The veteran film and TV director shares industry secrets and inspiring advice in this hilariously candid Hollywood memoir.

For over three decades, director Ken Kwapis has charted an exceptional career ranging from seminal shows like The Office to beloved films like He’s Just Not That Into You. But becoming one of the most respected directors in Hollywood wasn’t easy. With each triumph came the occasional faceplant.

Now, in this thoroughly entertaining memoir, Ken shares his hard-earned wisdom and inside knowledge, tackling plenty of Hollywood myths along the way. It’s a rollercoaster ride fueled by brawls with the top brass, clashes over budgets, and the passion that makes it all worthwhile. Combining inspiring instruction with behind-the-scenes hilarity, But What I Really Want to Do Is Direct is a celebration of the director’s craft, and what it takes to succeed on your own terms in show business.

“Ken Kwapis always brought out the best in the actors on The Office . . . Every aspiring director should read this book. (I can think of several ‘professional’ directors that should read it too!)” —Jenna Fischer

“In the years that I was fortunate to work with Ken on Malcolm in the Middle, he had an uncanny ability to guide actors right to the heart of a scene and reveal its truths.” —Bryan Cranston