
the setup…
First of all, before she was Kelly she was Carole Bishop, a chorus line dancer working on Broadway. The story behind that name change is just one of the many anecdotes shared here. She gained national fame as Emily Gilmore on Gilmore Girls but she had a magnificent career before that iconic role. Kelly tells her story in her own words, one that spans decades and is massive.
the heart of the story…
I’ll admit that initially my interest in Bishop’s story was mostly because of the Emily Gilmore role. But after seeing such glowing reviews from friends, I knew there had to be much more and there certainly is. I had no idea that she was so deeply connected to the genesis of A Chorus Line, a play I got to see on Broadway and the one that breathed new life into theater. I found her career to be highly interesting but it’s the woman I found fascinating. Her work ethic and life views are admirable in any era but especially during the time she was a dancer. Her transition to acting is a separate story in itself. And, her recollections of her time on Gilmore Girls was everything I’d hope to hear.
the narration…
There’s nothing like hearing a memoir in that person’s voice and Kelly brought such vibrancy to her own. It’s conversational, like she was sitting across from me sharing her life. She is wonderful.
the bottom line…
Kelly Bishop has lived a life…full of love, heartaches, unbelievable success and low moments…and she doesn’t hold back on anything other than names that shouldn’t be shared. I have a completely different view of her and won’t ever see her the same way as I rewatch Gilmore Girls for the umpteenth time. Bravo, Ms. Bishop!
Book Info
- Release Date: September 17, 2024
- Narrator: Kelly Bishop
- Audio Length: 6 hours, 49 minutes
- Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Listen to a Sample!

Ive also seen glowing reviews of this one and i am intrigued! Loved the show
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I’m so glad I changed my mind and listened to her story. It was everything my friends raved about. Hubby introduced me to the series😏
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This sounds like a really fascinating memoir. I only know of Kelly Bishop through Gilmore Girls, but it sounds like she has a really interesting life, and stories to share. I would love to read this!
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She started her career as a chorus line dancer, transitioning into acting after winning a Tony award! Yes, she had a big life before Gilmore Girls. Highly recommend the audio edition.
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I loved her on Gilmore Girls! I love that she shares her earlier work life. Great review Jonetta!
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Thank you, Jodie💜 You’d love this!
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I’m glad to hear this was well handled. I always enjoy when the author narrates her own story.
Anne – Books of My Heart
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This ranks as one of the best memoirs I’ve read.
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Wonderful review Jo! I haven’t watched The Gilmore Girls but I hear it’s very good!
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Thanks, Nicki💜 Hubby introduced me to the series and we’ve watched all seven seasons at least ten times. I think you’d love it, especially since you enjoy memoirs.
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I had to read this one on kindle, but I was able to hear Emily Gilmore in my head the entire time – so that was fun, and I knew the audio would be amazing. I was so surprised by her life, and found this a fascinating read.
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Perfect that you could “hear” Emily’s voice as you were reading this story, Rebecca💜 It was exactly that on audio. Fascinating is the best word for this experience.
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Glad you enjoyed it! I will definitely get to this one in 2025, partly because of Gilmore Girls, but she also sounds like an interesting person!
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Thanks, Stargazer💜 I think you’ll be pleased.
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I have downloaded this one from Everand (Scribd) and plan to listen to it soon. I also initially added it to my TBR shelf because of Gilmore Girls, but after reading your review, I am very intrigued to learn more about Kelly Bishop. I love then the author narrates their own memoir. I think I initially saw this on your new to the cafe posts, so thanks for that, Jo.
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Thanks, Carla💜 You’ll love Kelly and her voice just makes this even better.
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