Not My Father's Son: A Memoir

Written by:
Alan Cumming
Narrated by:
Alan Cumming

Unabridged Audiobook

Ratings
Book
59
Narrator
29
Release Date
October 2014
Duration
6 hours 29 minutes
Summary
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

“Equal parts memoir, whodunnit, and manual for living . . . a beautifully written, honest look at the forces of blood and bone that make us who we are, and how we make ourselves.”  --Neil Gaiman

In his unique and engaging voice, the acclaimed actor of stage and screen shares the emotional story of his complicated relationship with his father and the deeply buried family secrets that shaped his life and career.

A beloved star of stage, television, and film—“one of the most fun people in show business” (Time magazine)—Alan Cumming is a successful artist whose diversity and fearlessness is unparalleled. His success masks a painful childhood growing up under the heavy rule of an emotionally and physically abusive father—a relationship that tormented him long into adulthood.

When television producers in the UK approached him to appear on a popular celebrity genealogy show in 2010, Alan enthusiastically agreed. He hoped the show would solve a family mystery involving his maternal grandfather, a celebrated WWII hero who disappeared in the Far East. But as the truth of his family ancestors revealed itself, Alan learned far more than he bargained for about himself, his past, and his own father.

With ribald humor, wit, and incredible insight, Alan seamlessly moves back and forth in time, integrating stories from his childhood in Scotland and his experiences today as a film, television, and theater star. At times suspenseful, deeply moving, and wickedly funny, Not My Father’s Son will make readers laugh even as it breaks their hearts.
Reviews
Profile Avatar
Carolanne M.

9 years after original publication, this book is excellent.

Profile Avatar
Tania C.

Loved every minute of it.

Profile Avatar
Katie Humphrey

Absorbing, moving and insightful. Engagingly narrated by the author transporting you with him through his journey

Profile Avatar
Jennifer Reeves

Fascinating! Alan Cumming is a masterful story teller and totally engaging narrator.

Profile Avatar
Sandra Mauws

This was an emotional read for me, having been abused myself, I totally related to his emotional pain. Alan did an excellent job & have so much respect for him for having risen above it & become the outstanding Talent he is. Good Job Alan

Profile Avatar
rachel doherty

An honest and heartfelt account of one man's journey to face his family's past. I especially enjoyed the narration. Alan is very easy to listen to.

Profile Avatar
Joshua Lubeck

This book I would rate as a 4/5. His story seemed to jump back and fourth from past to present, I know this is a style but some times many be because I have seen the actor in many shows, I found it a distraction. Truth is stranger then fiction and this book has a broad spectrum of an audience even if you have never seen any of his shows.

Profile Avatar
Georgiana Carlson

An amazing story told by an awesome man! You touched my soul.

Profile Avatar
Crystal Cox

What an AMAZING book. Being read by Allan makes it all the better!!!

Profile Avatar
Jennifer Eytcheson

Alan has a wonderful and simplistic way of inviting us into his struggle and process of overcoming. We can ride the roller coaster with suspense and empathy and heal right along with him. Great story!

Profile Avatar
Mary Wilcox

Beautiful book with great narration. I enjoyed it very much.

Profile Avatar
kylin fleischmann

This book was so incredibly wonderful that there is no way for me to put it in words. I knew of Alan Cummings but wouldn't go so far as to say I was a big fan. The book looked interesting so I went ahead and purchased it hoping to be entertained. I was more than entertained. So moving and painful and gut wrenching and funny. And its his life. He overcame.....he did more than that.....he triumphed. His narration was spot on. I wish he would write more so I could listen! And, I will now be looking him up on IMDB to watch what he's done. LOVE!

Profile Avatar
Susan Remaly

A moving story of a family who triumphed over the abuse they suffered from a cruel husband and father. Even through all of the abuse and sadness, these brothers and their mother shine as loving caring people.

Profile Avatar
Rebecca Duffy

My husband and I are huge Alan Cumming fans, and listening to his story as it is told by him was interesting, touching, entertaining, sad, ... Normally, I dislike stories that go from past to present, but his narration was easy to follow, and very well done. I have listened or read books written by other actors or performers, but there is a "human" aspect that comes through when listening to Mr. Cumming's story. We have followed him on "The Good Wife", and would never have imagined he had the childhood he speaks of. I admire him even more after hearing his story!

Profile Avatar
Jennifer Castanon

excellent! heartfelt, honest, emotionally satisfying.

Profile Avatar
Veronica Camarillo

AMAZING! Twists and turns! He and I seem to have the same view of the world. He has got himself a new fan! and it is read by him in his gorgeous Scottish accent :) "The truth can hurt, but not knowing can hurt more" - Alan Cumming "There is never shame in being open and honest" - Alan Cumming

1 book added to cart
Subtotal
$21.99
View Cart