Chicken Soup for the American Idol Soul

NO MORE BOBS The wait was well worth the outcome. After months of anticipation, Chicken Soup for the Soul scored a ten on this outstanding collection of American Idol stories. All the stories from contestants, winners, Idol staff, and even fans are animated and personal. The moments shared make you laugh, cry and remember why we all love the Idol spirit. For me, the strongest memories come from the fans; people just like me across the country who unite with family, friends and co-workers to become one with the show. These stories remind me that I'm not alone watching this show. I'm connected. So many nights alive again in this book. Faces again on stage: Chris Daughtry, George Huff, Carrie Underwood. The list goes on. Not only is it a great book, a portion of the sales go to charity. A win-win for everyone. This book represents the essence of dreams and demonstrates how we all can make a difference when we come together - one vote, one voice at a time. Thanks, Chicken Soup for an excellent collection that touches our hearts and gives back in a complete circle. A book for all ages: young adult to golden senior. A book where the giver is enriched as much as the receiver. The perfect gift that keeps on giving after the final page.

I never truly realized just how important of a role American Idol plays in the lives of its contestants and fans until I read this book. There's something for everyone inside. From the producers to the judges to the contestants to the fans, a large variety of people who have ever come into contact with some aspect of this show have a story to tell. This book will make you laugh, cry, smile, and cheer in triumph as you read the heartwarming tales that come from the hearts and minds of people closely related to this show. I thought I was a "Know-It-All" when it came to American Idol, but I learned so many new behind-the-scenes stories just from reading the first seven or eight tales. I recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of the show or to anyone who believes that it's never out of your reach to believe in a dream coming true.

When I first came across this book, I have to admit wondering to myself, "What the heck will they come up with next?" As we all know Idol, Freemantle Media, and 19 have combined into a giant industry bully. Each year, new and hopeful talent-based reality shows pop up on every network, only to be ultimately dwarfed or consumed by Idol. Heck, even the Presidential election was dwarfed by Idol, and the Olympics...I could go on and on. The producers gloat about Idol being the biggest TV show ever to be on television. It's truly an American phenomenon. American people happily spend two or three nights a week with Idol each season. I wouldn't be surprised if thousands would watch it 5 days a week if it were available. I know at my office it's the biggest topic every morning from January onward. American Idol even effects American productivity, but let's keep that information from our bosses. I have read a few Soup titles over the last several years, books that largely contain stories about love and marriage, parents and children, and sibling relationships. My mother keeps a few of these (especially Mother and Daughter) on her nightstand for 11:00pm wind-down reading. After the nightly news and before her eyes succumb to sleep, she enjoys these bite sized stories for their thoughtful approach to strained relationships, human flaws, and life's many tumbles. I understand why those stories would be appealing to just about anyone. But - how could American Idol touch anyone on that level? The show is a marketing octopus; it has a hand in everything from the ice cream freezer to all forms of media, apparel, toys, and miscellaneous home goods. But, Chicken Soup books? I just had to take a gander, so I gave in and bought it -- telling myself I'd just give it to my mother anyway. On the way home, I scolded myself for the purchase. It was expensive, especially since times in my household are excruciatingly tight. So, I had to look in the mirror and be honest with myself -- Just why did I buy it?? What drove me to put down $14.95, when all I was doing was seeing it with a critical eye? Tapping on the thin, cynical shell I sometimes wear around my heart, I began to see a glimmer of truth. American Idol has truly (and I don't want to admit this) enhanced or augmented relationships in my family. Beginning in 2001, my mother and I, for the first time in our lives, were separated by many, many miles. When Fantasia won, and Reuben, I was far away from Mom. When Carrie won, however, I remember that we were living in the same house, and we secretly loved those nights when we'd come together on the couch for Idol. We'd playfully fight over different contestants, throwing pillows across the rooms and at each other. Season 5 was our all-time favorite, however. We were in the same state, but miles and miles apart. We'd talk on the phone throughout the show and it drove my husband crazy. But, I know we're not alone. I firmly believe that long distance phone calls skyrock

The Chicken Soup series rolls on and this American Idol edition is perfect for those that follow the show. The authors have pulled together just about everyone from the show's time on the air - from the performers (Carrie, Clay, Ruben etc.) to the producers to the judges (Paula wrote the introduction). It's really a great gift for anyone that is obsessed with the show - quick, enjoyable, uplifting. A solid read!

You either get American Idol or you don't. And for those out there who refuse to answer the phone, doorbell, or the muffled cries of our kids while American Idol is on... this book is for you. As with all Chicken Soup books, there's something for everyone. Laughter, tears, inspiration... The behind the scenes stories from past contestants are fun and remind us why we liked them to begin with. This book is a quick, fun, read and the perfect gift for any American Idol fan.