A Review of Easy Street (The Hard Way) by Ron Perlman

 Easy Street (The Hard Way) A Memoir
By Ron Perlman
Published by Da Capo Press / Perseus Books Group, Philadelphia, PA
September 2014




First of all, let  me admit that I have been a fan of Ron Perlman since 1987, when his acting abilities caused me to be enchanted by a certain Beast named Vincent.  I knew there had to be an amazingly good actor in there, because he made this character, that could so easily have been SO fake, into such a deep, complex, vulnerable being.  He made Vincent REAL.  He does that for a lot of characters.  Any time someone gives him the chance. 

From the very first pages of the first chapter, Mr. Perlman's ability as a storyteller is obvious.  He sets the scene very well, especially in the first chapter, evoking the time and place in a visceral way.  I was only 9 years old in 1969, but I remember the songs he mentions, and the things happening in the world. 

The warmth and humor of the man himself are evident all through the book.  From the jokes he learned from his Pop, to the chapter titles, to some of the stories themselves, there is evident humor.  Even when the events described are not always so funny. 

In this book he is very honest about the struggles he has had in his life, from poor self-image to lack of work in his chosen vocation, to finally finding out how to live comfortably in his own skin.  You can see it in him, if you've been a fan for years.  He's far more at ease in interviews now, there's a sparkle in his eye, he knows who he is.  It isn't just the experience of having done so many interviews, it's the ease he seems to carry with him wherever he goes.  

The vignettes about the other celebrities he has had the chance to work with and be friends with are priceless.  Very honest in his admission of his own awe and hero worship around some of them. 
Not gushing or gossipy, though.  Just honest. 

For longtime fans, the joy of familiar stories fleshed out, put in context, and stories never before shared is well worth the read.  Those who have not been fans, the man's honesty and charm will win you over, perhaps in spite of yourself. 

One note, if you are at all squeamish about profanity, you should know that Mr. Perlman grew up in a tough neighborhood in New York, and he makes frequent use of a word my Mom would slap me for using.  (Even now, and she's 90!)  Don't let that cause you to miss out on a great read. This is a wonderful, inspiring book. 

If you are able, get the audiobook, too.  To hear the stories in Ron's own voice, plus his impressions of a few people, is just awesome! 

Do yourself a very large favor and read Easy Street (The Hard Way)