by Barbra Streisand
My Name Is Barbra” is an autobiography by American entertainer Barbra Streisand, offering a comprehensive look into her life and career. Released on November 7, 2023, this memoir is notable not just for its content but also for its impressive length, spanning 970 pages, with an audiobook version that exceeds 48 hours. The book sold more than 55,000 copies in the US in its first week of release, indicating its significant impact and public interest
The memoir is described as a “gloriously massive” account from a unique star in the entertainment industry. Streisand’s narrative is comprehensive, covering various aspects of her life and career, including detailed accounts of the making of each of her projects. The book delves into lessons on acting, directing, film editing, sound mixing, lighting, and more. It also explores every phase of her life, from her childhood in Brooklyn to her long-term romance with James Brolin, capturing the essence of her passionately lived existence. Streisand enriches the narrative with personal anecdotes, including her mother’s scrapbook and reflections on her favorite colors, foods, and numbers. The book is characterized by a tone that captures Streisand’s spoken voice, replete with Yiddishisms, parenthetical asides, and snappy second thoughts
“My Name Is Barbra” spans across 59 chapters and many decades, carefully highlighting the names of those who encouraged, impressed, or even challenged Streisand. The book recounts her life as a series of odysseys, with Streisand often emerging as the triumphant victor. The memoir emphasizes her resilience and determination in the face of challenges, including when she was told to alter her features and change her name, decisions she famously resisted. Streisand’s refusal to conform redefined Hollywood’s notions of beauty and relatability. The book also sheds light on her career milestones, such as becoming the first woman to win the Golden Globe for Best Director for her work on “Yentl” in 1984, and founding two production companies before it was common for American women to have such business independence
The memoir not only celebrates Streisand’s achievements but also reflects on the challenges she faced, providing a deeper understanding of her mastery in various fields. It highlights her artistic power and the years of dedication that shaped her career. The book allows readers to marvel at Streisand’s journey from a different perspective, appreciating the depth of her talent and the impact she has had on the cultural landscape
Overall, “My Name Is Barbra” is more than a recounting of Streisand’s life; it’s a testament to her enduring influence and a detailed exploration of her multifaceted career, offering readers a unique insight into the life of one of the most celebrated figures in the entertainment industry.