I knew much of what's in this book but still found many nuggets about the show, its cast, and crew that was new to me. I kept returning to it because I couldn't get enough. That's what she said. ( )

A fun book to read for hard core fans of the show. Stories are, for the most part, interesting, but I found the author relying too much on various production personnel and not enough on the principals on the show. ( )

As a huge fan of “The Office” tv show, I was really excited when I heard there was a book coming out that goes behind the scenes and details more about the history of the show and the actors. So far I was just getting my fangirl tidbits from The Office Ladies Podcast, and I’m more than happy to receive more! ⁣
Unlike other books about TV shows or movies, the format in this one comes across as one big interview, with everyone involved in the show, from the creators, extras, the caterer, and even the owner of an “Office” fan site. I saw in other reviews that not many readers were a fan of the interview format, but I enjoyed it because it felt like being a fly on the wall with some of my favorite actors. Even if you’re not an avid “Office” watcher, this book is detailed enough for you to know who and what is being discussed. ⁣
Andy Greene begins with the original British version of “The Office” and how creators Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant came up with the idea and England’s reception to it. Every chapter that follows is a detailed account of each subsequent season, with pages dedicated to a standout episode from that season, along with chapters in between about the writers, the crew team, possible episode ideas, and some key characters. I loved finding out how an episode was crafted, and finding out more about the writers as well. It was really interesting to read about certain behind the scenes events and how each person remembered it differently. ⁣
There were some shocking revelations, particularly about Steve Carrell’s botched renewal in season seven, and the disappointment with seasons 8 & 9 the cast and crew felt, along with many of us fans. But overall the book has a positive feel to it, much like its show counterpart. ⁣ ( )

The Office: The Untold Story of the Greatest Sitcom of the 2000s: An Oral History by Andy Greene is a 2020 Dutton Books publication.

Just a few thoughts on this one-

If it weren’t for my kids, I doubt I would have ever watched this show when it was still on the air. I missed the first few seasons and only saw a few episodes of the last two seasons, so I’ve always wanted to watch the series from start to finish. Despite having Netflix for a long time, I never quite managed to get past the first season or two.

Recently, Peacock streaming service got the rights back to the show, and so with this book in hand, I’ve started watching a couple of episodes a day. Watching the series now with this companion book has given me a fresh perspective and will make the experience all the more insightful!

The book is organized chronologically – beginning with the British version, how it was transformed for American audiences, introduces us to the writers, etc., then goes through the casting process, and the numerous recognizable names that were on the table for roles on this series.

From there the book the breaks down the pilot, the first- the last seasons, featuring the standout episodes, the approach the writers and cast took, and how the series, and everyone associated with it, evolved as the show rose in popularity.

There were situations going on in the background I’d forgotten about- like the writer’s strike, for example. I also had no idea that Creed Bratton was a member of ‘The Grass Roots’, music group back in the sixties and seventies! Huh. An interesting bit of trivia there.

One stand out in this oral history, is the emphasis on Steve Carrell’s real persona, skill, and manner -which was impressive. His spin in Michael’s character was both the backbone and the heart of the show.

I could go on, but because this book is basically a deep dive into all things about ‘The Office’, I’ll leave it for you to enjoy on your own. So, overall, this book will appeal to all fans- big or small – as well as television pop culture enthusiasts.

A fun book- Check it out!!

4 stars ( )

Nominally interesting. This was at least 100 pages too long. ( )