A review by avisholkoff
The Office: The Untold Story of the Greatest Sitcom of the 2000s: An Oral History by Andy Greene
5.0
Admittedly, I was skeptical about starting this. I loved the Office, but did I really need to read a whole book about it? I had just finished a pandemic binge of the show and appreciated the comfort, kindness and familiarity the show brought to me during unprecedented times. So, I decided to get this book, and I'm glad I did. It was funny, heartwarming and honestly therapeutic to read.
There wasn't necessarily any significantly new information, although the chapter on Steve Carrell's departure was illuminating. It really becomes clear how much the cast loved him. It was also interesting to read about how both the cast didn't really enjoy/were burnt out by Season 8. The book didn't really offer any "juicy" tidbits (though perhaps the criticism of James Spader could be qualified as such)
I loved learning of all of the stories of the origins of the characters' and the writers' mindsets during some of the episodes. The focus on some more of the more memorable episodes, i.e. Dinner Party and Niagara were a nice added touch.
Overall, during a time in my life when I was working a very busy job, it was great to have a calming, entertaining and easy read at night after work. These characters truly feel like old friends and it was a pleasure to read them.
There wasn't necessarily any significantly new information, although the chapter on Steve Carrell's departure was illuminating. It really becomes clear how much the cast loved him. It was also interesting to read about how both the cast didn't really enjoy/were burnt out by Season 8. The book didn't really offer any "juicy" tidbits (though perhaps the criticism of James Spader could be qualified as such)
I loved learning of all of the stories of the origins of the characters' and the writers' mindsets during some of the episodes. The focus on some more of the more memorable episodes, i.e. Dinner Party and Niagara were a nice added touch.
Overall, during a time in my life when I was working a very busy job, it was great to have a calming, entertaining and easy read at night after work. These characters truly feel like old friends and it was a pleasure to read them.