My Effin' Life: From Holocaust Roots to Rock and Roll Stardom

Geddy Lee's memoir presents his life story alongside never-before-seen photographs. Lee is a bassist and member of Canadian progressive rock trio Rush, where he has also served as co-writer, vocalist, and keyboardist for nearly five decades. Born Gershon Eliezer Weinrib, named after his grandfather who was murdered in the Holocaust, Lee recounts his family's history, particularly his parents' experiences as teenagers during World War II. He describes his childhood, his pursuit of music, and his decision to leave high school. The memoir traces Rush's trajectory from early struggles to becoming one of the most successful rock bands, accumulating more consecutive gold and platinum records than any rock band after the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. The band received seven Grammy nominations. Lee shares stories of his lifelong friendships with bandmates Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart, and reflects on Peart's recent death. He also discusses his personal obsessions in music and other areas. The memoir combines honesty, humor, and accounts of loss.