Michael J. Fox has crafted an inspirational and important book without relying on cookie-cutter tear-jerking clichés or obvious pity ploys. LUCKY MAN is the best memoir I've read in a long time. This is a wonderful memoir by a beloved actor. I have always been a huge fan of Michael J. Fox, as he always seemed so likable in every role he has been casted in. His book is no different. His wit, charm, and self-deprecating humour resonate throughout this intensely personal memoir of his life. On every page Fox's talent, humanity and decency shine through. He writes as if you are visiting for dinner, and interweaves memories of his growing up with his experience of "growing up" in the entertainment arena. Fox did NOT have this ghost written and it certainly reads like an autobiography written by an actor known for his great sense of irony and sense of humour. This is pure Michael J. Fox. As he says on the next-to-last page "I knew from the outset that I would have to write this book myself. The story was too personal for it to be told in anyone's words but my own." It's just amazing that someone so skilled as an actor should be equally skilled as an author. The book begins outlining his upbringing as a Canadian army brat, his father having been in the military. He credits his short stature with helping him get his start in the theatre and film business in Canada, as it enabled him to play children's roles. From there, he did a segue into the United States, where he struggled to perfect his acting talent and persevere against the odds through a series of auditions and taking on small roles in order to make a name for himself. It progresses to his success in “Family Ties” and the period of time following, in which he parlayed his TV success into a movie career. The book covers his take on his celebrity status. He describes the impact that it has had on his life, both good and bad. He details some mistakes that he has made while growing up, such as the drinking, but also the good decisions he has made, such as his marriage. He also details where these mistakes and choices have taken him and how they have shaped him into the man he is today. However, the most interesting part of the book has nothing to do with his celebrity and has everything to do with his attitude and his approach to day-to-day life. The book delves into the turning point in his life, which is his struggle with learning he has Parkinson's. He describes in details how he has come to terms with the disease and how it has impacted on his life. At this point in his life, he begins to treasure what he has instead of always thinking of the next thing he wanted to achieve or thinking of what he couldn't achieve. Michael's discovery of himself ultimately leads him to a life with deeper ties and deeper meaning. It was an inspiring and uplifting story and it brings to light that he is a wonderful role model. Some chapters may make you cry. For instance, I never knew until I read this that Fox KNEW he had Parkinson's when he signed on to do Spin City. It was only when he felt he had to quit the series to spend more time with his family and his new cause that he did so. "The ten years since my diagnosis have been the best ten years of my life, and I consider myself a lucky man." This quote sums up the feel of the whole book. Warm, funny and painfully honest, Fox lets us into his life both before and after Parkinson’s disease. We learn about his family, his drinking problem and life in Hollywood, but not in the lurid way that some stars tell it. His writing is down to earth and real. Long-time fans of Michael J.Fox will have their feelings confirmed about what a genuine person he is and others will be won over by this book. This is a very well-written, compelling memoir by a very fine man, intelligent and introspective. He is a family man who has a deep appreciation for his beloved and loyal wife, who has stood by her man through thick and thin. He is also a devoted father to his two children. Though he has met with much material success in life, Michael J, Fox has managed to remain grounded and true to himself. This no-holds-barred book reminds me as to why I have always liked Michael J. Fox. He is, indeed, a lucky man…A lucky man because of the love and support of his friends and family. So Buy the book!