Here's the Deal
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A frank, funny, no-holds-barred memoir that reveals the Deal or No Deal host's ongoing struggle with OCD and ADHD--and how it has shaped his life and career. Howie Mandel is one of the most recognizable names in entertainment--respected by his peers and beloved by audiences as the host of the enormously
… More »A frank, funny, no-holds-barred memoir that reveals the Deal or No Deal host's ongoing struggle with OCD and ADHD--and how it has shaped his life and career. Howie Mandel is one of the most recognizable names in entertainment--respected by his peers and beloved by audiences as the host of the enormously popular prime-time game show Deal or No Deal. With a career that spans three decades and many different show-business platforms--he's a renowned stand-up comedian who continues to perform more than 150 sold-out shows a year, he created the award-winning TV show Bobby's World, he's starred in feature films and the hit TV series St. Elsewhere, and he's also hosted his own daytime talk show--he's one of the most versatile performers anywhere. But there are aspects of his personal and professional life he's never talked about publicly--until now. Eleven years ago, Mandel first told the world about his "germophobia." He's recently started discussing his adult ADHD as well. Now, for the first time, he reveals the details of his struggle with these challenging disorders. He catalogs his numerous fears and neuroses and shares entertaining stories about how he has tried to integrate them into his act. "If I'm making myself laugh," he writes, "then I'm distracted from all the other things going on in my head that are, at times, torturous." And he speaks frankly and honestly about the ways his condition has affected his personal life--as a son, husband, and father of three. Fans who've been dying to know "the deal" behind Mandel's remarkable rise through the show-business ranks will be rewarded with many never-before-told anecdotes, each one generously leavened with Mandel's trademark humor. There are tales from every phase of his colorful career--from his early days as a teenage carpet salesman and aspiring stand-up comic to his stint opening for Diana Ross, his six years on St. Elsewhere, and beyond. As heartfelt as it is hilarious, Here's the Deal: Don't Touch Me is the story of one man's effort to draw comic inspiration out of his darkest, most vulnerable places. It's sure to please Howie Mandel's legion of fans--and provide hope to the millions who strive to succeed in spite of OCD and ADHD.
« LessMandel, Howie - (Television personality Comedian - Male) Host of television game show Deal or No Deal; hit TV series St. Elsewhere; struggles with OCD and ADHD
Library Journal
Beginning his career as a stand-up comedian in 1978, Mandel has also been a TV and film actor, a game show host, and a spokesperson. Here, he offers his autobiography, revealing how in a profession known for handshakes and hugs he was able to hide his "germaphobia" (read: obsessive-compulsive disorder) for years before he began fist-bumping his way into America's hearts as host of Deal or No Deal. Unfortunately, neither his OCD nor his attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) garners much coverage-readers get stories of the practical jokes Mandel played on friends and strangers. While the recounting of his stunts is entertaining, it would have been more interesting to hear how Mandel was able to manage his disorders in show business. Verdict Although Mandel's writing style is a bit frantic, this is a good start for readers looking for a solid Mandel autobiography. Fans of memoirs and comedy will also enjoy this tale about one of the greatest comedic exports from Canada. For a more in-depth look at Mandel's disorders, as well as some extra funny stories, check out his Hidden Howie: True Stories from the Private Life of a Public Nuisance.-Christine Schonhart, Boston P.L. Copyright 2009 Reed Business Information.
Publishers Weekly
In this reflective autobiography, written with verve and passion, actor, comedian and game show host Mandel alternates between funny anecdotes and stories of intense personal problems, opening with a description of his Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and the situations in his Toronto childhood that shaped his comedy career. Despite little experience, Mandel left Canada for Los Angeles to pursue stand-up comedy, where he eventually moved from the clubs to cable specials, an album, and numerous late-night talk show appearances, success he'd parlay into film roles and a 6-year stint on NBC hospital dramedy St. Elsewhere. Mandel soon developed what he calls "Obsessive Prankster Disorder," a need to stage elaborate practical jokes, some quite amusing. Not all is fun and games, however; Mandel also describes how mental disorders and medical crises have impacted his career, and balances his triumphs with lengthy surveys of failed performances. Mandel's fans will love this book for its intimate revelations, taking readers deep inside the head of the manic star. (Dec.) Copyright 2010 Reed Business Information.
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Written in a very casual style, like he is talking to his audience. An interesting look at a side of Howie Mandel we don't always see on the big screen.