Cover of Just Kids

Memoir · Music

Just Kids

4.2 out of 5, from 323 ratings from Hardcover readers

Patti Smith recalls her young years in 1960s and 70s New York, her friendship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, and how the two supported each other while becoming artists.

Facts last checked 2026-10-17

First published
2010
Pace
Slow
Length
Medium
Pages
320
Format
Standalone

Read this if you like lyrical memoirs about art, friendship and a vanished New York.

Skip this if you want an in-depth account of her music career.

The feel

Content warnings

  • Death
  • Grief

Also reported by Hardcover readers:

  • Chronic illness
  • Drug use
  • Alcohol
  • Homophobia
  • Medical content
  • Pregnancy

Quick answers about Just Kids

What is Just Kids about?
Patti Smith recalls her young years in 1960s and 70s New York, her friendship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, and how the two supported each other while becoming artists.
Who should read Just Kids?
Read it if you like lyrical memoirs about art, friendship and a vanished New York. Skip it if you want an in-depth account of her music career.
How long and how fast is Just Kids?
It is a slow-paced, medium read of about 320 pages, first published in 2010.
Does Just Kids have content warnings?
Content we flag: Death, Grief.
Can I borrow Just Kids for free?
Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends Just Kids; the borrow button above searches it for you.

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