leahhateshardbacks's review against another edition
5.0
A great book about Jagged Little Pill and the musical that was inspired by it. I had no idea JLP had been made into a musical, and while they're not normally my thing (except, obvs, Hairspray) JLP is one of my faves so I decided to give it a go. It is so in depth and comprehensive! There are the expected interview excerpts from cast members, producers, writers, choreographers, and Alanis Morisette herself, but there were sections about the initial reception of JLP, Alanis' career history, Alanis' influences and thought process behind the album, and of course, a very detailed focus on the story of the musical, and how it was created and developed from paper to performance. There are lots of difficult topics handled in the musical: addiction, sexual assault, isolation, navigating queerness, inter-racial adoption, heartbreak, academic pressure, anxiety, and climate change. What I really loved was that every topic was so thoughtfully researched and presented in a way that was comprehensible for someone completely unaware of the topic, and there were directions to further information services. What an amazing book documenting a well-produced musical based on a brilliant album by a talented artist. I hope one day this comes to the UK or gets recorded because I am so enthralled and fascinated with the story, characters, and historical influences that I am desperate to watch it now.
alexislynae's review against another edition
5.0
Read this in a handful of sittings. I was (shamefully) largely unfamiliar with Alanis Morissette's music prior to this show, but I have been absolutely obsessed with it for well over a year now. I knew this musical would have a good book, but I was unprepared for how good. Finally seeing how all of the songs fit together in the narrative was wonderful.
In general, this is just a gorgeous coffee table book. I have read many theatre books like this, and I think this one is definitely in my top two (the other being about Rent). The photography is amazing, the interviews with the cast and creatives are refreshingly in-depth, most of the songs are discussed in multi-paragraph detail, and Alanis's notes provide great insight into her original songwriting process. This is not filler, this is a must for anyone who loves this show.
In general, this is just a gorgeous coffee table book. I have read many theatre books like this, and I think this one is definitely in my top two (the other being about Rent). The photography is amazing, the interviews with the cast and creatives are refreshingly in-depth, most of the songs are discussed in multi-paragraph detail, and Alanis's notes provide great insight into her original songwriting process. This is not filler, this is a must for anyone who loves this show.
julietcs's review against another edition
4.0
I now want to see the show!!! UGH! Great book and made me soo excited to see the Broadway show!
jakeob26's review against another edition
5.0
I’m just so obsessed with the design and layout of this book. It’s so fun visually. Also the behind the scenes of the album and the musical were very interesting. Love this show! I’m sure it’ll get the Best Musical Tony (whenever that happens).
rehemamalaika's review against another edition
4.0
some parts felt redudant/filler, but i loved the deep dives and interview.
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