A Book and A Dog

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How Y’all Doing? (by Leslie Jordan)

Leslie Jordan is such an amazing actor, comedian, and all around wonderful human! Admittedly, I haven’t seen all of his work. As his book, How Y’all Doing?: Misadventures and Mischief From a Life Well Lived, proves, he’s acted in A TON of television shows and movies. I enjoyed watching him in the American Horror Story series and most recently in the television series, Call Me Kat. Leslie was the best character of the Call Me Kat series; otherwise, that show was unwatchable. I’m sure this book went on my Libby/Overdrive TBR list after publication. Sadly, I didn’t get to it until after his passing. Regardless of my timing, I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Leslie narrate his book. I wouldn’t have wanted to experience this book any other way. The stories he tells are even better in his own voice.

Leslie opens the book by talking about his exposure to Instagram and how he entertained thousands of people during the COVID pandemic. As a fan of American Horror Story, I absolutely loved his stories about working with Jessica Lange and Lady Gaga.

Leslie also shared a lot about his work on the movie, The Help. He developed a strong relationship with Greenwood, Mississippi and truly came to love the area. He shared stories of compassion and love along with down right hilarious moments.

Leslie shared personal struggles of drug addiction. He talked about how his mom initially had difficulty recognizing that the media’s portrayal of his behaviors in Hollywood were not a reflection on her. Fortunately Leslie made some great friendships in Hollywood that helped his mom see Leslie’s public lifestyle objectively.

I experienced so many laugh out loud moments with this book. Leslie had great humility and willingness to tell goofy stories about himself. I admire his ability to use humor, while also being blunt about his opinions. Leslie’s farewell message to readers at the end of the book broke my heart. He was so gifted and talented. I’m grateful he shared his generosity and kindness with our world. His legacy will not be forgotten.

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