Griffin Dunne's 'The Friday Afternoon Club: A Family Memoir' is a rollercoaster of emotions, blending Hollywood glamour with raw, personal tragedy. As someone who devoured this book in just a few sittings, I can confidently say it’s one of the most engaging memoirs I’ve read in years.

The book starts slow, delving into Dunne’s grandparents and early family history, but once it shifts to his own life, it becomes unputdownable. His writing style is conversational and intimate—it feels like you’re sitting across from him at a dinner party, listening to wild Hollywood tales and heartbreaking confessions.

One of the most striking aspects is how Dunne humanizes his sister Dominique, whose murder is a central theme. Far from being reduced to a tragic headline, she emerges as a vibrant, loving person—a 'foodie before foodies existed'—whose loss reshaped the family forever. The way Dunne captures their grief—how they laughed at inappropriate moments just to keep from crying—is painfully relatable.

Beyond Dominique’s story, the memoir surprises with deep dives into lesser-known family members like his reclusive brother Alex. Learning about Alex’s struggles with mental health added layers to the narrative I didn’t expect. And yes, there’s plenty of Hollywood name-dropping (this *is* Griffin Dunne), but it never feels gratuitous—just part of the surreal tapestry of his life.

The humor balances the heaviness beautifully. Whether he’s recounting chaotic film sets or ill-fated marriages, Dunne’s wit shines. But make no mistake: this isn’t a light read. The injustice surrounding Dominique’s case and the family’s resilience will stay with you long after you finish.

If you love memoirs that mix fame, dysfunction, and heart—or if you just enjoy stellar storytelling—this is a must-read. My only gripe? It ends in 1990, leaving me desperate for a sequel covering his directing career. Fingers crossed!