Guts: The Endless Follies and Tiny Triumphs of a Giant Disaster

Kristen Johnston

Mar 2012 · Simon and Schuster

About this eBook

The New York Times–bestselling memoir from the two-time Emmy Award–winning actress is “vividly and memorably rendered . . . honest, brave and funny” (Kirkus Reviews).

“It felt like I was speeding on the Autobahn toward hell, trapped inside a DeLorean with no brakes. And even if I could somehow stop, I’d still be screwed, because there’s no way I’d ever be able to figure out how to open those insane, cocaine-designed doors.”

The award-winning star of Third Rock from the Sun and The Exes, Kristen Johnston has written her first book, a surprisingly raw and triumphant memoir that is outrageous, moving, sweet, tragic, and heartbreakingly honest. Guts is a true achievement—a memoir that manages to be as frank and revealing as it takes us on a journey from addiction to recovery that is so truthful and relatable, so remarkably fresh, it promises to stay with you for a long, long time.

“Guts is at once deadly serious and wildly hilarious—an impossible magic trick at which you are powerless not to stare.” —Rob Burnett Executive Producer, The Late Show with David Letterman

“I literally couldn’t put it down.” —Amy Sedaris

“Disarming in its honesty, hysterically funny, pure, real, and so heartbreakingly brutal.” —Kate Winslet

“A spirited, raw and thrilling book.” ―George C. Wolfe, director and writer

“A captivating, laugh-out-loud, totally vulnerable and excellently crafted book.” —Andy Cohen, VP of programming and host at Bravo

“Should be required reading for anyone who is an addict, or simply cares about one. Which means everyone on the planet.” —Joe Schrank, National Youth Recovery Foundation & co-creator of TheFix

Ratings and reviews

Hyena howling laughter equaled with gloom, sadness and despair while gagging from descriptive ailments. LOVED it twice so I read it a 3rd time. GUTS will touch your heart, your mind, your conscience and take you on a guided ride of addiction, recovery and fame.

Not just helpful for addicts, but for those who have loved ones that are addicts. Wonderfully written. Just a really good read. The ugly truths and unimaginable horrible life events... just wow. Eye opening. I loved reading Kristen's story. I would definitely read it again and highly recommend for anyone.

Most of Kristen Johnston's adult life was spent hiding from others for fear they wouldn't like who she was and learn of addictions fueled by that fear. She makes up for lost time in this candid, often funny and revealing memoir. The main focus is about a near death experience that changed her life and the direction it was headed. We are better for that change.

About the author

Kristen Johnston is an actress, a teacher, and now a celebrated writer. She is one of the founding executive directors of SLAM, and she splits her time between New York City and Los Angeles.