"describes his childhood in Canada, his performances with Cheech, his time in prison, how he survived, and how his spiritual outlook on life and his humorous point of view saved him." (excerpt from backcover)Tommy Chong is a super-intelligent individual. This shouldn't be much of a surprise to people who have met Tommy or seen one of his shows. To be a good comedian or actor you really need to be intelligent.
His thoughts and advice on life improvement are profound. The part of the book where he discusses the horror of living in a children center when he was growing up was very touching. His mom had tuberculosis and his dad was recovering from injuries from the war. He and his siblings lived there for a short period of time while they got better. Tommy calls it the first time he was in prison.
The book also discusses joy-riding as a teenager, Cheech teaching Tommy meditation, as well as Tommy's close relationship with his wife Shelby and his children. The book only briefly mentions the split of Cheech and Chong. This was probably a good idea. Readers don't want to hear the same things Cheech and Tommy have already told the press. He thinks it's their egos that caused the split, both his and Cheech's.
In addition, Tommy discusses his time at Taft Correctional. The other prisoners and guards, for the most part, treated him well, but it was in no way a picnic. He had his chores to do and had to be on time for four counts each day. Another prisoner taught him how to build a kiln in the ground using old railroad ties so he could make pottery using the clay he dug up. This is the type of stuff he did to keep busy. Towards the end of the book, he says he's witnessed prison corruption.
The I Chong: Meditations From The Joint is well-written and easy to read. It's funny, thoughtful and sad. We don't want to give it away, but you'll enjoy the shower story! The final edition will include eight pages of photos.
Update: 07.18.2006.
Review to read...
Kirkus Reviews
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