The Uninvited: How I Crashed My Way into Finding Myself

by Craig Schmell, Ellis Henican

As featured in the New York Post and People magazine!

The true story of a young imposter with a talent for crashing celebrity events who discovers what's really important in life.

Singing on stage at the Grammys, getting high inside the Kremlin, driving in a U.S. president's motorcade—Craig Schmell has a world-class talent for talking his way into places he does not belong. But when his self-absorbed life crashes down around him, he finally learns how to be a better man. An inspiring coming-of-age story with cameos by some of the biggest stars of Hollywood and rock 'n' roll. The Uninvited is funny, insightful, and stunningly true.

Genres: Nonfiction

288 pages, Hardcover

Published November 14, 2017

Reviews

[Peter Calano · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most heartfelt and honest books I’ve ever read. At times entertaining, and at others painful, with an overall emphasis on growth—unsurprising, given the author’s extremely loving nature at heart and true commitment to success. Craig wears everything on his sleeve—both good and bad, and embodies a man who lives every day like it’s his last.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, not a book I would normally seek out for myself. The Uninvited was assigned in one of the two book clubs I am now in. I was Not looking forward to a pompous memoir-y brag about Craig Schmell's admittedly impressive exploits sneaking into places he should not have been. But there was a surprise within the pages... hinted at by the humility and gently chiding way Craig recounts the adventurous of his teens and 20s. It turns out a good part of the bravery and balls needed to pull off these crazy adventures was fueled by booze and pot... and more and more booze and pot is needed as Craig gets older, somehow graduates from Law School without paying attention in class at all and finds himself sleeping away the days on his couch in his poshish rental funded by his generous, semi-oblivious enabling parents. When Craig hits bottom - which is decided by someone else and rarely seems to works in real life, the book becomes very engaging. It turns into a book about recovery, and although "meetings" are briefly mentioned once or twice- this is not a book telling the story about a 12 step recovery. Craig was lucky enough to share a long term relationship with the very enlightened Dr.K - and we benefit by subtle and gradual lessons their friendship yields. Although this book was co-authored, the pair did a good job of making Craig's voice authentic. This is a fabulously sneaky book about recovery, redemption and what is possible when you become honest with yourself and others. In my opinion, it will appeal to anyone struggling with addiction who doesn't want to read yet another book about the 12 steps..... and it will also appeal to ardent 12 steppers. It's also just a good read for people that want an off beat read with a feel good ending. Great Job, Craig and thank you for sharing your adventures, your highs and lows and your journey towards emotional health.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read many books where someone overcomes difficult circumstances and hardship to finally live a worthwhile life. This author has a seemingly privileged background, so the hardship he overcomes feels different. What I thought would be a fun romp (this guy is a real character) became a very meaningful story.

[Colby Kranz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book a lot. My dads friend wrote it and originally I was skeptical but I really enjoyed it! This book talks about Craig’s experiences from childhood to present and how he worked his way into clubs, cut lines, made his way to the top, went to celeb parties all by being the master BS’er. Confidence is a big theme that runs throughout this book and how important it is to fake it till you make it.

[Thad Forester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good. Kept me entertained and interested entire time. Probably the fastest I've read a book of comparable size.