Uptown Girl
By Christie Brinkley with Sarah Toland
Publisher: Harper Influence
The model and actress reveals moments from her life, relationships and work.
Review by By The Books Reviewer
Christie Brinkley's memoir, "Uptown Girl," co-authored with Sarah Toland, is a self-indulgent foray into the life of a woman who has spent decades in the limelight. While the book promises an intimate look at Brinkley's journey from a young art student in Paris to an international supermodel, it often reads more like a curated highlight reel than a candid autobiography.
Brinkley's narrative is peppered with tales of serendipitous encounters and glamorous escapades, such as being discovered outside a Paris phone booth at the age of twenty, which catapulted her into the modeling world. However, these stories are recounted with a superficial gloss that leaves the reader yearning for deeper introspection. The memoir touches upon her four marriages, including her highly publicized union with musician Billy Joel, yet these personal accounts lack the emotional depth and vulnerability that would make them truly compelling.
The inclusion of over 100 photographs and pieces of Brinkley's own artwork is a commendable attempt to provide a visual accompaniment to her stories. However, this addition feels more like a distraction from the lackluster prose than an enhancement of the narrative. The memoir's structure is disjointed, with abrupt transitions that make it challenging to follow the chronology of events.
Brinkley's writing style is overly saccharine, often bordering on self-congratulatory. Her unwavering belief in the "magic and mystery of life" is reiterated ad nauseam, making the reader question the authenticity of her reflections. The memoir's promotional material suggests that it will inspire readers to "create the life they want," but it falls short of offering any substantive advice or insights that would enable them to do so.
In conclusion, "Uptown Girl" is a superficial and self-indulgent memoir that fails to deliver the depth and authenticity expected from a life as eventful as Brinkley's. While fans of the supermodel may find some enjoyment in the glossy anecdotes and photographs, those seeking a profound and introspective account of her life will likely be disappointed.
Recommendation: Not recommended.
written on: 5/8/2025