by Elton John
First published 2019
Elton John chronicles his remarkable journey in his sole authorized autobiography. Born Reginald Dwight, a timid child wearing thick glasses in suburban Pinner, he harbored dreams of pop stardom. The narrative follows his transformation into a glittering performer who shocked American audiences at twenty-three in silver hotpants and sequined shirts. John details his creative partnership with lyricist Bernie Taupin, their initial struggles with rejection, and his eventual rise to chart dominance. The book reveals his spiral into drug addiction that lasted over ten years, his battles with fame's pressures, and moments of desperation including a suicide attempt in his Los Angeles pool. John balances the darkness with extraordinary encounters, from dancing with royalty to friendships with musical legends like John Lennon, Freddie Mercury, and George Michael. He describes founding his AIDS Foundation and his path to sobriety. The memoir concludes with his personal transformation, finding lasting love with David Furnish and embracing fatherhood, showing how he rebuilt his life after conquering his demons.
Genres: autobiography, non-fiction, biography-memoir, music
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: celebrity, overcoming-adversity, redemption
Setting: Pinner, Los Angeles
Period: 20th-century, 21st-century
374 pages · Hardcover · Henry Holt and Co.
Content warnings: addiction, depression, suicide