This book may not contain any revolutionary ideas, but it is sincere and open.
By Patty Lin ‧ RELEASE DATE: Aug. 29, 2023
Lin, a former staff writer and producer for popular television shows, recounts her years in the business and the unhealthy culture she experienced. She explains that on her first day as a writer, her boss used her to “fuck over” another writer. Even after years in the industry, she still felt a sense of despair, noting a particular day during her time with Breaking Bad was a “new low”. She acknowledges she was paid well, but was exposed to countless unsavory aspects of the entertainment industry. She also reflects on the loneliness she experienced as the only Asian writer in the room, and the pressure to represent her entire race.
The weakest parts of the narrative focus on Lin’s long-term relationship, which ultimately failed. A year after leaving the industry, she began writing this book as a therapeutic exercise. It is clear that the author’s writing process was cathartic, but her audience may be limited to fellow former TV writers and those interested in the behind-the-scenes goings-on of that world.
Pub Date: Aug. 29, 2023
ISBN: 9781958506066
Page Count: 300
Publisher: Zibby Books
Review Posted Online: yesterday
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 1, 2023