Walking Tall: A Memoir About the Upside of Small and Other Stuff

by Clay Rivers

In a world that associates stature, physical perfection, and race with a person's value, "Walking Tall" is about harnessing the power of self-worth as experienced by an African American, gay, Christian man who also just happens to be a dwarf. From early lessons in the deep south to escapades as Donald Duck at Walt Disney World to the Skittles-ridden cat and mouse games on his psychologist’s couch, and finally to the finish line of accepting and loving himself, "Walking Tall" is brisk reading, full of charm and a devilish sense of humor.

For anyone who has ever felt the slightest bit uncomfortable in their own skin, has been afraid to wrestle personal demons into submission or may have missed the directional signs while walking their own road less travelled, "Walking Tall" is a globe-trotting journey to self-acceptance.

ebook

First published May 1, 2012

About the author

For over two decades, Clay Rivers has communicated stories as a writer, artist, and actor. His varied professional experience gives him a a well-rounded base from which to draw. Clay is keenly aware that in order for a message to resonate with its intended audience it must first connect with both the head and heart. And the most lasting connections always begin with a compelling story.

Clay has penned three nonfiction books: Walking Tall: A Memoir About the Upside of Small and Other Stuff, The Raindancer: Finding Joy in the Storm, and 3 Things I Know: Facing and Embracing Life's Challenges. Each takes a different look at how to effectively mine the best from life's most trying circumstances with a positive attitude while holding one's head high.

Clay's nonfiction essays focus on race relations in America, self-acceptance, and loving one another. His writings have appeared in TheMighty.com, the popular Medium.com publications The Mission and Crossing Genres, and most notably in NYTimes.com. His essays, which have amassed a passionate and devoted following, disarm without force, inform without condescension, and whisper a joyful call that inspires readers to become better versions of themselves.

As a former award-winning art director for Walt Disney World Resort Design and The Disney University, The Disney Stores, Disney imagineering, and Disney Consumer Products, Clay's aesthetic is rooted in the classics with a touch of whimsy that sidesteps trite and trendy, and zeroes in on relevance.

Clay has appeared in countless Walt Disney World productions, numerous television and TV appearances, and the beloved Radio City Christmas Spectacular. True to form, his offerings have been consistent and authentic interpretations of his directors' visions.

Clay lives in Orlando with his family, and is almost always up for a Manhattan.

Reviews

[Sarah Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't find myself at a loss for words often, yet as I am sitting here trying to choose the perfect words to describe this book, I'm stuck. I want words to do it justice. I still have 3/5 to go, so I will give a thorough review at the end, but for now, I will just say that this extraordinary person has written a book that manages to harmonize what is extraordinary about him with what is very ordinary, that to which we can all relate. The extraordinary things-the perspective of life through the eyes of a black, gay Little Person with some AMAZING accomplishments-make this book a thrilling tour into many unknown worlds. What is it like to perform in the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Show? What is it like inside a Donald Duck costume? Themes to which everyone can relate include flawed familial relationships, the face we present to the world and how it differs from who we are internally, and the process of learning to believe in one's self and be one's own best advocate. All this, and I am only 2/5 in!

[Kimberly Shorter · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the highs of success to the lows of disappointment and everything in between, Clay Rivers takes readers along a most memorable journey that is his life. Walking Tall is such a well-written and engaging memoir that I had a hard time putting it down. Clay has such a distinctive voice and charm that drew me in and kept me riveted from the first page. For as many laugh-out-loud moments in the book, there were just as many poignant and emotional moments that brought tears to my eyes. Clay's amazing journey from his days at Disney to the bright lights of the Big Apple is nothing short of awe-inspiring. I am recommending this book to everyone I can. Walking Tall is the best memoir I have read in a very, very long time.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very funny and insightful memoir.