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Finding Me: A Memoir
by
Viola Davis
4.63 · Rating details · 8,522 ratings · 1,317 reviews
In my book, you will meet a little girl named Viola who ran from her past until she made a life-changing decision to stop running forever.
This is my story, from a crumbling apartment in Central Falls, Rhode Island, to the stage in New York City, and beyond.
This is the path I took to finding my purpose but also my voice in a world that didn’t always see me.
As I wrote Finding Me, my eyes were open to the truth of how our stories are often not given close examination. We are forced to reinvent them to fit into a crazy, competitive, judgmental world. So I wrote this for anyone running through life untethered, desperate and clawing their way through murky memories, trying to get to some form of self-love.
(This book) <Finding Me> is
This has got to be my favorite read of the year. I loved Viola Davis before, but now I’m IN love with her. The immense respect and admiration I have for her is deep. The things she endured as a kid, teen, woman—period. I can honestly say that I’ve never experienced. I’ve never missed a meal for days. I’ve never had to lie in my own urine and go to school the next day reeking. I’ve never had to fight with huge rats over my bed & pillow. I’ve never witness my father beat my mom within an inch of her life and I’ve never experienced racism on the level that Viola has for being too dark. What she went through for being dark skinned, what her mom went through as a child..absolutely horrific.
“Memories are immortal. They’re deathless and precise. They have the power of giving you joy and perspective in hard times. Or, they can strangle you. Define you in a way that’s based more in other people’s tucked-up perceptions than truth.”
The colorism she experienced in the acting world and how they tried to “mold and shape” her into the perfect “white” author. I love how she explained what Shonda Rhimes did for her in creating HTGAWM role for her and the healing that came from that. “Annalise Keating released in me the obstacles blocking me from realizing my worth and power as a woman.”
“As Black women, we are complicated. We are feminine. We are sexual. We are beautiful. We’re pretty. There are people out there who desire us. We are deserving. So that’s why I’m very aware of what my presence means. And that’s why I’m also aware of why I need to be emotionally healthy. Because that’s a lot of responsibility. Because you’re coming up against a four-hundred-year-old narrative.”
How to Get Away with Murder was where my radical transformation took place. In the course of playing Annalise, I understood that I was no longer and never was that ugly Black nigga. The role liberated me. I said to myself: All I’ve got is me. And that is enough. (less)
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May 29, 2022Elyse Walters rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: adventures, american-fiction, favorite-audiobooks, coming-of-age, domestic-suspense, dysfunctional-family, women, biography-autobiography-memoir, audiobook, audiobook-favorite
Audiobook…read by Viola Davis
……9 hours and 15 minutes
I hope everyone is enjoying a healthy happy Memorial Day weekend. Paul and I are.
Sometimes we just want more time to bask in the experience of a magnificent book —- of an magnificent human being - a powerful Black Woman….unbelievable stories…
….this ‘basking’ is one of those times.
I will sit down and put some thoughts together tomorrow….
But for now…..
I can’t recommend this audiobook more.
I’M BACK… Update:
Viola Davis had a story to tell….carved from experiences that shaped who she is. Trying to fully understand her ‘entire’ life story and ‘how’ she survived unfathomable traumatic conditions—for years—as a child —is staggering…..
…..from unbelievable - devastating - insane - crazy - horrific - very abusive childhood conditions…..
Readers will wonder…..why, WHY didn’t ‘anyone’ help? Where the hell were child services?
But……
Viola was not venting her anger, airing her wounds, asking for pity or going after revenge……
Instead she simply tells the facts - the truth - the ugly stories — unapologetic stories from early childhood to present day.
It’s no accident that Time Magazine named Viola Davis one of the 100 most influential people in the world.
More to say about “Finding Me”……
It’s PHENOMENAL!!!! ….as in EXTREMELY and EXTRAORDINARY mesmerizing…..
…..one of the most impactful audiobooks I’ve ever listened to in my life!!!!!! (seriously!)
I’m baffled at just how powerful — brutal - heart wrenching- heartbreaking - heart stopping - and deeply, profoundly ‘soul’-generous Viola Davis is…..in ‘telling all’.
….From poverty and hardships like you’ve never heard……..
….From shyness, shame and unworthiness….
….From unbelievable abuse both at home and in life…
….To the lioness hard working kick ass, talented, determined, authentic powerhouse inspiring human being…..
….Viola Davis is one of the most remarkable persons on the planet.
“Finding Me”…..is a mind-blowing-explosive memoir.
A couple of times, I tried not to cry - but failed. I cried a ‘few’ times.
My tears came when things were getting ‘better’.
I was more in shock when things were bad.
My only regret- I have from listening to Viola read ‘this/her’ memoir so brilliantly—is that I wish I had been part of a small book group -having ongoing discussions—chapter by chapter.
Paul listened to ‘parts’ - but not all of this book —-(he and I had several conversations—but he missed a lot of poignant parts)….
In my opinion— there is not a word wasted - a tale told that doesn’t have a purpose—
Note…
I’m going to go crazy if I try to say here all the things I really want to say…..and readers who are kind enough to read this review will go nuts if I ‘do’ write all I have to say….(so I’ll never succeed)….
But/And/So…….
I am reminded…..
……why - in community - readers & reviewers - can each contribute to each other by bringing up tidbits in ‘each’ of our different reviews…..WE All HELP each other out. Many times another reviewer will express in words….
….our deepest experiences — to fit ours — words we were lacking in accessibility at the time ourselves……( so we need each other to draw out different aspects of books we cherish)
This book needs MANY readers. We need to examine, explore, scrutinize, question, contemplate, dig deep, chew, study, and appraise…..[together-as-community]….a book like this: to be clear …’This Book’: Viola Davis’s memoir. Many lessons - insights - to take away.
Much to learn, reflect, and think about. I’m guessing every reader will continue thinking about this book long after finishing it - certain sections more than others (all for varied reasons)….
After getting past the early(nightmare) childhood years —-Viola began her career (so damn interesting of even how she got from A to B), in Central Falls, Rhode Island….
….Viola had me ‘hanging-by-a-tread’ when she took a 4 hour train ride — to audition - to get into Juilliard ….
OMG….what a story!
And a COMPLETE story ( gets better and better)….
from the audition process - to attending the damn school as a BLACK women who felt she was being asked to HIDE her BLACKNESS— to fit in.
It’s an AMAZING story …..KICK-ASS - cheer-for story …..
during a time when Viola had an opportunity to spend a semester in Africa……
ONE OF MY FAVORITE sections of this book….
….Viola had a chance to practice her craft and learn from the African tribes….(women and blackness was worshiped).
I wanted to stand up - cheer - laugh - scream - cry - ‘root-for- Viola….
I wanted to celebrate her joy, her eye-opening insights….her passion….her love…her loyalty to truth….to integrity….her authenticity…..her boldness, bravery, and discovery into FINDING HERSELF…
Sisterhood in Africa among black women went deep. And here Viola was coming from her school, Juilliard, where she was being classically trained to MAKE EVERY EFFORT to MAKE HER BLACKNESS DISAPPEAR! (shame on the teachers)….
In Africa. …..dark black skin was unapologetically beautiful.
A breakthrough was beginning….
TONS more inspiring tales…..
….Explore themes about ‘temporary’ love (incredibly quality truths)
….Explore….
poverty, extreme hunger, no heat, no running water, frozen pipes, rats, mice, filth, urine smells, thrift clothes, emotional, physical, mental, spiritual trauma, fighting to survive, hopes, dreams, the desire to GO TO SCHOOL, to excel in school, older sister inspiration, racism, blackness, sexism, struggles throughout, white privileges, hard work, training, goals, blessings, deprivations, family, parents, siblings, feelings of worth, fears, responsibilities (“if you make it out…you go back and pull everybody else out”), love, rejection, more love, more rejection, marriage, kids, career highlights (theater, Broadway, movies, TV series, artists, actors, community & camaraderie pride), loneliness, isolation, disillusionments, awkwardness, illness, embarrassments, acceptance, awards, transformation, forgiveness, death, love, therapy, ….
EMOTIONAL HEALTH IS NECESSARY….
….a little luck (impossible without the work), ‘very’ interesting details about the BUSINESS of being a working actor ….
[I know much of these facts - our 40 year old daughter is a steady working actor in Hollywood since childhood]…..
But it was soooo rewarding for me to have Viola spell out the nitty-gritty truths.
People are ignorant- when they negatively bash Hollywood actors — generalize, and lumped everything into their own assumptions.
Viola spells the beans on what the inner circle knows — it’s WORK.
….. only 4% of those in the sag union make enough money to even qualify to take out medical insurance.
And once in a blue moon - it feels like a miracle happened.
As Whoopi Goldberg once said…..
“I’ve been bad a lot. I’ve been good sometimes, and I have been great just a few times”.
When Viola shares her ‘golden’ moments….
….not just winning an Emmy, a Tony nomination, a Golden Globe award, screen actors Guild award, a star on the Hollywood walk of fame, an Academy award for best supporting actress….etc. etc….
Or…
one of the highest rewards: being inducted into the “Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences”…..
but
HER authentic FEELING ALIVE moments (such as working on “Seven Guitars”….filming “”Fences….and that “Broadway” really is as grand as dreamed ….and the growth & gift to filming “How to Get Away With Murder” series …..respecting the real craft of artistry ….relationships….(no longer ashamed for who she is)….
it’s totally wonderfully remarkable to celebrate this outstanding woman.
Paul and I haven’t even finished the first season of “How to Get Away With Murder”, yet….we are late to watch it….but we are loving it …….
……even ‘more’ — since listening to this book.
IT’S SUCH a JOY to share in PURITY and HUMANITY of who Viola Davis is. (less)
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Oct 26, 2021Aden rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Like many people, I discovered Viola from her incredible work on How to Get Away With Murder and have been following her work ever since. So finding out she would be gifting us with a deep memoir of her childhood to her present day life was amazing. It’s always strange to rate non-fiction, especially memoirs, but Viola absolutely killed this. She’s a naturally talented writer and was able to transport me to every event she recalls. From the extreme poverty, the intense physical and sexual abuse, and all the way to Hollywood, Viola paints a perfect image to show you and let you understand her life.
“There is an emotional abandonment that comes with poverty and being Black. The weight of generational trauma and having to fight for your basic needs doesn’t leave room for anything else. You just believe you’re the leftovers.”
Like most readers will probably feel, I thought Viola’s childhood was the most emotional and engaging part of the story. Viola came from absolutely nothing. ‘Po’ as she puts it. Rat invested and pissed soaked beds, emotional and physical abuse, surrounded by and even experiencing sexual abuse, all while growing up as a Black girl in a predominately white area. The name calling from other class mates, the getting chased and beat up, the shame and humility Viola constantly felt, all of it, is absolutely harrowing. The level of courage and bravery needed to overcome some of the things Viola has experienced is extremely high. I feel we should be responsible to listen to her story with open ears and let it all resonate with us because what Viola has written here is so intense and important. She explores several relationships she has involving her family and how those relationships have changed and developed over the years and I just think she did a wonderful job detailing her childhood and how it has affected her later into her career.
“That period of my life was filled with shame. The feeling you get in the pit of your stomach when you have stage fright or humiliation, that was the shame of living in 128. Shame completely eviscerates you, destroys any sense of pride you may have in yourself.”
“I was being catapulted into adulthood. Coming from a childhood of trauma, I needed a radical transformation. I hadn’t been taught how to navigate the world. I hadn’t been taught what could help me grow or live better. I’d been taught to run from the world. I’d been taught how to hide and fight. I hadn’t been taught how to love and be still.”
Viola also details the events of her rise to where she is now and like her childhood, it is extremely upsetting but also very inspiring. Growing up without the tools needed to heal from her trauma, Viola struggled a lot throughout her career, From attending Juilliard, to winning her first Tony, and then to winning her first Oscar, Viola carried that broken little girl with her everywhere. The way she writes about trauma and the healing process is so authentic and I think a lot of readers will find so much from Viola’s wisdom. It feels like Viola wrote this book, not just for for herself, but so many people. For young Black girls with big dreams, for people living in intense poverty without a solution to get out, for mothers, for readers struggling to find a place in the world, for so many people. And that’s so commendable that she was able to write a book so personal but it will affect and help so many people. As Oprah said, buy yourself a copy and buy a friend a copy because once you read your gonna want to talk about it. Thank you for this one Viola! Absolutely amazing.
“The question still echoes, how did I claw my way out? There is no out. Every painful memory, every mentor, every friend and foe serves as a chisel, a leap pad that has shaped “ME!” The imperfect but blessed sculpture that is Viola is still growing and being chiseled. My elixir? I’m no longer ashamed of me. I own everything that has ever happened to me. The parts of me that were a source of shame are actually my warrior fuel. I see people-the way they walk, talk, laugh, and grieve, and their silence-in a way that is hyperfocused because of my past. I’m an artist because there‘s no separation from me and every human being that has passed through the world including my mom. I have a great deal of compassion for other people, but mostly for myself. That would not be the case I did not reconcile that little eight-year-old girl and FIND ME. I’m holding her now. My eight-year-old self. Holding her tight. She is squealing and reminding me, “Don’t worry! I’m here to beat anybody’s ass who messes with our joy! Viola, I got this.” (less)
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May 07, 2022Lyn❤Loves❤Listening #AUDIOBOOKADDICT rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: memoir-biography, nonfiction, cultural, honest-and-heart-breaking, raw-gritty-dark-brutal, 5-plus-stars, audio, amazing-narrator-performance, unforgettable, absolute-favorites
Audio - 5+++++ Stars
Her Story - 5++++++ Raw, Honest, Courageous Stars!
...more
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May 10, 2022Brandice rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
When I heard last year that Viola Davis had a memoir coming out in April, I excitedly added Finding Me to my TBR list and also thought, I actually don't know that much about her but I do know I'm a huge fan — I loved How to Get Away With Murder.
Viola shares her life story, from early childhood in true poverty in Central Falls, Rhode Island, to finding a love of acting and realizing that's what she wanted to do, to pursuing her dream and accepting herself. She is one of six children, grew up in a crowded home where her dad was abusive to her mom, and her and her siblings often went hungry and unclean. My heart broke listening to the stories Viola shared, including befriending kids who she knew would invite her over after school so that she would be fed at their houses. No child should have to think strategically like this in order to eat.
After high school, Viola went to Rhode Island College then on to Juilliard to study acting. She provides the bleak statistics surrounding the film industry and how few actors and actresses are actually able to make it in this space. We all know it's competitive but the information she notes is stark. She starred in roles on Broadway then made an entrance into film and TV. She took most jobs where she could and frequently battled the whitewashing in Hollywood. When Viola did succeed, she sometimes experienced self doubt, with industry standards, in part, to blame.
She also talks about her personal life, sharing health challenges, meeting her husband, and adopting her daughter. Viola is vulnerable and honest and I have a deep appreciation for not just the excellent actress she is, but the person she is — Someone who overcame so much, who will shed labels and be true to herself. The audiobook of Finding Me is narrated by Viola and this is, in unshocking news, the way to go. (less)
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Jun 22, 2022Olivia (Stories For Coffee) rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: audiobook, memoirs, nonfiction, favorites, 2022-favorites
This is one of my most anticipated reads, ever, because I’m such a big fan of Viola Davis, and it quickly became one of my favorite memoirs, ever.
Viola is so incredibly raw and honest when sharing stories from her childhood, her journey into being an actress, and the lessons she learned along the way as a daughter, wife, mother, and artist. She highlights the brutal racism she had to deal with as a child, the abuse she faced from family members, what it was like to grow up in poverty, and her deep desire to make something more out of her life.
Full of wisdom, love, and light, listening to Viola narrate her story elevates the experience of this book because she so expertly packs so much emotion into each sentence that was spoken.
I’m honored to learn more about one of my heroes and am utterly in awe of her journey that was gorgeously written, honest, and unforgettable. (less)
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Apr 07, 2022#AskMissPatience rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Viola Davis’s Finding Me stopped me dead in my tracks. “Who are you”, Will Smith inquires.
Ms. Davis didn’t immediately understand the question. When Mr. Smith explained what he meant she hit a revelation.
Here I stopped the audio. Even though owning the hardback was an absolute. The audio is as well. Hearing Ms. Davis share her truth is as important to me as Ms. Tyson sharing hers the day she died when the audio showed up in my Audible.
Aware of Ms. Davis’s childhood prior to this book see her relationship to those events in a new light. One that split the darkness of mine.
It just so happens while working with a counselor the VA assigned me we came to a point recently. Connecting my military PTSD from where it began during service of the nation to a meaning of unexpected importance.
The moment Ms. Davis shares who she is. I asked myself the same question.
Having a similar backstory in many ways to Ms. Davis feel like we could have grow up best friends.
I was treated very similarly. So much so my parents named my first pet, Ugly.
It wasn’t until I grew up realized their view was their own and not who I am.
The relationship I have to the question, Who am I helped me love Ms. Davis more. Which I didn’t think I could or needed.
Ms. Davis for who she was before fame is the reason I chose her as a hero. I knew this book would be important to me. Though didn’t expect this much.
Before continuing paused to add this to the start of a review.
How does one review a life so heartbreakingly lived so generously.
Thank you Ms. Davis. Being brave and vulnerable is painful for me still. Thank you for leading your story. I know I’m not the only one who is and will be impacted.
Through you through me to others it’s my hope whoever is touched will find Hope. Peace. Joy in the wounds of why they are, too.
I’ll be adding and doing a full review. Couldn’t wait to share because of the size of the vibe and importance to me. Maybe you as well.
Stay tuned … more to come …
/\ update
Preorder heaven: hardcover, audio, asking the library to order so other people can borrow it, letting ya’ll know on #goodreads I’m excited. Tic tock … April 26th can’t arrive quick enough ❤️ (less)
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May 16, 2022Brittany McCann rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: woman-empowering, reviews, musestt, 5-stars, 2022-challenge, non-fiction, biographical
I love Viola Davis. I love that she has always stood out as herself. She is unapologetically beautiful from her soul to her skin. She is brave when others would balk. She has bared her heart to the public to be an example and to let others know it is okay to be yourself, even if that is different from whatever B.S. society labels as "normal" or "acceptable" or "beautiful". She is well-deserving of all accolades she has been awarded and many more.
I cried so many times listening to this. I connected to so many parts of this book in many different emotional and mental ways. I have tears in my eyes just thinking about how to do this book justice with a mere review.
Viola reading it to me (go with the audio please please) was incredibly personal and intimate feeling. Finding Me is raw and real and it feels like you are sitting there in a room with Viola and she is telling you about her life. And my lord, what a life. What a feat to have escaped, let alone found the spotlight. She is not trying to make you feel sorry for her, she is merely baring her soul and allowing you, as the reader, in to her introspection of how she become the spectacular woman that she is today.
Feeling like I was in the room listening to her story, made me want to reach out and just hug her and let her know that she is worthy and how her light shines through in the world. I just wanted her to know that she is loved and I wanted to hug her family.
I started out from a poverty stance, but I was blessed in mine due to the help of many other and family that helped save us. As an adult when the economy crashed I was at the mercy of family and especially my grandmother, without her things could have been a lot worse. There was abuse on a much lesser scale, but it helped me find an inkling of relatability and to feel for a small percentage of the terrors she experienced.
Nothing I experienced can even glimpse a moment in the Davis family life of poverty so extreme that it is almost unfathomable, of abuse and fear and guilt and things I can't even put words to. To have gotten away in any semblance of life and to still be so strong and to still put so much of herself into others and be so caring and kind. I can't do this justice. You have to hear it in Viola's words.
Can we all just exude a bit more kindness and compassion and freaking assistance when someone is struggling, because NO ONE can see the unimaginable battles that each individual is facing in life.
I hope to hug you one day, Viola. It feels weirdly important to me to do this. I'm a hugger.
5+ stars. The writing was extremely well done and the flow was impeccable. (less)
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May 05, 2022LeeTravelGoddess rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: tops
BAY-BEEEHHH.
STOP WHAT YOU ARE DOING AND RUN, RUUUNNN TO THE BOOKSTORE AND BUY THIS BOOK, YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!! ITS A TOPS!!! 💚💚💚
The way in which I can relate to this memoir is astounding… I had no clue that I shared so many things with Miss. Vee!
I love the relationship she shares with her mom… imma go ahead and call my mother a great love of mine because SHE JUST IS!!! 💚💚💚 thank you for helping me see this Vee.
She and her sisters simply gave me life! As a girlie with only brothers, I quite enjoy seeing, hearing and knowing women with sisters because that dynamic to me is soooo precious. I’d be a dangerous woman had I had a couple of sisters lol! Shout out to y’all for sticking together cause honey me and my brothers are TIGHT LIKE GLUE!
I also love her story about her hubby, chiiiiiiile— AINT NOTHING LIKE A SOUTHERN MAN… I too, tend to lean towards them as well because they simply understand so much! This is not a diss to any other men in the world, cause #IYKYK 😘 and there it is.
Lastly, what a journey. WHAT A FREAKIN JOURNEY! I SAW Vee when she played in Antwone Fisher. She captivated me in such a small amount of time on screen!!! I now need to go back and watch “Doubt,” & “City of Angels.” Of course I loved her in “The Help” as well as “How to Get Away With Murder.” Hell! She had me ready to go and grab a JD!!!
I can say so much about how our life events sorta overlap but this is her story so I will leave it there. Never once did I think that she was unpretty or undesirable… but what I will say ISSSS that NO ONE ON THIS PLANET SLINGS SNOT LIKE LADY VIOLA DAVISSSSSS!!! Just prepare to cry when she cries, smile when she smiles, level up when she’s on the screen bossing it up and such and such & this and that 😂.
I AM THEEEE memoir girl. Vee, what a beautiful story, I’m now headed to Malik’s Books for the hardcopy cause my shelf NEEDS this beautiful book!!!
WOW. 💚✨💚✨💚✨ (less)
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May 28, 2022leah rated it really liked it · review of another edition
Shelves: non-fiction, memoirs
such a devastating memoir, but also so incredibly beautiful and hopeful at the same time. i am (even more so now) in awe of viola davis’ strength, resilience, talent, determination, and candour. this was also my first audiobook, and i couldn’t have picked a better one to start with because viola’s performance was truly incredible.
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May 16, 2022Ellie Jennings rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
2 notes & 12 highlights
This book was powerful, beautiful, and deeply authentic, much like the woman herself. Viola is such an inspiration and I applaud her vulnerability and willingness to share her journey with the world.
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Jun 14, 2022Traci Thomas rated it really liked it · review of another edition
This is a very good celebrity memoir. I listened to the audiobook and Davis reads it and her voice and her narration are perfection. I loved hearing more about her story and her life and family. Much of her story was very emotional and well told. I didn't know much of it at all. The book feels a little disjointed throughout and wished she'd spent a little more time on her films and general acting experiences. She doesn't even mention many of her film and TV credits. Its a very good book but it left me wanting. (less)
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May 14, 2022Sharon Mundia rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Listened to this as an audio book and oh 👏🏾 my 👏🏾 goodness 👏🏾
I knew it was gonna be a winner when I was on Chapter 1 and found myself fighting back tears. Viola Davis is an absolutely incredible woman and I’m in awe of her journey. So inspired! 💪🏾
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Apr 13, 2022aarya rated it liked it · review of another edition
Shelves: author-of-color, theme-c-celebrity, s-1945-1990-cold-war-civil-rights, theme-racial-injustice, read-via-audio, owned-in-audio-libro, nonfic-autobio-memoir, theme-music-theater-film-dance, s-usa, theme-r-christianity-catholicism
Content Notes: (view spoiler)
3.5 stars
I knew nothing about Davis outside the few movies I’ve watched, but this memoir was still intriguing. There weren't as many behind-the-scenes stories about Davis's roles as I expected, and the last third skipped past Davis's accomplishments very quickly post-2005. That was the least compelling aspect because it felt like a rapid listing of cool events, not deeper introspection.
Still, the first half concerning Davis's childhood was gripping and heartbreaking (be warned for discussions of domestic violence and sexual abuse). I recommend the audiobook (as you can imagine, Viola Davis has a fantastic voice!). Read via audio.
Disclaimer: I received a free audiobook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. (less)
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Jun 15, 2022Kyle Erickson rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
This book is the reason I read memoirs. It was a whirlwind of emotion that was an absolute tour de force to read. It is by no means an easy read, but Viola Davis's life story, introspection, perseverance, and grit being beautifully told will have you glued to the page. I listened to this in one day, over the course of a few sittings, and could not stop. Davis's narration is excellent also, enhancing the narrative with tons of emotion. This is the type of book that leaves a mark on you. Without a doubt, this is one of my favorite memoirs I've ever read. (less)
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May 03, 2022LJ rated it it was ok · review of another edition
Shelves: abandoned
Abandoned this book about half way through ...
I didn't like the format, but I appreciated Viola's narration. This memoir is like a conversation with Viola Davis, it doesn't have any real structure and I didn't feel like I learned anything inspiring. As far as a book for black women? It's not. This is one of those stories to teach white people/people of any other race how hard some black people have had it. I believe her story probably has potential to be great but I personally could not enjoy it in this casual, overly descriptive narrative format. (less)
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Apr 29, 2022Yasmin rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
More like 4.5 stars. A pageturner and very engaging read! Recommend to those who enjoy memoirs or are fans of Viola Davis.
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Jun 12, 2022Carmel Hanes rated it really liked it · review of another edition
Thank you, Elyse, for recommending this book. It was an interesting listen on audible, read by Davis herself.
I've watched this actress over the years and have always admired her skills. This memoir allowed me into the more personal side of her. The good, the bad, and the ugly.
Most of us have baggage from life, and somehow most of us carry it and still manage to scrape together some kind of decent living, putting together families and finding something useful to do with ourselves. But listening to Davis describe her early experiences within her family and at school, I found myself thinking my own baggage would fill a thimble by comparison. Good grief. She had one heck of a north star to follow to somehow believe as a shy black woman who was terrorized as a child she could get into Julliard and make it to Hollywood after those experiences. Heck, who would even want to after all that? I'd go find a dark corner and stay there.
But she did want to. And she did achieve, against all odds. Riding buses for hours to get to where she needed to go, cohabitation with rodents (because she had no choice), continuing to try after being given all manner of reasons why she wasn't selected....her grit and determination is beyond admirable. She dug deeper than most have to and came up with a way to gift the rest of us with the power of her acting chops. As the book finished, all I could think was, "Good for you, Viola. Good for you, girl. You showed yourself, and you showed the world." (less)
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Apr 26, 2022Tae rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Every black woman should read this book. WHEW! This book took my breathe away..
Thank you for Aibileen, thank you for Annalise. Thank you for showing the world that black girls & black women matter
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May 25, 2022Samantha rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: 2022
Finding Me has to be one of the best celebrity memoirs I've ever read.
It was raw, honest, at times heartbreaking and overall inspiring. I loved her openness, vulnerability, and willingness to share some of the most intimate parts of her life. Viola's story is a powerful one and I'm happy she gave us this memoir. ...more
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May 27, 2022Aligermaa rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
There was a pull towards this particular book even before I decided to read it. Now that I have finished it, I think I know why. Her life itself is a real life hero story where she transforms from a struggling kid to a powerful person who not only fights her demons but also helps people around her.
Somehow I always had this strong woman impression from her because of her role in “How to get away with murder”. But that was only a glimpse, a small part of her journey to become that powerful woman.
Only god knows how she got the strength to endure what she’s been through and became today’s Viola Davis that many young girls look up to.
So much respect for her. Love the book. (less)
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Jun 02, 2022Loren rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
I have so much to say about this 5 star book - mostly I am just so appreciative! I have to say this first and foremost - DO NOT READ THIS BOOK! YOU MUST LISTEN TO IT!
I feel honored and privileged to have heard Viola tell her story. From the depths of her survivor soul she "acted" this narrative. I was so moved by her telling of childhood poverty and her mothers struggles with an abusive husband. Viola is just one of many survivors of horrible circumstances - most continue the cycle, she however had the drive to engage in the world, and seemingly do the impossible. She overcame racism in school and racism in her chosen career. Viola speaking her story is a one woman show that I would have paid hundreds of dollars to see.
Breathtaking! (less)
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Jun 06, 2022Kameel rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
This was a well written life story. Ms. Viola was so transparent and honest about her life...this story of sacrifice, drive and determination...I was totally engaged.
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May 04, 2022Tracy Greer- Hansen rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: 2022-favorites
If that first paragraph doesn’t pull you in, check your pulse!
If you love memoirs, RUN to get this book. I didn’t know a lot about this actress but this was utterly compelling. I listened to this book by audio because it was narrated by Ms Viola herself. Her voice has a ferocity and richness that radiated off the pages.
Heart wrenching and raw. “
“The rats were so bad, they ate the faces off my dolls.”
The level of poverty and violence was heavy.
But I laughed out loud so many times too. When she is talking to her surgeon about her upcoming hysterectomy, “If I wake up and my uterus is still here, I am going to kick your ass.”
The places she travelled, the descriptions of Gambia in Africa.
The fish and chips with malt vinegar at the Edinburgh Fringe festival made me homesick.
So many quotes. So many stories that will stay me…. Forever!
“It is futile to ask why, instead ask yourself what have I learned from this? What have I learnt?”
Best memoir I have ever read, hands down! (less)
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May 01, 2022Queen rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: audiobooks-i-own
This woman is now more beautiful in my eyes!!! I loved her before this book! I thought she was beautiful before this book! Learning her struggle depicts more of who the real Viola Davis is and how she became to be! She is wonderfully & beautifully made! Her struggles & strengths give a new perspective to a person who is trying to make it in this world. Her dynamic life displaying impeccable stoicism is very enriching to all that follow her story! This book is phenomenal!
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Jun 01, 2022Victoria rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Viola Davis has always been one of my favorite people, and this really solidified that for me. Her story is both tragic and incredible. I have never been so incredibly engrossed in a non-fiction book before and I was amazed at the story of her life, that I really never knew much about before.
There is also a good amount of discussion about her agent, who was such a dear friend of my family that we miss so much, and it was truly special to hear what his words to her were and what their relationship was like. I had no idea going into this book that this was in there, and the surprise was definitely special.
This wasn't just a typical memoir where you see how they got famous, with funny anecdotes of their famous friends. Yes, there are moments of that here, but they are treated in a much different way and this was so much more. You are really getting the full story of how not only we came to know Viola Davis, but also how she became to know herself.
Please give this book a shot. Even if you aren't very familiar with her (do you live under a rock?), this is still an amazing story of a woman trying to make her way in the world, despite some seemingly impossible obstacles. (less)
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Jun 02, 2022Nakesha Brown rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Powerful! That is all I can say. Powerful memoir. Very open, transparent and inspiring.
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May 13, 2022Jennifer rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
This is one of the best memoirs I have ever listened to.
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May 03, 2022Katie rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
This is probably the best memior I've ever read. There are different quotes in it that are just life changing. Definitely listen to the audiobook because the author narrates it. You won't regret reading this. (less)
====
As I wrote Finding Me, my eyes were open to the truth of how our stories are often not given close examination. We are forced to reinvent them to fit into a crazy, competitive, judgmental world. So I wrote this for anyone running through life untethered, desperate and clawing their way through murky memories, trying to get to some form of self-love.
For anyone who needs reminding that
<a life worth living> can only be born from
- <radical honesty> and
- <the courage to shed facades and be . . . you>.
(This book) <Finding Me> is
- <a deep reflection>,
- <a promise>, and
- <a love letter of sorts to self>.
My hope is that my story will inspire you to
- <light up your own life with creative expression> and
- <rediscover who you were before the world put a label on you>.
<살 가치가 있는 삶>은
- <급진적인 정직>과
- <외면을 버리고 당신이 되려는 용기>에서만
태어날 수 있습니다.
(이 책) <나를 찾아서>는
- 자신에 대한 <깊은 심사숙고>이자
- <약속>이자
- <일종의 러브레터>입니다.
제 이야기가 (당신에게도)
- <자신의 삶을 창의적인 표현으로 밝히고>
- <세상이 당신에게 이름을 붙이기 전의 당신이 누구인지 재발견하도록>
(그런) 영감을 줄 수 있기를 바랍니다.
창의적인 표현으로 자신의 삶을 밝히다
세상이 당신에게 라벨을 붙이기 전에 당신이 누구인지 재발견하십시오
(less)
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Apr 27, 2022Korrie’s Korner rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
GET A COPYKobo
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Published April 26th 2022
ISBN
Average rating4.63 ·
Rating details
· 8,522 ratings · 1,317 reviews
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Apr 27, 2022Korrie’s Korner rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
This has got to be my favorite read of the year. I loved Viola Davis before, but now I’m IN love with her. The immense respect and admiration I have for her is deep. The things she endured as a kid, teen, woman—period. I can honestly say that I’ve never experienced. I’ve never missed a meal for days. I’ve never had to lie in my own urine and go to school the next day reeking. I’ve never had to fight with huge rats over my bed & pillow. I’ve never witness my father beat my mom within an inch of her life and I’ve never experienced racism on the level that Viola has for being too dark. What she went through for being dark skinned, what her mom went through as a child..absolutely horrific.
“Memories are immortal. They’re deathless and precise. They have the power of giving you joy and perspective in hard times. Or, they can strangle you. Define you in a way that’s based more in other people’s tucked-up perceptions than truth.”
The colorism she experienced in the acting world and how they tried to “mold and shape” her into the perfect “white” author. I love how she explained what Shonda Rhimes did for her in creating HTGAWM role for her and the healing that came from that. “Annalise Keating released in me the obstacles blocking me from realizing my worth and power as a woman.”
“As Black women, we are complicated. We are feminine. We are sexual. We are beautiful. We’re pretty. There are people out there who desire us. We are deserving. So that’s why I’m very aware of what my presence means. And that’s why I’m also aware of why I need to be emotionally healthy. Because that’s a lot of responsibility. Because you’re coming up against a four-hundred-year-old narrative.”
How to Get Away with Murder was where my radical transformation took place. In the course of playing Annalise, I understood that I was no longer and never was that ugly Black nigga. The role liberated me. I said to myself: All I’ve got is me. And that is enough. (less)
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May 29, 2022Elyse Walters rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: adventures, american-fiction, favorite-audiobooks, coming-of-age, domestic-suspense, dysfunctional-family, women, biography-autobiography-memoir, audiobook, audiobook-favorite
Audiobook…read by Viola Davis
……9 hours and 15 minutes
I hope everyone is enjoying a healthy happy Memorial Day weekend. Paul and I are.
Sometimes we just want more time to bask in the experience of a magnificent book —- of an magnificent human being - a powerful Black Woman….unbelievable stories…
….this ‘basking’ is one of those times.
I will sit down and put some thoughts together tomorrow….
But for now…..
I can’t recommend this audiobook more.
I’M BACK… Update:
Viola Davis had a story to tell….carved from experiences that shaped who she is. Trying to fully understand her ‘entire’ life story and ‘how’ she survived unfathomable traumatic conditions—for years—as a child —is staggering…..
…..from unbelievable - devastating - insane - crazy - horrific - very abusive childhood conditions…..
Readers will wonder…..why, WHY didn’t ‘anyone’ help? Where the hell were child services?
But……
Viola was not venting her anger, airing her wounds, asking for pity or going after revenge……
Instead she simply tells the facts - the truth - the ugly stories — unapologetic stories from early childhood to present day.
It’s no accident that Time Magazine named Viola Davis one of the 100 most influential people in the world.
More to say about “Finding Me”……
It’s PHENOMENAL!!!! ….as in EXTREMELY and EXTRAORDINARY mesmerizing…..
…..one of the most impactful audiobooks I’ve ever listened to in my life!!!!!! (seriously!)
I’m baffled at just how powerful — brutal - heart wrenching- heartbreaking - heart stopping - and deeply, profoundly ‘soul’-generous Viola Davis is…..in ‘telling all’.
….From poverty and hardships like you’ve never heard……..
….From shyness, shame and unworthiness….
….From unbelievable abuse both at home and in life…
….To the lioness hard working kick ass, talented, determined, authentic powerhouse inspiring human being…..
….Viola Davis is one of the most remarkable persons on the planet.
“Finding Me”…..is a mind-blowing-explosive memoir.
A couple of times, I tried not to cry - but failed. I cried a ‘few’ times.
My tears came when things were getting ‘better’.
I was more in shock when things were bad.
My only regret- I have from listening to Viola read ‘this/her’ memoir so brilliantly—is that I wish I had been part of a small book group -having ongoing discussions—chapter by chapter.
Paul listened to ‘parts’ - but not all of this book —-(he and I had several conversations—but he missed a lot of poignant parts)….
In my opinion— there is not a word wasted - a tale told that doesn’t have a purpose—
Note…
I’m going to go crazy if I try to say here all the things I really want to say…..and readers who are kind enough to read this review will go nuts if I ‘do’ write all I have to say….(so I’ll never succeed)….
But/And/So…….
I am reminded…..
……why - in community - readers & reviewers - can each contribute to each other by bringing up tidbits in ‘each’ of our different reviews…..WE All HELP each other out. Many times another reviewer will express in words….
….our deepest experiences — to fit ours — words we were lacking in accessibility at the time ourselves……( so we need each other to draw out different aspects of books we cherish)
This book needs MANY readers. We need to examine, explore, scrutinize, question, contemplate, dig deep, chew, study, and appraise…..[together-as-community]….a book like this: to be clear …’This Book’: Viola Davis’s memoir. Many lessons - insights - to take away.
Much to learn, reflect, and think about. I’m guessing every reader will continue thinking about this book long after finishing it - certain sections more than others (all for varied reasons)….
After getting past the early(nightmare) childhood years —-Viola began her career (so damn interesting of even how she got from A to B), in Central Falls, Rhode Island….
….Viola had me ‘hanging-by-a-tread’ when she took a 4 hour train ride — to audition - to get into Juilliard ….
OMG….what a story!
And a COMPLETE story ( gets better and better)….
from the audition process - to attending the damn school as a BLACK women who felt she was being asked to HIDE her BLACKNESS— to fit in.
It’s an AMAZING story …..KICK-ASS - cheer-for story …..
during a time when Viola had an opportunity to spend a semester in Africa……
ONE OF MY FAVORITE sections of this book….
….Viola had a chance to practice her craft and learn from the African tribes….(women and blackness was worshiped).
I wanted to stand up - cheer - laugh - scream - cry - ‘root-for- Viola….
I wanted to celebrate her joy, her eye-opening insights….her passion….her love…her loyalty to truth….to integrity….her authenticity…..her boldness, bravery, and discovery into FINDING HERSELF…
Sisterhood in Africa among black women went deep. And here Viola was coming from her school, Juilliard, where she was being classically trained to MAKE EVERY EFFORT to MAKE HER BLACKNESS DISAPPEAR! (shame on the teachers)….
In Africa. …..dark black skin was unapologetically beautiful.
A breakthrough was beginning….
TONS more inspiring tales…..
….Explore themes about ‘temporary’ love (incredibly quality truths)
….Explore….
poverty, extreme hunger, no heat, no running water, frozen pipes, rats, mice, filth, urine smells, thrift clothes, emotional, physical, mental, spiritual trauma, fighting to survive, hopes, dreams, the desire to GO TO SCHOOL, to excel in school, older sister inspiration, racism, blackness, sexism, struggles throughout, white privileges, hard work, training, goals, blessings, deprivations, family, parents, siblings, feelings of worth, fears, responsibilities (“if you make it out…you go back and pull everybody else out”), love, rejection, more love, more rejection, marriage, kids, career highlights (theater, Broadway, movies, TV series, artists, actors, community & camaraderie pride), loneliness, isolation, disillusionments, awkwardness, illness, embarrassments, acceptance, awards, transformation, forgiveness, death, love, therapy, ….
EMOTIONAL HEALTH IS NECESSARY….
….a little luck (impossible without the work), ‘very’ interesting details about the BUSINESS of being a working actor ….
[I know much of these facts - our 40 year old daughter is a steady working actor in Hollywood since childhood]…..
But it was soooo rewarding for me to have Viola spell out the nitty-gritty truths.
People are ignorant- when they negatively bash Hollywood actors — generalize, and lumped everything into their own assumptions.
Viola spells the beans on what the inner circle knows — it’s WORK.
….. only 4% of those in the sag union make enough money to even qualify to take out medical insurance.
And once in a blue moon - it feels like a miracle happened.
As Whoopi Goldberg once said…..
“I’ve been bad a lot. I’ve been good sometimes, and I have been great just a few times”.
When Viola shares her ‘golden’ moments….
….not just winning an Emmy, a Tony nomination, a Golden Globe award, screen actors Guild award, a star on the Hollywood walk of fame, an Academy award for best supporting actress….etc. etc….
Or…
one of the highest rewards: being inducted into the “Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences”…..
but
HER authentic FEELING ALIVE moments (such as working on “Seven Guitars”….filming “”Fences….and that “Broadway” really is as grand as dreamed ….and the growth & gift to filming “How to Get Away With Murder” series …..respecting the real craft of artistry ….relationships….(no longer ashamed for who she is)….
it’s totally wonderfully remarkable to celebrate this outstanding woman.
Paul and I haven’t even finished the first season of “How to Get Away With Murder”, yet….we are late to watch it….but we are loving it …….
……even ‘more’ — since listening to this book.
IT’S SUCH a JOY to share in PURITY and HUMANITY of who Viola Davis is. (less)
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Oct 26, 2021Aden rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Like many people, I discovered Viola from her incredible work on How to Get Away With Murder and have been following her work ever since. So finding out she would be gifting us with a deep memoir of her childhood to her present day life was amazing. It’s always strange to rate non-fiction, especially memoirs, but Viola absolutely killed this. She’s a naturally talented writer and was able to transport me to every event she recalls. From the extreme poverty, the intense physical and sexual abuse, and all the way to Hollywood, Viola paints a perfect image to show you and let you understand her life.
“There is an emotional abandonment that comes with poverty and being Black. The weight of generational trauma and having to fight for your basic needs doesn’t leave room for anything else. You just believe you’re the leftovers.”
Like most readers will probably feel, I thought Viola’s childhood was the most emotional and engaging part of the story. Viola came from absolutely nothing. ‘Po’ as she puts it. Rat invested and pissed soaked beds, emotional and physical abuse, surrounded by and even experiencing sexual abuse, all while growing up as a Black girl in a predominately white area. The name calling from other class mates, the getting chased and beat up, the shame and humility Viola constantly felt, all of it, is absolutely harrowing. The level of courage and bravery needed to overcome some of the things Viola has experienced is extremely high. I feel we should be responsible to listen to her story with open ears and let it all resonate with us because what Viola has written here is so intense and important. She explores several relationships she has involving her family and how those relationships have changed and developed over the years and I just think she did a wonderful job detailing her childhood and how it has affected her later into her career.
“That period of my life was filled with shame. The feeling you get in the pit of your stomach when you have stage fright or humiliation, that was the shame of living in 128. Shame completely eviscerates you, destroys any sense of pride you may have in yourself.”
“I was being catapulted into adulthood. Coming from a childhood of trauma, I needed a radical transformation. I hadn’t been taught how to navigate the world. I hadn’t been taught what could help me grow or live better. I’d been taught to run from the world. I’d been taught how to hide and fight. I hadn’t been taught how to love and be still.”
Viola also details the events of her rise to where she is now and like her childhood, it is extremely upsetting but also very inspiring. Growing up without the tools needed to heal from her trauma, Viola struggled a lot throughout her career, From attending Juilliard, to winning her first Tony, and then to winning her first Oscar, Viola carried that broken little girl with her everywhere. The way she writes about trauma and the healing process is so authentic and I think a lot of readers will find so much from Viola’s wisdom. It feels like Viola wrote this book, not just for for herself, but so many people. For young Black girls with big dreams, for people living in intense poverty without a solution to get out, for mothers, for readers struggling to find a place in the world, for so many people. And that’s so commendable that she was able to write a book so personal but it will affect and help so many people. As Oprah said, buy yourself a copy and buy a friend a copy because once you read your gonna want to talk about it. Thank you for this one Viola! Absolutely amazing.
“The question still echoes, how did I claw my way out? There is no out. Every painful memory, every mentor, every friend and foe serves as a chisel, a leap pad that has shaped “ME!” The imperfect but blessed sculpture that is Viola is still growing and being chiseled. My elixir? I’m no longer ashamed of me. I own everything that has ever happened to me. The parts of me that were a source of shame are actually my warrior fuel. I see people-the way they walk, talk, laugh, and grieve, and their silence-in a way that is hyperfocused because of my past. I’m an artist because there‘s no separation from me and every human being that has passed through the world including my mom. I have a great deal of compassion for other people, but mostly for myself. That would not be the case I did not reconcile that little eight-year-old girl and FIND ME. I’m holding her now. My eight-year-old self. Holding her tight. She is squealing and reminding me, “Don’t worry! I’m here to beat anybody’s ass who messes with our joy! Viola, I got this.” (less)
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May 07, 2022Lyn❤Loves❤Listening #AUDIOBOOKADDICT rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: memoir-biography, nonfiction, cultural, honest-and-heart-breaking, raw-gritty-dark-brutal, 5-plus-stars, audio, amazing-narrator-performance, unforgettable, absolute-favorites
Audio - 5+++++ Stars
Her Story - 5++++++ Raw, Honest, Courageous Stars!
...more
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May 10, 2022Brandice rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
When I heard last year that Viola Davis had a memoir coming out in April, I excitedly added Finding Me to my TBR list and also thought, I actually don't know that much about her but I do know I'm a huge fan — I loved How to Get Away With Murder.
Viola shares her life story, from early childhood in true poverty in Central Falls, Rhode Island, to finding a love of acting and realizing that's what she wanted to do, to pursuing her dream and accepting herself. She is one of six children, grew up in a crowded home where her dad was abusive to her mom, and her and her siblings often went hungry and unclean. My heart broke listening to the stories Viola shared, including befriending kids who she knew would invite her over after school so that she would be fed at their houses. No child should have to think strategically like this in order to eat.
After high school, Viola went to Rhode Island College then on to Juilliard to study acting. She provides the bleak statistics surrounding the film industry and how few actors and actresses are actually able to make it in this space. We all know it's competitive but the information she notes is stark. She starred in roles on Broadway then made an entrance into film and TV. She took most jobs where she could and frequently battled the whitewashing in Hollywood. When Viola did succeed, she sometimes experienced self doubt, with industry standards, in part, to blame.
She also talks about her personal life, sharing health challenges, meeting her husband, and adopting her daughter. Viola is vulnerable and honest and I have a deep appreciation for not just the excellent actress she is, but the person she is — Someone who overcame so much, who will shed labels and be true to herself. The audiobook of Finding Me is narrated by Viola and this is, in unshocking news, the way to go. (less)
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Jun 22, 2022Olivia (Stories For Coffee) rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: audiobook, memoirs, nonfiction, favorites, 2022-favorites
This is one of my most anticipated reads, ever, because I’m such a big fan of Viola Davis, and it quickly became one of my favorite memoirs, ever.
Viola is so incredibly raw and honest when sharing stories from her childhood, her journey into being an actress, and the lessons she learned along the way as a daughter, wife, mother, and artist. She highlights the brutal racism she had to deal with as a child, the abuse she faced from family members, what it was like to grow up in poverty, and her deep desire to make something more out of her life.
Full of wisdom, love, and light, listening to Viola narrate her story elevates the experience of this book because she so expertly packs so much emotion into each sentence that was spoken.
I’m honored to learn more about one of my heroes and am utterly in awe of her journey that was gorgeously written, honest, and unforgettable. (less)
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Apr 07, 2022#AskMissPatience rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Viola Davis’s Finding Me stopped me dead in my tracks. “Who are you”, Will Smith inquires.
Ms. Davis didn’t immediately understand the question. When Mr. Smith explained what he meant she hit a revelation.
Here I stopped the audio. Even though owning the hardback was an absolute. The audio is as well. Hearing Ms. Davis share her truth is as important to me as Ms. Tyson sharing hers the day she died when the audio showed up in my Audible.
Aware of Ms. Davis’s childhood prior to this book see her relationship to those events in a new light. One that split the darkness of mine.
It just so happens while working with a counselor the VA assigned me we came to a point recently. Connecting my military PTSD from where it began during service of the nation to a meaning of unexpected importance.
The moment Ms. Davis shares who she is. I asked myself the same question.
Having a similar backstory in many ways to Ms. Davis feel like we could have grow up best friends.
I was treated very similarly. So much so my parents named my first pet, Ugly.
It wasn’t until I grew up realized their view was their own and not who I am.
The relationship I have to the question, Who am I helped me love Ms. Davis more. Which I didn’t think I could or needed.
Ms. Davis for who she was before fame is the reason I chose her as a hero. I knew this book would be important to me. Though didn’t expect this much.
Before continuing paused to add this to the start of a review.
How does one review a life so heartbreakingly lived so generously.
Thank you Ms. Davis. Being brave and vulnerable is painful for me still. Thank you for leading your story. I know I’m not the only one who is and will be impacted.
Through you through me to others it’s my hope whoever is touched will find Hope. Peace. Joy in the wounds of why they are, too.
I’ll be adding and doing a full review. Couldn’t wait to share because of the size of the vibe and importance to me. Maybe you as well.
Stay tuned … more to come …
/\ update
Preorder heaven: hardcover, audio, asking the library to order so other people can borrow it, letting ya’ll know on #goodreads I’m excited. Tic tock … April 26th can’t arrive quick enough ❤️ (less)
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May 16, 2022Brittany McCann rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: woman-empowering, reviews, musestt, 5-stars, 2022-challenge, non-fiction, biographical
I love Viola Davis. I love that she has always stood out as herself. She is unapologetically beautiful from her soul to her skin. She is brave when others would balk. She has bared her heart to the public to be an example and to let others know it is okay to be yourself, even if that is different from whatever B.S. society labels as "normal" or "acceptable" or "beautiful". She is well-deserving of all accolades she has been awarded and many more.
I cried so many times listening to this. I connected to so many parts of this book in many different emotional and mental ways. I have tears in my eyes just thinking about how to do this book justice with a mere review.
Viola reading it to me (go with the audio please please) was incredibly personal and intimate feeling. Finding Me is raw and real and it feels like you are sitting there in a room with Viola and she is telling you about her life. And my lord, what a life. What a feat to have escaped, let alone found the spotlight. She is not trying to make you feel sorry for her, she is merely baring her soul and allowing you, as the reader, in to her introspection of how she become the spectacular woman that she is today.
Feeling like I was in the room listening to her story, made me want to reach out and just hug her and let her know that she is worthy and how her light shines through in the world. I just wanted her to know that she is loved and I wanted to hug her family.
I started out from a poverty stance, but I was blessed in mine due to the help of many other and family that helped save us. As an adult when the economy crashed I was at the mercy of family and especially my grandmother, without her things could have been a lot worse. There was abuse on a much lesser scale, but it helped me find an inkling of relatability and to feel for a small percentage of the terrors she experienced.
Nothing I experienced can even glimpse a moment in the Davis family life of poverty so extreme that it is almost unfathomable, of abuse and fear and guilt and things I can't even put words to. To have gotten away in any semblance of life and to still be so strong and to still put so much of herself into others and be so caring and kind. I can't do this justice. You have to hear it in Viola's words.
Can we all just exude a bit more kindness and compassion and freaking assistance when someone is struggling, because NO ONE can see the unimaginable battles that each individual is facing in life.
I hope to hug you one day, Viola. It feels weirdly important to me to do this. I'm a hugger.
5+ stars. The writing was extremely well done and the flow was impeccable. (less)
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May 05, 2022LeeTravelGoddess rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: tops
BAY-BEEEHHH.
STOP WHAT YOU ARE DOING AND RUN, RUUUNNN TO THE BOOKSTORE AND BUY THIS BOOK, YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!! ITS A TOPS!!! 💚💚💚
The way in which I can relate to this memoir is astounding… I had no clue that I shared so many things with Miss. Vee!
I love the relationship she shares with her mom… imma go ahead and call my mother a great love of mine because SHE JUST IS!!! 💚💚💚 thank you for helping me see this Vee.
She and her sisters simply gave me life! As a girlie with only brothers, I quite enjoy seeing, hearing and knowing women with sisters because that dynamic to me is soooo precious. I’d be a dangerous woman had I had a couple of sisters lol! Shout out to y’all for sticking together cause honey me and my brothers are TIGHT LIKE GLUE!
I also love her story about her hubby, chiiiiiiile— AINT NOTHING LIKE A SOUTHERN MAN… I too, tend to lean towards them as well because they simply understand so much! This is not a diss to any other men in the world, cause #IYKYK 😘 and there it is.
Lastly, what a journey. WHAT A FREAKIN JOURNEY! I SAW Vee when she played in Antwone Fisher. She captivated me in such a small amount of time on screen!!! I now need to go back and watch “Doubt,” & “City of Angels.” Of course I loved her in “The Help” as well as “How to Get Away With Murder.” Hell! She had me ready to go and grab a JD!!!
I can say so much about how our life events sorta overlap but this is her story so I will leave it there. Never once did I think that she was unpretty or undesirable… but what I will say ISSSS that NO ONE ON THIS PLANET SLINGS SNOT LIKE LADY VIOLA DAVISSSSSS!!! Just prepare to cry when she cries, smile when she smiles, level up when she’s on the screen bossing it up and such and such & this and that 😂.
I AM THEEEE memoir girl. Vee, what a beautiful story, I’m now headed to Malik’s Books for the hardcopy cause my shelf NEEDS this beautiful book!!!
WOW. 💚✨💚✨💚✨ (less)
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May 28, 2022leah rated it really liked it · review of another edition
Shelves: non-fiction, memoirs
such a devastating memoir, but also so incredibly beautiful and hopeful at the same time. i am (even more so now) in awe of viola davis’ strength, resilience, talent, determination, and candour. this was also my first audiobook, and i couldn’t have picked a better one to start with because viola’s performance was truly incredible.
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May 16, 2022Ellie Jennings rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
2 notes & 12 highlights
This book was powerful, beautiful, and deeply authentic, much like the woman herself. Viola is such an inspiration and I applaud her vulnerability and willingness to share her journey with the world.
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Jun 14, 2022Traci Thomas rated it really liked it · review of another edition
This is a very good celebrity memoir. I listened to the audiobook and Davis reads it and her voice and her narration are perfection. I loved hearing more about her story and her life and family. Much of her story was very emotional and well told. I didn't know much of it at all. The book feels a little disjointed throughout and wished she'd spent a little more time on her films and general acting experiences. She doesn't even mention many of her film and TV credits. Its a very good book but it left me wanting. (less)
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May 14, 2022Sharon Mundia rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Listened to this as an audio book and oh 👏🏾 my 👏🏾 goodness 👏🏾
I knew it was gonna be a winner when I was on Chapter 1 and found myself fighting back tears. Viola Davis is an absolutely incredible woman and I’m in awe of her journey. So inspired! 💪🏾
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Apr 13, 2022aarya rated it liked it · review of another edition
Shelves: author-of-color, theme-c-celebrity, s-1945-1990-cold-war-civil-rights, theme-racial-injustice, read-via-audio, owned-in-audio-libro, nonfic-autobio-memoir, theme-music-theater-film-dance, s-usa, theme-r-christianity-catholicism
Content Notes: (view spoiler)
3.5 stars
I knew nothing about Davis outside the few movies I’ve watched, but this memoir was still intriguing. There weren't as many behind-the-scenes stories about Davis's roles as I expected, and the last third skipped past Davis's accomplishments very quickly post-2005. That was the least compelling aspect because it felt like a rapid listing of cool events, not deeper introspection.
Still, the first half concerning Davis's childhood was gripping and heartbreaking (be warned for discussions of domestic violence and sexual abuse). I recommend the audiobook (as you can imagine, Viola Davis has a fantastic voice!). Read via audio.
Disclaimer: I received a free audiobook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. (less)
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Jun 15, 2022Kyle Erickson rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
This book is the reason I read memoirs. It was a whirlwind of emotion that was an absolute tour de force to read. It is by no means an easy read, but Viola Davis's life story, introspection, perseverance, and grit being beautifully told will have you glued to the page. I listened to this in one day, over the course of a few sittings, and could not stop. Davis's narration is excellent also, enhancing the narrative with tons of emotion. This is the type of book that leaves a mark on you. Without a doubt, this is one of my favorite memoirs I've ever read. (less)
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May 03, 2022LJ rated it it was ok · review of another edition
Shelves: abandoned
Abandoned this book about half way through ...
I didn't like the format, but I appreciated Viola's narration. This memoir is like a conversation with Viola Davis, it doesn't have any real structure and I didn't feel like I learned anything inspiring. As far as a book for black women? It's not. This is one of those stories to teach white people/people of any other race how hard some black people have had it. I believe her story probably has potential to be great but I personally could not enjoy it in this casual, overly descriptive narrative format. (less)
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Apr 29, 2022Yasmin rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
More like 4.5 stars. A pageturner and very engaging read! Recommend to those who enjoy memoirs or are fans of Viola Davis.
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Jun 12, 2022Carmel Hanes rated it really liked it · review of another edition
Thank you, Elyse, for recommending this book. It was an interesting listen on audible, read by Davis herself.
I've watched this actress over the years and have always admired her skills. This memoir allowed me into the more personal side of her. The good, the bad, and the ugly.
Most of us have baggage from life, and somehow most of us carry it and still manage to scrape together some kind of decent living, putting together families and finding something useful to do with ourselves. But listening to Davis describe her early experiences within her family and at school, I found myself thinking my own baggage would fill a thimble by comparison. Good grief. She had one heck of a north star to follow to somehow believe as a shy black woman who was terrorized as a child she could get into Julliard and make it to Hollywood after those experiences. Heck, who would even want to after all that? I'd go find a dark corner and stay there.
But she did want to. And she did achieve, against all odds. Riding buses for hours to get to where she needed to go, cohabitation with rodents (because she had no choice), continuing to try after being given all manner of reasons why she wasn't selected....her grit and determination is beyond admirable. She dug deeper than most have to and came up with a way to gift the rest of us with the power of her acting chops. As the book finished, all I could think was, "Good for you, Viola. Good for you, girl. You showed yourself, and you showed the world." (less)
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Apr 26, 2022Tae rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Every black woman should read this book. WHEW! This book took my breathe away..
Thank you for Aibileen, thank you for Annalise. Thank you for showing the world that black girls & black women matter
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May 25, 2022Samantha rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: 2022
Finding Me has to be one of the best celebrity memoirs I've ever read.
It was raw, honest, at times heartbreaking and overall inspiring. I loved her openness, vulnerability, and willingness to share some of the most intimate parts of her life. Viola's story is a powerful one and I'm happy she gave us this memoir. ...more
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May 27, 2022Aligermaa rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
There was a pull towards this particular book even before I decided to read it. Now that I have finished it, I think I know why. Her life itself is a real life hero story where she transforms from a struggling kid to a powerful person who not only fights her demons but also helps people around her.
Somehow I always had this strong woman impression from her because of her role in “How to get away with murder”. But that was only a glimpse, a small part of her journey to become that powerful woman.
Only god knows how she got the strength to endure what she’s been through and became today’s Viola Davis that many young girls look up to.
So much respect for her. Love the book. (less)
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Jun 02, 2022Loren rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
I have so much to say about this 5 star book - mostly I am just so appreciative! I have to say this first and foremost - DO NOT READ THIS BOOK! YOU MUST LISTEN TO IT!
I feel honored and privileged to have heard Viola tell her story. From the depths of her survivor soul she "acted" this narrative. I was so moved by her telling of childhood poverty and her mothers struggles with an abusive husband. Viola is just one of many survivors of horrible circumstances - most continue the cycle, she however had the drive to engage in the world, and seemingly do the impossible. She overcame racism in school and racism in her chosen career. Viola speaking her story is a one woman show that I would have paid hundreds of dollars to see.
Breathtaking! (less)
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Jun 06, 2022Kameel rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
This was a well written life story. Ms. Viola was so transparent and honest about her life...this story of sacrifice, drive and determination...I was totally engaged.
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May 04, 2022Tracy Greer- Hansen rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: 2022-favorites
If that first paragraph doesn’t pull you in, check your pulse!
If you love memoirs, RUN to get this book. I didn’t know a lot about this actress but this was utterly compelling. I listened to this book by audio because it was narrated by Ms Viola herself. Her voice has a ferocity and richness that radiated off the pages.
Heart wrenching and raw. “
“The rats were so bad, they ate the faces off my dolls.”
The level of poverty and violence was heavy.
But I laughed out loud so many times too. When she is talking to her surgeon about her upcoming hysterectomy, “If I wake up and my uterus is still here, I am going to kick your ass.”
The places she travelled, the descriptions of Gambia in Africa.
The fish and chips with malt vinegar at the Edinburgh Fringe festival made me homesick.
So many quotes. So many stories that will stay me…. Forever!
“It is futile to ask why, instead ask yourself what have I learned from this? What have I learnt?”
Best memoir I have ever read, hands down! (less)
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May 01, 2022Queen rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Shelves: audiobooks-i-own
This woman is now more beautiful in my eyes!!! I loved her before this book! I thought she was beautiful before this book! Learning her struggle depicts more of who the real Viola Davis is and how she became to be! She is wonderfully & beautifully made! Her struggles & strengths give a new perspective to a person who is trying to make it in this world. Her dynamic life displaying impeccable stoicism is very enriching to all that follow her story! This book is phenomenal!
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Jun 01, 2022Victoria rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Viola Davis has always been one of my favorite people, and this really solidified that for me. Her story is both tragic and incredible. I have never been so incredibly engrossed in a non-fiction book before and I was amazed at the story of her life, that I really never knew much about before.
There is also a good amount of discussion about her agent, who was such a dear friend of my family that we miss so much, and it was truly special to hear what his words to her were and what their relationship was like. I had no idea going into this book that this was in there, and the surprise was definitely special.
This wasn't just a typical memoir where you see how they got famous, with funny anecdotes of their famous friends. Yes, there are moments of that here, but they are treated in a much different way and this was so much more. You are really getting the full story of how not only we came to know Viola Davis, but also how she became to know herself.
Please give this book a shot. Even if you aren't very familiar with her (do you live under a rock?), this is still an amazing story of a woman trying to make her way in the world, despite some seemingly impossible obstacles. (less)
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Jun 02, 2022Nakesha Brown rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Powerful! That is all I can say. Powerful memoir. Very open, transparent and inspiring.
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May 13, 2022Jennifer rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
This is one of the best memoirs I have ever listened to.
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May 03, 2022Katie rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
This is probably the best memior I've ever read. There are different quotes in it that are just life changing. Definitely listen to the audiobook because the author narrates it. You won't regret reading this. (less)
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Finding Me: A Memoir - THE INSTANT SUNDAY TIMES & #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER Paperback – 26 April 2022
by Viola Davis (Author)
4.8 out of 5 stars 4,976 ratings
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by Viola Davis (Author)
4.8 out of 5 stars 4,976 ratings
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In my book, you will meet a little girl named Viola who ran from her past until she made a life changing decision to stop running forever.
This is my story, from a crumbling apartment in Central Falls, Rhode Island, to the stage in New York City, and beyond. This is the path I took to finding my purpose and my strength, but also to finding my voice in a world that didn't always see me.
As I wrote Finding Me, my eyes were open to the truth of how our stories are often not given close examination. They are bogarted, reinvented to fit into a crazy, competitive, judgmental world. So I wrote this for anyone who is searching for a way to understand and overcome a complicated past, let go of shame, and find acceptance. For anyone who needs reminding that a life worth living can only be born from radical honesty and the courage to shed facades and be...you.
Finding Me is a deep reflection on my past and a promise for my future. My hope is that my story will inspire you to light up your own life with creative expression and rediscover who you were before the world put a label on you.
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Print length
416 pages
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Book Description
FINDING ME is the deeply personal, brutally honest account of Viola's inspiring life, from her coming-of-age in Rhode Island to her present-day career.
From the Publisher
Viola Davis is an internationally acclaimed actress and producer, known for her exceptional performances in television shows such as How to Get Away with Murder and movies such as Fences and The Help. She is the winner of an Academy Award, an Emmy Award, and two Tony Awards, and in 2021 she won a Screen Actors Guild Award for her role in Ma Rainey's Black Bottom. In both 2012 and 2017, TIME magazine named her one of the
100 most influential people in the world. Davis is also the founder and CEO of JuVee Productions, an artist-driven production company that develops and produces in- dependent film, theatre, television, and digital content.
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Product details
Publisher : Coronet; 1st edition (26 April 2022)
Language : English
Paperback : 416 pages
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Customer reviews
4.8 out of 5 stars
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Top reviews from Australia
Kristie-Lee Cooley
5.0 out of 5 stars Honest and raw. An enjoyable read.
Reviewed in Australia on 19 June 2022
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It's a very honest and raw memoir. Davis shares her heartbreaking experiences of poverty and abuse, and her journey to success. I love reading memoirs and this one has certainly had me hooked from the very beginning. Davis creates an emotional experience for the reader through her effective writing style. Her use of diction helps to make the memoir a more engaging and sophisticated read.
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Lorena
5.0 out of 5 stars Extraordinary
Reviewed in Australia on 2 June 2022
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Beautifully telling history. Incredible and strong achievements. Proud of her. Narrative so emotional that made me close, intimate, celebrating her victories together.
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Ana Martin
5.0 out of 5 stars Raw and Honest!!
Reviewed in Australia on 10 June 2022
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I loved her, honestly and willingness to share her trauma and her imperfections!
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James
5.0 out of 5 stars There she is
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 26 April 2022
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As soon as I heard the news all those months ago that Viola was releasing a book, I jumped at the chance of pre-ordering. After watching her numerous career defining performances over the years in Ma Raineys Black Bottom, HTGAWM, Fences, she opens up a chapter that is not always so accessible to the public. In ‘Finding Me’, we are reminded that this woman is not only one of the greatest actors of all time, but a truly courageous survivor. Congrats on everything, Viola!
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KJ
5.0 out of 5 stars Oprah was right
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 1 May 2022
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This is a life changing read - real, raw, deeply moving and profoundly wise. If you need a wake up call, some perspective on life - to help you see all the opportunity, ease, potential and power you are not leveraging - read this. I read it in one sitting.
I am in awe of the strength it must have taken Viola not just to survive her early life, but to retell it. This story goes deep into the unimaginable terror, pain and darkness she faced daily throughout childhood, and her immense years long struggle to transform herself and her life into one of love and light. It's so inspiring, so beautiful. It makes me see my own life very differently.
Thank you for sharing your "hero's journey" Viola. You should be so proud.
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Robert ‘Bob’ Macespera
4.0 out of 5 stars A good book
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 June 2022
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Viola Davis has become one of the most respected actors of hers and possibly any other generation. Still in her mid-fifties she's won all possible awards, not only in cinema but in the theatre and TV, and she does have indeed a long career ahead of her. With a non-conventional look, she was often cast as the dull public servant (Traffic and Syriana), teacher (Doubt) or the repudiated girlfriend (Out of Sight). She exploded in The Help, with the Oscar in that one going to the wrong actress, and then she started carrying the pictures, yet never leaving completely characters coming from the sidelines or as she tells quite funnily in this book, it took her almost 20 years (until "How to get away with murder") to have a husband and a lover in the same movie, something almost all white actors, men and women, do have early in their careers.
When the book was announced months ago it was a nice surprise. The woman we love to love in the screen will tell her life. And now, down to matters, how good is the book?
It is good, sincere, shocking and well written. Ms Davies has pulled no stops and she does tell the poverty (or "po" i.e. below poverty, as her family called it), the sexual abuses, the family dramas and a painfully slow ascent to Hollywood stardom. The first half of the book is the best. The appalling conditions of a household plagued with violence, alcohol abuse and incest are sometimes a hard read, but the author keeps us in line. There's always an anecdote to lighten the text - the bullfrogs and some characters around the family; and these are very welcome.
Then comes the "call" to the stage and a slow progression to the top. Ms Davies never ceases to be star-strucked (as when she 's invited to George Clooney's house in Italy) or when she acts merely silly in front of Meryl Streep. This part is good, but a tad conventional - the prose is still good but there’s less passion. However, the text progresses well and in the end we finish the read closer to the author and at the same time wanting to know more of her.
On the bad side? Too many references on monies and salaries. Ms Davies tells us how much she made at every step of the ladder. Also, the book is written by an actor (and a very good one), but we read little of the process of the movies beyond the audition (and the salary), and many important pictures (and directors and fellow actors) are not even mentioned. We expected a bit more from inside the movies.
But in the end, it is a good book by a wonderful actor and a better even human being.
A note. Apart from an autobiography, this book is, to these eyes, a cry to the Governments and specifically to that of the USA. It is appalling and unjust and simply inadmissible, that a family of six children has to suffer as Ms Davies did: at sub-zero temperatures in a small and deranged flat, without electricity, warm water and often without water at all because the pipes froze and blocked. And this did not happen in Dickensian days but in the mid-seventies and only a handful of miles away from the New York of Wall Street and Park Avenue. Capitalism is the only economical system that works. Fact. But not everything can be left to the "invisible hand" and the powers of the market. The States, starting by the more powerful ones cannot have people, whole families, living in those conditions and must have in place a social security system effective enough so parts of their populations do not starve or go through such harsh conditions. Viola Davis’ story is that of her family as well as of many families suffering the same today.
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Meldabird
5.0 out of 5 stars Wow!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 18 May 2022
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Over the years Viola has truly grown on me. Not only is she such a gifted actress, but she has to be by far one of THE most eloquent public speakers with such a natural gift for words. I could listen to her all day long. When I found out she was going to write a memoir I couldn’t wait as I knew what she would write would be special. Now, dear reader, in biographies there is honest (where there is an element of gloss to make you look good) and there is HONEST (no holds barred to the point you are putting your soul on the floor). Viola is the latter. My jaw hit the floor many times. I feel awful, as there must of been many young people like Viola that I went to school who looked practically neglected, but they are the ones who triumphed as they were exposed from a young age the struggles and hard-knocks of life. I want to say thank you to Viola for sharing your gifts so generously with the world and showing a side many don’t see. Thank you for your vulnerability, as there are many people out there struggling and you have shown there is a way out.
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Afreeka
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautifully raw!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 2 May 2022
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"Finding Me" is a story of hope, survival and acceptance of oneself. Viola takes us through her childhood right to her present and hides nothing from us, I cried with her, sympathised with her, rooted for her, was excited for her, everything!
This book is for anyone who wants to be more, who wants to live and thrive. It's for people of all races but especially for black girls/women, you are beautiful, you are worthy, you are desirable, you are smart, you are YOU. Viola encourages you to find yourself.
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