Stories I Only Tell My Friends

An Autobiography

By: Rob Lowe

Narrated by: Rob Lowe

Length: 9 hrs and 10 mins

Publisher's summary

A wryly funny and surprisingly moving account of an extraordinary life lived almost entirely in the public eye.

A teen idol at 15, an international icon and founder of the Brat Pack at 20, and one of Hollywood's top stars to this day, Rob Lowe chronicles his experiences as a painfully misunderstood child actor in Ohio who was uprooted to the wild counterculture of mid-'70s Malibu, where he embarked on his unrelenting pursuit of a career in Hollywood.

The Outsiders placed Lowe at the birth of the modern youth movement in the entertainment industry. During his time on The West Wing, he witnessed the surreal nexus of show business and politics, both on the set and in the actual White House. And in between are deft and humorous stories of the wild excesses that marked the '80s, leading to his quest for family and sobriety.

Never mean-spirited or salacious, Lowe delivers unexpected glimpses into his successes, disappointments, relationships, and one-of-a-kind encounters with people who shaped our world over the last 25 years. These stories are as entertaining as they are unforgettable.

©2011 Robert Lowe (P)2011 Macmillan Audio

Critic reviews

"[Lowe] writes viscerally and insightfully...He looks back at the aberrant highs of his heart-throb days, the changing nature of stardom in Hollywood, the trade-off he has made between high life and home life, and the step-by-step effort behind his show business survival. He looked like the callowest kid in the "Outsiders" crew. Now he looks like the sturdiest of them all" (The New York Times)

"A fresh pop-culture history of Hollywood in the ’70s and ’80s from the point of view of the man who lived it…[Lowe] is as funny as he is thoughtful. This is the best type of celeb memoir, because its author is as interested in the world as the world is interested in him." (People Magazine)

"A lovely autobiography, equal parts dish and pathos.” (Vanity Fair)

Enjoyable Listen

I enjoyed this audiobook - it was a pleasant, easy listen. It is a big departure from what I normally listen to, and that's why I was drawn to it - I was looking for something lighter for change, and this was perfect.

Better than you could imagine. Fun, too.

What made the experience of listening to Stories I Only Tell My Friends the most enjoyable?

Rob Lowe is a good reader.

Who was your favorite character and why?

This isn't really applicable for this book. It is, after all, a memoir.

Which scene was your favorite?

Most anytime he mentions Martin Sheen and entering the West Wing Oval Office set. But most of all when he leaves rehab and his counselor said, "You can be like other celebrities and come back here again and again or you can just stay sober. It's up to you." I think it's a mantra about just doing what's hard and right.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes. But I saved it for when I was working out so I would continue to work out. I also only listened to it when I walked my dog so I would walk her for a longer time -- to her delight.

Any additional comments?

As a sometimes actor, this book helped me realize why I never became a serious working actor. I just never had the drive necessary or passion to make it happen.

I never knew...on so many levels.

The story and the performance are excellent. I had no idea what Rob Lowe's back story was. thought he was a privileged Malibu kid and it all really started with the Rat Pack. Very eye opening. And his impersonations of the people throughout his life are fantastic! looking forward to hearing him read his next book which I've already downloaded.

Who knew?

Who knew Rob Lowe was such a great story teller!! I was never a Rob Lowe fan for no particular reason but after this book I found myself really feeling like he's one of the good guys. It was interesting to see that we all have struggles and disappointments in life when things don't turn out how you had hoped and worked for them to, even when you are an 'A' lister. Well done Mr. Lowe, well done!

A new appreciation for Rob Lowe and his journey

I just watched the Comedy Central roast of Rob Lowe and decided I should probably listen to this book I bought over a year ago! I am so glad I did! He did a wonderful job narrating (obviously). I was truly surprised at his upbringing, his hard work to get where he is, and his hard fought journey itself. He sounds like one of those people you say... I wanna be his friend! Very entertaining book .

Well Done

Nice book, great listening to Rob Lowe himself talk and tell stories of him, his movies and some of his friends. Very warm and personable.

Who knew?

This book is so good! I had no idea Rob Lowe, pretty boy that he is, has such a sharp mind and quick wit. I absolutely loved this book! Finding out that your teenage crush is now your middle aged crush is the best!

A wonderful listen

Rob’s story is honest, compelling and worth the listen. His reading style and way of telling his story kept me engaged and hanging on every word. I can’t wait to listen to the next one!

Soooo Good

Listen to this book! It Is super good and very entertaining. Trust me You won’t be disappointed.

Do not miss this.

Wow. I’m blown away. This book should not be missed. It’s a walk through time with all the trials and tribulations, (and lessons), of life in Hollywood. A coming of age, full of wisdom and mind blowing holy sh*t moments. Don’t miss it.