Since the debut of American Idol,Ó puckish Brit judge Simon Cowell has become America's most notorious critic. Here, he reveals what it takes to be a star & takes you behind the scenes of American IdolÓ in this wickedly entertaining tell-all. He offers you a backstage pass to America's hottest show -- the highlights, the gossip, the contestants who blew their chances -- & takes you on a whirlwind tour of the music business while sharing his own insider opinions, on everything. You'll also learn the trade secrets that only Simon knows: how to develop an image & make the most of your talent, how to find an agent or manager, how to nail an audition, & -- should you be so lucky as to make it to the top -- how to stretch your 15 min. into a career.

The "American Idol" judge the public loves to be shocked by now gives the low-down on the musical fame game in this witty, wicked look at what it takes to become a rock star.