14 of 18 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars
Good for fans, June 9, 2003
This review is from: Revealing Jewel: An Intimate Portrait from Family and Friends (Paperback)
Yes, I know I just gave this book 3 stars, but despite the rating, I like this book and I enjoyed reading it. It's not a personal book, though, so don't expect a biography or memoir.
This book is set up in a "did you know?" fashion. Let me explain. This book is 90% a compilation of quotes and commentary from the people who know Jewel personally. The other 10% comprises of responses from Jewel to various questions (i.e., "What were your worst performance experiences?") This is why I say it's more of a "Did you know?" foundation under this book. It's full of insights and facts we never knew about her. This is a book about what the people who surround Jewel think and know of her.
You really have to have an interest in not just Jewel's music, but Jewel herself to appreciate this book. That's why I rated this item 4 stars instead of 5 because of its limited appeal. I am a long-time Jewel fan, so I loved this book. It's too bad, though, that non-Jewel fans probably won't be attracted to this book, because it reveals so much about her character that fans have known for a while, but the public is oblivious to. For instance, Moby talks about how she has the most twisted, blackest sense of humor, and how contrary to popular belief, she'd fit in with the kids in South Park perfectly. He also mentions that Jewel's told him the most disgusting jokes he's ever heard and has the mouth of a sailor that "would make Eminem blush." (I have to admit that I was giggling all throughout Moby's commentary.) Another bandmate admits that "[he has] sarcasm coming out of [his] pores, but she's worse." Another roadie comments, "Jewel hawks the biggest loogies."
Plenty of attention is given to the side of Jewel's personality the public is familiar with, though, such as her honesty, integrity, and kindness.
What impressed me the most about this book is how more attention was given to her "boyishness." After reading this, you see that she's definitely NOT the simpering, wilting flower so many people believe her to be. In fact, most her friends are amazed that she hasn't been butchered by the media for her jokes (which can easily come across as offensive by those easily offended by direct sarcasm, and many, many people are).
I'm not going to say non-fans are going to be interested in this book, because that really depends on how they feel about Jewel. If you're a fan or just someone wanting to understand the woman who is Jewel better, then this is the book for you.
I think, also, that this book is a wonderful addition to anybody interesting in learning about a very modern and complex woman. Jewel is sexy, smart, kind, and possesses a very sharp wit. She's a paradox in that she's an honest individual who is uncomplicated, yet very complex at the same time. She's feminine yet is definitely "one of the boys" and can stand her own with men. She's definitely kind, yet she's probably the most sarcastic person I've ever read of. On top of that, she's optomistic yet her humor can be very dry. This book covers all of these facets and has been an absolutely delightful read for me.
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
an interesting little book, December 18, 2003
This review is from: Revealing Jewel: An Intimate Portrait from Family and Friends (Paperback)
This is an interesting little book. I'll admit it is only for the fans, and the hardcore fans at that (those like me, who might have a little obssession for Jewel). The book isn't even written by her. What it is is various remarks made by those who know Jewel. Nothing great, but it has a great cover photo.
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3 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Shows the many facets of Jewel's personality. Great Book!, June 5, 2003
This review is from: Revealing Jewel: An Intimate Portrait from Family and Friends (Paperback)
This book gives a very fresh and surprising view of who Jewel really is and the many fascinating aspects of a very complicated yet simple person. By that, I mean she has many complicated ways about her but she needs the basic things to make her happy in life (This book will explain what I mean by that and more!) The book has little trivia tidbits,interviews with people who know jewel, and many new pictures. Did you know that Jewel has a dark and twisted sense of humor or that she was friends with Moby? Find out this and lots more in this excellent, in depth book! A+ Plus don't forget to check out Jewel's newest album 0304! It's great!
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