Books That Changed My Life: Melissa Manchester & The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas

In this inspiring episode of Books That Changed My Life, host Chris Collins sits down with the legendary Melissa Manchester — Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, actress, and educator at USC’s Thornton School of Music. Known for her rich career and deep artistic insight, Melissa shares the book that profoundly influenced her creative journey: The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas by Gertrude Stein.

Together, they explore how Stein's groundbreaking narrative style, bold individuality, and unconventional life choices resonated with Melissa at a pivotal point in her development as an artist. With warmth and wisdom, Melissa reflects on how this modernist classic opened her mind to new ways of thinking about art, identity, and the courage to live authentically.

Whether you're a lifelong reader, a creative spirit, or simply curious about the books that shape remarkable lives, this conversation offers a rich and personal look at the power of literature to inspire and transform.

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