OPRAH’S BOOK CLUB PICK • A HARPERS BAZAAR BEST BOOK OF 2022 • A PARADE MOST ANTICIPATED BOOK • A MARIE CLAIRE MOST ANTICIPATED BOOK
“It’s clear from the primary web page that Davis goes to serve a extra intimate, unpolished account than is typical of the typical (usually ghost-written) superstar memoir; Discovering Me reads like Davis is sitting you down for a one-on-one dialog about her life, warts and all.”—USA At this time
“[A] fulfilling narrative of battle and success….Her attractive storytelling will encourage anybody wishing to shed outdated labels.”—Los Angeles Instances
In my e-book, you’ll meet a bit of woman named Viola who ran from her previous till she made a life-changing resolution to cease working eternally.
That is my story, from a crumbling house in Central Falls, Rhode Island, to the stage in New York Metropolis, and past. That is the trail I took to discovering my goal but additionally my voice in a world that didn’t all the time see me.
As I wrote Discovering Me, my eyes had been open to the reality of how our tales are sometimes not given shut examination. We’re pressured to reinvent them to suit right into a loopy, aggressive, judgmental world. So I wrote this for anybody working by life untethered, determined and clawing their method by murky recollections, attempting to get to some type of self-love. For anybody who wants reminding {that a} life price dwelling can solely be born from radical honesty and the braveness to shed facades and be . . . you.
Discovering Me is a deep reflection, a promise, and a love letter of kinds to self. My hope is that my story will encourage you to mild up your personal life with inventive expression and rediscover who you had been earlier than the world put a label on you.
Matthew Jordan Smith –
Prepare to be captivated, inspired, and profoundly moved by Viola Davis’s remarkable memoir, FINDING ME. This book is an absolute tour de force, taking readers on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery, resilience, and triumph.From the very first page, Davis’s eloquent and raw storytelling grips your heart and refuses to let go. Her words dance off the page, painting vivid pictures of her experiences and emotions, making you feel like you’re right there beside her, sharing in her triumphs and tribulations.FINDING ME is so much more than a celebrity memoir. It transcends fame and Hollywood, delving deep into the core of humanity and the universal quest for identity and belonging. Davis fearlessly opens up about her childhood in poverty, her struggles with racism and discrimination, and the challenges she faced on her path to success. Through her candid revelations, she sheds light on the larger issues of social injustice, racial inequality, and the power dynamics that persist in our society.What truly sets this memoir apart is Davis’s unyielding authenticity. Her honesty is a breath of fresh air in an age of carefully curated facades. She lays bare her insecurities, her fears, and her vulnerabilities, proving that strength and vulnerability can coexist harmoniously. It’s a reminder to us all that our scars are not something to be hidden but to be embraced, for they shape us into the individuals we are today.But beyond the hardships, FINDING ME is also a story of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of passion. Davis’s unwavering determination to make her mark in the acting world is awe-inspiring. She breaks barriers and defies the odds, carving out her own space in an industry that often underrepresents and undervalues people of color. Her journey serves as a powerful testament to the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams.Reading this memoir is like having a front-row seat to the transformation of a remarkable woman. Davis’s profound insights and wisdom peppered throughout the book leave an indelible impact on the reader’s mind and heart. She encourages us to embrace our true selves, to find our voices, and to stand tall in the face of adversity. Her words resonate long after the last page is turned, echoing the power of self-love, self-acceptance, and the pursuit of our passions.In FINDING ME, Viola Davis has given us a gift—a gift of vulnerability, courage, and inspiration. This book is a beacon of light for anyone navigating the complexities of identity, society, or personal growth. Whether you’re a fan of Davis’s acting or simply someone in search of a transformative memoir, this is a must-read. Prepare to be moved, to be challenged, and to emerge with a renewed sense of purpose and self.Bravo, Viola Davis, for sharing your extraordinary journey with the world. FINDING ME is a masterpiece that will leave an indelible mark on its readers and remind us all that our stories matter.Matthew Jordan Smith
christine lindsay –
Her narrative was powerful . She was able to tell about her painful childhood without hate and malice . It’s truly beautiful to see she forgave her family and became the best she could be !
Jaclyn Guess –
I felt so much reading this book! It’s incredible how she navigated this world and with so much hardship is such a refined soul!
Anita –
This was such a real and heartfelt book!
Kp –
I love her thoughts on paper
Cydney Renee –
Viola Davis is one of my favorite actresses of all time. I have always thought she was a spectacularly stunning woman whose talent stood apart from that, and that she was the best of her class; forever choosing roles that are monumental and healing for the plight of Black women over time.This novel was an incredible capture of the life of a woman who did not always feel that she was spectacularly stunning or the best of her class—all because of the darkness of her skin, her facial features, and the way she carried herself; trauma and all.This memoir made me laugh and cry. It made me feel that much more grateful for the roles she’s chosen, and how she’s poured her life’s experiences into them, being vulnerable with audiences long before we knew about her past.Davis is an incredible storyteller. In fact, my critique of this novel, is actually the thing I loved most about it: it comes across as if Viola has invited you over, sat across the kitchen table with you, grabbed your hands, and laughed and cried as she tells her story. It felt like the time you spend with your mother and grandmothers and aunties where they talk about “back then” and you find out how horrifically strong everyone had to be, and how desensitized they had to be to live through it. Davis doesn’t detach from her tale, though—she allows us to know how she felt and how it makes her feel now.A truly invaluable tale. 5 stars.
mona –
Amazing! Inspiring! Her strength in her writing comes from her back ground, Her childhood, family life, poverty , Terrible home life, Yet she had love. She loved her family and her family loved her There was love that existed despite the extreme poverty. That is how she survived, evolved with sheer determination and self healed a work in progress throughout her life, and found her happiness as a human being against all odds.She is a great actress whom I admired but more than that , she is a great human being who won in the game of life where she was dealt with terrible cards.My hats off to Viola , the Human to Viola who is a good daughter, good sister, good wife and a mother on top of being an Oscar winning actress! She is the winner all the way. Kudos to you Viola! I admire you for every thing you are.
PWms –
I really enjoyed reading the book. A look into the beginning of an amazing person
Ms P –
This book is riveting. I could not put it down. I love Ms Viola. She is one of my favorite actors and now I know that she is an amazing writer You need to know that this book is a hard read but worth every moment of your time. Buy this book.
willjam52 –
Bought it for my spouse… she loved it.Great Buy …
Catherine –
I love Violas transparency- it took me to places I’ve been mentally before. I love this memoir
RONNIEW –
I have always admired Ms. Davis and can say that it is now at a new level after reading her auto-biography. I have heard from various interviews the challenges she faced in her youth and during her acting career, however, this book takes the reader on a raw more in-depth look into this incredible human being. I laughed, cried and realized that we (and our experiences) are more alike than different. Will definitely recommend to others who want to take a deeper dive into the life of this beautiful and talented soul.
Barbara Freeny –
This book was so raw, authentic leaving you wanting more. I was so inspired how she pushed through her trauma to become one of the most respected artist in Hollywood.
Dejah –
I’m only on Chapter 8 and I’m LOVING THIS BOOK!!! I definitely recommend!!
Dena A. Bell –
Made me cry, cheer, laugh and how to embrace my 5 year old self
LDMP. –
This book reminds me so much about my childhood. I knew watching her work on film that there was something special about this lady, I am a bigger fan of her after reading this book. Thank you so much for your honesty and courage. Great book.
Janet Kuhlmeyer –
I learned so much about finding one’s self. Viola shows us that shame and embarrassment can also, positively, fuel growth and goal fulfillment.
Matthew Jordan Smith –
Prepare to be captivated, inspired, and profoundly moved by Viola Davis’s remarkable memoir, FINDING ME. This book is an absolute tour de force, taking readers on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery, resilience, and triumph.From the very first page, Davis’s eloquent and raw storytelling grips your heart and refuses to let go. Her words dance off the page, painting vivid pictures of her experiences and emotions, making you feel like you’re right there beside her, sharing in her triumphs and tribulations.FINDING ME is so much more than a celebrity memoir. It transcends fame and Hollywood, delving deep into the core of humanity and the universal quest for identity and belonging. Davis fearlessly opens up about her childhood in poverty, her struggles with racism and discrimination, and the challenges she faced on her path to success. Through her candid revelations, she sheds light on the larger issues of social injustice, racial inequality, and the power dynamics that persist in our society.What truly sets this memoir apart is Davis’s unyielding authenticity. Her honesty is a breath of fresh air in an age of carefully curated facades. She lays bare her insecurities, her fears, and her vulnerabilities, proving that strength and vulnerability can coexist harmoniously. It’s a reminder to us all that our scars are not something to be hidden but to be embraced, for they shape us into the individuals we are today.But beyond the hardships, FINDING ME is also a story of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of passion. Davis’s unwavering determination to make her mark in the acting world is awe-inspiring. She breaks barriers and defies the odds, carving out her own space in an industry that often underrepresents and undervalues people of color. Her journey serves as a powerful testament to the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams.Reading this memoir is like having a front-row seat to the transformation of a remarkable woman. Davis’s profound insights and wisdom peppered throughout the book leave an indelible impact on the reader’s mind and heart. She encourages us to embrace our true selves, to find our voices, and to stand tall in the face of adversity. Her words resonate long after the last page is turned, echoing the power of self-love, self-acceptance, and the pursuit of our passions.In FINDING ME, Viola Davis has given us a gift—a gift of vulnerability, courage, and inspiration. This book is a beacon of light for anyone navigating the complexities of identity, society, or personal growth. Whether you’re a fan of Davis’s acting or simply someone in search of a transformative memoir, this is a must-read. Prepare to be moved, to be challenged, and to emerge with a renewed sense of purpose and self.Bravo, Viola Davis, for sharing your extraordinary journey with the world. FINDING ME is a masterpiece that will leave an indelible mark on its readers and remind us all that our stories matter.Matthew Jordan Smith
Jack Cohen –
This is a stunning and compelling memoir, beautifully written straight from the heart. I’ve seen Viola Davis in movies, admired her as a great actor, turns out she’s a fine writer as well. She describes in painful detail how growing up poor and deprived leads to a lack of confidence and self-esteem, difficult to overcome. Hence the title of her story, descriptive of her journey towards a successful and fulfilling life. One fault in this book, too much time spent on her traumatic early years, less time spent on the details of her adult life, but I’m sure she felt this was necessary to tell the story of her journey. Overall a great read.
Keish –
Purchased as a gift for my mom and she read the book in three days. She said she couldn’t put it down and recommended I order me one and read it.
Nicole L Horobec –
Amazing book
Shelley C. Grossman –
A brutally honest story of triumph over abuse, alcoholism and poverty. Life is very difficult and hard for so many. I’m glad that I read it.
iBizDevelop –
Viola’s life’s journey leads her from fear, pain, and loneliness to a life of a beautiful wife, mother & adored actress while her parents are still alive. This is a blessing because God gives her and her family ample time to heal some of the old family wounds that can hurt for a lifetime. Not to spoil your read. “She is triumphant!”
Shawn –
I love Viola Davis. I can’t believe what she went through as a child growing up. It was unimaginableI read this book in 3 days..it was heartbreaking and uplifting
Anne H –
Every person should read this book. It illuminates the cost of trauma and the joy of rebirth with a voice as clear as a bell! Bravo, Ms. Davis. Thank you.
Roy W. –
If you love Viola as an actress, you will love reading how she made it. A definite page turner. Finished it in 2 days!
A Rex –
The scenes were so well written by telling it exactly as it is with colorful language — raw and real. I came away feeling like I knew every character and fell in love with them along the way. I am so happy Viola made her way to the stage. I never miss a movie you are in. I’m applauding very loudly – forever. Thank you!
Kam –
I enjoyed learning about Viola Davis’s life. It was hard to read about the details of her struggles since a child. It was a joy to read about her accomplishments personally and professionally. I highly recommend this book!
Jessica Macaluso –
Viola Davis is a wonderful writer. Such a good book and impactful story.
Bing –
Viola Davis tells her story of struggle through man challenging times. She works to reconcile with her past to find herself and a life of integrity. This memoir includes painful stories, but it leads to meaningful growth and joy. Great read!
Tehuti B. –
Viola Davis’s book is phenomenal. Her journey to self-love is a great example of perserverance. I highly recommend.
Vazzie T –
I have always admired the work of this gifted artist. Her honest portrayal of beautiful dark brown women like me is refreshing. She is so brave for sharing her life’s journey, which makes me realize most of us don’t appreciate how God blessed us as children. Needless to say, I loved this book.
Dumpling –
I could relate to some aspects of her childhood. Her story is one of triumphing over terrible odds. I appreciate the strength and honesty it took to tell it. The story of her relationship with her husband is a testimony to Black love and would make a great movie. Highly recommended
Teresa Page –
Excellent actress and great wroter
Kimberly Smith –
This book should be required reading in High School in the U.S. I had heard that there are people who don’t know where their next meal is coming from… I knew there were people who experience poverty in America…I knew there were people who experience racism in the U.S. and also trauma, but to have all four of those permeate and define your life through all your formative years is astounding how one could even survive, let alone manifest a life of love, joy forgiveness, wealth and fame through acting is just unbelievable.I have always been a fan of Viola Davis who is one of the greatest actresses of this generation. She has been magnificent in EVERYTHING I’ve seen her in. I was mad at her in Antwone Fisher, I was blown away in Doubt. I adored her in the Help, and laughed and cried. It had some criticisms, but it will always be a favorite of mine. And then : How To Get Away With Murder. Wow and va va voom, what a gorgeous, sexy vixen and flawed heroine. Amazing, interesting series! She was unlikeable in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom but she seethed that unlikeability and sweat and raccoon eyes, gold teeth and heaviness. I could compare her to other “greats” in the business, but she might just be the greatest!
Ms.Red –
I brought the physical book but it was stolen so I received a refund so in return I purchased the audio book and just let me say hearing her tell her story hit better than! Just reading about it made you feel so connected to her! Either or It’s worth the audio book or the read or both!
jdmcox –
Wow. What a life. What a great writer about her life (and she’s a great actress). Some people should READ THIS BOOK because it will show them the way.
Ms. Lynn –
This is a must read! Her story is captivating from start to finish. I truly enjoyed it. It’s a must have. Totally worth the money.
Nicole Nicole –
I first discovered Viola Davis on Brene Brown’s podcast “Unlocking us”. As soon as she started talking, I felt this immense opening within her and myself, too. She was just the most honest, forthcoming woman, and I could tell right away from the topics she discussed and the unapologetic way she spoke. I knew from that moment on I wanted to invest more time into getting to know Viola in the only way I knew how-to listen to more podcasts with her, and read her book. I discovered this book shortly after I discovered the podcast and was SO incredibly excited to read it. I knew the book would be nothing short of amazing, and it was.The first half of the book or so is just Viola setting the scene if her childhood. Really pouring her damn heart and soul out to show you how she grew up. I felt like I was there witnessing it there with her. Her words are powerful, but not in the “her words make you think” type of way….powerful in the sense that it makes you feel like you are THERE with her. I experienced a lot of emotional pain while reading this. Little Viola went through so much simply because she is black and was poor. People treated her so horribly, she went through so much abuse, so much trauma, and it shook me. BUT I’m so thankful she shared these stories of hers. They’re so incredibly vulnerable, I can’t imagine the strength and bravery it took for her to write this.The next section of the book is about all of her acting/theatre life taking off and her stories with that. It took quite a sharp turn from the trauma, to acting life-but such is life, right? There’s not always a linear path, but it was a bit tricky for me to adjust from the trauma to the acting bit. Not dogging on her, it’s still a great book, just my opinion that the transition was a bit tricky to dive into at first.The last few chapters have a lot of wisdom and share her thoughts about systemic racism, what it means to be a black woman in a lead-acting feminine role, etc. Its a very good book-I would recommend it to anyone who wants to read a book that’s raw with truth. Viola is a survivor. She’s someone I look up to immensely because of her bravery and vulnerability. Read the book!
K1llam1lla –
I am already of fan of Viola Davis because of watching her in numerous films and her phenomenal work there so when I found out she had a book come out I ordered it. I’m an avid reader but will admit to often buying books and them sitting on my shelf until the right time to read it. This book Finding Me was NOT one of them. As soon as I got it, I began reading and if it weren’t for family roles, I would have finished it that night.Viola definitely captures your attention right away and maintains it by sharing the truth of her story as raw as parts of it is. Not only could I relate to so many aspects as a Black woman, I could definitely see and understand why she has chosen the roles she has to portray in films. If I loved Viola before, I am sure my love and affinity for her as a beautiful woman and leader in her field have only grown. Her book was not predictable nor was it a typical memoir where there were a few hot points followed by dry and cleaned up versions of how they got to where they are now. Reading this book was like Viola was sitting on the couch talking with me as an auntie.Everyone should read her book but you should especially read her book if you move through the world racialize as a Black woman that has been called ugly, trash, unworthy or hypersexual. She is speaking to your soul and reminding you of who you really are.
JD Rothschild –
I haven’t been able to read a book to completion in a very long time. Only something compelling, gripping, relevant and real would hold me…keep me…and have me turn each page wondering…what will she say next? Now what is going to happen?As talented an actor as Viola Davis is…and I am a huge fan…she has taken her place as an author standing next to the likes of Alice Walker, Toni Morrison and Maya Angelou…and it is my fervent hope that she will write and publish again…and again. Whether it be non fiction or not…I am now able to list her as one of my favorite writers of all time. This book has become a turning point for me.Thank you, Ms. Davis, for sharing your story and doing it so beautifully. And I’ll share that I haven’t even finished it yet. That’s how important it is that I write this now, before I am too emotional to do so.
Jeanetta T. –
Viola Davis’ Finding Me is an excellent book. Well written and very interesting
. I wouldn’t have guessed that she’d been through so much as a child and yet still managed to persevere. Wow!
Kelli Brooks –
Can you write another book? Def would buy it – thanks for sharing your story with the world!
Unapologetic 2.o –
This memoir is about the lovely and incredibly talented Viola Davis. This book was a treat to read, I remember when I saw that she was coming out with a book I went to Amazon to pre-order it. I love that the day it came out it was out for delivered to my house the same day. I could not wait to read it, so I also bought the Audible version of the book and listed to it while I was at work. I told myself that I had to be one of the first to get my review out. Here we are at the end of the month, and I am not one of the first to drop my review lol.I even joined Oprah’s book club because of this book it was a treat to join in weekly and hear how others were feeling about this book as well. On the last day of book club Oprah sat down with Viola and talked about the book. A few of the chips are on the Instagram page @Oprahsbookclub so make sure you check that interview out as well it was good. She also had a special on Netflix that came out on April 22nd,2022 check that out as well.This book is all about Viola and her up brining and tells us how she got to be the beautiful women we have grown to love. She talks about when she was younger her father uses to sleep around on her mother and how that affected them. She talks about how they had to deal with racism at an early age as well. She talks about her sisters and brother as well, how she got into acting. How she had to be the backbone to her family at one point in time.We all talk about the Ciara prayer, but we really need to be talking about the Viola Davis Prayer and how she landed her husband. Their love story is so good, she talks about it on the show Black love. You will learn about her acting career and shows and plays she was in. You learn all about how she snagged the role of Annalise Keating on the hit show “How to Get Away with Murder” and how she changed the last name of the charter.This book made me at times sad I felt bad for her upbringing how their living situation was not always the best. I love that through it all she never let it stop her but only let it help build up to the person that she is today. Her Relationship with her parents was not the best but as she got older, she was able to change that. She said in this book that when she was making a little bit of money, she would still be sending money home to help her family I thought to myself like she did not have to do that, but she did.I genuinely enjoyed this book I rated this book at 4 out five stars. I did not rate this book a five because even though I love Viola, and this was the kind of book I did not want to put down it was missing something. It was missing something that mad made feel like if I did not finish it that day, I would go crazy. Everything else about this book was good I do not have any take aways from it. I love that her books have photos and that the cover of the book is not so busy its simple black and white. Have you read this book? If so, is it a book that you would recommend to friends and family? What did you rate it?
Agnes Malum –
The media could not be loaded.
Saw her interview on Netflix with Oprah, and just had to get this book. Got this book last year but writing my review now. I love this lady and I admire her a lot.
Kimberly Craig –
A really good read. Viola comes from a very fragile place, but she was able to tell her story and be truthful about it. I loved reading this book and wished I had gotten it on audiobook.
Ed and Kim Gravell –
Viola Davis is incredibly honest and revealing in this memoir. Her work and her story are inspirational. Thank you, Ms. Davis for sharing your story.
nanajudi –
I’m a native Rhode Islander from a working class family & Finding Me by Viola Davis makes me proud of our tiny state, our local school teachers, & our state colleges & universities. Everyone in our book club loved her story!I am so glad to have purchased the hardcover edition so I can read it again…and again.
MICHELLE –
Great book…. I loved it!!! I’m not a big reader but I could not put this book down. Thank you Mrs. Viola Davis
Renee K. Brown –
Viola is one my favorite actresses . I this book was so enlightening. Continued success and many blessings to Ms. Davis.
F. Bacak –
+16K reviews but I still like to add mine. Viola Davis, you are loved by many who doesnt even know you at all. Your book helped me understand what it meant to be “black” in this country since I am not originally from US. I could never comphrehend the cruelty, the constant bullying, the poverty etc. You are so blessed with your husband and you deserve to be. All we need is someone to love and be loved in return than everything else falls in place. I wish you many happy years with your family.
Marion Wicker –
I loved the way viola rose over all her childhood horrors and was able to share them with us!So happy she succeeded due to her determination,
wow –
Finding Me, I transfixed until the last line.I will never watch her again without thinking about her life, her true self.I loved it but it’s harsh reality.
Nathan Hale Williams –
Viola Davis is a Warrior Woman King! In this candid and vivid memoir, she takes us on a journey from her impoverished & abuse-filled childhood to the triumph of being one of the most celebrated and awarded actors in history – a rare EGOT! She tells her story with a force and fierceness that grabs a hold of you, takes your breath away and gives you life all at once.
Lynn Menefee –
A startling memoir, unvarnished and unapologetic – just as it should be. Something to be treasured and reexamine do to try to understand.
Jessie –
Viola’s memoir is a gripping story about how a queen saved herself. I read it in one sitting and only do this with the best books. I gave my copy to my sister to read and share with her adult daughter. More people should be talking about these topics. Also, are we all supposed to be capitalizing “Black” in regards to individuals who a share a cultural experience? You define who you are and how people refer to you, so please let the rest of us know
Edit: I thought of Miss Viola again while reading another book that addresses some commonalities in the experience of being a Black woman. As a woman who can relate in some small ways, I felt this message again in the new read and was reminded of how once I finished “Finding Me,” I just held the book closely as of to console the source of her words.For me, this was a book that only needed to be read once because It will stay with me for years to come.
Ozelia Gray –
Viola’s story is one of triumph and pain. He is a survivor and true success story. It’s an easy read and keeps you captivated.
Heidi Matsumoto –
I read this after watching Viola on Oprah. This book is a stern message to society and the shameful treatment of black people. And also of her indomitable spirit. I think Viola is a fantastic actress and this story of her life was a real eye opener. Highly recommended.
Small1ldy –
I traveled with you on every step or your journey Viola. I had the abusive, alcoholic parents. The struggles of seeing any worth to my existence, ever. I was a horrible start to a story which did in time get better. I moved far away in my early 20s and am now back in Rhode Island 50 years later. Unlike you, I don’t have the old friends anymore. It’s been too long and too many years since we saw each other. This book was so inspiring for me because it offered up a language which transcends culture. Me, the abused white 8 yr old and you the black 8 yr old both w/little hope in our hearts. PS. I my 5th grade teacher led me outside in the hallway to ask me why I smelled like piss every day. I’ve never shared that story before in my life. You are a gift to all of us survivors. Bless you.
Venita –
The book is perfectly written. Reading this book was like watching a movie. I could picture everything that happened.
C. Evans –
I wanted to read Viola’s memoir because she is a fascinating dark complexed black woman who is brilliant at her craft and I feel like she is one of the few black women who is judged by the content of her character and not the color of her skin. But I was sure she had a back story. I knew she encountered racism throughout her career and I wanted to know her story.She revealed so many different aspects of her life that any woman can connect with. I particularly like the 1st date with her husband. Her being happy and finding love
warmed my heartShe makes me so proud. Everything she had to endure and still come out on top and still being humble. She’s and just an awesome person. I watched her Oprah interview but reading her memoir gave so much more depth to her struggles.
Sweet Georgia –
Many of us, especially those of us who have been victimized, understand the massive and indelible imprint that shame leaves on the soul.Viola Davis is complicated…No matter what you become or how much you overcome, you can never escape the brokenness of your childhood.Viola Davis is feminine, sexual…Some memories are tattooed on the mind, and you come to know shame and fear intimately. But you do better. You come to terms with your past. You forgive. You heal. You give yourself permission to start over…each discovery making life more manageable.Viola Davis is beautiful…What I found within the pages of Viola Davis’ Finding Me, was a woman who still wrestles with that child who was pissy, molested, and subjected to unimaginable conditions. I saw a woman who succeeded against all odds—a woman who tapped into the highest level of her artistry, and now seemingly sees through Divine eyes. I see a woman who gets to go on this beautiful journey of self-discovery navigating myriad complex—often fictional—characters…always starting at home to tell their stories.Viola Davis is pretty and desired…But this book is so much more—it’s also a condemnation of the game that many actors play, even in the face of the staggering reality that “…95% of actors do not work and less than 1 percent make $50,000 or more a year.”Viola Davis is deserving…Lastly, Viola Davis also offers remarkable insight on finding ourselves—learn how to love and be still. Be specific. Be present. Only then can we “…run toward joy…feel alive…become…” our truest self.Viola Davis is unapologetically Black.*Bring your dictionary along for the ride cuz Miss Viola is a logophile, honey.
Leah Caldwell –
Viola Davis us not only a good actress but she is very transparent and honest about her upbringing, her flaws, insecurities, and mistakes. But the most beautiful and inspiring message in her book is forgiveness, how she forgave her abusive father who in the end became a changed man.
Kathy McAfee, author, speaker, and creator of The Fearless Leader program –
I cherish this book and am so grateful to have had the opportunity to read it and to learn from Viola Davis’ life experience. Her remarkable courage, transparency, honesty, vulnerability and grace shines through the pages. Prior to reading this book, I had some basic understanding of ‘colorism’ and how people with darker skin tones face more discrimination than people with lighter-skin tones, but I had not idea the extent to which this prejudice causes serious emotional and psychological harm, as well as professional barriers. Society can and must change….starting with the enlightenment of each of us individually. READ THIS BOOK.
SYM –
I’ve always loved Viola Davis but to see where she came from is overwhelming! Her pain and moments of joy throughout this book had me all in my emotions! This woman has taken a life that would have shattered the common man and used it as a springboard for all she is today. I thank her for sharing – it makes me understand even more why the characters she play always seem so real.
Jennifer Francis –
I always loved Viola Davis as an actor and I love this woman as an individual and I loved this book! What a true testiment of her life from poverty to richness. All I wanted was for her to share the names of those idiotic bullies who harassed and traumatized her as a child. This is a must read! Love you Viola..
P. Pinto –
When I saw the interview with Viola Davis and Oprah Winfrey, I was excited to go out and purchase her book. It was a great read!
John R Anderson –
Besides the fact that the story completely pulled at my heart strings, I could not put this book down. I am a white female who never fully understood the implications of being a black woman. I am a foster mom to a beautiful dark black female child that I love with all my heart as if she is my own. I cannot understand the discrimination even among blacks, where being dark skinned is so discriminated against and unappealing. People are so beautiful from their pure heart that it tears me inside to understand the way people are treated no matter what color of their skin. I thank you Viola for putting this out there for I believe no matter what color skin a person has, this is going to bring them so much awareness and peace amongst themselves to reconcile with their past and their future. I know you have done this for me
I was abused as a child and did not really understand this. My thoughts and feelings never matter to anyone. When I got older I did realize that my mother could not be who I needed her to be and understand that she did the best she could with what she knew. I needed and wanted to be better. I cannot say that I forgave my father because it comes up in my thoughts at odd times and I can feel my anger. But I understand your path and the ride of understanding that you have come to. I have read your partial story and understand the horrific life you have come through and the challenges you have faced and yet although I would love to feel you have found peace I feel you have not allowed yourself that peace as of yet.
Alice Carter –
Wow, I liked this story because it should how no matter what, never give up on yourself or your dreams. She saw it, be!ieved, and achieved it. I would recommend it to my granddaughter Myal and Morganne. Also, to everybody. Thank you my sister Vi for sharing your awesome life story, and you are right, God did take you and kept you in His loving hand. Like the story of footprints.
Cindy C. –
You may like Viola, but read this book and you will love her! Her tenacity and honesty exude from the pages and I now find myself being joyful every time I see her. Her story is truly unique and one that gives great hope to the reader. She shows how important raising a child with love is and the impact of how we are raised has on us. It is inspiring, and yet also humbling, to see how she triumphed over her many struggles.
Noonie –
Very pleased with this book
Kia Williams –
I felt seen reading her story as a black woman so much – yes we are worthy of it all! Thank you for sharing your story and gift!
ThatGrad23 –
I love love love this book! From the very first chapter, I’ve been telling all of my friends that they have to read it, and I just bought a copy for my mom. It’s as if you can hear Viola’s voice with every word that you read. Her story, her vulnerability, and her realness are so inspiring.
Charlene Benton –
Leisure reading
DLovey –
I truly enjoyed this book as my second CD. Hearing her voice tell her truth no holds was very surprising but very entertaining. I would’ve never imagined her life was as she shared with us the world. I truly enjoyed listening to her life story wanting to hear more and more ..
Rita –
I loved this book. It is so well written by Viola Davis. You really get to know who she really is. Great read.
eggshells –
This was a true ‘Rags to Riches’ book. An eye opener into the real life of some actors.
Robert TeterRobert Teter –
“Finding Me,” the captivating memoir penned by the award-winning actress Viola Davis, is an exceptional beacon of unwavering courage, resilience, and empowerment that will leave you profoundly inspired and deeply moved.In-depth Journey into an Exemplary Life”Finding Me” walks us through the life of Viola Davis, a groundbreaking actress who has risen from poverty to become one of Hollywood’s brighter stars. This book is a myriad of incredible stories that reveal a woman of indomitable spirit overcoming adversity to carve out a legacy in the entertainment industry, staying true to herself and her origins.Revelatory Tale of Victories and ChallengesDavis’ journey is a testament to her grit and endurance. She openly shares her struggles, highlights her successes, and offers a profound insight into her journey from an impoverished childhood to Hollywood star. Davis paints a vivid picture of her life, allowing us to travel with her on a journey marked by highs, lows, victories, and battles that truly claims the reader’s admiration.* **Triumph Over Adversity**: One cannot help but be inspired by Davis’s courage. Her tales of struggles teach valuable lessons about resilience and determination.* **Empowerment**: Davis empowers us with her experiences, emboldening us to break the shackles, pursue our dreams, and stand tall against adversity.* **Diverse Narratives**: Davis explores various themes and multi-layered narratives that engage, inform, and inspire.Conclusion: A Must-Read Testament of ResilienceIn conclusion, “Finding Me” is more than just a memoir; it is a testament of resilience, a journey of self-discovery, and an invitation to all of its readers to embark on their journey of ‘Finding Me.’ This book stands as a beacon of hope and a guide for anyone looking to overcome their difficulties and achieve their dreams.*”Finding Me” is not just Viola Davis’ story, but the tale of anyone who dares to dream, persist, and most importantly, rise.*