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Shatner Rules: Your Guide to Understanding the Shatnerverse and the World at Large
You love William Shatner.
You admire his many and varied talents.
You appreciate his creativity and willingness to take risks.
You want to learn his master negotiation techniques.
You wish you could hang out with him.
Admit it. You want to BE William Shatner.
And now...you can (almost).
This collection of rules, illustrated with stories from Bill's illustrious life and career, will show you how Bill became WILLIAM SHATNER, larger than life and bigger than any role he ever played. "Shatner Rules" is your guide to becoming William Shatner. Or more accurately, beautifully Shatneresque.
Because let's face it...Shatner does rule, doesn't he?
You admire his many and varied talents.
You appreciate his creativity and willingness to take risks.
You want to learn his master negotiation techniques.
You wish you could hang out with him.
Admit it. You want to BE William Shatner.
And now...you can (almost).
This collection of rules, illustrated with stories from Bill's illustrious life and career, will show you how Bill became WILLIAM SHATNER, larger than life and bigger than any role he ever played. "Shatner Rules" is your guide to becoming William Shatner. Or more accurately, beautifully Shatneresque.
Because let's face it...Shatner does rule, doesn't he?
272 pages, ebook
First published April 10, 2011
54 people are currently reading
1583 people want to read
About the author
William Shatner
134 books803 followersWilliam Shatner is the author of nine Star Trek novels, including the New York Times bestsellers The Ashes of Eden and The Return. He is also the author of several nonfiction books, including Get a Life! and I'm Working on That. In addition to his role as Captain James T. Kirk, he stars as Denny Crane in the hit television series from David E. Kelley, Boston Legal -- a role for which he has won two Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 304 reviews
July 7, 2023
I misplaced this book! But now I am so happy that I have finished learning from the greatest pop culture chameleon in history - William Shatner! Great book that is full of fun and a fair amount of very deep reflection on life - fun and informative! Even if you are not a WS fan I think you will still like this book!
August 31, 2015
Er hat sogar mal ein Raumschiff geflogen!
Bill Shatner ist ein Faszinosum. Er hat es geschaftt, von einem, seien wir mal ehrlich, eher mittelmäßigen Schauspieler zu einer Kunstfigur zu werden. SF-Fans lieben ihn für seinen verschmitzten, bodenständigen und charaktervollen Kirk; Freunde kluger Fernsehunterhaltung können kaum eine verrücktere Figur erinnern als Danny Crane. Doch seine wahre Berufung fand er als - William Shatner selbst.
In dieser... da geht es schon los. Was ist dieses Buch? Eine Autoteilbiografie? Eine Apologie? Ein Lebensratgeber? Ein Promi-Inside-Bericht? Shatner legt sich nicht fest und macht alles. Über sich, die Trekkie-Szene, Hollywood ("Weren't Kardashians something I used to fight?"), sein Image und seine Lieblingsfeinde wie George Takei schreibt er sich sehr humorvoll den ganzen Frust von der Seele. Dabei wirkt er eigentlich gar nicht gefrustet: Ein Mann, mit sich selbst im Reinen, der weiß, dass er polarisiert, und der weiß, dass er zur Kunstfigur geworden ist.
Hin und wieder bekommt man einen Satz oder Hinweis, dass er in ruhigen Momenten eigentlich ein ganz anderer ist als der Tausendsassa, der mondäne Kasper, der coole Ex-Raumschiffkäpt'n. Ein Mensch, den ich wirklich gern im echten Leben kennenlernen würde.
Und den einen oder anderen Lebenstip hat er auch parat, und zwar vor allem den der Macht des Wortes "Ja". Sag "ja" zu allem, was das Leben dir anbietet, und fordere noch mehr: "If You Look a Gift Horse in the Mouth, You Might Find More Gifts!"
Shatner wirkt nach der Lektüre des Buchs überlebensgroß, mit allen Wassern gewaschen, in jeder Ecke zuhause, geliebt und gehasst von allen. Vieles davon ist Attitüde - doch das gehört mit zur Kunstfigur William Tiberius Shatner. Ich mag ihn.
Bill Shatner ist ein Faszinosum. Er hat es geschaftt, von einem, seien wir mal ehrlich, eher mittelmäßigen Schauspieler zu einer Kunstfigur zu werden. SF-Fans lieben ihn für seinen verschmitzten, bodenständigen und charaktervollen Kirk; Freunde kluger Fernsehunterhaltung können kaum eine verrücktere Figur erinnern als Danny Crane. Doch seine wahre Berufung fand er als - William Shatner selbst.
In dieser... da geht es schon los. Was ist dieses Buch? Eine Autoteilbiografie? Eine Apologie? Ein Lebensratgeber? Ein Promi-Inside-Bericht? Shatner legt sich nicht fest und macht alles. Über sich, die Trekkie-Szene, Hollywood ("Weren't Kardashians something I used to fight?"), sein Image und seine Lieblingsfeinde wie George Takei schreibt er sich sehr humorvoll den ganzen Frust von der Seele. Dabei wirkt er eigentlich gar nicht gefrustet: Ein Mann, mit sich selbst im Reinen, der weiß, dass er polarisiert, und der weiß, dass er zur Kunstfigur geworden ist.
Hin und wieder bekommt man einen Satz oder Hinweis, dass er in ruhigen Momenten eigentlich ein ganz anderer ist als der Tausendsassa, der mondäne Kasper, der coole Ex-Raumschiffkäpt'n. Ein Mensch, den ich wirklich gern im echten Leben kennenlernen würde.
Und den einen oder anderen Lebenstip hat er auch parat, und zwar vor allem den der Macht des Wortes "Ja". Sag "ja" zu allem, was das Leben dir anbietet, und fordere noch mehr: "If You Look a Gift Horse in the Mouth, You Might Find More Gifts!"
Shatner wirkt nach der Lektüre des Buchs überlebensgroß, mit allen Wassern gewaschen, in jeder Ecke zuhause, geliebt und gehasst von allen. Vieles davon ist Attitüde - doch das gehört mit zur Kunstfigur William Tiberius Shatner. Ich mag ihn.
December 17, 2015
I enjoyed this book. I love Shatner, He is the funniest narcissist. I did the audio and loved that he did his own narration. He has had a long and distinguished career. He has managed to reinvent himself. I can't believe he is in his eighties. I liked that he talked about his family. For some reason, that always makes these larger than life people more normal. I also loved how he talked about about his role as Captain James Tiberius Kirk. That was my favorite role that he played.
December 2, 2011
I enjoyed this one. I honestly can't believe Shatner is 80. Is he pulling our leg?
Anyway, my husband was reading it and shared it with me--sorry, Bill, we didn't buy the audiobook, just one copy of the ebook--not even hardcover!!--and shared it.
Shatner is funny, ahead of his time, and real. Oh, and Canadian. :) While he plays the egotistical TV star from time to time, he does so in a way that is very funny. We are laughing 'with' not 'at.'
These are his rules for living, one of which is "Yes." If you always say yes then opportunity can knock. It's something my husband is trying right now--it's a little rule that hit him at a good time in his life. So, say "yes" to Shatner Rules and see what opens up in your life. If nothing, at least a few laughs. :)
Anyway, my husband was reading it and shared it with me--sorry, Bill, we didn't buy the audiobook, just one copy of the ebook--not even hardcover!!--and shared it.
Shatner is funny, ahead of his time, and real. Oh, and Canadian. :) While he plays the egotistical TV star from time to time, he does so in a way that is very funny. We are laughing 'with' not 'at.'
These are his rules for living, one of which is "Yes." If you always say yes then opportunity can knock. It's something my husband is trying right now--it's a little rule that hit him at a good time in his life. So, say "yes" to Shatner Rules and see what opens up in your life. If nothing, at least a few laughs. :)
October 12, 2017
The main point of this seems to have been to tell Shatners former co-workers, what he thought of them - and also let the wider world in on his thoughts.
I listened this as part of a challenge. I would not otherwise have continued it, nor would I have chosen to listen to it. I like Shatner less than I did before hearing the book.
I listened this as part of a challenge. I would not otherwise have continued it, nor would I have chosen to listen to it. I like Shatner less than I did before hearing the book.
December 31, 2011
Very fun, very Shatner. Serious mixed with touching and the occasional hilarious. Enjoyed it very much. His co-writer was a perfect choice.
March 16, 2014
Two things prevent this from being a 5 star read. The first one is William Shatner's ego, which brings to mind the line from Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy "If there's anything more important than my ego around here, I want it caught and shot now."
The second one is the repeated attacks on George Takei. Yes, I know the two men don't get on. Yes, I know that in the opinions of many, George started it. That is beside the point. The repeated snarking just comes across as petty and pathetic and detracts from the humour of the book. And, to be frank, makes William Shatner look more like a whining 3 year old than the octogenarian he is.
And the book is humourous. Absolutely laugh out loud funny in many places. The book managed to reduce me to helpless giggles on many occasions.
William Shatner also had much to say on the subject of growing old, and most of it is thought provoking and shows the true depths of the man.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to all Star Trek fans, but they've probably all ready read it.
The second one is the repeated attacks on George Takei. Yes, I know the two men don't get on. Yes, I know that in the opinions of many, George started it. That is beside the point. The repeated snarking just comes across as petty and pathetic and detracts from the humour of the book. And, to be frank, makes William Shatner look more like a whining 3 year old than the octogenarian he is.
And the book is humourous. Absolutely laugh out loud funny in many places. The book managed to reduce me to helpless giggles on many occasions.
William Shatner also had much to say on the subject of growing old, and most of it is thought provoking and shows the true depths of the man.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to all Star Trek fans, but they've probably all ready read it.
October 28, 2012
This was a great romp through Shatner's brain. If you're familiar with The Shat at all from the last 10 years or so, you know he's not above self-caricature (see: the drama behind the Priceline Negotiator). Here, though, you find out some of the drive behind that, namely, that he's a performer. His job, as he sees it, is to entertain, and he takes self-jibes (see: the subtitle of this book) quite seriously, as long as there's entertainment value in them. Full of Fun Factners and "rules" for living, this book is Shatner's chance to tell his perspective on his career, experiences across various entertainment venues, and offer some real nuggets of wisdom about what it takes to get to 80+ years old. If you like Shatner at all (or even if you don't know him from Adam), the book is fun, funny, and insightful at times. And a quick read! I really enjoyed it.
July 16, 2015
This book is by far William Shatner's best! It's very light-hearted and upbeat, at least for most of it. I feel there is an underlying feeling that he is disdained with growing old, as with most of us on the upper scale of life. How and why does time go so fast for us and for the common teenager go so slow? Unfair! "Bill" ( as he says we should call him in his book) has had the right idea all along, living his life in fast speed to do everything he possibly can in the time he has here on earth. He has a healthy outlook on life and has his priorities in order.
February 10, 2013
I am gulping this down with great delight. Bought it for Michael for Christmas and he read it in an afternoon. The greatest lesson? Say "Yes". Bill grabs life by the throat and always says yes. Even to being the Chairman of Iron Chef America. He lives life with such verve and exhorts us to do likewise.
August 29, 2014
Loved it. Laughed my head off all through it. I absolutely love him!
He reached out to George Takei -- and slapped him upside the head!!
Yes, Captain Kirk!
7/14/2013 -- Just read this through for the 2nd time and I luaghed just as hard as I did the 1st time! Love him!
He reached out to George Takei -- and slapped him upside the head!!
Yes, Captain Kirk!
7/14/2013 -- Just read this through for the 2nd time and I luaghed just as hard as I did the 1st time! Love him!
December 23, 2012
ON THINGS THAT SHATNER SAYS
1) This "fifty-thousand-word rulebook/memoir" is a surprisingly fun and funny book. Not for me laugh-out-loud funny, but often smile-worthy. No doubt Shatner's co-author Chris Regan (in the small type), a writer for The Daily Show, had a lot to do with that. By the way, you may not want to read this book while balancing a cup of hot tea on your stomach. Well, while getting over a cold. If you don't laugh, the coughing fit can still get you.
2) It's a good thing given frequent snap quizzes I can read upside-down. (Don't have to reverse the book for the answer keys.)
3) Shatner's more than a little mean to his Star Trek co-stars. On the other hand, his co-stars do seem viciously mean to him. (See, Chapter 6) Or just google. You don't have to take his word for it.
4) For someone raised a nice Jewish boy, Shatner apparently had no problem providing wild boar for dinner--with bow and arrow. Of course, the experience did make him a vegetarian for a while. For a really hair-raising story though, you should hear about him and the fried turkey. I'm not making this up! (See, Chapter 9.)
5) I'm not sure however Shatner (or Regan) didn't make up that story about Shatner and his kidnapped undies. (See, Chapter 8)
6) Shatner is definitely a Canadian. Only a Canadian would take such pride that Canadians are above all a polite people. He's also a native of Quebec, and even a Francophone, which might explain a lot about how he enunciates the English language. (See, Chapter 2)
7) Also? He can proudly claim to be the "Top Esperanto Box Office Draw." (See, Chapter 10)
8) Shatner actually takes his singing seriously. Yes, seriously. Well, so did Yoko Ono. (See, Chapter 14)
9) Shatner can make Rush Limbaugh cry. (See, Chapter 20)
10) If you're a really, really big Shatner fan, unlike just a Star Trek and Kirk fan like me, add two stars to the rating.
1) This "fifty-thousand-word rulebook/memoir" is a surprisingly fun and funny book. Not for me laugh-out-loud funny, but often smile-worthy. No doubt Shatner's co-author Chris Regan (in the small type), a writer for The Daily Show, had a lot to do with that. By the way, you may not want to read this book while balancing a cup of hot tea on your stomach. Well, while getting over a cold. If you don't laugh, the coughing fit can still get you.
2) It's a good thing given frequent snap quizzes I can read upside-down. (Don't have to reverse the book for the answer keys.)
3) Shatner's more than a little mean to his Star Trek co-stars. On the other hand, his co-stars do seem viciously mean to him. (See, Chapter 6) Or just google. You don't have to take his word for it.
4) For someone raised a nice Jewish boy, Shatner apparently had no problem providing wild boar for dinner--with bow and arrow. Of course, the experience did make him a vegetarian for a while. For a really hair-raising story though, you should hear about him and the fried turkey. I'm not making this up! (See, Chapter 9.)
5) I'm not sure however Shatner (or Regan) didn't make up that story about Shatner and his kidnapped undies. (See, Chapter 8)
6) Shatner is definitely a Canadian. Only a Canadian would take such pride that Canadians are above all a polite people. He's also a native of Quebec, and even a Francophone, which might explain a lot about how he enunciates the English language. (See, Chapter 2)
7) Also? He can proudly claim to be the "Top Esperanto Box Office Draw." (See, Chapter 10)
8) Shatner actually takes his singing seriously. Yes, seriously. Well, so did Yoko Ono. (See, Chapter 14)
9) Shatner can make Rush Limbaugh cry. (See, Chapter 20)
10) If you're a really, really big Shatner fan, unlike just a Star Trek and Kirk fan like me, add two stars to the rating.
November 19, 2011
I wonder if William Shatner holds the record for the number of autobiographies. I've read and enjoyed them all. This latest is a tongue in cheek and yet earnest look at the Shatnerverse. The book is structured as a list of rules to live by to live life to the fullest, as Mr. Shatner has.
That narrative jumps around the chronology of Shatner's life, from the perspective of a man that, having reached 80 years old, knows that end is much closer than the beginning, and isn't going to waste a minute of it. He makes fun of his rule to "Say yes" that has resulted in him being truly the busiest man in show business and an omnipresence. In the last year or so, alone, he has had a network sitcom, hosted two different TV talk shows, appeared on the talk shows of countless others, been roasted on Comedy Central, published a book, ran a foundation, recorded a heavy metal record, and taken to the Twitterverse.
I was surprised at how open Mr. Shatner makes himself, throughout the book. Sometimes the narrative has the voice of the uber-confident caricature of "The Shat" that he has cultivated, but sometimes it is the voice of an insecure man, as he admits that he is deathly afraid of being alone and takes criticism of his acting personally, because he has never had a job, since childhood, outside of performing. He talks about his back and forth struggle with living the last half century as "Captain Kirk" and jokes about his role as spokesperson for Priceline.com. He shares his love for horses, his pride at being a Canadian, and the pain of finding his wife drowned in the swimming pool. He talks about his love for deep frying turkeys and explains his penchant for performing songs in spoken word.
Shatner Rules is a funny and insightful book, and I hope he has at least three autobiographies left in him.
That narrative jumps around the chronology of Shatner's life, from the perspective of a man that, having reached 80 years old, knows that end is much closer than the beginning, and isn't going to waste a minute of it. He makes fun of his rule to "Say yes" that has resulted in him being truly the busiest man in show business and an omnipresence. In the last year or so, alone, he has had a network sitcom, hosted two different TV talk shows, appeared on the talk shows of countless others, been roasted on Comedy Central, published a book, ran a foundation, recorded a heavy metal record, and taken to the Twitterverse.
I was surprised at how open Mr. Shatner makes himself, throughout the book. Sometimes the narrative has the voice of the uber-confident caricature of "The Shat" that he has cultivated, but sometimes it is the voice of an insecure man, as he admits that he is deathly afraid of being alone and takes criticism of his acting personally, because he has never had a job, since childhood, outside of performing. He talks about his back and forth struggle with living the last half century as "Captain Kirk" and jokes about his role as spokesperson for Priceline.com. He shares his love for horses, his pride at being a Canadian, and the pain of finding his wife drowned in the swimming pool. He talks about his love for deep frying turkeys and explains his penchant for performing songs in spoken word.
Shatner Rules is a funny and insightful book, and I hope he has at least three autobiographies left in him.
February 18, 2012
I have known who William Shatner was my entire life, he's magnanimous, he's seemingly everywhere now a days, and my dad happened to be a Star Trek fan. Shatner doesn't seem to mind being the joke, but maybe he does. This book has many 'rules' on how to be more like Shatner, mostly they're jokes, some aren't. He trys to give us some insight on the character that he see's as WILLIAM SHATNER. He describes how he couldn't be that character all the time because it would wear him out, and he gives us some fun and random story. This is an autobiography, of sorts, though he already has one out called Up Till Now: The Autobiography that he published in 2008. I never did read that one, but this one promises new stories, which include moments from young adult hood, the Roast of William Shatner, a little on Star Trek, and why everyone hates him so plus the story behind the kidney stone that he sold. It's a fun and interesting read that I'm sure all Shatner fans will enjoy.
July 4, 2012
If I learned anything from this book, it is to say “Yes” to life a lot more often! Avoiding saying “Yes” is safe, conservative and typically very dull. Conversely, taking risks opens one up to new opportunities, amazingly wonderful experiences one never would have enjoyed if he hadn’t given himself the chance. It’s time to be a little bold and outrageous!
This is an autobiography intertwined with humorous anecdotes and William Shatner’s own blend of rare philosophy. Learn about Shatner’s “salons,” in which attendees exchange ideas while watching football. Find out whether Captain Kirk of the starship Enterprise ever said, “Beam me up, Scotty!” and how William Shatner got his start in acting.
This is a fun and easy read. I chuckled my way through it and would recommend it to my friends -- and fiends -- as well!
This is an autobiography intertwined with humorous anecdotes and William Shatner’s own blend of rare philosophy. Learn about Shatner’s “salons,” in which attendees exchange ideas while watching football. Find out whether Captain Kirk of the starship Enterprise ever said, “Beam me up, Scotty!” and how William Shatner got his start in acting.
This is a fun and easy read. I chuckled my way through it and would recommend it to my friends -- and fiends -- as well!
April 20, 2019
A fun book that can be read in one sitting. Shatner fans will love it. George Takei will hate it because he uses Chapter 6 to explain to him and his detractors just WHY it was that he got more close-ups and more lines than the other Star Trek cast members did -- mainly that this is what happens when you're the STAR of the show and have to report for work EVERY DAY while the supporting cast doesn't. Come to think of it, Shatner has done more to keep Takei's career afloat than anyone else since without their feud poor George would be completely forgotten by now. But enough of that. This is an entertaining experience, mostly fun, not too serious, and Shatner clearly enjoys himself. Just as I enjoyed $#*! My Dad Says. Shatner's rules for life are simple: Get out of bed every morning and say yes to every opportunity that comes along.
February 22, 2013
I enjoyed this book a lot more than I thought I would. Shatner has a reputation as having a larger than life sense of self, and through this book I've learned there are many reasons why he should. But he's also willing to admit to his failures, because he's willing to take risks. Shatner knows how to get the most out of life, and makes you think you want to be more like him, or as he says, Shatneresque. He uses examples from his life to illustrate his rules, which are really good advice. One of the biggest is to say "Yes" to life, don't miss out on opportunities and experiences. Told with wit, charm, and humor, Shatner Rules is a great read.
January 7, 2012
First and foremost I had to give this book 5 stars because quite simply- ITS FREAKIN SHATNER!! I mean come on people!! Actually this book is hysterical though. I rarely laugh out loud reading a book but Mr Shatner has a way of weaving a good story, and his sense of humor is legendary. His take on George Takei was killer and its nice to finally see Shatner's side of things when it comes to the old Star Trek days. I recommend this book to EVERYONE because it is Shatner and quite frankly you (and I) am not. Its a great and quick read at only about 240 pages.
My best,
Joe
My best,
Joe
March 24, 2012
I can't say a whole lot about this book, but I will say that a.) I got it as an audio book, and b.) that I have my own copy. I found this book to be poignant and, obviously, hilarious. It's not his autobiography, but he touches on so much of his life in this book, and I thought that was pretty fantastic. I'm so glad he read his own book, though there were times when he mumbled a little.
I really had no expectations, though I at least hoped it would be funny, and I had my hope in the right place.
And I can't believe he's 80. Well, 81 now. Gracious. This was such a fun read.
I really had no expectations, though I at least hoped it would be funny, and I had my hope in the right place.
And I can't believe he's 80. Well, 81 now. Gracious. This was such a fun read.
April 24, 2012
I listened to him read his book in the car. He is hilarious! He always cracks me up with his sense of humor. Selling his kidney stones to build a Habitat House! Negotiating hockey tickets! What a trip to be his daughter or grandchild. OMG! Live long and prosper Bill! Love ya!
February 3, 2019
William Shatner is a larger-than-life persona, and this humorous memoir will tell you exactly what you need to know to understand Shatner. Here is a list of simple rules—wisdom gained from his 80 years of life experience—that will guide you on a path of Shatneresque glory. All kidding aside, this book is funny. The writing is good, and the audio narration provided by Shatner is on point. There is a down-to-earth element, which sometimes competes with the overblown egocentrical element, and even here, Shatner is very self-aware and somewhat tongue-in-cheek. He shows the complicated relationship between “William Shatner” and just “Bill.” He talks about his life, his career, his family, his personality, his mistakes, and his achievements. He sort of pokes fun at, and at the same time revels in, his “big shiny ego.” Part memoir, part celebration, part inspiration—and with perfect comedic timing.
August 27, 2014
Make sure you do not ever yell, 'beam me up Scotty' to Shatner, if for some reason you see him in real life. Why? Because, he will tell you to F off!
Yes, just one of the many interesting tidbits of info Shatner reveals in his book Shatner Rules.
Somehow, Shatner's arrogant, crass, egotistical writing comes across as endearing. Why? Because, he reveals just enough of his 'real' personality to let you know it's all an act. He has created this 'William Shatner' persona that he 'plays' while doing interviews, attending conferences, or being roasted on Comedy Central. Bill, his real person, is much humbler and laid back with a focus on friends and family. Just another interesting thing that is revealed in this book.
Shatner rules is a hilarious, very very witty book outlining Shatner's philosophy on the success of his career. He calls it a memoir. I call it a laugh along satire of a self-help-life-consultant-autobiographical-career-building book WITH a bunch of Star Trek references peppering the pages.
Along with the Star Trek jokes, there are odd life stories such as the time Shatner sold his kidney stones for $75,000 - the money went to charity (ahh, how nice). There are tales of his music career; from trippy hippy ballads in the late 60's to his heavy metal scream fests he recorded at the ripe old age of 70 something! His vast and varied life and career experiences are made up a series of strange happenings. He attributes this all back to his number one rule - say 'yes'! Yes, opens doors which lead to more doors, with lead to more doors, an underground tunnel, a bridge, a window, etc...in other words, one thing leads to another and soon you find yourself headlining Sci-fi conventions, award ceremonies, TV shows, Records...
That's a rundown of the narrative. Now, what makes this book entertaining to read is the tone and attitude Bill puts into each page. It is chock full of jabs at those who mock him, especially his Star Trek career, and he totally takes ownership of those jokes. He mocks the mockers. It is hilarious, 'nuff said. Along with this mockery of the mockers, is a consistent joke about the William Shatner Brand where he encourages you to YouTube him doing this or that, or buy an audio version of his book (with his voice over), or just becoming another one of his multi million followers on Twitter.
Then there is the chapter on technology. I love when 'old' people talk tech. Apparently Shatner had a facebook account which was deleted because it was thought to be a fraud. Ouch. So, Shatner went to the Twittersphere and worked his magic there. I haven't checked out his account yet, but, I'm sure it's very good. And, good on him for going on the internet at such a ripe age.
You do not have to be a Star Trek fan to like this book, you just have to like a good sarcastic wit...and piles of egotistical references to The Universe According To Shatner.
http://bookwormsfeastofbooks.blogspot...
Yes, just one of the many interesting tidbits of info Shatner reveals in his book Shatner Rules.
Somehow, Shatner's arrogant, crass, egotistical writing comes across as endearing. Why? Because, he reveals just enough of his 'real' personality to let you know it's all an act. He has created this 'William Shatner' persona that he 'plays' while doing interviews, attending conferences, or being roasted on Comedy Central. Bill, his real person, is much humbler and laid back with a focus on friends and family. Just another interesting thing that is revealed in this book.
Shatner rules is a hilarious, very very witty book outlining Shatner's philosophy on the success of his career. He calls it a memoir. I call it a laugh along satire of a self-help-life-consultant-autobiographical-career-building book WITH a bunch of Star Trek references peppering the pages.
Along with the Star Trek jokes, there are odd life stories such as the time Shatner sold his kidney stones for $75,000 - the money went to charity (ahh, how nice). There are tales of his music career; from trippy hippy ballads in the late 60's to his heavy metal scream fests he recorded at the ripe old age of 70 something! His vast and varied life and career experiences are made up a series of strange happenings. He attributes this all back to his number one rule - say 'yes'! Yes, opens doors which lead to more doors, with lead to more doors, an underground tunnel, a bridge, a window, etc...in other words, one thing leads to another and soon you find yourself headlining Sci-fi conventions, award ceremonies, TV shows, Records...
That's a rundown of the narrative. Now, what makes this book entertaining to read is the tone and attitude Bill puts into each page. It is chock full of jabs at those who mock him, especially his Star Trek career, and he totally takes ownership of those jokes. He mocks the mockers. It is hilarious, 'nuff said. Along with this mockery of the mockers, is a consistent joke about the William Shatner Brand where he encourages you to YouTube him doing this or that, or buy an audio version of his book (with his voice over), or just becoming another one of his multi million followers on Twitter.
Then there is the chapter on technology. I love when 'old' people talk tech. Apparently Shatner had a facebook account which was deleted because it was thought to be a fraud. Ouch. So, Shatner went to the Twittersphere and worked his magic there. I haven't checked out his account yet, but, I'm sure it's very good. And, good on him for going on the internet at such a ripe age.
You do not have to be a Star Trek fan to like this book, you just have to like a good sarcastic wit...and piles of egotistical references to The Universe According To Shatner.
http://bookwormsfeastofbooks.blogspot...
October 5, 2012
Grandiose? Egocentric? Satirical? Humorous? “Shatner Rules” by William Shatner has gone where nothing I have ever read has gone before – and I’m not entirely sure where I went or where I ended up.
“Shatner Rules” is an unforgiving self-promotion; a rambling collection of musings and experiential accounts from William Shatner aka ‘Captain James T. Kirk’ and most recently aka Denny Crane. If you are looking for an autobiography, this isn’t it, although there are interesting tidbits about Mr. Shatner strewn throughout. It isn’t comedic, at least not in the Bill Cosby sort of fashion - more callous, yet measured. After putting the book down and reflecting, searching for a common thread, I realized that the thread is . . . William Shatner and ‘Saying Yes’ (read the book, you’ll understand)! Love him or hate him - and apparently there are quite a few - there must be something said about a person whose only paychecks during an 80 lifespan have come from performing. And you thought he couldn’t act!
I wouldn’t go out of my way to buy “Shatner Rules” (I found it in a 80% discount bin at the grocery store and bought it because, well , it was by William Shatner!), but it is worth a read if you are a fan. Even if you don’t know who William Shatner is (really?), the content is refreshing in a quirky sort of way.
“Shatner Rules” is an unforgiving self-promotion; a rambling collection of musings and experiential accounts from William Shatner aka ‘Captain James T. Kirk’ and most recently aka Denny Crane. If you are looking for an autobiography, this isn’t it, although there are interesting tidbits about Mr. Shatner strewn throughout. It isn’t comedic, at least not in the Bill Cosby sort of fashion - more callous, yet measured. After putting the book down and reflecting, searching for a common thread, I realized that the thread is . . . William Shatner and ‘Saying Yes’ (read the book, you’ll understand)! Love him or hate him - and apparently there are quite a few - there must be something said about a person whose only paychecks during an 80 lifespan have come from performing. And you thought he couldn’t act!
I wouldn’t go out of my way to buy “Shatner Rules” (I found it in a 80% discount bin at the grocery store and bought it because, well , it was by William Shatner!), but it is worth a read if you are a fan. Even if you don’t know who William Shatner is (really?), the content is refreshing in a quirky sort of way.
July 31, 2023
My review in 2012: This book was brilliant!
My review in 2023: This book is still brilliant! Like many, I first encountered William Shatner in Star Trek, but I recently watched Boston Legal and found myself mesmerized by his his portrayal of Denny Crane. I recalled he mentioned Boston Legal a lot in this book, so I wanted to re-read it. Besides, it actually has interesting bits of advice and is an entertaining biography.
Back in 2012, I read the physical book. I still have that book, but I have a long commute to work these days, so for my re-read, I grabbed the audiobook. The audiobook is extra fun because William Shatner narrates it! I was hearing Mr. Shatner read his own biography and advice in his own voice - or the voice of Denny Crane, if you will. This book is alternatively hilarious, touching, and serious as the subject at hand requires. William Shatner is a master of self-caricature, and has filled the book with "Fun Factners" and "Rules" for being William Shatner. He posits that "William Shatner" is a bit different from "Bill," and "Shatner" is a persona he can turn off. He's just Bill most of the time.
It was fun getting to know Bill, and getting to understand Shatner.
My review in 2023: This book is still brilliant! Like many, I first encountered William Shatner in Star Trek, but I recently watched Boston Legal and found myself mesmerized by his his portrayal of Denny Crane. I recalled he mentioned Boston Legal a lot in this book, so I wanted to re-read it. Besides, it actually has interesting bits of advice and is an entertaining biography.
Back in 2012, I read the physical book. I still have that book, but I have a long commute to work these days, so for my re-read, I grabbed the audiobook. The audiobook is extra fun because William Shatner narrates it! I was hearing Mr. Shatner read his own biography and advice in his own voice - or the voice of Denny Crane, if you will. This book is alternatively hilarious, touching, and serious as the subject at hand requires. William Shatner is a master of self-caricature, and has filled the book with "Fun Factners" and "Rules" for being William Shatner. He posits that "William Shatner" is a bit different from "Bill," and "Shatner" is a persona he can turn off. He's just Bill most of the time.
It was fun getting to know Bill, and getting to understand Shatner.
January 25, 2015
Contrary to popular belief, I am not a Trekkie. I actually only seen a couple of Next Generation episodes and only the newest Star Trek movies. Now, that being said, you gotta be living under a rock if you never heard of William Shatner. The guy is everywhere with his many guest appearance on TV shows and commercials.Therefore, when I saw this audio book at the library I thought to pick it up. OMG! This book was so much fun. It is read by William Shatner and because I've been asked more than once, he does not speak in pauses. He speaks in his normal voice. Anyways, "Shatner Rules" had great many stories and my favorites were his talks about about his Star Trek Feuds. Now I really want to read George Takei take on William Shatner. I believe it might be a completely different story. Also love his Fun Factner and the Shatner Rules that gave plenty of advice like packing an extra set of underwear in case someone holds your original set hostage. The only reason that this doesn't get 5 stars but only 4 is because not all the stories were that funny. Don't get me wrong for the most part they were really funny and I did laugh out loud, but there were a few that were just okay. Nevertheless, I am now a William Shatner fan for life and I can't wait to read more from him.
January 5, 2012
As a person who is a mere generation removed from that of William Shatner, I was thrilled that this book 'spoke' to me. From the wonderful cover photo to the very last sentence, I could not put this book down. In fact, I read it over the short span of two evenings.
A funny yet simultaneously serious look at life, Shatner Rules has me at last understanding the concept behind self-promotion. NOTE: As a writer myself, I've never been comfortable with promoting my work. Thanks to Bill Shatner, that has changed.
Throughout the stories and anecdotes this reader came away with the intended message: Say yes to opportunity because it may lead to something better. That happened frequently for Mr. Shatner and reading about it made for great entertainment. There were many places where I had to simply read passages aloud for my husband. My favorite story is of the William Shatner Thanksgiving Blowout!
Thank you Mr. Shatner for such an entertaining book and for teaching this reviewer the secret behind Saying Yes!
A funny yet simultaneously serious look at life, Shatner Rules has me at last understanding the concept behind self-promotion. NOTE: As a writer myself, I've never been comfortable with promoting my work. Thanks to Bill Shatner, that has changed.
Throughout the stories and anecdotes this reader came away with the intended message: Say yes to opportunity because it may lead to something better. That happened frequently for Mr. Shatner and reading about it made for great entertainment. There were many places where I had to simply read passages aloud for my husband. My favorite story is of the William Shatner Thanksgiving Blowout!
Thank you Mr. Shatner for such an entertaining book and for teaching this reviewer the secret behind Saying Yes!
June 9, 2014
Review first posted at BookLikes:
http://brokentune.booklikes.com/post/...
This will be brief.
I have no idea what to make of this book.
It is not the book was bad, it just wasn't ... great, or consistently funny. Nor did it feel like an honest commentary on, well..., anything - apart from the incident with the underwear thief, maybe. (No, I won't elaborate.)
There seems to be a lack of direction in this book - some parts are rants about former co-stars or anything else really, some parts are memoirs, some parts aim at explaining Shatner's/Bill's characters (yes, there are two, at least) - and I can only guess that some of the uncertainty of what this book was about and where the stories were going stemmed from the co-authorship with Chris Regan.
http://brokentune.booklikes.com/post/...
This will be brief.
I have no idea what to make of this book.
It is not the book was bad, it just wasn't ... great, or consistently funny. Nor did it feel like an honest commentary on, well..., anything - apart from the incident with the underwear thief, maybe. (No, I won't elaborate.)
There seems to be a lack of direction in this book - some parts are rants about former co-stars or anything else really, some parts are memoirs, some parts aim at explaining Shatner's/Bill's characters (yes, there are two, at least) - and I can only guess that some of the uncertainty of what this book was about and where the stories were going stemmed from the co-authorship with Chris Regan.
March 25, 2012
Shatner rules. Yes, he does. And he's really very sure that George Takei really dislikes him, though he claims to not know why. You can hear the somehow lovable pomposity in every story.
In amongst the stories, the Shat gives out some advice - always have a glass of water on hand, always say yes, and realize that you won't live forever. It's good to make money. Also, if you are the star, you get more lines.
He also gives some behind-the-scenes dirt on the Vancouver Olympics.
I can't believe he just turned 81.
In amongst the stories, the Shat gives out some advice - always have a glass of water on hand, always say yes, and realize that you won't live forever. It's good to make money. Also, if you are the star, you get more lines.
He also gives some behind-the-scenes dirt on the Vancouver Olympics.
I can't believe he just turned 81.
July 22, 2013
I picked this up on a whim, not really knowing what to expect. I didn’t expect William Shatner to be so funny and genuine. Laced with humor and yet sprinkled with some good advice, this audio will amuse and entertain even as it gives you some issues to ponder. Still going strong at the age of 80 when he recorded this memoir, he pulls no punches about his private or professional life. My only complaint is that it is too short.
December 27, 2011
I have to start out by saying i'm a HUGE Shatner fan. I have enjoyed many of his books, and this one is no different. It was a quick read and a fun read. I like that he has never really taken himself too seriously. And while this is a light hearted book, there is some good advice in it.
This is one book that I will keep on my bookshelf to be read again something in the future.
This is one book that I will keep on my bookshelf to be read again something in the future.
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