Celebrity Detox: The Fame Game Review

Like Rosie herself, the book does not readily categorize itself into any single genre.  It's part tell-all, part confessional; part poetry, and part stream-of-consciousness memoir that can be read in one or two sittings.   Unflinchingly honest, Rosie writes the book on her own terms.  The random stories about her childhood seem tangential at first, but it soon becomes clear that she is digging deep for her own truths about why she is the person that she is.

In Celebrity Detox, Rosie spares no one from the search for truth and reality.  She talks about fanaticism, and confronts the contradictions of fame:  needing to connect and be seen, while at the same time, craving privacy.  Enjoying the perks of celebrity, while at the same time, fighting the isolation and entitlement that comes with being famous.  She discusses how public figures often have two faces, and how difficult it is to discern the true face in interpersonal relationships.

Although Barbara Walters is discussed on many pages in this book, I didn't sense that it was mean-spirited (although Barbara might disagree).  I felt that what Rosie is attempting to do in the book is lay open the interpersonal challenges and personal demons that we all struggle with.  I don't need to know the exact details of why she broke her own limbs as a child, nor do I need to know who said what backstage at The View.  The ultimate point is to learn to listen and accept ourselves as we are, and to engage.others in the world with our authentic selves.  That's what I came away with from this book.  Love Rosie or hate her; she has bravely laid herself open for scrutiny - both good and bad.  That is something not many people are brave enough to do; famous or not.