Rewrites: A Memoir

(So skip this, if you're hoping for a review of the book.)I am unable to rate the contents of the book as I bought it for a charity raffle. I haven't read it, yet. The book came to me quickly, in good shape, and reasonably priced, which is what I was hoping for. Thank you seller.

This book is really part one of the Neil Simon autobiography. It documents his early life and his first big job as a TV gagwriter, and goes on to his early struggles and then success as a playwright. The bulk of this book details how he became the most successful U.S, playwright of all time.The title comes from his skill at doing rapid re-writes of plays found to be in trouble during the try-out stages. Through flashbacks we learn of his personal life and his love for his wife who passed away towards the end of this memoir. I found this book to be a delight from start to finish.

While I thoroughly enjoyed this book and learning about Mr. Simon's beginning as a playwright, I wish the ending had not occurred so abruptly. However he is so good at sharing his thoughts and life.

Where his monologues were funny and insightful this is a terrific memoir of his life and times. I grew up on Neil Simon plays, and "Barefoot in the Park" and "Star Spangled Girl" are what got me writing for the stage and later the screen which is what I do now. His thoughtful, touching and funny style let you peek inside an amazing Broadway career. But more importantly, the real human being (with all his foibles, anecdotes and insecurities) laid out as I had not understood until I read this book. Highly recommended.

A great personal bio, but especially if you like to learn insights about the creative process. Neil Simon really takes us into it. He's a writer who doesn't get struck by a "bolt of inspiration from the blue;" -- there's lots of sweat involved, and he doesn't do the "genius" thing; he's very honest about his insecurities.

Definitely on the short list of the best books I've ever read. Mr. Simon shows himself to be not just a wonderful author of plays, but of books also. He tells his story in the most entertaining way, giving tremendous insights into the production of plays and what it takes to present them. His family story is wonderful also. Difficult to put down, I would recommend this book to anyone with even the slightest interest in Broadway and plays. Thank you Neil, you continue to succeed.

Interesting book about theater and film from one of Americas leading playwriters. Very funny , not only forComedy lovers.

Having just started on our Ensemble Theatre production of The Last Of The Red Hot Lovers this autobiog was crucial reading - and it doesn't disappoint. Neil Simon's prose is as cutting and hilarious -and moving - as his plays. His direct no nonsense approach to his life story is refreshing, insightful and moving. Neil Simon working life captures one of the most important times in theatrical history. I would recommend to anyone interested in being a writer, a successful playwright, but mostly - being human.

FANTASTIC book if you are interested in knowing more of the 'behind the scenes' stories behind creating plays and screenplays.Really enjoying "Rewrites" A Memoir by Neil Simon" and would recommend. P.S.: Also love Amazon for finding this resource for me!

Having stumbled upon this book, my eyes were opened to the magical, funny and very humane Neil Simon. Top read!

I found this book whilst looking for something else and decided to buy it out of vague interest as I like Neil Simon plays. As you would expect, it is written extremely well. I found it very readable and gripping. I'm waiting for the price to come down on the next one. I will read it again.

A perfect companion to the "Play On" memoirs about a fascination life and how it inspired much of his greatest work.