The best 18 Broadway books

How do we create content on this page?
1
Broadway Books: Sugar, Butter, Flour by Jenna Hunterson

Sugar, Butter, Flour

Jenna Hunterson

What's Sugar, Butter, Flour about?

Sugar, Butter, Flour is a memoir by Jenna Hunterson that intertwines personal stories with recipes. It takes readers on a journey through the author's life, exploring her love for baking and how it has helped her navigate through difficult times. With heartfelt anecdotes and delicious recipes, this book celebrates the power of food and the joy it can bring.

Who should read Sugar, Butter, Flour?

  • Anyone who loves baking and wants to explore new pie recipes

  • Fans of the Broadway musical Waitress who want to recreate the magic of the show in their own kitchen

  • People looking for creative and delicious dessert ideas to impress their friends and family


2
Broadway Books: Roomies by Christina Lauren

Roomies

Christina Lauren

What's Roomies about?

Roomies by Christina Lauren is a delightful romantic comedy about a girl who has a crush on a street musician. When she has the chance to help him pursue his dream, they enter into a fake marriage for immigration purposes. As they navigate their new arrangement, they discover unexpected feelings and challenges that test their relationship.

Who should read Roomies?

  • Readers who enjoy romantic comedies and contemporary love stories

  • People who are interested in exploring the complexities of relationships and personal growth

  • Those who appreciate a lighthearted and entertaining narrative with relatable characters


3
Broadway Books: Razzle Dazzle by Michael Riedel

Razzle Dazzle

Michael Riedel

What's Razzle Dazzle about?

Razzle Dazzle by Michael Riedel takes readers behind the scenes of Broadway to uncover the high-stakes drama and cutthroat competition that shaped the world of musical theater. With wit and insight, Riedel delves into the untold stories of legendary shows and larger-than-life personalities, offering a captivating glimpse into the glitz and glamour of the Great White Way.

Who should read Razzle Dazzle?

  • Enthusiasts of Broadway and the theater industry

  • Aspiring actors, directors, and producers looking for insights into the business

  • Readers interested in behind-the-scenes stories and the inner workings of a famous entertainment industry


4
Broadway Books: Act One by Moss Hart

Act One

Moss Hart

What's Act One about?

Act One is a captivating memoir by Moss Hart that takes readers on a journey through his early life and career in the theater. From his humble beginnings in New York City to his rise as a successful playwright and director, Hart shares his passion for the stage and the challenges he faced along the way. Filled with wit, humor, and insight, this book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of Broadway and a testament to the power of following one's dreams.

Who should read Act One?

  • Individuals with a passion for theater and Broadway history

  • Aspiring playwrights and artists seeking inspiration and guidance

  • Readers who enjoy memoirs and behind-the-scenes stories of the entertainment industry


5
Broadway Books: A is for Audra by John Robert Allman

A is for Audra

John Robert Allman

What's A is for Audra about?

A is for Audra is a delightful children's book that introduces young readers to the world of Broadway. Written by John Robert Allman, the book takes us on an alphabetical journey through the most iconic leading ladies of musical theater, from A (Audra McDonald) to Z (Zoe Caldwell). With charming illustrations and fun rhymes, this book is a perfect way to spark a love for the performing arts in children.

Who should read A is for Audra?

  • Aspiring actors and actresses looking to learn about iconic Broadway performers

  • Children who love musical theater and want to explore the world of Broadway

  • Parents and educators who want to introduce young readers to the magic of live theater


6
Broadway Books: Look, I Made a Hat by Stephen Sondheim

Look, I Made a Hat

Stephen Sondheim

What's Look, I Made a Hat about?

Look, I Made a Hat is a captivating exploration of the art of musical theater by the renowned composer and lyricist, Stephen Sondheim. Filled with insightful commentary, personal anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes stories, this book offers a unique glimpse into the creative process behind some of Sondheim's most iconic works. It is a must-read for theater enthusiasts and anyone interested in the craft of songwriting.

Who should read Look, I Made a Hat?

  • Aspiring songwriters looking for insights into the creative process

  • Fans of Stephen Sondheim's work who want to gain a deeper understanding of his lyrics

  • Theater enthusiasts interested in behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes from Broadway history


7
Broadway Books: The Great Comet by Steven Suskin

The Great Comet

Steven Suskin

What's The Great Comet about?

The Great Comet by Steven Suskin takes readers behind the scenes of the groundbreaking musical Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812. Through interviews, anecdotes, and exclusive photos, the book explores the creative process, challenges, and triumphs of bringing this unique and immersive theatrical experience to life. A must-read for fans of the show and anyone interested in the world of musical theater.

Who should read The Great Comet?

  • Music enthusiasts who want to learn about the creative process behind a groundbreaking musical

  • Theater lovers who enjoy exploring the intersection of classic literature and innovative storytelling

  • Aspiring artists and performers seeking inspiration and insights from successful industry professionals


What's Wicked - Piano/Vocal Arrangement about?

Wicked - Piano/Vocal Arrangement by Stephen Schwartz is a stunning collection of sheet music from the hit Broadway musical. It features vocal lines with piano accompaniment for all the beloved songs, including “Defying Gravity” and “For Good.” Whether you’re a performer or a fan, this book allows you to bring the magic of Wicked to life in your own home.

Who should read Wicked - Piano/Vocal Arrangement?

  • Aspiring singers who want to perform songs from the hit Broadway musical

  • Piano players looking to learn the captivating and challenging musical arrangements

  • Fans of the "Wicked" storyline who want to experience the music in a new way


9
Broadway Books: The Hirschfeld Century by Al Hirschfeld

The Hirschfeld Century

Al Hirschfeld

What's The Hirschfeld Century about?

The Hirschfeld Century is a captivating exploration of the legendary artist Al Hirschfeld. Filled with his iconic caricatures and insightful commentary, this book takes you on a journey through the 20th century, showcasing Hirschfeld's unique ability to capture the essence of performers and personalities from the worlds of theater, film, and beyond. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the art of caricature and the cultural history of the last century.

Who should read The Hirschfeld Century?

  • Art enthusiasts who appreciate caricature and illustration

  • Broadway and Hollywood aficionados interested in behind-the-scenes insights

  • Readers curious about the life and career of a legendary artist


10
Broadway Books: Finishing the Hat by Stephen Sondheim

Finishing the Hat

Stephen Sondheim

What's Finishing the Hat about?

Finishing the Hat is a captivating book by Stephen Sondheim that delves into the art and craft of musical theater. Through personal anecdotes, insightful commentary, and a collection of his own lyrics, Sondheim offers a unique perspective on the creative process behind some of the most beloved Broadway shows. Whether you're a theater enthusiast or simply interested in the creative journey, this book is a must-read.

Who should read Finishing the Hat?

  • Aspiring or professional musical theater composers and lyricists

  • Fans of Stephen Sondheim's work who want to gain insight into his creative process

  • Individuals interested in the behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes of Broadway productions


11
Broadway Books: Patti LuPone by Patti LuPone

Patti LuPone

Patti LuPone

What's Patti LuPone about?

Patti LuPone is a captivating memoir by the renowned Broadway star herself. In this book, Patti LuPone takes us on a journey through her extraordinary life and career in the world of theater. From her early days as a struggling actress to her groundbreaking performances in iconic musicals such as Evita and Gypsy, LuPone shares intimate and candid stories that will inspire and entertain theater lovers everywhere.

Who should read Patti LuPone?

  • Aspiring performers looking for insights into the world of Broadway and musical theater

  • Fans of Patti LuPone who want to learn more about her life and career

  • People interested in personal stories of resilience, determination, and success in the entertainment industry


12
Broadway Books: Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw

Pygmalion

George Bernard Shaw

What's Pygmalion about?

Pygmalion is a play by George Bernard Shaw that delves into the themes of social class, language, and identity. The story follows the transformation of a poor, uneducated flower girl named Eliza Doolittle into a refined and elegant lady, thanks to the efforts of phonetics professor Henry Higgins. Through sharp wit and thought-provoking dialogue, Shaw challenges the notion of fixed social hierarchies and explores the power dynamics between the characters.

Who should read Pygmalion?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking plays and social commentary

  • Individuals interested in exploring themes of class, identity, and language

  • Those who appreciate complex characters and their personal growth throughout the story


13
Broadway Books: Sundays at Tiffany's by James Patterson

Sundays at Tiffany's

James Patterson

What's Sundays at Tiffany's about?

Sundays at Tiffany's is a heartwarming novel by James Patterson. It tells the story of a young girl named Jane who has an imaginary friend named Michael. Every Sunday, they meet at the Tiffany & Co. store in New York City. As Jane grows up, she forgets about Michael, but he never forgets about her. Years later, they are reunited, and Jane must choose between the life she has always known and a love she never thought possible.

Who should read Sundays at Tiffany's?

  • Readers who enjoy heartwarming romance novels

  • People looking for a feel-good story with a touch of magic

  • Those who appreciate a blend of fantasy and reality in their reading


14
Broadway Books: The World Only Spins Forward by Isaac Butler, Dan Kois

The World Only Spins Forward

Isaac Butler, Dan Kois

What's The World Only Spins Forward about?

The World Only Spins Forward is a captivating oral history that delves into the making and impact of the groundbreaking play Angels in America. Through interviews with actors, directors, and others involved in the production, the book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and the societal context in which the play was born. It celebrates the power of art to provoke change and inspire hope.

Who should read The World Only Spins Forward?

  • Readers who are interested in the history and impact of groundbreaking theater productions

  • Theater enthusiasts who want to gain insights into the creative process behind a seminal work

  • Individuals who appreciate oral histories and firsthand accounts of cultural phenomena


15
Broadway Books: Be More Chill by Ned Vizzini

Be More Chill

Ned Vizzini

What's Be More Chill about?

Be More Chill by Ned Vizzini is a young adult novel that delves into the complexities of teenage life and the pressures of fitting in. When high school junior Jeremy Heere discovers a pill-sized supercomputer called a "squip" that promises to make him cool, he jumps at the chance. But as the squip takes control of his actions and decisions, Jeremy realizes that being true to himself is more important than being popular.

Who should read Be More Chill?

  • Teenagers and young adults seeking a relatable and entertaining coming-of-age story

  • Readers interested in exploring themes of social anxiety, identity, and the pressures of fitting in

  • Those who enjoy a mix of humor, technology, and pop culture references in their literature


16
Broadway Books: Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

Tuck Everlasting

Natalie Babbitt

What's Tuck Everlasting about?

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt tells the story of a young girl who stumbles upon a mysterious family that holds the secret to everlasting life. As she befriends the family and learns about their extraordinary gift, she must grapple with the choices and consequences that come with the possibility of living forever. This thought-provoking novel explores themes of life, death, and the value of each moment.

Who should read Tuck Everlasting?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and philosophical stories
  • Those interested in exploring the theme of immortality and its consequences
  • Young adults looking for a compelling and beautifully written coming-of-age novel

17
Broadway Books: Wicked by Gregory Maguire

Wicked

Gregory Maguire

What's Wicked about?

Wicked by Gregory Maguire is a reimagining of L. Frank Baum's classic The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. It tells the untold story of the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, and her unlikely friendship with Glinda the Good. Set in the magical land of Oz, the book explores themes of power, friendship, and the nature of good and evil.

Who should read Wicked?

  • Readers who enjoy reimagined fairy tales and classic stories

  • Those interested in exploring complex characters and moral ambiguity

  • People who appreciate thought-provoking social commentary woven into fiction


18
Broadway Books: Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green, David Levithan

Will Grayson, Will Grayson

John Green, David Levithan

What's Will Grayson, Will Grayson about?

Will Grayson, Will Grayson follows the intersecting lives of two teenage boys, both named Will Grayson. Written by John Green and David Levithan, this captivating novel explores themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery as the two characters navigate the complexities of high school and relationships. With poignant storytelling and unique perspectives, it offers a thought-provoking and heartwarming read.

Who should read Will Grayson, Will Grayson?

  • Readers who enjoy young adult fiction with LGBTQ+ characters and themes
  • People who appreciate unique storytelling formats, such as dual narratives
  • Those looking for a thought-provoking exploration of identity, friendship, and self-acceptance

Related Topics

Broadway Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Broadway book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Sugar, Butter, Flour as the ultimate read on Broadway.

What are the Top 10 Broadway books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Sugar, Butter, Flour by Jenna Hunterson
  • Roomies by Christina Lauren
  • Razzle Dazzle by Michael Riedel
  • Act One by Moss Hart
  • A is for Audra by John Robert Allman
  • Look, I Made a Hat by Stephen Sondheim
  • The Great Comet by Steven Suskin
  • Wicked - Piano/Vocal Arrangement by Stephen Schwartz
  • The Hirschfeld Century by Al Hirschfeld
  • Finishing the Hat by Stephen Sondheim

Who are the top Broadway book authors?

When it comes to Broadway, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Jenna Hunterson
  • Christina Lauren
  • Michael Riedel
  • Moss Hart
  • John Robert Allman