Paris: The Memoir

This book is a celebrity memoir. Research the characteristics of the celebrity memoir, and then explain the ways in which Hilton’s book is or is not typical of the genre. Why do you think that celebrities like Hilton choose to write such books?

Read Britney Spears’s memoir, The Woman in Me. In Paris, Hilton calls out the treatment that young female celebrities like Spears and herself experienced at the hands of the industry and the media. What parallels do you find between these two memoirs and stories?

Research the history of residential treatment facilities like Provo. What are some of the allegations brought against these institutions? How might Hilton’s book have been different had she included statements from these institutions? Why do you think she did not include such statements?

Consider the female role models Hilton had growing up, particularly Kathy, Aunt Kyle, Nanu, and Gram Cracker. What role did each of these women play in Hilton’s life? What lessons did she learn from each? Which do you think had the largest impact on Hilton’s life?

Hilton says she values telling the truth and admitting mistakes. Look through her memoir at some of the mistakes she admits to making. Do you believe she takes full credit for them? Defend your answer.

Hilton was born into great privilege. In what ways does this privilege help her? In what ways does she not have advantages that others may assume she had?

Hilton has worked to make herself into a brand. How would you describe her brand? What are some key business or personal moves she made to develop this brand?

People like Hilton are sometimes derided for being famous for being famous. After reading Hilton’s memoir, what do you think her fame is built upon? Has she earned her fame and money? Does she use it well in your estimation?