere as fast as possible. Get somewhere as good as possible”―Eddie Izzard,Believe Me: A Memoir of Love, Death, and Jazz Chickens
“Despair is the fuel of terrorism, and hope is the fuel of civilization, so we have to put more hope into the world than despair. Hatred and separation and building walls is not the way to progress. Going backward is not the way to go forward.”―Eddie Izzard,Believe Me: A Memoir of Love, Death, and Jazz Chickens
“I realized that belief is a key ingredient in trying to do things that are difficult.”―Eddie Izzard,Believe Me: A Memoir of Love, Death, and Jazz Chickens

You want to give Believe Me: A Memoir of Love, Death, and Jazz Chickens a try? Here you go!

Characters

Eddie Izzard: A British comedian and actor, Izzard’s life is marked by grief and humor as he challenges gender norms and sexuality.
Mark Izzard: Eddie’s supportive older brother, who helps Eddie navigate challenges after their mother’s passing.
Izzard’s Mother: A central figure in Eddie’s early life, her death profoundly impacts his worldview and artistic direction.
Eddie’s Father: Often away for work, he plays a significant role in Eddie’s life during his formative years, attempting to provide stability.
His Step-Mother: A strained relationship develops through their interactions, showcasing Eddie’s attempts at acceptance and understanding.

Highlights

The Power of Grief: Izzard discusses the lasting effects of losing his mother at a young age.
Identity Exploration: He shares his experience with coming out as transgender and self-acceptance.
Humorous Anecdotes: Featuring Izzard’s signature comedic style, the memoir includes funny anecdotes about his life.
Charitable Works: Izzard narrates his marathon runs for charity, illustrating his dedication outside comedy.
Philosophical Insights: The book isn’t just humorous; it poses deeper questions about existence and purpose.

Spoilers

Spoiler Alert! If you want to read the book, don’t click “Show more” and spoil your experience. Here is a link for you to get the book.

Mother’s Death: Eddie reveals how profoundly losing his mother at age six shaped his comedic outlook and life choices.
Transgender Journey: He candidly discusses his struggles with identity and the impact of coming out to friends and family.
Street Performer Beginnings: Izzard’s transition from busking to a successful comedy career highlights his relentless pursuit of passion.
Running Marathons: His remarkable undertaking of running 43 marathons in 51 days is explored, reflecting his drive and commitment.
Emotional Reflections: Izzard’s heartfelt accounts about his step-mother reveal the complexity of their relationship.

Let us know what you think about this book and the summary in the comment section at the end of the page.

FAQs about Believe Me

Is this book mainly a comedy?
No, it blends humor with serious reflections on Izzard’s life experiences.
Should I read the print version or listen to the audiobook?
The audiobook captures Izzard’s voice and unique storytelling style, making it highly recommended.
How does the narrative structure work?
It follows a chronological path but includes many tangents, making it a reflective journey.
What themes are explored?
Key themes include grief, identity, sexuality, and the pursuit of dreams.
Is this memoir suitable for everyone?
While it’s insightful, it may resonate more with fans of Izzard’s comedy or those familiar with his work.

Reviews

For a deeper understanding of Believe Me and to explore the pros and cons, even reviews from readers, visit our full review.

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About the Author

Eddie Izzard is a renowned English stand-up comedian, actor, and activist. He began his career performing on the streets and has since gained a massive following. Known for his clever humor and advocacy for transgender rights, Izzard continues to push creative boundaries.