This insightful biography of the most life-enhancing musical theatre figure of his generation is essential reading, and not just for theatre nuts. I couldn't put it down -- Andrew Lloyd Webber A must read for any aspiring artist - and for anyone interested in creativity, collaboration and the making of masterpieces like Hamilton -- James Shapiro, author of 1599: A YEAR IN THE LIFE OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE Genius is not a word I use lightly or frequently, but it is the only way I can describe Lin-Manuel Miranda. His combination of creativity and craft is astonishing, and this book, which gives fascinating insights into how he got there, is invaluable to anyone who cares about the art of musical theatre -- Stephen Schwartz, composer of WICKED Pollack-Pelzner pulls back the curtain on one of the great, exuberant creative minds of our time. Lin-Manuel's work has expanded our national spirit; his collaborative and creative processes - revealed in captivating close-up here - will blow you away -- Quiara Alegría Hudes, co-writer of IN THE HEIGHTS The life lessons here demystify more than how to make a masterpiece; they teach us how to live. May the origin story of all our heroes be told in this way! -- Renée Elise Goldsberry I witnessed Lin-Manuel's brilliance performing opposite him in Hamilton every night, and I always wondered where his genius came from. This book reveals his fascinating origin story. It's more than a gripping biography; it's a creative handbook for anyone who wants to innovate, to collaborate, to synthesize their influences into something new -- Leslie Odom, Jr. I would hear about this little boy who displayed immense passion and curiosity about our animated musicals, along with every other interesting and creative thing that crossed his path. And decades later, I watched him become the unstoppable force behind a new generation of classics as a composer, lyricist, actor, director and producer; and as one of our most brilliant and important artistic voices. It's a pleasure to see Lin's journey reflected in this deeply researched book -- Alan Menken Everyone knows Lin-Manuel Miranda the icon. This book introduces you to Lin the kid, the collaborator, the relentless tinkerer who never stopped learning. It's a reminder that great art doesn't come fully formed. It's messy. It's joyful. It's made in basements and buses and borrowed pianos. If you've ever been inspired by his work, you owe it to yourself to read the story behind it. This is the mixtape of how it all began. -- Jon M. Chu
