“Equal parts memoir, whodunit, 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 … 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.
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On BookBub promotion, the personal story told by Alan Cumming is touching and sometimes shocking. More than just a triumph over adversity story, it exposes the roots of what have made Cumming a fearless creator and actor. I liked him before but I really admire how he turns his personal lemons into lemonade…and you have to love his hair obsession! A sensitive and interesting memoir.
Who could have guessed that such a tragic beginning would produce such a treasure? Alan Cummings tells a familiar story, that many of us wish we didn’t recognize so easily, with artistry and humor. It is absolutely a must read for anyone trying to make sense of a dysfunctional/narcissistic family.
This book takes you on an emotional roller coaster. Alan really shows you what it was like growing up with an abusive father. And how in his way he found peace and happiness.
I read this and loved it so much that I bought the audiobook to hear the author tell his story himself. Such a heartfelt glimpse into the story behind the man. Mr. Cumming is a well-known, talented actor but I think it’s important to note he’s an amazing author as well.
Extremely boring; many of us have had a difficult dysfunctional early life. That’s life.