Book info

• Title Always Looking Up
• Author Michael J. Fox
• Year 2008
• Genre Memoir

Struck with Parkinson's - a debilitating, degenerative disease - at the height of his fame, Michael J. Fox has taken what some might consider cause for depression and turned it into a beacon of hope for millions. In Always Looking Up, Michael's Sunday Times bestselling memoir, he writes with warmth, humour and incredible honesty about the journey he has undertaken since he came to terms with his condition.

Thoughts

The second memoir from Michael J Fox focuses on his post-acting career and his efforts to create and sustain a foundation hunting for a cure for the Parkinson’s disease that afflicts him. I found this book marginally less interesting than the first, because politics and political wranglings are not my cup of tea, but it was still fascinating to read just how much work goes into something like running your own foundation.

From the outside, it looks like turning up on occasion and making a well rehearsed speech, but there’s so much more to it than that - picking the right people, networking, raising funds, distributing funds, campaigning governments for the right to do what needs to be done.

The book was refreshing, honest and upfront, perhaps controversial in places but never shy. I love reading the lessons that Michael has learned along his difficult journey, and in particular what a strong bond he has with his family. Keep on keeping on MJF!

Rating: 3 / 5