Literary Life: Spilling the Reali-Tea
Racing against the clock to craft the most delicious meal, displaying authentic relationships and life on camera, or helping people find their self-worth – these are among the many premises that comprise reality TV today. It can be intimidating to expose yourself to the nation on television, but many people do so with grace. From the early pioneers on reality programs to today’s binge-worthy series, here are some of the best books penned by some of our favorite faces of reality television, both past and present.
What Remains: A Memoir of Fate, Friendship & Love
By Carole Radziwill
Published prior to her stint on Real Housewives of New York City, Carole Radziwill’s memoir follows the journalist’s life journey, from a small town to award-winning TV producer to her marriage to Prince Anthony Radziwill. Sadly, her marriage was short-lived when her husband succumbed to cancer. The resulting memoir explores themes of loss, self-invention, friendship, and destiny.
Down the Rabbit Hole: Curious Adventures and Cautionary Tales of a Former Playboy Bunny
By Holly Madison
The girlfriends of Hugh Hefner rose to fame back in 2005 when the show The Girls Next Door debuted on E! Now Holly, Hef’s #1 girlfriend at the time, is telling her story from her own point of view in this tumultuous memoir, detailing her life at the infamous Playboy Mansion, her relationships, and her rocky road to empowerment. This powerful memoir is a #1 New York Times Bestseller for a reason.
Over the Top: A Raw Journey to Self-Love
By Jonathan Van Ness
The world fell in love with Jonathan Van Ness as the spunky, fun-loving grooming expert on Netflix’s Queer Eye, but his journey to get to where he is today wasn’t without its trials. Much like the show, this memoir will have you laughing one minute and crying the next. In this book, Van Ness will take readers through his upbringing in the Midwest to behind-the-scenes tidbits from the show, to where he happily is today.
Notes from a Young Black Chef: A Memoir
By Kwame Onwuachi with Joshua David Stein
Brought to you by the chef behind one of New York City’s top restaurants, Tatiana, and Top Chef contestant, this memoir follows the rollercoaster that is Onwuachi’s journey to get to where he is today. From his teenage years as a gang member to selling drugs in New York to eventually opening the New York Times #1 Restaurant in NYC, Kwame’s story showcases the remarkable feats he had to overcome to find success. This memoir delves into race, his rise to fame, and of course, his love of food.
Single AF Cocktails: Drinks for Bad B*tches
By Ariana Madix
Following the Scandoval heard ‘round the world, Ariana Madix of Vanderpump Rules released her second cocktail book, Single AF Cocktails. The New York Times bestseller includes 60 cocktails from the bartender, along with personal stories and anecdotes, giving readers a cocktail (or mocktail) option for every mood. The book follows the narrative arc of her relationship, leaving readers coming out stronger on the other end.