Short Stories: The Autobiography of Columbus Short

by Columbus Short, Marisa Mendez

"An engaging account about the way unhealthy entanglements can affect an actor’s life.." - Kirkus ReviewsThe life of actor/choreographer/musician Columbus Short has been punctuated with trauma that extends well beyond the plot lines of his previous role on the hit series Scandal. Short has lived many lives packed into one-from a family filled with turmoil to tumultuous love affairs and enough scandals of his own. But somewhere in the middle, Short's realization that there has to be a better way comes into full view. "Short Stories" not only details Columbus Short's journey from childhood to Hollywood, it shows how even the most checkered of pasts can create a different person with the right amount of will and drive, especially when it comes to fulfilling your true destiny.

Genres: Nonfiction, Audiobook, Memoir, Autobiography

133 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2020

Reviews

[Dawn · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don’t understand the praise for this book at all. It was all over the place and he didn’t come across as being genuine throughout most of it. If he wasn’t bashing his second ex-wife (which he did for about 80% of the book), he was grandstanding. I mentioned in an update that it read more like an ode to an ex you can’t stand, and that’s still how I feel now that I’ve finished it. It’s almost like he only wrote the book to bash her and sprinkle in some bashing of others who he felt didn’t treat him the way he deserved to be treated. He told a number of stories about other celebrities he’s been linked to that were interesting, even salacious at times. So that could be the reason for the high ratings, its juicy. He also insists his ex lied about him being abusive but he himself describes scenes in which he poured alcohol on her head to make her angry and got into bar fights with strangers. Yeah... I don’t know that I believe he’s above domestic violence. He had a rough childhood, which will definitely undermine your happiness if you don’t seek help. But he’s still blaming everyone else for the majority of his problems, at almost 40 years old. At some point, it’s healthy to take accountability for your role in situations you mishandled as an adult, and I didn’t feel he did that at all.

I hope he gets the help he needs, but this book just didn’t do it for me. He jumped back and forth from story to story and time frame to time frame constantly, with no rhyme or reason. The book came across as a rambling mess to me. Also, listening to the audio likely worsened the experience because he literally just read it. No emotion or inflection was used, which is odd because he’s a great actor. I didn’t get it.

I’ll be honest and say that I only listened to the book because it was free with my audible subscription and if I had actually paid, I would’ve wanted my money back. There was so much negativity in this memoir, I question whether he is honestly happy with his life now. It’s a 1.5 star, closer to 1, for me.

[Andre(Read-A-Lot) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well I read this book straight through. That wasn’t my intention but after a few pages his willingness and eagerness to share his story drew me in. He has been a media fixture in a bad way and so this book is his way of correcting the record. I’ve been a fan of his since Stomp The Yard and knew the headlines couldn’t be all 100% accurate. The book could have benefited from a sharper editing process. It’s a little choppy and jumps around a bit. He has some interesting stories to tell and puts humor on the page. You can feel his earnestness to give balance to his public persona. He is honest about the addictions, the mental struggles, the abusive situations, etc. Good and quick read and he seems to be in a much better place, which is excellent. I am thankful to Kingston Imperial and Edelweiss for gifting me this entertaining read. I recommend 👍🏿

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoyed Columbus Short in Scandal and hated to see the decline that occurred which ended with him being let go. This book tells ‘the rest of the story’ from his point of view. In my opinion, there are three sides to a story: her side, his side and somewhere in the middle—the truth. I applaud Short for his honesty in this book. So much of what we say and do as adults is shaped by our childhood, which was for him, was not a piece of cake. The book jumps around a bit. I do not know if that is due to the chaotic nature of his thoughts or the editing process, but it does make for an interesting read. I can see where he may have so much to say, that one thought leads to another, before circling back around. I am glad to see that he has found peace and is in a much better place. I hope that his life will continue along that path. Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity to review this book.

[K2 · Rating 3 out of 5]

This reads more like a personal conversation rather than a book. I think some ppl Do Not know the difference between confidence and arrogance and from his own words I find him overtly arrogant. I actually like him as an actor, however he is No Denny lol and Denzel is not even my favorite, but Most just CanNot Compete with him when it comes to the craft of acting. But he is definitely someone to aspire and admire. Short just seems to have poor decision making skills and hopefully he works hard at better that craft the way he works at Working.
SideNote: He could have utilized a professional writer to help convey his thoughts because they were AllOverThePlace

[Gwen Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

So real and relatable

Started reading and couldn't stop. I can relate to embracing everything that you've gone through because through it God made you into the man you are today. May God's face continue to shine on you and your family.

[Queen Rosalind · Rating 4 out of 5]

He has been through a lot in his life and this Autobiography illustrates how life can be one way with you and do you the opposite. But you can't give up!

[Danielle Mcallister-andrews · Rating 4 out of 5]

At first I was totally distracted by his horrible narating. I mean the absolute worse lol but then I started looking past that and really listening to his story. Funny how his version of Britney Spears sound nothing like the one from her book and i believe every single word he said. It was a good book and I'm glad he got his life together.

[Brigette Major · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was short and sweet. I enjoyed reading his side of things and the transparency in telling His story.

[Crystal Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read it in one day!

Once I began reading it I couldn’t stop. Columbus was very transparent and owned up to his wrong doings in his life. I wish him nothing but the best.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

My mouth waters for a juicy, tell-all book and this one most definitely has the juice but also a ton of heart. Columbus is completely open. He doesn't give "woe is me, feel sorry for my bad press and tales of my wayward dick. I'm rich and famous."

He's a grown man discussing his faults, accepting responsibility and sharing his growth. I don't feel he's seeking our validation or begging for forgiveness. He's forgiving himself and mending relationships like we all have done (or will do). It's so rare that a black man gets to tell his side of the story. He's black, that means guilty, so who cares. Many were quick to believe whatever was written without hearing "both" sides of the story and even enjoyed watching the decline. Society is dismissive of black male trauma and that has to change.

Much respect to Columbus for being open with his story. This was a very quick read for me and a contemporary read that I think black men would benefit from reading and discussing. Columbus's struggles are no different from the average person (bad break ups, bad marriages, babymama drama, family mess, childhood traumas, self medicating, drugs, sex, alcohol, etc.) except his are on display for the world to Google. This book was a comfortable conversation with that slightly older brother or cool ass cousin that's going to give you the truth about their shit before giving you the truth about yours; hoping to help you avoid the same road. He's not ashamed; he has just lived and learned.

[Javier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get this as an audibook, his voice gives life to his story. it's amazing how his talent was able to bring him up despite the myriad number of scandals and drama in his life. Drama worse than any in Scandal. His talent saved him and I can't wait to see what's next.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved Columbus Short since my sister got me to watch Stomp the Yard with her. The Losers has also been a movie that I loved. I really liked reading this book. It felt like you were sitting on the couch or having phone conversations with him. He never acted like he wasn't at fault for some things. He also shared so much of his childhood, that you can see why some of his relationships were the way that they were. He showed his childhood while also going along with what we saw on TMZ or on the news years ago to tell his side of the story. Im glad that we get to see his side of the story.

[HeyYallItsMei · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty good. Quick, short story. This man’s life was very interesting. And he also doesn’t seem to take accountability for his actions in my opinion. He blames everything on the women in his life (mom, 1st wife & 2nd wife). But his 2nd wife bears the brunt of it. Now I’m not saying she didn’t play a part but he did just as much as she did. They were an extremely toxic, combustible couple and should have never been married, had a child, dated or even been friends. That’s just how toxic they were if you let him tell it. His life is still in shambles but he’s trying to do better I guess. It was a really interesting book. Oh and I found out that after he slept with Britney Spears her mom Lynn called Columbus the “N-word” with the hard ER! Like flat out asked Britney “why are you f*cking that n*ggER?” That surprised me and I don’t know why it did.

[Book Reviews by Tara aka Queen of Memoirs · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The game hated me, especially black actors”. - Columbus Short
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Transparent, real and raw are three words that best describes the book Short Stories by Columbus Short. In his new book Columbus addresses all questions and finally tells his side of the stories and rumors we’ve all heard over the years. He definitely left no stone unturned.
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For example...
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Did you ever hear the rumor of how Columbus slept with Brittney Spears while he was her choreographer? Well, in this book he addresses it! Heard about stories of him getting into bar fights? He writes about that too. Wondering if he acknowledge the accusations of physically abusing his wife? Absolutely he does! Did he dish the tea on being fired from Scandal? Yup! Does he talk about his drug and alcohol use? No doubt! Trust me he tells it all.
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This book felt like a purge. Like he somehow released all his baggage & set himself free.
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Some of the stories surprised me. One in particular is a story about Columbus, Idris Elba and Denzel Washington. In this story Columbus shares his experience with Denzel. The only thing I’m going to tell you about the story is this, apparently Idris and Columbus both have the same opinion of Denzel, which is, “he is a f*cking dick🤯🥺😧”. Trust me, I wasn’t happy to read that.
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One thing I really appreciate about the book is how transparent Columbus is as he shares his journey with alcoholism. It was a rough journey. He admits alcohol isn’t his friend. But he has come out on top, and has been sober for one year.
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What he talks about most in the book is his volatile relationship with his ex-wife. The book actually begins with an explosive story about his former best friend, along with, his ex-wife whom he refers to as “that woman”.
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Overall, I found this book very juicy. It’s filled with ups and downs, highs and lows. There is never a dull moment. A page turner for sure.
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Thank you Kingston Imperial for gifting me this advance ebook in exchange for an honest review.

[Diane Rembert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best known for his role as Harrison, alongside @kerrywashington in the ABC prime time drama Scandal, and later our beloved Quadir in the book-to-film “True to the Game”, @officialcshort is very open, honest and candid in this book.

He addressed everything from his childhood to his relationship with his mother (then stepfather), to forming lifelong friendships with the likes of @meagangood, etc. He takes the reader on a journey thru his resume, including choreography for Britney Spears, and his roles in Stomp The Yard and Cadillac Records. Thru his words, I learned about Method acting and how it can become an extended part of your life...if you let it. Racism in Hollywood is also something that was addressed, but somehow, I wasn’t surprised.

If you’re wondering about the tumultuous things that you may have read in the headlines or saw on the blogs, about his addictions and marriages, well then yes...he addresses those, too. What I took away from this is...there’s always a more to the story than what we’re told and, for every action...there is a reaction.

I went into this book knowing nothing, and walked away with a newfound respect for Columbus...the husband, father and man. I recommend this 💎💎💎💎💎book to anyone looking for a good read.

[Tania (SorryImAlwaysBooked) · Rating 3 out of 5]

✨ Book Review ✨

You Know Him As A Gladiator From “ Scandal” , “Knuckle Head “ From Stomp The Yard & “Claude” In “This Christmas”. We All Thought He Was Sooooo F I N E Growing Up But As We Got Older He FELL OFF. Headlines Claimed He Was Violent, A Drunk & That He Abuses Women.

Well I Guess He Released The Book “Short Stories “ To Tell His Side Of The Story & Gives Us Some His Background. Did You Know That He Was Britney Spears Choreographer & He Slept With Her 😩. That Was The Only Tea In This Book.

After That Revelation The Book Kind Of Fell Flat For Me. It Wasn’t Because I Was Looking For Tea The Whole Book But Because This Was Supposed To Be His Autobiography Right ? Well It Didn’t Feel Like It, He Spent More Time Speaking On How Is Ex Wife Ruined His Life More Than Anything. I Was So Confused On Timeline Of Things & When Things Happened In His Life. I Really Felt Like I Didn’t Learn Anything That I Couldn’t Google. Not Only That, The Man Had Pictures Every Few Pages Like Sir This Is Not A College Paper When You Add Pictures To Make Up For The Lack Of Content 🙄

The Book Fell Flat For Me BUT, If YOU Want To Learn What Happened To His Career & What Factors Contributed To His Downfall Then This Is The Book For You

[Baje Bookclub - Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 -


Oh my goodness, the drama and the hard knock life of Columbus Short. Halfway through this audiobook, I had to Google his age. He has had some experiences: alcohol abuse, poverty, drugs, drama, religion and the expectations of others, toxic relationships, sexual abuse, and bad choices. Columbus is talented and listening to him I can hear his determination and drive for success; he was determined to make a better name and livelihood for himself and his family. This should be a movie - you will read/hear things that different people go through but this is all happening to the same person…..Columbus Short. Funny thing is I wrote part of this review while listening to chapter 15 The Art of F14 and then when I press play to continue listening, Columbus says “yeah I know my life is a movie”.

The life of an actor in the business, I do hope that in another 25 years Columbus completes part two of this autobiography. He hopes this autobiography helps persons not to make the same mistakes he did. I hope they listen to you Columbus.

The funniest part for me was the Latino talking to you in the Fish Tank (jail).

[Key · Rating 4 out of 5]

hubby purchased the book for me for my birthday. He knows I am a fan of Columbus Short. I completed the book in two days. I learned many things that I was unaware of before and that makes a good read to me.

I love the pics in the book. They are in black and white but that is fine.

I wished however it would have read in order in which things happened, but it's titled short stories so that's basically the way that it is written. He wrote his life events in short stories . Each event or part of his life in a short story. I will admit it will bring you back and forth and it appear as if it is all over the place but stick with it, it's not that bad. No I am not being bias because I am a fan.

I learned that he was in movies that I had no clue and commercials as well. He spilled tea about some major actors in the biz and his interactions with them. I was shocked but then again not really it's HOLLYWOOD.

I recommend for those that are of course Columbus Short fans or if you wish to know his side of the story regarding the chaos that occurred in his life.

[Jennise Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers a candid and profound exploration of his journey from childhood to Hollywood. Highlighted by his reflections on overcoming personal and professional challenges, the book delves into themes of resilience, redemption, and the quest for a fulfilling destiny. It provides an engaging account of how unhealthy entanglements can deeply affect one's life, showcasing Short's tumultuous experiences with family turmoil, tumultuous love affairs, and scandals. Yet, despite these challenges, the book reveals Short's realization that there must be a better way, illustrating how even the most checkered pasts can lead to transformation with the right amount of will and drive. His story is a testament to the power of overcoming adversity and striving towards one's true destiny. I enjoyed the fact that he is not blaming others and that he owned his shit too. I love that he had people in his corner who stood beside him despite his choices and actions in many situations. This book was a candid story of his truth, no matter how grungy it was at times. I loved it.

[Reading with Tara · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you watched Scandal from the beginning or the movie Stomp the Yard then you know who this brother is.

The good: The stories were indeed short and engaging. We get his side of the story on what went down with Scandal. We also get a good background of his upbringing and how that has affected his professional and personal decisions in life.

The bad: Nothing really that I can think of. Columbus met and worked with some big names in the industry and has manifested some amazing opportunities. His string of “bad luck” however seemed to follow him throughout, but he came out alright in the end.

The Ugly: His relationship with THAT GIRL (he never mentions her name) was too much! She drug him through it! And while we only get his side of the story here - I kept thinking ‘why do you keep going back to this woman?’ SMH

Overall. . . ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think Columbus went through all kinds of difficult tasks in his life. Those that were in place to help didn't. It also goes to show how certain situations can hold you back from being great. I always enjoyed Columbus Short as an actor especially in Scandal. I was sad to see him go. As for certain actors mentioned in his book, I am now looking at them sideways. It goes to show how people can not like you for no reason and it could be because they see themselves inside you or flares up their own insecurities. However, they fail to realize the opportunity they could have made in someone's life.

I am happy to hear Columbus has recovered from many obstacles and truly understand it is an ongoing process.

[Jasmin Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love it from beginning to end. I commend him for opening up like this. Sometimes that is very hard to do, especially when there is a picture painted of you and the whole world believes it. And for the record.of I was Iris Elba I would have beat the brakes off of Denzel Washington on the set of 'American Gangster'. Literally like the dog piss out of him. Not saying that I don't still respect his talent and work. But I definitely look at the person differently. Columbus definitely has grown and I love it. I'm very glad to see him overcome his battles and tests learn from them and correct them. I'm so happy that he is happy because he deserves it.

[Brandi Tyiska-Hawkins · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love hearing other people’s stories. Celebrity or not, I sit like a kid curled up hearing the good, bad or ugly. This story was surprising. After seeing Columbus Short in a few movies and the infamous Scandal series, I didn’t imagine the half of what he was going through during those times and from what I heard snippets of from the press.

There’s always 3 sides to a story, the story teller’s side, the other person’s side and the truth. There were parts in the book where I was not sure that he was being as transparent with his story but who am I to judge on someone’s truth.

Overall, it’s a good book especially on Audible.

[Alicia J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC through NetGalley. This book was HARD to put down. I literally had to devout time from my busy schedule to finish this book, it is that good. I enjoyed the rawness of the story and it really opened my eyes to Columbus Short, the man. In being transparent, I feel bad for placing judgement on him by what I read in the tabloids. All the while he was actually “covering” his ex wife. I’m so glad he found TRUE LOVE and turned his life around. I recommend this book for all. Well written. I got mad at some parts, sad, happy, and even laughed. Keep writing!

[Marquitta Harlan · Rating 2 out of 5]

I would highly suggest listening to this book. It was all over the place and felt more like an interview than a well thought out book. Columbus did admit his truth and gave some insight into the life of Hollywood. I don’t think he accomplished his goal with this book though. I think he wrote the book to fix his image. Unfortunately, the underlining derogatory tone of the book made him look exactly like the person that the tabloids proclaimed him to be.

[Jordan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was glad to get Columbus Shorts side of all that scandal he was dealing with years ago. The stories weren’t told chronologically, he was addressing themes in his life and so a lot of events overlapped or he would go back and forth in the timeline. I don’t read many memoirs so I’m not sure if that’s how they normally go. I went and searched the video of his wife fighting his friend and was disgusted. It was a good quick read.

[Chon · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was nothing more than a PR move towards redemption and it was full of excuses and blaming others for his woes instead of taking full responsibility for his actions and choices. When he was not point fingers he was bragging which actually made his plight less believable. With that said, I love him as an actor and really wish he would get his act together so we can see more of him on the screen.

[Love · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought it was awesome for someone who felt like they never got to share their side of the story, to be heard... to finally be able to speak about all that happened to them. I also like the fact that he narrated his own story. This was quite interesting, I didn't know a lot of what was shared in this book. My only issue was that it felt all over the place. This book may truly inspire people who feel as though life just keeps throwing them curve balls.

[Rheona R · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love learning new things about people. If you don’t read an autobiography then you will never know as much about a person as you will in a book. I can’t say I was a big fan of Colombus and was dying to read this book. I did how ever like him and the roles he played especially in Scandal and was crushed when he left. With all the things said about him in the media it was good to hear his side of the story.

[Danielle Clement · Rating 5 out of 5]

This boy had a crazy, wild life. Wow. It's truly inspiring how he overcame all of the challenges. Good read and interesting/shocking info on certain celebs. I'm a huge fan of his and was so glad he wrote this book to tell his side of what had been and is going on in his life. Hold on to Faith and you'll come out on top.