David Steinberg's name has been synonymous with comedy for decades. The Canadian-born comedian, producer, writer, director, and author has been called "a comic institution himself" by the New York Times. He appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson 140 times (second only to Bob Hope), and directed episodes of popular television sitcoms, including Curb Your Enthusiasm, Seinfeld, Friends, Mad About You, The Golden Girls, and Designing Women. From 2012-2015, Steinberg hosted the comedy documentary series Inside Comedy, which featured such comedy greats as Billy Crystal, Chris Rock, and Gary Shandling.
In this entertaining history of comedy, Steinberg shares insightful memories of his journey through his career and takes the reader behind the curtain of the comedy scene of the last half-century. Steinberg shares amusing and often hilarious stories and anecdotes from some of the most legendary comedians in the industry--from Groucho Marx, Carol Burnett, Mel Brooks, and Richard Pryor to Lily Tomlin, Robin Williams, Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Tina Fey. Inside Comedy presents in-depth portraits of some of the most talented and revered comedians in the world of comedy today.
About the Author :
David Steinberg is a Canadian comedian, producer, writer, director, and Emmy Award winner. He is also the author of The Book of David.
Review :
A memoir that nearly qualifies as a history of American comedy during the last six decades . . . illuminating . . . Steinberg's recollections are vivid as they are hilarious.
-- "Booklist"
At first glance, David Steinberg might seem like too much of a mensch to really spill the beans about his chosen profession . . . the venerated stand-up comic, actor, and sitcom director, has impeccable nice-guy credentials . . . [He] truly admires his peers and understands what makes them tick. And he proves to be a genial, generous raconteur and reciter of showbiz lore . . . charming.
--Dave Itzkoff, The New York Times
Being a part of David's life and now this wonderful book has been a special joy. He's hilarious, and brilliant, plus you can talk to him about anything, and he doesn't charge you for it. This book is like going to a comedy museum except you can laugh out loud and nobody says, 'Shhh'. . .
--Billy Crystal
David has always been a comedy hero to me. One of his many gifts is the ability to inspire funny people to be even funnier, as you will discover in this truly hilarious, insightful book.
--Martin Short
David is truly a national treasure, even though he's Canadian, who is loved, admired and revered by all in the comedy world. You're going to have a great time reading these stories about all the comedic greats by one of the greatest.
--Susie Essman
David Steinberg has always been one of my favorite comedians. I memorized his album, Disguised as a Normal Person when it came out. It was a huge thrill to work with him when he directed some episodes of Seinfeld. He will always be one of my comedy heroes.
--Jerry Seinfeld
David Steinberg is one of the funniest men on the planet. His book is just like his comedy--wickedly smart, emotional, revealing and hilarious. I loved this book.
--Don Winslow, #1 internationally bestselling author of The Cartel, The Force, and The Border
David's memories blow me away. All these years later, he remembers that Elaine May sat in the front row at the Hollywood Bowl and roared at my routine at the first gay rights fundraising concert. He also reminded me that Richard Pryor wrote for my 1973 Lily Tomlin TV special! In the words of Edith Ann, 'and that's the truth!'
--Lily Tomlin
I'm lucky. I know and love David Steinberg. You don't. Now's your chance. Don't blow it!
--Larry David
If you can think of a famous comedian, Steinberg has probably worked with them . . . His new book provides a backstage pass to life in comedy . . . Steinberg paints deep and intimate portraits of the comedians we know and love . . . the stories Steinberg tells are a true delight. He is funny, warm, and heartfelt as he recounts life in an industry it is clear he deeply loves. [Steinberg] speaks of his fellow comedians with endless admiration and respect, making it impossible not to fall in love with each one of them. Lovers of comedy will surely adore this adventure behind the scenes.
-- "Associated Press"
If I had written this, it would be filled with jealousy, envy, and snide remarks. But fortunately, David Steinberg wrote it, so it abounds with insights, humor, and joy. I loved it so much!
--Steve Martin
Steinberg remains a master raconteur. Relax, enjoy the joke. Nobody gets out of here alive. Revel in David Steinberg.
--Hartford Courant
Written with affection and insight, Steinberg proves himself as much a student of comedy as a practitioner. It's not a joke book but it's quite funny.
-- "YES! Weekly"
