What do you think?
Rate this book
Sounds Like Me: My Life (So Far) in Song
This updated New York Times bestselling collection of essays by seven-time Grammy nominated singer songwriter Sara Bareilles “resonates with authentic and hard-won truths” (Publishers Weekly)—and features new material on the hit Broadway musical, Waitress.
Sara Bareilles “pours her heart and soul into these essays” (Associated Press), sharing the joys and the struggles that come with creating great work, all while staying true to yourself. Imbued with humor and marked by Sara’s confessional writing style, this essay collection tells the inside story behind some of her most popular songs. Well known for her chart-topper “Brave,” Sara first broke through in 2007 with her multi-platinum single “Love Song.” She has since released seven albums that have sold millions of copies and spawned several hits.
“A breezy, upbeat, and honest reflection of this multitalented artist” (Kirkus Reviews), Sounds Like Me reveals Sara Bareilles, the artist—and the woman—on songwriting, soul searching, and what’s discovered along the way.
Sara Bareilles “pours her heart and soul into these essays” (Associated Press), sharing the joys and the struggles that come with creating great work, all while staying true to yourself. Imbued with humor and marked by Sara’s confessional writing style, this essay collection tells the inside story behind some of her most popular songs. Well known for her chart-topper “Brave,” Sara first broke through in 2007 with her multi-platinum single “Love Song.” She has since released seven albums that have sold millions of copies and spawned several hits.
“A breezy, upbeat, and honest reflection of this multitalented artist” (Kirkus Reviews), Sounds Like Me reveals Sara Bareilles, the artist—and the woman—on songwriting, soul searching, and what’s discovered along the way.
208 pages, Paperback
First published October 6, 2015
154 people are currently reading
8938 people want to read
About the author
Sara Bareilles
70 books206 followersSara Beth Bareilles is an American singer-songwriter and musician. She achieved mainstream success in 2007 with the hit single "Love Song", which reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Bareilles has sold over one million records and over four million singles in the United States alone and has been nominated for a Grammy Award five times as well as earning a nomination for a Grammy Award for Album of the Year, the most prestigious award in the music industry.
In February 2012, VH1 placed Bareilles in the 80th spot of the Top 100 Greatest Women in Music.
Bareilles has sold over one million records and over four million singles in the United States alone and has been nominated for a Grammy Award five times as well as earning a nomination for a Grammy Award for Album of the Year, the most prestigious award in the music industry.
In February 2012, VH1 placed Bareilles in the 80th spot of the Top 100 Greatest Women in Music.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,321 reviews
October 12, 2015
Actual rating 4.5 stars.
This was a great memoir. If you are a fan of Sara, this book is a gem.
I remember when I got Sarah's album "Little Voice" in my sophomore year of college. I was transformed, moved and inspired. Sara was one of my first delves into the world of indie-pop-folk singer-songwriters. She was definitely one of the first females I listened to from this genre. I connected with her music on a molecular level and I belted out her songs in my car with passion and fervor.
Sounds Like Me is Sara's story. We learn about her childhood, her teen years onto college and into present day. She tells very personal stories about her struggles with body image and self-doubt, her past relationships and some of her darker moments. She also shares her musical process for some of her most beloved songs. Reading this book was a delight.
Being a writer, it is clear that Sara made the most of her book-writing experience. She dug deep and let us in to her world. I was deeply moved by her honesty and furthermore inspired by her journey. My only critique is that it was very short and I would have liked a bit more but I digress - it was a great read! I would recommend Sounds Like me to Sara fans, music fans, aspiring artists and the checkout lady at Target.
*This book was sent to me for review from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This was a great memoir. If you are a fan of Sara, this book is a gem.
I remember when I got Sarah's album "Little Voice" in my sophomore year of college. I was transformed, moved and inspired. Sara was one of my first delves into the world of indie-pop-folk singer-songwriters. She was definitely one of the first females I listened to from this genre. I connected with her music on a molecular level and I belted out her songs in my car with passion and fervor.
Sounds Like Me is Sara's story. We learn about her childhood, her teen years onto college and into present day. She tells very personal stories about her struggles with body image and self-doubt, her past relationships and some of her darker moments. She also shares her musical process for some of her most beloved songs. Reading this book was a delight.
Being a writer, it is clear that Sara made the most of her book-writing experience. She dug deep and let us in to her world. I was deeply moved by her honesty and furthermore inspired by her journey. My only critique is that it was very short and I would have liked a bit more but I digress - it was a great read! I would recommend Sounds Like me to Sara fans, music fans, aspiring artists and the checkout lady at Target.
*This book was sent to me for review from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2016
How do you hype your favorite media (be it book, band, TV show, movie or whatever)? Do you shout from the mountain tops to all who will listen? Do you seek out a sympathetic friend or loved-one and beg their indulgence? Or perhaps it's enough to display your fandom through memorabilia or casual reference; give others the option to unleash your enthusiasm.
My chosen hype-method is a a book review; my subject is Sara Bareilles. Sara is a musical artist who found mainstream success years ago (you may have heard Brave, Love Song and King of Anything on the radio.) But while she's had a few hits she could have had thirty.
Sara writes and composes 100% of the songs on her albums (solo-writes 95% of them) with a staggering variety of themes, styles and instrumentation. On stage, she brings the energy and wit of a late-night talk-show host while avoiding the sort of spectacle that would steal from her focus on singing and playing one of several instruments with skill. She's one of the great artists of Western History and she's in the middle of the most productive period in her career.
I could write an essay on every song she's written; revel in the metaphor, the imagery, the sound, the emotion, the message. Sara's music inspired this introvert to go to concerts alone, chat with the people I met there, find internet friends who share my fandom and later meet them in person.
I won't blame you if you don't run straight to Google to search her name or to Amazon to order her albums. Our society boils over with salespeople, with hype and with tailored media; I suspect your culture que is long enough already.
But if you choose to check out Sara's work, perhaps your path will lead you back to Sounds Like Me; her confessional autobiography and the purported subject of this review. But I'll keep this part brief; I laughed, I cried, I felt a little more human. And I came away wanting to share my experience.
Edited on 6/4/2016
My chosen hype-method is a a book review; my subject is Sara Bareilles. Sara is a musical artist who found mainstream success years ago (you may have heard Brave, Love Song and King of Anything on the radio.) But while she's had a few hits she could have had thirty.
Sara writes and composes 100% of the songs on her albums (solo-writes 95% of them) with a staggering variety of themes, styles and instrumentation. On stage, she brings the energy and wit of a late-night talk-show host while avoiding the sort of spectacle that would steal from her focus on singing and playing one of several instruments with skill. She's one of the great artists of Western History and she's in the middle of the most productive period in her career.
I could write an essay on every song she's written; revel in the metaphor, the imagery, the sound, the emotion, the message. Sara's music inspired this introvert to go to concerts alone, chat with the people I met there, find internet friends who share my fandom and later meet them in person.
I won't blame you if you don't run straight to Google to search her name or to Amazon to order her albums. Our society boils over with salespeople, with hype and with tailored media; I suspect your culture que is long enough already.
But if you choose to check out Sara's work, perhaps your path will lead you back to Sounds Like Me; her confessional autobiography and the purported subject of this review. But I'll keep this part brief; I laughed, I cried, I felt a little more human. And I came away wanting to share my experience.
Edited on 6/4/2016
April 8, 2019
5 Stars for the book and narrator!
Confession - I'm a Sara Bareilles fan. You don't have to be a fan to enjoy this book, but it might help. If you don't know who Sara Bareilles is, she is a singer songwriter and a few of her hits include Love Song, Gravity, Brave and She Used to be Mine. I had a 4 hour car drive ahead of me and Sara's audio-autobiography was about 4 hours. Perfect!
Sara narrates and sings! Her narration is excellent. Actually it feels like she is telling her story to you - she is not reading it to you. (if that makes sense). Its a relatively short book of essays and each begins with her singing one of her songs a capella which goes with the theme of the essay - 8 essays or rather chapters with an epilogue. The book is entertaining, heartfelt and honest.
The first couple of chapters told the story of her childhood. Sometimes idyllic, other times heartbreaking. She wrote her hit Gravity when she was only 19 yrs old! It relates to her high school-college boyfriend. It was an on and off relationship as her lyrics alludes to.
Gravity Lyrics (excerpt)
Set me free, leave me be
I don't want to fall another moment into your gravity
Here I am, and I stand
So tall, just the way I'm supposed to be
But you're on to me and all over me
Oh, you loved me 'cause I'm fragile
When I thought that I was strong
But you touch me for a little while
And all my fragile strength is gone
One thread that weaves throughout most of the book is her self esteem issues that goes back to when she was bullied as the "fat kid". So much so, she ended up changing high schools to start anew. But she still struggles even today, although she is far from fat.
In other chapters she recounts when she spent a year as an college exchange student in Italy, the ups and downs as she struggled to become a success, singing in small clubs, how certain songs came about, collaborating, touring and tour buses and a special fan (who guest narrates her own story).
The last chapter is about when Sara's dream to be involved in musical theater came true. She was asked to write the music and lyrics for a new musical, Waitress which is based on the movie with Kari Russell. She was nominated for a Tony as for best original score. (She lost to that small musical you may have heard about, Hamilton). She wasn't initially cast in the show (Tony winner, Jessie Mueller was) but when Mueller left Sara took over for a few months. I was able to see Sara perform! Every so often I go to NYC to catch some Broadway shows. So it was a no brainer to make a trip to see Sara in Waitress and Bette Midler in Hello Dolly. Epic trip. If the touring musical Waitress comes near you, I highly recommend it - warning IMO its not suitable for children.
**If you are listening the audiobook - stick around for the outtakes at the very, very, very end. Totally worth it! Very funny and profanity abounds.
Confession - I'm a Sara Bareilles fan. You don't have to be a fan to enjoy this book, but it might help. If you don't know who Sara Bareilles is, she is a singer songwriter and a few of her hits include Love Song, Gravity, Brave and She Used to be Mine. I had a 4 hour car drive ahead of me and Sara's audio-autobiography was about 4 hours. Perfect!
Sara narrates and sings! Her narration is excellent. Actually it feels like she is telling her story to you - she is not reading it to you. (if that makes sense). Its a relatively short book of essays and each begins with her singing one of her songs a capella which goes with the theme of the essay - 8 essays or rather chapters with an epilogue. The book is entertaining, heartfelt and honest.
The first couple of chapters told the story of her childhood. Sometimes idyllic, other times heartbreaking. She wrote her hit Gravity when she was only 19 yrs old! It relates to her high school-college boyfriend. It was an on and off relationship as her lyrics alludes to.
Gravity Lyrics (excerpt)
Set me free, leave me be
I don't want to fall another moment into your gravity
Here I am, and I stand
So tall, just the way I'm supposed to be
But you're on to me and all over me
Oh, you loved me 'cause I'm fragile
When I thought that I was strong
But you touch me for a little while
And all my fragile strength is gone
One thread that weaves throughout most of the book is her self esteem issues that goes back to when she was bullied as the "fat kid". So much so, she ended up changing high schools to start anew. But she still struggles even today, although she is far from fat.
In other chapters she recounts when she spent a year as an college exchange student in Italy, the ups and downs as she struggled to become a success, singing in small clubs, how certain songs came about, collaborating, touring and tour buses and a special fan (who guest narrates her own story).
The last chapter is about when Sara's dream to be involved in musical theater came true. She was asked to write the music and lyrics for a new musical, Waitress which is based on the movie with Kari Russell. She was nominated for a Tony as for best original score. (She lost to that small musical you may have heard about, Hamilton). She wasn't initially cast in the show (Tony winner, Jessie Mueller was) but when Mueller left Sara took over for a few months. I was able to see Sara perform! Every so often I go to NYC to catch some Broadway shows. So it was a no brainer to make a trip to see Sara in Waitress and Bette Midler in Hello Dolly. Epic trip. If the touring musical Waitress comes near you, I highly recommend it - warning IMO its not suitable for children.
**If you are listening the audiobook - stick around for the outtakes at the very, very, very end. Totally worth it! Very funny and profanity abounds.
March 31, 2020
I knew a bunch of Sara's songs, but could not have told you she was who sung them lol.
I really enjoyed getting to know her here (and also googling the sh*t out of her while listening).
She has a magnetic personality and was a joy to listen too!
She sings on the audio and has some pretty darn entertaining outtakes at the end.
I really enjoyed getting to know her here (and also googling the sh*t out of her while listening).
She has a magnetic personality and was a joy to listen too!
She sings on the audio and has some pretty darn entertaining outtakes at the end.
December 11, 2015
I bought this in the bookstore on a kind of whim--I always expected I would read it at some point, but not necessarily this soon. Immediately there was some sort of voice in my head saying, "Patti Smith and Carrie Brownstein both put out music memoirs this fall, and you bought Sara Bareilles's memoir instead???" I have no idea who this snobby voice belonged to and it was extremely irritating. Besides, I like Sara Bareilles. I like her music, I think she's very talented, and I appreciate that she's not some kind of studio creation/annoying tabloid fixture like so many female singers are today.
Anyway, this book was pretty much exactly the way I expected it to be: While it didn't shy away from discussing Sara's problems (depression, body dysmorphia, garden-variety confusion and uncertainty), it did tend to keep things on the sunnier side. Each chapter discussed how she came to write a particular song, but within that format they took various forms: Some chapters would be considered straight-up memoir, some were more like essays, one consisted of a series of letters to herself at various ages. A few of her musical friends also contribute essays on working with Sara, which were OK but unnecessary. My favorite chapter was one in which she talks about attempting to write her first album with a series of (record-label-assigned) prominent "songwriting partners"--although she doesn't name names, her sarcasm about the process and the soullessness of some of these people was really amusing and right on.
Although this is definitely better than most "celebrity" memoirs, if you're not a fan of Sara Bareilles, there's really no reason to read it. If you are a fan of Sara Bareilles, on the other hand, this book will probably be everything you hoped it would be, and you'll only wish it were longer and covered more of her songs. Writing Sounds Like Me was clearly difficult for Sara, and at the end she vows she'll never write a another book. Then she adds, "Unless I do." Count me among those hoping she does.
Anyway, this book was pretty much exactly the way I expected it to be: While it didn't shy away from discussing Sara's problems (depression, body dysmorphia, garden-variety confusion and uncertainty), it did tend to keep things on the sunnier side. Each chapter discussed how she came to write a particular song, but within that format they took various forms: Some chapters would be considered straight-up memoir, some were more like essays, one consisted of a series of letters to herself at various ages. A few of her musical friends also contribute essays on working with Sara, which were OK but unnecessary. My favorite chapter was one in which she talks about attempting to write her first album with a series of (record-label-assigned) prominent "songwriting partners"--although she doesn't name names, her sarcasm about the process and the soullessness of some of these people was really amusing and right on.
Although this is definitely better than most "celebrity" memoirs, if you're not a fan of Sara Bareilles, there's really no reason to read it. If you are a fan of Sara Bareilles, on the other hand, this book will probably be everything you hoped it would be, and you'll only wish it were longer and covered more of her songs. Writing Sounds Like Me was clearly difficult for Sara, and at the end she vows she'll never write a another book. Then she adds, "Unless I do." Count me among those hoping she does.
October 8, 2015
It took me way too long to read this book (but you know what, I can take comfort in the fact that it took Sara several years to write eight essays and only several days for me to read this one because of having a major case of epic book hopping syndrome).
I really enjoyed it - Sara has such a distinct voice, both in her writing and her music. This was a great insight into her life and work, albeit brief. Also, has a great introduction by Ben Folds.
Full review to come. Probably rating this one around 3 to 3.5 stars. Depends on where I fall after a night's meditation.
I really enjoyed it - Sara has such a distinct voice, both in her writing and her music. This was a great insight into her life and work, albeit brief. Also, has a great introduction by Ben Folds.
Full review to come. Probably rating this one around 3 to 3.5 stars. Depends on where I fall after a night's meditation.
August 26, 2016
I've walked away from this book an even bigger fan than before. Absolutely loved it.
July 15, 2019
If there’s anything you should know about me, it’s that Sara Barellies is my favourite artist of all time and has been since the day I bought her first album when I was 12( the second album I ever bought!)
Considering this, I had no doubt I’d adore her book and I was right. This was truly wonderful. It was personal, with the perfect balance of humour and emotion. It was beautifully written and perfectly showcased Sara’s down to earth, humble voice and personality.
With each essay beginning with a short, acapella rendition of one of her songs and a warm, funny narration, if you get the chance, I’d highly recommend reading the audiobook version.
I enjoyed each and every moment of listening to this and, somehow, I’ve come away from it admiring Sara’s talent and person even more.
Considering this, I had no doubt I’d adore her book and I was right. This was truly wonderful. It was personal, with the perfect balance of humour and emotion. It was beautifully written and perfectly showcased Sara’s down to earth, humble voice and personality.
With each essay beginning with a short, acapella rendition of one of her songs and a warm, funny narration, if you get the chance, I’d highly recommend reading the audiobook version.
I enjoyed each and every moment of listening to this and, somehow, I’ve come away from it admiring Sara’s talent and person even more.
September 23, 2015
** A Copy of Sounds Like Me was provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review **
I’ve been a fan of Sara Bareilles for years, probably since I first heard Love Song but certainly after I got my hands on a copy of her debut album. Sara instantly rocketed to my top five favorite singer/songwriters because she so easily embodied what I love best about music (and what I feel the deepest connection to) and that’s the ability find a complete understanding, a sense of belonging to someone or something through words. Music is essential in my life because on the deepest levels my soul aches to express itself in the same way as some of my favorite artists and authors. In short, I love words (and I love those who put themselves on the line to share them).
At first, I was a little apprehensive to dig into Sounds Like Me because I was worried this gift wouldn’t translate, that the book would leave me feeling alienated and disconnected from an artist that feels more like a friend than a stranger. Often with these semi-memoirs from celebrities, the stories are either recycled from what we’ve already heard in interviews or surface skimmers and fluff. I was really nervous that Sara’s would be the same…
Boy, was I wrong.
Instead, Sounds Like Me is a gorgeous prose. The way Sara shares the ups and downs of her life and career in such an honest and open way is both inspiring and humbling. I can literally feel Sara giving a piece of herself to the reader, pouring her heart out onto the page in the same way she does her songs. She’s created a safe space within her words that lets anyone going through similar situations or experiencing similar emotions to feel less alone. She’s opened my mind not only to her struggles but to my own and has allowed me to come to a peaceful understanding that while I am the one in control of my life, it’s okay to feel lost now and again. Sounds Like Me makes me want so bad to sit across a table at a café or sprawl on the floor staring at the ceiling for hours while discussing life’s nuances and our anxieties with Sara. It makes me want to climb under the covers and listen to her albums on repeat. Most importantly, it makes me want more.
I’ve been a fan of Sara Bareilles for years, probably since I first heard Love Song but certainly after I got my hands on a copy of her debut album. Sara instantly rocketed to my top five favorite singer/songwriters because she so easily embodied what I love best about music (and what I feel the deepest connection to) and that’s the ability find a complete understanding, a sense of belonging to someone or something through words. Music is essential in my life because on the deepest levels my soul aches to express itself in the same way as some of my favorite artists and authors. In short, I love words (and I love those who put themselves on the line to share them).
At first, I was a little apprehensive to dig into Sounds Like Me because I was worried this gift wouldn’t translate, that the book would leave me feeling alienated and disconnected from an artist that feels more like a friend than a stranger. Often with these semi-memoirs from celebrities, the stories are either recycled from what we’ve already heard in interviews or surface skimmers and fluff. I was really nervous that Sara’s would be the same…
Boy, was I wrong.
Instead, Sounds Like Me is a gorgeous prose. The way Sara shares the ups and downs of her life and career in such an honest and open way is both inspiring and humbling. I can literally feel Sara giving a piece of herself to the reader, pouring her heart out onto the page in the same way she does her songs. She’s created a safe space within her words that lets anyone going through similar situations or experiencing similar emotions to feel less alone. She’s opened my mind not only to her struggles but to my own and has allowed me to come to a peaceful understanding that while I am the one in control of my life, it’s okay to feel lost now and again. Sounds Like Me makes me want so bad to sit across a table at a café or sprawl on the floor staring at the ceiling for hours while discussing life’s nuances and our anxieties with Sara. It makes me want to climb under the covers and listen to her albums on repeat. Most importantly, it makes me want more.
September 24, 2015
With the exception of her anthemic “Brave," I’ve not heard much of Sara Bareilles’ music, so I wasn’t sure whether this autobiography would appeal to me. BUT, I was pleasantly surprised. Bareilles writes from deep in her heart. Her vulnerability makes her likable and relatable, even to someone like me who is old enough to be her mother.
The book is part confession, part advice, part story-telling, part tell-all about the pop music business. It’s structured in the form of eight essays, the subject of each one inspired and anchored by one of Bareilles’ hit songs. This works really well for the autobiography of a young person like Bareilles, and makes the book thematic rather than chronologic. Plus, it is a beautifully made book, with color photographs and lovely thick paper that were a pleasure for this (very tactile!) reader.
This is no “look at me, ain’t I grand!” story. Instead, Bareilles talks about all the self-doubt and indecision that plague creatives in the course of their work. She writes with candor about her self-image, her insecurities, and how she’s learning to overcome them. Her writing style is witty, quick, and gently self-deprecating.
Reading Sounds Like Me definitely piqued my interest in Bareilles’ music, and gave me some interesting insights into her life as a creative person, and her quest to live an authentic life as a woman and a musician.
The book is part confession, part advice, part story-telling, part tell-all about the pop music business. It’s structured in the form of eight essays, the subject of each one inspired and anchored by one of Bareilles’ hit songs. This works really well for the autobiography of a young person like Bareilles, and makes the book thematic rather than chronologic. Plus, it is a beautifully made book, with color photographs and lovely thick paper that were a pleasure for this (very tactile!) reader.
This is no “look at me, ain’t I grand!” story. Instead, Bareilles talks about all the self-doubt and indecision that plague creatives in the course of their work. She writes with candor about her self-image, her insecurities, and how she’s learning to overcome them. Her writing style is witty, quick, and gently self-deprecating.
Reading Sounds Like Me definitely piqued my interest in Bareilles’ music, and gave me some interesting insights into her life as a creative person, and her quest to live an authentic life as a woman and a musician.
October 20, 2015
So I had gotten this song called "Gonna get over you" by Sara Bareilles on iTunes a few years ago. I have played that song to death on my phone. Still love it. I didn't even know she'd written a book. I love her song Brave too. And how had I never heard Gravity?? She starts each chapter with a song. And of course I started each chapter by listening to the songs on YouTube. I love how she's stayed true to who she is - a singer song writer, not a glittery pop star.
March 12, 2016
I loved this book, and I love this woman. Like, for real.
Sounds Like Me somehow caught me completely unaware. I knew about the book, knew I wanted to read it, but had NO IDEA how much it would mean to me when I did. I've been on a bit of an autobiography kick lately for whatever reason, and I've honestly enjoyed the others as well. But Bareilles is in a league of her own as far as I'm concerned.
That being said, I'm having a hard time articulating just why this book affected me so much. I've been thinking about almost since I started reading, and I don't know that I've put my finger on it. I think part of it is definitely that she expresses a vulnerability in her essays that surpasses anything you typically see. Other celebrity authors tell you things you didn't know about them, share stories of their lives, and entertain you, but you can still feel the wall between them and the reader. Their tales have been crafted in a way that lets you know they're intentionally letting you in, but not too far in. Bareilles lets the reader in in a rare and beautiful way.
Whether she's discussing her insecurities about being teased in school, sharing tales of her first love, or letting the reader see some of her struggles as music really became a career for her, she feels like a REAL person, and one you feel like you know. There aren't flashy tales of backstage antics, it's more about Sara as a person. And when she discusses the down side of fame, or the insecurities brought about by having a public image created for you, it's not complaining -- it's simply a statement of fact. She doesn't shy away from sharing the negatives of being a performer, but it doesn't make her sound like she's whining about it either. Again...I'm not able to articulate this idea well....
One of the most beautiful essays is the one that centers around the song "Beautiful Girl," where Sara writes a series of letters to herself. In them, she exposes some of her deepest fears and insecurities, starting with her grade school self, and working up to herself in the present day. In each letter, she tells herself that she is beautiful, and shares the insight she's gained over the years to explain that it will all be okay, and the pain is not for nothing.
There were moments that Sara shared that took my breath away. That made me think of my own life. That made me admire her more than I ever imagined I would. She is beautiful, and so is this book.
Sounds Like Me somehow caught me completely unaware. I knew about the book, knew I wanted to read it, but had NO IDEA how much it would mean to me when I did. I've been on a bit of an autobiography kick lately for whatever reason, and I've honestly enjoyed the others as well. But Bareilles is in a league of her own as far as I'm concerned.
That being said, I'm having a hard time articulating just why this book affected me so much. I've been thinking about almost since I started reading, and I don't know that I've put my finger on it. I think part of it is definitely that she expresses a vulnerability in her essays that surpasses anything you typically see. Other celebrity authors tell you things you didn't know about them, share stories of their lives, and entertain you, but you can still feel the wall between them and the reader. Their tales have been crafted in a way that lets you know they're intentionally letting you in, but not too far in. Bareilles lets the reader in in a rare and beautiful way.
Whether she's discussing her insecurities about being teased in school, sharing tales of her first love, or letting the reader see some of her struggles as music really became a career for her, she feels like a REAL person, and one you feel like you know. There aren't flashy tales of backstage antics, it's more about Sara as a person. And when she discusses the down side of fame, or the insecurities brought about by having a public image created for you, it's not complaining -- it's simply a statement of fact. She doesn't shy away from sharing the negatives of being a performer, but it doesn't make her sound like she's whining about it either. Again...I'm not able to articulate this idea well....
One of the most beautiful essays is the one that centers around the song "Beautiful Girl," where Sara writes a series of letters to herself. In them, she exposes some of her deepest fears and insecurities, starting with her grade school self, and working up to herself in the present day. In each letter, she tells herself that she is beautiful, and shares the insight she's gained over the years to explain that it will all be okay, and the pain is not for nothing.
There were moments that Sara shared that took my breath away. That made me think of my own life. That made me admire her more than I ever imagined I would. She is beautiful, and so is this book.
February 6, 2017
Fantastic! I listened to the audiobook version, which is read by Sarah herself (as well as a few other people reading their contributions to the book, including Ben Fold reading his forewords). I love when author's narrate their own audiobooks, but with this book it feels essential to understanding Sarah's work and the often intangible magic of music.
This book is a collection of essays, each tied to one of Sarah's songs. She sings each song, a cappella, before each essay. That is such a treat, but it also sets the emotional tone for each essay.
Sarah makes fun of herself a lot, in the book, especially talks about not feeling like she's really skilled as a writer. Which is just so untrue. This book demonstrates, what fans of her music already know, she is a wonderful storyteller. What she shares in these stories, much like her music, is funny, touching, and thoughtful.
I am so glad I found this audiobook at my library. It is one of my favorite reads of this year and possibly of all time. I highly recommend it.
Make sure you listen all the way to the end. They included outtakes from recording. Where Sarah makes fun of her work writing, swears A LOT, and does a pretty good impression of Yoda.
This book is a collection of essays, each tied to one of Sarah's songs. She sings each song, a cappella, before each essay. That is such a treat, but it also sets the emotional tone for each essay.
Sarah makes fun of herself a lot, in the book, especially talks about not feeling like she's really skilled as a writer. Which is just so untrue. This book demonstrates, what fans of her music already know, she is a wonderful storyteller. What she shares in these stories, much like her music, is funny, touching, and thoughtful.
I am so glad I found this audiobook at my library. It is one of my favorite reads of this year and possibly of all time. I highly recommend it.
Make sure you listen all the way to the end. They included outtakes from recording. Where Sarah makes fun of her work writing, swears A LOT, and does a pretty good impression of Yoda.
April 6, 2020
This is one of those books that make you chuckle, it came off as incredibly awkward to me. I'm not sure why. It's not a real in depth look at Bareilles life, it gently just scratches the surface of everything. I do believe I read somewhere she is immensely private person when concerning her private life. So, I'm not really surprised it doesn't really give you anything to in depth or really important.
Don't get me wrong her work is important, music is very important. Music teaches you acceptance, how to deal with love, heartbreak and many other things. It's also a creatively brilliant piece of art form. That's what this book was about not so much her life, but her way through the music world. Each section is divided up by some of her most famous songs (She even sings a chorus or two of each song, which is actually pretty amazing) and she explains how each song came about and lightly touches on what was going on in her life at that time.
So if your looking for some sort of biography or even a full blown memoir you wont find it.
I simply give it three stars because at time I did get bored, but I stayed with it because each singing piece she did brought me into the next section, the next essay.
I would read it if you enjoy looking into the world of music/writing but I wouldn't read it if your looking to be nosey. *cough* like me... I can't help it. Don't judge me, haha.
Don't get me wrong her work is important, music is very important. Music teaches you acceptance, how to deal with love, heartbreak and many other things. It's also a creatively brilliant piece of art form. That's what this book was about not so much her life, but her way through the music world. Each section is divided up by some of her most famous songs (She even sings a chorus or two of each song, which is actually pretty amazing) and she explains how each song came about and lightly touches on what was going on in her life at that time.
So if your looking for some sort of biography or even a full blown memoir you wont find it.
I simply give it three stars because at time I did get bored, but I stayed with it because each singing piece she did brought me into the next section, the next essay.
I would read it if you enjoy looking into the world of music/writing but I wouldn't read it if your looking to be nosey. *cough* like me... I can't help it. Don't judge me, haha.
October 13, 2015
The best thing about this book is that because it sounds like you're talking to an old friend over coffee (or whisky, no judgments here), it never sounds preachy. Instead, Sara Bareilles tells you about her very personal experiences that end up resonating with the reader because human experiences are both unique and all-encompassing like that. It's comforting to know that these people who inspire us are really just like us, who feel our same pain and dread our same fears. Behind the glittery facade, a much bigger story is left unseen.
Full disclosure, I'm a huge Sara Bareilles fan so I was bound to like this book. I love knowing the stories behind the songs that I know by heart. I love knowing more about the person who writes these lyrics and the genesis of her music. The book is imperfect, sounding disjointed at times and, especially with the confessional, epistolary chapter, reading like a therapy diary. But remember, she's that friend you haven't talked to in a long time and you have to play catch up so who cares about run-on sentences and if she pours her heart out from all directions, you're there to listen and share the connection and maybe learn a thing or two. Or not. She won't judge you. (Note: I don't in fact think there were run-on sentences in this book.)
Full disclosure, I'm a huge Sara Bareilles fan so I was bound to like this book. I love knowing the stories behind the songs that I know by heart. I love knowing more about the person who writes these lyrics and the genesis of her music. The book is imperfect, sounding disjointed at times and, especially with the confessional, epistolary chapter, reading like a therapy diary. But remember, she's that friend you haven't talked to in a long time and you have to play catch up so who cares about run-on sentences and if she pours her heart out from all directions, you're there to listen and share the connection and maybe learn a thing or two. Or not. She won't judge you. (Note: I don't in fact think there were run-on sentences in this book.)
January 30, 2017
I really enjoyed this. I felt like it was a lot more personal than some other autobiographies I've read recently, and I enjoyed getting a glimpse into Sara's mind. I've adored her work for years, from her pop music to Waitress, and it was great reading more about it. I also loved the guest chapters that gave a little bit of an outside perspective on her, particularly the one that Jack Antonoff wrote. I just love Sara Bareilles a whole lot.
February 6, 2017
I absolutely adore Sara Bareilles. These essays she wrote and shared with the world made me love her even more. It's always so cool to be able to have such a pleasurable experience learning more about someone I admire, and it's also managed to inspire me in ways I didn't expect. Thank you for sharing your stories, Sara.
March 23, 2017
Oh wow - I loved this audio book. I have always liked Sara Bareilles, but now I'm a little obsessed with her. This memoir is suprisingly honest and real, yet also humorous and insightful. Her narration adds so much to the telling, and she even sings before every chapter. I absolutely devoured it.
June 28, 2019
Que livro incrível. Que mulher incrível.
Ouvi o audiobook de "Sounds like me" e foi uma EXPERIÊNCIA. A narração da Sara é maravilhosa, as versões acústicas das músicas cantadas me fizeram chorar. Com certeza minha relação com a música dela vai mudar e se tornar mais íntima depois desse livro.
Para quem curte o trabalho dela, vale muito a pena <3
Ouvi o audiobook de "Sounds like me" e foi uma EXPERIÊNCIA. A narração da Sara é maravilhosa, as versões acústicas das músicas cantadas me fizeram chorar. Com certeza minha relação com a música dela vai mudar e se tornar mais íntima depois desse livro.
Para quem curte o trabalho dela, vale muito a pena <3
November 13, 2015
This is a must read for any Sara fans! I loved learning the stories behind some of her songs, knowing she has struggled with her image too, and all through her witty, loveable way! :) She'll always be one of my favorites.
May 31, 2017
Super fast audiobook listen.... I loved how each chapter started with an a-cappella version of one of her songs, relating to the life stories she tells. I really love her song writing, but the memoir itself was a little safe...it was heartfelt and charming, just not super memorable.
February 23, 2016
My favorite musician and this is an amazing book. I didn't think I could love her any more but after reading this I feel even more connected to the beautiful music she makes!!
January 28, 2018
I don't know.. I just didn't get what a lot of other reviewers got from this book. It was meh to me. I'm not a super fan of Bareilles, I do like her music though. Someone loaned this book to me thinking it would be something I liked. It wasn't a bad book just a book where I was like... who cares. We learn about Sara's life. Growing up, her body image, how she ended up being a song writer. But I didn't feel like I took anything from this book. I didn't find it funny or inspiring. Just a story about her. I did find the part about why she wrote her song "Love Song" because since I do really love music I had heard she wrote it to spite her record company. Which was basically true even though at the beginning of the chapter she says it's not really true.... confusing. I really wanted to read about the song "King of Anything", or the song "I Choose You" but those songs weren't mentioned. I saw someone mentioned that after each chapter they went to Youtube to listen to the song each chapter is about. That's a great idea and I wish I had done that. I don't know.. the book has high ratings on goodreads but I just didn't enjoy this one.
October 14, 2015
Beautiful and introspective, this book made me feel warm and inspired. I've always loved Sara's music, but I now find an even bigger place for it in my heart. Little Voice, an album I didn't listen to as much as Kaleidoscope Heart (my favorite) or The Blessed Unrest, now speaks to me in a way it hadn't before. I spent the time reading this book also listening to her music and finding new ways to fall in love with it. Especially Gravity. It's incredible that she wrote such a beautiful song at 19 years old. I'm in awe at how she didn't realize for so long how beautiful she is. She spends the entire book with reminding each reader how strong and beautiful they are, and I think that's a book worth reading.
I'm very happy to have read this book and I'd like to thank both Sara Bareilles and Peter Pan for reminding me to try to brave every day.
I'm very happy to have read this book and I'd like to thank both Sara Bareilles and Peter Pan for reminding me to try to brave every day.
February 3, 2016
I finished this in the span of two hours because I was so enthralled by Sara Bareilles. I've been listening to her music for years, and if I felt like some of her songs were part of the general soundtrack for my life before, it's even more true now.
There is so much truth and authenticity in these essays, so much vulnerability and relatable heartbreak. It's amazing to feel like you can see inside the world of someone who is so publicly accessible, even if she's still a total strangers.
Though there were also some funny moments, I cried a few times because (as with her songs) I thought to myself, "She knows! Somehow she sees my heart!"
The pairing of each essay with a song of her adds a genius additional level of depth to her music and her writing. I wish there was more!
There is so much truth and authenticity in these essays, so much vulnerability and relatable heartbreak. It's amazing to feel like you can see inside the world of someone who is so publicly accessible, even if she's still a total strangers.
Though there were also some funny moments, I cried a few times because (as with her songs) I thought to myself, "She knows! Somehow she sees my heart!"
The pairing of each essay with a song of her adds a genius additional level of depth to her music and her writing. I wish there was more!
August 13, 2016
“Things evolve into other things. Emotions do the same. Forever. Your best ally in all of these shifting seas is your faith in the fact that you are exactly where you are supposed to be. Stay put. Stay soft. Stay gentle and kind. Listen to your instincts. Meditate. Pray. Laugh as much as humanly possible. Pain is okay too. Say thank you for all of it."
March 7, 2024
I can’t believe it took me almost a decade to find out my favorite singer wrote a book, but I’m so glad I did! So special to learn more about her and the stories behind some of the songs that have had such an impact on my life.
August 22, 2023
Just when I thought I couldn't love this woman more...
September 22, 2016
Disclaimer: Sara is my favorite musician - past or present. She could rewrite the phone book and sing it, and she would already have three stars from me. So, it should be no surprise that this book earned one of my coveted five star reviews. So, the reader of this review may surmise that it is biased, lacking the impartiality of a fan. Maybe, maybe not. But, read to the end and be the judge for yourself.
My first experience with Sara's music was similar to Ben's, except I didn't use my CD to hold up the corner of an entertainment center. I purchased "Little Voice" back in 2007, probably because of "Love Song" on the radio. I gave the album a once over and it found its way into the back of my closet with holey socks, ripped t-shirts, and old magazines (sorry, Sara).
It was on an otherwise ordinary day, sometime in the second half of 2013. I was sitting in front of my computer at work, when Pandora cued up this song, "Brave". It changed me. I listened to the song, I watched the video - again and again. I wrote a blog post about it. And that's when I dug out Little Voice and listened to in a new light. I could go on and on about the influences Sara's music has had on me, but this review is about the book, so I should probably get back to that.
As disinterested as I was in Sara's music initially, the same could not be said about her book. I couldn't wait to read it. I had the release date pinned on my Google Calendar. When I visited my local B&N, I flipped to the table of contents. Like a little kid on Christmas Day, I peeked through the wrapping paper to get a glimpse of my present. I was not disappointed.
Over the course of the two hundred odd pages, I laughed (sometimes coming close to an uncontrollable snort). I became filled with sadness and empathy. I was overflowing with joy and hope and love. I was carried on an emotional roller coaster ride through the life of Sara. But, in reality, it's a roller coaster ride that we all go through in some capacity, in our own unique way. Her words helped me to better understand that we are all different, but all the same. We all crave the same things - authenticity, love, companionship, acceptance, and connection - connection with others, and connection with something bigger than ourselves.
The essay on "Brave" hit home with me once again, in a way that most would probably not think. Sara talks about the difference between recognition and connection, and how we can easily become confused by the two, mistakenly exchanging them for one another. Recognition is the five stars on this review. Connection is the message she communicates with an inspired voice through her words. We are all beautiful and imperfect human beings. And we can do remarkable things when we embrace that truth.
Sara mentions that no one really needs to read this book, but that she needed to write it. I disagree. Yes, I am a fan. Yes, I am beyond inspired by her music, and now her words. But, there is another song that fits well in this space. When you read between the lines (which I would like to see in the "hell, no" sequel), it is so easy to understand that this is exactly what each of us needs. We can obtain all the recognition and attention in the world. We can earn piles of money, awards, and accolades. But, it is the connection to something bigger than ourselves that helps us to become who we are. Completely. And, for that reason and message alone, everyone deserves to read this book.
Thank you, Sara. For being courageous and brave, and for showing us all that it's only in standing up for what we believe in that we also stand up for ourselves. We are able to discover the human being just waiting to bust through the hard outer shell we have built around us, and venture out to accomplish amazing things in the world, and more importantly, connect with others. Mission accomplished.
My first experience with Sara's music was similar to Ben's, except I didn't use my CD to hold up the corner of an entertainment center. I purchased "Little Voice" back in 2007, probably because of "Love Song" on the radio. I gave the album a once over and it found its way into the back of my closet with holey socks, ripped t-shirts, and old magazines (sorry, Sara).
It was on an otherwise ordinary day, sometime in the second half of 2013. I was sitting in front of my computer at work, when Pandora cued up this song, "Brave". It changed me. I listened to the song, I watched the video - again and again. I wrote a blog post about it. And that's when I dug out Little Voice and listened to in a new light. I could go on and on about the influences Sara's music has had on me, but this review is about the book, so I should probably get back to that.
As disinterested as I was in Sara's music initially, the same could not be said about her book. I couldn't wait to read it. I had the release date pinned on my Google Calendar. When I visited my local B&N, I flipped to the table of contents. Like a little kid on Christmas Day, I peeked through the wrapping paper to get a glimpse of my present. I was not disappointed.
Over the course of the two hundred odd pages, I laughed (sometimes coming close to an uncontrollable snort). I became filled with sadness and empathy. I was overflowing with joy and hope and love. I was carried on an emotional roller coaster ride through the life of Sara. But, in reality, it's a roller coaster ride that we all go through in some capacity, in our own unique way. Her words helped me to better understand that we are all different, but all the same. We all crave the same things - authenticity, love, companionship, acceptance, and connection - connection with others, and connection with something bigger than ourselves.
The essay on "Brave" hit home with me once again, in a way that most would probably not think. Sara talks about the difference between recognition and connection, and how we can easily become confused by the two, mistakenly exchanging them for one another. Recognition is the five stars on this review. Connection is the message she communicates with an inspired voice through her words. We are all beautiful and imperfect human beings. And we can do remarkable things when we embrace that truth.
Sara mentions that no one really needs to read this book, but that she needed to write it. I disagree. Yes, I am a fan. Yes, I am beyond inspired by her music, and now her words. But, there is another song that fits well in this space. When you read between the lines (which I would like to see in the "hell, no" sequel), it is so easy to understand that this is exactly what each of us needs. We can obtain all the recognition and attention in the world. We can earn piles of money, awards, and accolades. But, it is the connection to something bigger than ourselves that helps us to become who we are. Completely. And, for that reason and message alone, everyone deserves to read this book.
Thank you, Sara. For being courageous and brave, and for showing us all that it's only in standing up for what we believe in that we also stand up for ourselves. We are able to discover the human being just waiting to bust through the hard outer shell we have built around us, and venture out to accomplish amazing things in the world, and more importantly, connect with others. Mission accomplished.
November 15, 2017
If I am being honest, this was probably a 4 star book normally... but as an audiobook, being listened to by a Sara Bareilles fan? Totally 5 stars. I would definitely put this in the category of "Should definitely pick audiobook over traditional book"... because otherwise you miss out on her singing at the top of every chapter. Also her adorable voices.
A collection of personal essays more than a true memoir, this book is full of stark honesty - which is what I am here for. I found some of what the said so relatable, and some of what she said so powerful in its truth... I came into this book a fan of her music, I come out of it a fan of her person. Her history is woven into themes that are so relevant for anyone, some especially for women, some especially for artists, but overall there is something here for anyone to take away with.
A collection of personal essays more than a true memoir, this book is full of stark honesty - which is what I am here for. I found some of what the said so relatable, and some of what she said so powerful in its truth... I came into this book a fan of her music, I come out of it a fan of her person. Her history is woven into themes that are so relevant for anyone, some especially for women, some especially for artists, but overall there is something here for anyone to take away with.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,321 reviews