GGACP Rewind: Epsidoe #62: Judd Apatow

In 'Born Standing Up: A Comic's Life', Steve Martin provides a detailed and candid account of his journey from his childhood to his rise as a stand-up comedian. The book delves into his early jobs at Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm, his development as a magician and comedian, and the struggles and successes he faced in his career. Martin also explores his strained relationship with his family, particularly his father, and how he eventually reconnected with them. The memoir highlights the dedication, discipline, and originality that defined his career and explains why he chose to leave stand-up comedy in 1981 to pursue other creative ventures. The book includes photographs and offers a unique insight into the life of one of the most iconic comedians of his time.

Cruel Shoes is Steve Martin's first book, initially released in a limited edition in 1977 and later in a trade edition in 1979. It features a series of humorous essays and short stories that showcase Martin's unique brand of absurd humor. The book includes tales like 'Cruel Shoes,' which satirizes consumerism, and other stories that combine unrelated elements to create comedic effects.

Sick in the Head is a comprehensive and personal collection of interviews conducted by Judd Apatow with some of the most influential figures in comedy. The book spans Apatow's entire adult life and includes conversations with comedy legends like Mel Brooks, Jerry Seinfeld, and Steve Martin, as well as contemporaries such as Seth Rogen, Amy Schumer, and Chris Rock. It delves into topics such as creativity, ambition, neediness, generosity, spirituality, and the joy of making people laugh. The interviews provide back-of-the-club stories and insights into the lives and careers of these comedians, making it a valuable resource for comedy enthusiasts and anyone interested in the craft of comedy.