Anthony Bourdain Book: The Biography of Anthony Bourdain

by University Press

University Press returns with another short and captivating biography of one of history’s most compelling figures, Anthony Bourdain.Anthony Bourdain was the “original rock star” of the culinary world. As a world-renowned chef, best-selling author, celebrated journalist, travel documentarian, and social activist, he celebrated the joy of food – both for its own sake and for its ability to bring people together.Born in New York City in 1956 to a Catholic father and a Jewish mother, Anthony Michael Bourdain was raised in a stable, nonreligious, music-loving, book-reading family. He joined the Boy Scouts, got rebellious, did drugs, dropped out of college, became a chef, started writing, got married, got divorced, did that again, mastered television, traveled the world, quit drugs, achieved fame, earned a fortune, shared a famous meal with President Barack Obama, advocated for social justice, and tragically succumbed to depression.This short book tells the intensely human story of a man who changed the world in a way that no one else could.

31 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 16, 2021

Reviews

[Georgianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I couldn't choose between two stars and three stars. It's written on a 6th-grade level if that and I had a hard time reading it. It just does not flow and feels stilted. My daughter got it for me as a present and was somewhat embarrassed to give it to me after she saw it. The only reason I gave it three stars was because it answered a few questions about Anthony Bourdain's life that I was always a little curious about. I don't have a tv, so no idea if any of those questions were ever answered on his show. I began reading his books before he became such a sensation and always loved his writing, his wit, and his choice of music. For that, I gave the book some stars. It probably doesn't deserve any for quality of writing.

[Pat · Rating 2 out of 5]

Barely

A quick synopsis at best, with only what one might expect to read in a long press article. However, the revelations about his philanthropic work were news to me. He always portrayed himself as well adjusted and realistic, evidently the people around him didn’t seem able to help his depression, although anyone with a reasonable perspective likely suffers from many of his agonies. Bless, you, Tony for what you gave to us all.

[Amy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointing

I’m a huge fan of Bourdain and have read his books, watched his documentary and read many articles and stories about him.

This was not a biography as the title states; it’s basically a superficial, generalized summary of information that has already been published/aired in other places with a few specific tidbits here and there.

Nothing really revealing or super interesting here.

[Amanda · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm not even sure how this could be categorized as a biography. It was so short and provided just a basic overview of Anthony's life and death. It was very much written in a way that reminded me of a high school essay. The saving grace was that it gave me just enough info that I know I want to read more of his works or books about him.

[lia · Rating 2 out of 5]

honestly read this in about half an hour and that was possible because of the book length and also bc it was as if it was written by a 3rd grader. i do feel like this could be helpful to those who don’t know much about bourdain but in my opinion it has too little information for the length of the book & the amount of chapters

[Hyacinth · Rating 4 out of 5]

How sad it is to read about his suicide. I remember him and watching snippets of his show. We as a society have to do more in regards to mental health issues. I wonder how his family has dealt with his passing.

[Russell LaCoste · Rating 5 out of 5]

We all miss Anthony

Such a well written account of Anthony Bourdains life in simple easy to understand sentences. A true joy to read in one sitting.

[Tracy Smith · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is on a 4th grade level and has quite a few editing mistakes. I’m not sure why I even finished it. Very disappointing.

[allie ruden · Rating 1 out of 5]

Pretty sure AI wrote this but I love him so idk