Born Standing Up

A Comic's Life

By: Steve Martin

Narrated by: Steve Martin

Length: 4 hrs and 2 mins

Publisher's summary

In the mid-70s, Steve Martin exploded onto the comedy scene. By 1978 he was the biggest concert draw in the history of stand-up. In 1981 he quit forever. Born Standing Up is, in his own words, the story of "why I did stand-up and why I walked away".

At age 10 Martin started his career at Disneyland, selling guidebooks in the newly opened theme park. In the decade that followed, he worked in the Disney magic shop and the Bird Cage Theatre at Knott's Berry Farm, performing his first magic/comedy act a dozen times a week. The story of these years, during which he practiced and honed his craft, is moving and revelatory.

Martin illuminates the sacrifice, discipline, and originality that made him an icon and informs his work to this day. To be this good, to perform so frequently, was isolating and lonely. It took Martin decades to reconnect with his parents and sister, and he tells that story with great tenderness. Martin also paints a portrait of his times: the era of free love and protests against the war in Vietnam, the heady irreverence of The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour in the late 60s, and the transformative new voice of Saturday Night Live in the 70s.

©2007 Steve Martin (P)2007 Simon and Schuster Inc.

Great Insights Into the Life of Steve Martin

I always knew this Wild and Crazy Guy was unique, but his book gives the reader insight into the mind of a creative and comic genius. His dedication to his art is admirable. His success well deserved.

Understanding a comedian

I’m pleased to have the opportunity to listen to the genius of Steve Martin’s comedy bee dissected by himself, instead of a critic. The behinds the scene is incredible.

Insights from a Master!!

ever wonder what Michaelangelo was thinkin? Or maybe wanted to pick Alfred Hitchcock's brain? Frank Lloyd Wright? Ben Franklin? Well this here book will quench your thirst!! A perfectly honest look at the inner workings of a great mind not just for comedy but art itself.

I’ve always loved Steve Martin

After listening to this book, I learned more about him and I love him even more!

A Really Fascinating Listen

So great to hear this in Steve Martin's own voice. I appreciate his heart and honesty. What a history.

wished it was longer

I had heard most of the stories one place or another before, and the book is fairly short. Still, it's Steve Martin, and I'm a fan. It only covers the period up until his first movies were made.

Everything you want it to be.

Steve Martin telling his own story. It's as good as you want it to be. You really learn what makes him tick and it made me appreciate him even more.

This is a GREAT LISTEN

What did you love best about Born Standing Up?

The recollection of this part of his life - as he said, "I ignored my standup career for 25 yrs but now having finished this memoir I view this time with surprising warmth..." Me too.
I also loved Steve reading it and the banjo separating the sections was terrific.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Born Standing Up?

The relationship with his father.

Which character – as performed by Steve Martin – was your favorite?

Steve

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

I may have wanted to but I walk and listen - but did look forward to listening to Steve each walk.

Any additional comments?

Loved this book

A treat for the mind

I loved his performance and his truly felt recollection
loved it. A real peek on someone's life

I laughed, I cried (a cliche fulfilled)

I've read the book and now have listened to Steve Martin deliver his work. His performance of the book brings out nuances that accentuate the feeling and am so glad I invested the time and money. I find his views insightful and beautifully rendered. Steve has a way with words "Cuz some people have a way with words....and others not have way I guess" (Steve Martin)