Never Broken: Songs Are Only Half the Story

Jewel’s evocative and captivating how-to for living a full and creative life is her second nonfiction book (after 2000’s Chasing Down the Dawn). She aims to help others by honestly sharing her painful journey. Her history includes surviving abuse while growing up in Alaska, being on her own at 15, and supporting herself through theft on her way to “keeping the good while being willing to see and let go of the bad.” The subtitle of her memoir is that “songs are only half the story” of the singer-songwriter whose 1995 debut album topped the charts. The other half is more than autobiography. Jewel’s writing is conversational poetry, filled with rich details, as she explores her heritage or explains what she taught herself about music, art, and the music business. She sleeps rough, hitchhikes, and survives by busking or living in her car, by turns experiencing money, fame and loneliness, betrayal by her mother, marriage, divorce, and the birth of a much-loved baby. Her book will delight her fans, but can also reach beyond that base to those intrigued by what it takes to be successful after years of plugging away. Jewel’s lyrics, generously included throughout, reflect her authenticity and generosity. This is a solidly good read. (Sept.)