Entertainment Today: ‘A Million Little Pieces’

Frey’s first book (he had a sequel that didn’t do as well, after A Million Little Pieces), and he has an upcoming book that will most likely NOT be touted by Oprah. The reason A Million Little Pieces did so well, and continues to do so well is:

* It is a remarkably well written book. Whether or not he lied about it’s fictional aspects and memoir aspects, the book is a quick read and a page turner. Americans love quick reads and page turners. It makes them feel accomplished and smart.

* The book really captured one of America’s current hot spots — addiction and rehab. AA was once whispered in reference to the code “I’m a friend of Bill’s”. Now, if you’re not at a meeting, you’re no where. Rehab is hip, and it’s only a matter of minutes before Grey’s Anatomy is replaced by a drama based in rehab. Amy Winehouse has brought rehab to every radio station and iPod around the world; American celebs have made rehab the new Club Med, and Frey is the only writer who really captured rehab for Gen X, Y, and Z.

* Rescinded or not, the bell rang and Oprah named A Million Little Pieces an Oprah Book Club book. The accolade brings in more readers than the New York Times Best Seller’s List, and A Million LIttle Pieces has that sticker, like a Polo logo or a Gucci or Dolce and Gabbana label that promotes it’s item. Book stores are as foreign as art museums to many Americans, and they need guidance. Because Barnes and Noble has no docents, the Oprah sticker serves as an arbiter of good taste for the television generations. Instead of buying a classic or a NYT best seller, most people who make the book industry possible, look to her stickers for guidance in purchasing books.