Do YOU have what it takes to be a star? Simon Cowell reveals the answer and takes you behind the scenes of American Idol in this wickedly entertaining tell-all. Since the debut of American Idol, puckish Brit judge Simon Cowell has become America s most notorious critic not only on account of his incredible instinct for spotting the next breakout musical stars, but for his hilarious, shockingly candid repartee with everyone who crosses his path. Now, true to form, he holds nothing back, offering you a backstage pass to America s hottest show the highlights, the gossip, the contestants who blew their chances and takes you on a whirlwind tour of the music business while sharing his own insider opinions, on everything. From his days in the mailroom at EMI Records to the creation of American Idol, Simon has always had a knack for judging talent and for being center stage. Here, he tells the rollicking stories of his first insult (to his mother), his first music criticism (to first-grade teacher Mrs. Prigg), his first image makeover (on his unfortunate younger brother), and his first appearance on television (dressed as a dog). And of course, the side-splitting backstory of the birth of American Idol and all the dreadful auditions, bad hair days, judges squabbles, juicy rumors, surprise triumphs, and #1 singles that followed. With his trademark wit and brutal honesty, Simon delivers the real dish on: Who gave the best and worst performances on the show? What really goes on between