“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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Revelatory and Honest Insight
With honesty and compassion for his wounded self, Alan Cumming delves into revelations about his family in the context of filming his episode of “Who Do You Think You Are?”. Cumming articulates the mysteries surrounding abuse, giving readers with similar background some answers to the many why’s. Sometimes there is no understanding, only acceptance.
Interesting and self revealing,
I loved it, was very similar to my life with my father. Made me cry a few times.
I love Alan as an actor. This book shows the insight which brings out the reason for the genius of his acting. Very moving.
The actual story was interesting but it got a little tiresome. His inner plodding was ;;;; labored and a little boring or repetitive.
I basically liked the book, but it didn’t live up to its hype to me. I felt it was somewhat overly dramatic about childhood experiences that didn’t really merit as much drama as they received.
I found it to be a very emotional story. I was in disbelief at times as to how he survived the way he was treated. I kept turning the pages desperately wanting hope and relief for him on the next page. Just when you think the worst is over, another blow knocks you down. Definitely a roller coaster of abuse. How or why do children never stop loving or forgiving the very people that are supposed to love and protect them?
What a surprisingly bold and courageous memoir! Unlike the typical, self-serving celebrity pulp, Alan Cumming takes us on a journey of discovery along with him, revealing private, often painful and embarrassing events that have shaped his character, choices and his chosen path. His courage to share that privacy can’t help but endear this man to his reader–and create new followers in his career.
I opened it the first time to read for a few minutes and unwind before getting some sleep, as I had to get up early the next day. I finally forced myself to close it when I had only four hours left before I needed to get up. I finished it the next day. Great writing, fascinating (autobiographical non-fiction) story, compelling writing.
Surprising how your parents affect your lives.
The book was well written. It takes you through the authors life and how he overcame growing up with an abusive parent.
A very moving and revealing personal life account spoken from a young boy’s memory,
I like biographies and I was shocked by what this actor I new from The Good Wife and Masterpiece Theater experienced as a child.
Good interesting ending
I enjoy seeing him on PBS Mystery and he will have his own tv show soon! I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy reading his biography but as it turns out I found it quite interesting.
Much more interesting than I thought it would be. I like the mystery unfolding throughout the tale. Definitely a different take on an autobiography.
As a fan of Alan Cumming I felt the sadness of his early life and how he was terrorized ny one of his parents but lucky to have had the love of his mother and brother. His early life clearly has shaped who he is and what he has contributed to his craft. Well told.
So interesting.
Mildly interesting.
Very well written account of the challenges that Alan Cumming faced while growing up with an abusive father. He touched my heart. Interesting account of how the program « Who Do You Think You Are? » is produced.