Book review: Leah Remini's Troublemaker (or Zgaga in Slovenian)

I had this on my list even before it was published and wanted to buy it from the beginning. But then it turned out to be such a huge bestseller that even my small local library got it, so I could borrow it. I was so happy when it was finally in my hands and started reading it the same day. It was a fast read. Maybe a bit strange, because I got translated version and I believe that the original is always better. I know Leah Remini from the sitcom ˝King of Queens˝, which is one of my favorite shows. I always admired her character on the show, because she is a total opposite of me. She has high level of self esteem and is never afraid to tell what she really means. Later I found out that she is similar person in the real life, or even more ˝mean˝. Another thing that was so attractive about this book was of course scientology. I always wanted to know what is happening behind those blue walls of the famous church’s building in L.A. What kind of religion is this? Who from celebrities is involved? Can they do something positive or are there just freaks with money and big ego?

Book is written in collaboration, what is a minus, but I understand that everyone can’t write a book. And in this case, the book is more important, because it reveals nasty things about scientology and is not just a shallow biography. Leah is very funny, so funny that I laugh at loud. I had a luck that was reading at home and not in public place. Can you imagine the embarrassment for example on the train? What I miss are some details.

Descriptions are a bit poor. We don’t get information how celebrity center of scientology looks like inside. I find these things very important, so I can create images while I’m reading. Leah is a close friend of Jennifer Lopez, but we get so little about her. Also her nine years of filming ˝King of Queens˝ doesn’t get so much attention. The book is mainly focused on scientology, positive and negative sights of it and Tom Cruise (informal leader of the church). What surprised me the most is her and her husband’s past, they were both cheaters – that’s how they met. And another shocking thing, scientology doesn’t approve formal education. I don’t think Leah is stupid, but if I’m not wrong, she finished just eight grades. Ok enough, I can’t write everything.

I recommend this book if you want to laugh and find a bit more about scientology and Leah’s life. It is interesting, but don’t expect details. Maybe she can’t tell us everything, because of some kind of contractions. My favorite part is when she’s talking about her childhood and beginnings in Hollywood. I felt very sorry for her; she had some tough time growing up. Overall great summer reading.

I love her lipstick on this cover :)


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