What do you think?
Rate this book
The Mother of Black Hollywood: A Memoir
From her more than three hundred appearances for film and television, stage and cabaret, performing comedy or drama, as an unforgettable lead or a scene stealing supporting character, Jenifer Lewis has established herself as one of the most respected, admired, talented, and versatile entertainers working today.
This "Mega Diva" and costar of the hit sitcom black-ish bares her soul in this touching and poignant--and at times side-splittingly hilarious--memoir of a Midwestern girl with a dream, whose journey took her from poverty to the big screen, and along the way earned her many accolades.
With candor and warmth, Jenifer Lewis reveals the heart of a woman who lives life to the fullest. This multitalented "force of nature" landed her first Broadway role within eleven days of her graduation from college and later earned the title "Reigning Queen of High-Camp Cabaret."
In the audaciously honest voice that her fans adore, Jenifer describes her transition to Hollywood, with guest roles on hits like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Friends. Her movie Jackie's Back! became a cult favorite, and as the "Mama" to characters portrayed by Whitney Houston, Tupac Shakur, Taraji P. Henson, and many more, Jenifer cemented her status as the "Mother of Black Hollywood."
When an undiagnosed mental illness stymies Jenifer's career, culminating in a breakdown while filming The Temptations, her quest for wholeness becomes a harrowing and inspiring tale, including revelations of bipolar disorder and sex addiction.
Written with no-holds-barred honesty and illustrated with more than forty color photographs, this gripping memoir is filled with insights gained through a unique life that offers a universal message: "Love yourself so that love will not be a stranger when it comes."
This "Mega Diva" and costar of the hit sitcom black-ish bares her soul in this touching and poignant--and at times side-splittingly hilarious--memoir of a Midwestern girl with a dream, whose journey took her from poverty to the big screen, and along the way earned her many accolades.
With candor and warmth, Jenifer Lewis reveals the heart of a woman who lives life to the fullest. This multitalented "force of nature" landed her first Broadway role within eleven days of her graduation from college and later earned the title "Reigning Queen of High-Camp Cabaret."
In the audaciously honest voice that her fans adore, Jenifer describes her transition to Hollywood, with guest roles on hits like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Friends. Her movie Jackie's Back! became a cult favorite, and as the "Mama" to characters portrayed by Whitney Houston, Tupac Shakur, Taraji P. Henson, and many more, Jenifer cemented her status as the "Mother of Black Hollywood."
When an undiagnosed mental illness stymies Jenifer's career, culminating in a breakdown while filming The Temptations, her quest for wholeness becomes a harrowing and inspiring tale, including revelations of bipolar disorder and sex addiction.
Written with no-holds-barred honesty and illustrated with more than forty color photographs, this gripping memoir is filled with insights gained through a unique life that offers a universal message: "Love yourself so that love will not be a stranger when it comes."
19 pages, Audible Audio
First published November 17, 2017
1251 people are currently reading
8706 people want to read
About the author
Jenifer Lewis
2 books340 followersJenifer Lewis is one of Hollywood’s most familiar faces, with more than 300 appearances in film and television. Dubbed a “national treasure” by TVGuide.com, Jenifer currently stars on the Emmy-nominated hit show “Black-ish,” where her hilarious portrayal of Ruby Johnson earned Jenifer a nomination for the 2018 Critics Choice Award for Best Supporting Actress in a TV comedy series.
Jenifer’s bestselling memoir, The Mother of Black Hollywood, was named “2018 Book of the Year” at the National Book Club Convention and the audio version received an Earphones Award from AudioFile magazine.
As both an actress and an activist, Jenifer is a social media sensation. Her viral hits include For My Book, Get Your Ass Out and Vote!; Flint Ain’t Fixed; and In These Streets with Brandy and Roz Ryan.
Jenifer delivered legendary performances as Tina Turner's mother in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” and in “The Preacher's Wife” as the mother of Whitney Houston’s character. Jenifer starred opposite Matt Damon in Clint Eastwood's “Hereafter” and for director Tyler Perry, Jenifer created unforgettable characters in “Madea's Family Reunion” and “Meet the Browns.”
In animated films, Jenifer’s uniquely recognizable voice is adored by Disney fans worldwide in roles such as Flo in “Cars,” “Cars 2” and “Cars 3,” and as Mama Odie in “The Princess and the Frog.” In her newest Disney role, Jenifer is the voice of Professor Granville in the “Big Hero 6” television series.
Jenifer's TV roles have ranged from regular appearances as Aunt Helen on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” to guest star roles on “Friends,” “Murphy Brown,” and “Girlfriends.” For six seasons, Jenifer portrayed Lana Hawkins on Lifetime's hit series “Strong Medicine.”
Jenifer has had a wide-ranging and varied career in music and theater. She has performed in four Broadway shows, including “Hairspray,” in the role of Motormouth Mabel. At Carnegie Hall she received an electrifying standing ovation singing with the New York Pops orchestra. All told, Jenifer has presented more than 200 concerts, performing in 48 states and five continents.
Jenifer’s accomplishments as an entertainer and community activist have been recognized by the NAACP Lifetime Achievement Award in Theatre, the American Black Film Festival Career Achievement Award, the Human Rights Campaign Ally Award, and an honorary doctorate from her alma mater, Webster University in St. Louis.
Fans can follow Jenifer on Instagram (@jeniferlewisforreal), Twitter (@JeniferLewis) and Facebook (Jenifer Lewis For Real.)
Jenifer’s bestselling memoir, The Mother of Black Hollywood, was named “2018 Book of the Year” at the National Book Club Convention and the audio version received an Earphones Award from AudioFile magazine.
As both an actress and an activist, Jenifer is a social media sensation. Her viral hits include For My Book, Get Your Ass Out and Vote!; Flint Ain’t Fixed; and In These Streets with Brandy and Roz Ryan.
Jenifer delivered legendary performances as Tina Turner's mother in “What’s Love Got to Do With It” and in “The Preacher's Wife” as the mother of Whitney Houston’s character. Jenifer starred opposite Matt Damon in Clint Eastwood's “Hereafter” and for director Tyler Perry, Jenifer created unforgettable characters in “Madea's Family Reunion” and “Meet the Browns.”
In animated films, Jenifer’s uniquely recognizable voice is adored by Disney fans worldwide in roles such as Flo in “Cars,” “Cars 2” and “Cars 3,” and as Mama Odie in “The Princess and the Frog.” In her newest Disney role, Jenifer is the voice of Professor Granville in the “Big Hero 6” television series.
Jenifer's TV roles have ranged from regular appearances as Aunt Helen on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” to guest star roles on “Friends,” “Murphy Brown,” and “Girlfriends.” For six seasons, Jenifer portrayed Lana Hawkins on Lifetime's hit series “Strong Medicine.”
Jenifer has had a wide-ranging and varied career in music and theater. She has performed in four Broadway shows, including “Hairspray,” in the role of Motormouth Mabel. At Carnegie Hall she received an electrifying standing ovation singing with the New York Pops orchestra. All told, Jenifer has presented more than 200 concerts, performing in 48 states and five continents.
Jenifer’s accomplishments as an entertainer and community activist have been recognized by the NAACP Lifetime Achievement Award in Theatre, the American Black Film Festival Career Achievement Award, the Human Rights Campaign Ally Award, and an honorary doctorate from her alma mater, Webster University in St. Louis.
Fans can follow Jenifer on Instagram (@jeniferlewisforreal), Twitter (@JeniferLewis) and Facebook (Jenifer Lewis For Real.)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,369 reviews
December 13, 2017
Do not read this book!! Listen to the audiobook!!! You will do yourself a disservice by not hearing her words from her own mouth. I loved this book. She was of course real and raw but she brought it full circle and I could tell it was a genuine labor of love, to help people and not a Broadway/Hollywood tell all or a ploy to make some money. Well done!!
December 29, 2017
EXCELLENT memoir! I had the pleasure of reading and listening to the audiobook simultaneously. What a life this entertaining woman has had! I definitely recommend it, especially the audiobook because she is narrating it.
November 22, 2017
This book defines what a Memoir should be. No candy coated life stories here!
I laughed
I cried
I sighed
Then I laughed some more
Then I cried again
But most of all... I feel rejuvenated. (In these streets) @jeniferlewisforreal
#themotherofblackhollywood
#jeniferlewis
#Legend
#Icon
I laughed
I cried
I sighed
Then I laughed some more
Then I cried again
But most of all... I feel rejuvenated. (In these streets) @jeniferlewisforreal
#themotherofblackhollywood
#jeniferlewis
#Legend
#Icon
November 15, 2023
great discussion on blackness, mental health and sexuality…also just simply funny as fuck
January 11, 2018
"Shoulders back, titties first" - Jenifer Lewis
Through triumphs and tragedy Jenifer Lewis keeps it real in this hilarious, laugh out loud, honest, and down to earth memoir. I'm so glad I chose to listen to the audiobook because the true essence of her spirit, her joys and her pains are revealed magically. Ms. Lewis' voice and animation draws you in immediately. This was the perfect book to kick of 2018 and the audiobook is a must!!
“JOURNAL ENTRY: Stop waiting for something or someone to come and make you happy. Meditate daily. Breathe. Come on. You’re okay. You have friends. Love them. Respect them. Go out and play. Learn to be alone.”
Through triumphs and tragedy Jenifer Lewis keeps it real in this hilarious, laugh out loud, honest, and down to earth memoir. I'm so glad I chose to listen to the audiobook because the true essence of her spirit, her joys and her pains are revealed magically. Ms. Lewis' voice and animation draws you in immediately. This was the perfect book to kick of 2018 and the audiobook is a must!!
“JOURNAL ENTRY: Stop waiting for something or someone to come and make you happy. Meditate daily. Breathe. Come on. You’re okay. You have friends. Love them. Respect them. Go out and play. Learn to be alone.”
December 7, 2017
This book started with so much promise. Jenifer Lewis was funny and honest. I enjoyed her antics but then the book took a turn when she started listing all of the people she knew who had died from AIDS. I was listening to the audio version so it sucked all the air out of my car. I had my brother in the car with me and I was bragging about how funny she was and then she got so depressing.
I also believe Jenifer Lewis is a bigger star in her own mind than in actuality. Ms. Lewis named all these people she has worked with and all of these movies she had roles in and why don't I remember her? I don't remember her playing Tupac's mother in Poetic Justice, The Preacher's Wife or What's Love Got to Do With It. She is very talented but I only recently became acquainted with her from being on Blackish. Jenifer Lewis was never on my radar before that. I got so tired of the name dropping. I hate when regular people do it so I hated it even more in this book. My GOD, it was Bette this, Whitney that and Tom said and not to mention all of the other names of people who I did not know because I assume I am not in the theater world.
The woman had a WHOLE LOT OF SEX I mean a WHOLE lot. It was in major part to her being bi-polar and remaining untreated for so long. I appreciated her candor and the role her mental illness played in her life. Mental health discussions in the black community are still very taboo. I appreciate more and more that many people of color are sharing their stories.
Overall I say to skip it. Read We're Going to Need More Wine by Gabrielle Union instead.
I also believe Jenifer Lewis is a bigger star in her own mind than in actuality. Ms. Lewis named all these people she has worked with and all of these movies she had roles in and why don't I remember her? I don't remember her playing Tupac's mother in Poetic Justice, The Preacher's Wife or What's Love Got to Do With It. She is very talented but I only recently became acquainted with her from being on Blackish. Jenifer Lewis was never on my radar before that. I got so tired of the name dropping. I hate when regular people do it so I hated it even more in this book. My GOD, it was Bette this, Whitney that and Tom said and not to mention all of the other names of people who I did not know because I assume I am not in the theater world.
The woman had a WHOLE LOT OF SEX I mean a WHOLE lot. It was in major part to her being bi-polar and remaining untreated for so long. I appreciated her candor and the role her mental illness played in her life. Mental health discussions in the black community are still very taboo. I appreciate more and more that many people of color are sharing their stories.
Overall I say to skip it. Read We're Going to Need More Wine by Gabrielle Union instead.
December 4, 2017
It is no secret that I love Jenifer Lewis, she is talented and iconic. Notable films include The Preacher's Wife,Nora's Hair Salon and other syndicated television shows. Not only is she hilarious but I love how blunt she is about life, that is rare with celebrities. Prior to reading this, my expectations were high but this one was a decent book. I knew that she had a bipolar disorder but finding out why was interesting, a new perspective on those that have the same condition. Besides a few laughs here and there, it was not one of the best memoirs.
Maybe cause I was expecting it be better written, not that the writing style was bad but it was not engrossing as other memoirs I read. However I did liked the chapter about her discovering the talent to sing, but nothing really stood out as being magnificent.
It was a decent memoir but I will stick to seeing her on screen, then reading her books.
Maybe cause I was expecting it be better written, not that the writing style was bad but it was not engrossing as other memoirs I read. However I did liked the chapter about her discovering the talent to sing, but nothing really stood out as being magnificent.
It was a decent memoir but I will stick to seeing her on screen, then reading her books.
October 4, 2018
Enjoyment: ♥♥♥♥½
Narration by Jenifer Lewis: ♥♥♥♥½
Plot: ♥♥♥♥
Writing: ♥♥♥♥
I listened to this story and was fascinated. It was dramatic, over the top and loud just like the actress. Jenifer Lewis has lived an eventful life thus far. I found this audiobook more succinct, more dramatic and more in depth than many of the memoirs I’ve read of late.
I loved that she told her own story and controlled the narrative in a way that introduced her to the audience so we get a rounded picture of her life in front of and behind the Hollywood persona.
She is so bold and blunt, saying it like she feels and making no apologies. The Hollywood Diva takes the reader through her childhood, relationships, her abuse and her struggle with mental illness. I only knew what I’ve read on blogs and in magazines so it’s always interesting to hear the private musings of a celebrity. I love her brutal honesty, I love that she is able to reflect and admit mistakes she made in relationships and understand how her attitude affected others around her. After listening to her book, I think there is a little bit of her actual personality in EVERY character I've seen her play. She clearly loves what she does because it comes across loud and clear. The world of entertainment is her first love. I hope she continues to do what she loves.
January 4, 2022
Sometimes a book finds you just when you need it most. The past few weeks have not been the best for me and my family, I've been a ball of anxiety which is rare for me because I just don't tend to be anxious. It's been a time everybody, it's been a time.
So like anybody who's going through some stuff, I went to Target to make myself feel better. In the midst of my buying binge I spotted this book. I've been wanting to read this book since it came out a couple years ago but I just never got around to it. So I bought it and started reading it the next day.
Jenifer Lewis is like the title says The Mother of Black Hollywood. She's played Tupac's mom, Whitney Houston's mom, Angela Bassett's mom, she's the grandmother on Black ish and she was Will Smith's aunt on Fresh Prince. For years she has been a Black icon but the wider(whiter) world has been sleeping on her. Mother Lewis is proof that talent doesn't really mean anything in Hollywood because if it was Jenifer Lewis would be a bigger star than Meryl Streep or Jennifer Lopez. This woman can do everything sing, dance, act, she's a playwright and she's an activist.
The reason I feel that the universe led me to this book was for the personal stories that Jenifer tells. Jenifer Lewis writes about her battles with bipolar disorder and sex addiction. She's so honest about her struggle to even admit that she had these conditions. She holds nothing back. This woman has had to deal with some awful things. Life has thrown some shit her way but she continues to not only survive but to thrive.
I already loved this woman as an actress and now after reading this book I love her as a human being.
I know it's only the 4th day of the year but I think this is gonna be a favorite not only of the year but maybe All Time. This book just hits different right now.
A Must Read!
So like anybody who's going through some stuff, I went to Target to make myself feel better. In the midst of my buying binge I spotted this book. I've been wanting to read this book since it came out a couple years ago but I just never got around to it. So I bought it and started reading it the next day.
Jenifer Lewis is like the title says The Mother of Black Hollywood. She's played Tupac's mom, Whitney Houston's mom, Angela Bassett's mom, she's the grandmother on Black ish and she was Will Smith's aunt on Fresh Prince. For years she has been a Black icon but the wider(whiter) world has been sleeping on her. Mother Lewis is proof that talent doesn't really mean anything in Hollywood because if it was Jenifer Lewis would be a bigger star than Meryl Streep or Jennifer Lopez. This woman can do everything sing, dance, act, she's a playwright and she's an activist.
The reason I feel that the universe led me to this book was for the personal stories that Jenifer tells. Jenifer Lewis writes about her battles with bipolar disorder and sex addiction. She's so honest about her struggle to even admit that she had these conditions. She holds nothing back. This woman has had to deal with some awful things. Life has thrown some shit her way but she continues to not only survive but to thrive.
I already loved this woman as an actress and now after reading this book I love her as a human being.
I know it's only the 4th day of the year but I think this is gonna be a favorite not only of the year but maybe All Time. This book just hits different right now.
A Must Read!
October 31, 2018
5/5
Bravo! Ms. Lewis opens her life, without fear or pause, to present a memoir befitting a woman who, to this point, lived without apologies. She refuses to hold back, respecting her readers enough to give them the truth they paid to read or hear. For the pearl clutchers out there she appears strong, and rather unladylike, but to this diamond wearer, she's certified gold.
Upfront and a tad raunchy titles (Read Them!) ushers chapters discussing everything from her sex addiction, diverse career on stage and screen, and her bipolar disorder. While some may find issue with her honesty, I appreciated it fully and I think most will.
Do yourself a favor and cop a copy of this brilliant memoir. Better yet, snatch the audiobook version where she gives a refreshingly funny and, at times, sad take on her book.
Bravo! Ms. Lewis opens her life, without fear or pause, to present a memoir befitting a woman who, to this point, lived without apologies. She refuses to hold back, respecting her readers enough to give them the truth they paid to read or hear. For the pearl clutchers out there she appears strong, and rather unladylike, but to this diamond wearer, she's certified gold.
Upfront and a tad raunchy titles (Read Them!) ushers chapters discussing everything from her sex addiction, diverse career on stage and screen, and her bipolar disorder. While some may find issue with her honesty, I appreciated it fully and I think most will.
Do yourself a favor and cop a copy of this brilliant memoir. Better yet, snatch the audiobook version where she gives a refreshingly funny and, at times, sad take on her book.
January 1, 2018
Of the three memoirs I read this year, The Mother of Black Hollywood was my fav. such candor and transparency. Even through sharing her struggles with mental illness, sex addiction and a childhood riddled with poverty and loneliness, Jenifer Lewis is laugh out loud funny. As soon as I finished the last page, I turned on Jackie's Back and vowed to catch up on Black-ish. I love her and I'm glad she is finally reaching the success she aspired to since the 70s.
March 14, 2018
This book was funny, honest, loud and way over the top just like the writer. I'd expect nothing less from Jenifer Lewis. I of course listened to the audiobook version which provides the entire experience. She's quite honest about her childhood, her mental health, her sex life, and the ups and downs of being a hollywood diva. Before reading this I only thought she was an actress. I had no idea that she had these roles in between her one-woman shows and could really perform. My only annoyance was the random full on singing throughout the book. I'm just not a fan of her voice and I just wanted the book not a musical. Other than that it was very entertaining and I enjoyed it.
January 17, 2018
I am listening to this on Audible. I enjoy Jenifer bleep bleep Lewis as an actress (if you read the book you got that)! I however am not enjoying this memoir. I appreciate her candor and transparency. Everyone has a story and I'm grateful that she is sharing hers, but the book is hard to listen too. Ms. Lewis has a distinct and heavy theatrical voice. It's a little much for 10+ hours. Although she shares a lot of information about herself. I still don't get a sense that I know her. If that makes any sense! The book reads more like a resume. I'm sorry it was a tough read.
November 16, 2017
"The Mother of Black Hollywood: A Memoir" was a very thought-provoking memoir that was funny, inspiring while managing to capture Lewis's true self without being to commercial in Black Hollywood. You will find yourself giggling oftentimes about her life story but crying too with all she has endured to stay true to herself in the face of her addictions and staying noticeable in Black Hollywood. This was Jenifer Lewis' story... not a gossip rag to divide a people or shock the readers but to celebrate her reality, her journey and still being relevant in the 21st century!
Highly recommended!
5 Blackmagic stars *****
Highly recommended!
5 Blackmagic stars *****
February 3, 2019
The Mother Of Black Hollywood has spoken when she tells her story without a filter. She faces so many trials and it is applauding to see her keep stepping. Being able get a glimpse of what life was like prior to the 2000s was beautiful .
Black love, showbiz, sacrificing time just to so you can do what you love. Ms. Lewis touches on her sexual escapades, the AIDS epidemic hitting, sexual abuse, death after death after death, mental battles that finally had a name years later (bipolar dispersed). It’s powerful how she tells her story and once she’s diagnosed all the symptoms she displayed connected together and finally gave her understanding. What really caught me is how Ms. Lewis still found a way to be happy. To laugh and make others laugh even when she was suffering.
“Back then I didn’t know my body was a temple. How precious and fragile we are. I was blind, crippled, and crazy ... desperate to be a star.
Oh, but i got up somehow, and scrubbed most of it away. Left a little funk on me so i’d be stronger on this day.
No shtick
Still love dick”.
What disturbed me the most was her relationship with her mother. Her mother was in survival mode and it took away from showing compassion towards her children. She worked hard to keep her children fed and clothed, but as a single mother who was set in her ways, Jenifer suffered. Her mother ignored her outcry of being molested by the pastor but instead still engaged with the pastor and even let her daughter in the car with him again. This is all to common and relevant. It can be so hard for children’s voices to be heard and this is a prime example. This is apart of why Jenifer had struggles growing up and did not find healing until so many years later.
P.S. She cussed the pastor out so good once she started healing and pulling back layers and layers of hurt.
Black love, showbiz, sacrificing time just to so you can do what you love. Ms. Lewis touches on her sexual escapades, the AIDS epidemic hitting, sexual abuse, death after death after death, mental battles that finally had a name years later (bipolar dispersed). It’s powerful how she tells her story and once she’s diagnosed all the symptoms she displayed connected together and finally gave her understanding. What really caught me is how Ms. Lewis still found a way to be happy. To laugh and make others laugh even when she was suffering.
“Back then I didn’t know my body was a temple. How precious and fragile we are. I was blind, crippled, and crazy ... desperate to be a star.
Oh, but i got up somehow, and scrubbed most of it away. Left a little funk on me so i’d be stronger on this day.
No shtick
Still love dick”.
What disturbed me the most was her relationship with her mother. Her mother was in survival mode and it took away from showing compassion towards her children. She worked hard to keep her children fed and clothed, but as a single mother who was set in her ways, Jenifer suffered. Her mother ignored her outcry of being molested by the pastor but instead still engaged with the pastor and even let her daughter in the car with him again. This is all to common and relevant. It can be so hard for children’s voices to be heard and this is a prime example. This is apart of why Jenifer had struggles growing up and did not find healing until so many years later.
P.S. She cussed the pastor out so good once she started healing and pulling back layers and layers of hurt.
January 30, 2018
I love hearing these celebrities narrating their own stories. Jenifer Lewis is no exception. Her big personality shined through on this audio. I learned a lot about her that I didn't know, which wasn't hard since I don't follow celebs lives. I've only known her to be the Mother of Hollywood and was unaware of her background in Broadway. It was also interesting to learn about her mental struggles. I found myself raising my eyebrows throughout the book before I learned the reason why behind her behavior. I liked that she was raw and transparent and kept it true to her voice, potty mouth and all lol.
October 3, 2022
Oct 2, 915pm ~~ Not too long ago I was catching up with Trevor Noah, watching YouTube clips from The Daily Show. I saw one that featured Jenifer Lewis, there to talk about her latest book. I thought it sounded like a fun read so off I went to treat myself to it. While shopping I saw she had written this memoir in 2017 so I ordered it also. I recognized Lewis from late 80's television but knew nothing else about her. When the books came I chose to read this one first so I would know her better before reading the newest book.
This is an open, intimate, sometimes raunchy telling of her life story. Hair, hide, guts and all, as my Dad would have said. It can be painful to read. And sometimes confusing if, like me, you spent more than a few years out of touch with nearly everything in the entertainment world. I did not recognize very many of the people mentioned here. I had no idea Ms. Lewis had worked so much in cabarets, on Broadway, and in movies before I had ever seen her on the small screen. All I ever really knew was that I loved her voice and her style!
Jenifer shares her life with us here, being her own wild and glorious self throughout. We feel the pain of losses caused by the AIDS epidemic; those early years were terrifying and brutal. We see her struggle to find roles that are large enough to fit her: she has so much talent, can do so many things, that many times she was simply too much for the roles she auditioned for. And we fret with her for the many years it took to learn why she was so high on life one moment and so down over it all the next. Bipolar disorder ruled her life for decades before she broke free with the help of years of intense therapy and medication.
I want to thank Jenifer for sharing her story. It was incredible, and you, Ms. Lewis are a wonder. I am so happy to have 'met' you and I can't wait to start reading the new book!
This is an open, intimate, sometimes raunchy telling of her life story. Hair, hide, guts and all, as my Dad would have said. It can be painful to read. And sometimes confusing if, like me, you spent more than a few years out of touch with nearly everything in the entertainment world. I did not recognize very many of the people mentioned here. I had no idea Ms. Lewis had worked so much in cabarets, on Broadway, and in movies before I had ever seen her on the small screen. All I ever really knew was that I loved her voice and her style!
Jenifer shares her life with us here, being her own wild and glorious self throughout. We feel the pain of losses caused by the AIDS epidemic; those early years were terrifying and brutal. We see her struggle to find roles that are large enough to fit her: she has so much talent, can do so many things, that many times she was simply too much for the roles she auditioned for. And we fret with her for the many years it took to learn why she was so high on life one moment and so down over it all the next. Bipolar disorder ruled her life for decades before she broke free with the help of years of intense therapy and medication.
I want to thank Jenifer for sharing her story. It was incredible, and you, Ms. Lewis are a wonder. I am so happy to have 'met' you and I can't wait to start reading the new book!
May 21, 2020
She is majestic! This memoir is raw, hysterical, and moving. It was an interesting peek into Black Broadway and Hollywood in the late 70s and 80s. Has anyone written a book about that yet? I need more. Anyhoo, if you read this (and you should,) listen to the audio version. She reads it herself, and it is a gift!
May 20, 2020 - I reread this for book club. I tried to read the print version since I listened the audio version previously, but this demands to be heard in Ms. Lewis's voice. This time around her mental health struggle captivated me in a way it didn't before. I highly recommend.
May 20, 2020 - I reread this for book club. I tried to read the print version since I listened the audio version previously, but this demands to be heard in Ms. Lewis's voice. This time around her mental health struggle captivated me in a way it didn't before. I highly recommend.
March 28, 2019
Jenifer Lewis who plays the mother on the hit tv series is bipolar and her addiction was sex. And she lived a very interesting life.
I started this book thinking what on earth am I reading. Lol I wish this book started with her growing up first instead of her present going back to her past. I kept thinking why does she keep talking about how many different men she was sleeping with but I kept pushing forward. By chapter 9 it explained everything.
I started this book thinking what on earth am I reading. Lol I wish this book started with her growing up first instead of her present going back to her past. I kept thinking why does she keep talking about how many different men she was sleeping with but I kept pushing forward. By chapter 9 it explained everything.
December 12, 2017
Starkly honest and powerful. She talks about her life, her career, opens up about her BPD and sex addiction, her family and so much more. It's entertaining and hilarious and touching all at the same time. The audiobook narration is a great experience.
February 26, 2018
Absolutely love everything about this memoir! Aunty Jenie was fabulous as always.
September 1, 2018
What can be said about Jenifer Lewis that she doesn't say, fervently, about herself?
December 29, 2017
Jenifer Lewis
The Mother of Black Hollywood: A Memoir in audio,and before I started, I read that many didn’t care for her voice and now I know why. I felt she was overly theatrical. This book was hilarious for the first 4 chapters then it got dark, I mean real dark. Jenifer lets you in on her most personal moments from the men in her life, her struggles with bipolar disorder and the havoc it wreaked in her early life and her success in acting. This book is really worth the read just don’t do the audio if your not with the xtra in her voice. I definitely recommend.
The Mother of Black Hollywood: A Memoir in audio,and before I started, I read that many didn’t care for her voice and now I know why. I felt she was overly theatrical. This book was hilarious for the first 4 chapters then it got dark, I mean real dark. Jenifer lets you in on her most personal moments from the men in her life, her struggles with bipolar disorder and the havoc it wreaked in her early life and her success in acting. This book is really worth the read just don’t do the audio if your not with the xtra in her voice. I definitely recommend.
November 26, 2017
Beautifully Written Truth
I've always loved Jenifer Lewis. I was shocked to read her story. To realize that she dealt with a difficult childhood, numerous romantic relationships, survived college and still conquered Hollywood give me hope for the future. Ms. Lewis's honesty and clear "I don't give a damn" attitude is refreshing. Read and learn about an amazing Black Woman.
I've always loved Jenifer Lewis. I was shocked to read her story. To realize that she dealt with a difficult childhood, numerous romantic relationships, survived college and still conquered Hollywood give me hope for the future. Ms. Lewis's honesty and clear "I don't give a damn" attitude is refreshing. Read and learn about an amazing Black Woman.
March 12, 2018
(I’m really considering a 5 rating) I’m still processing and decided not to start a new audiobook today in order to cleanse my pallet. Where do I start with this lady? She is truly larger than life. She mentions in her book that her personality is so big that people either love her or hate her and she’s so right. I’m in the love her camp.
December 10, 2017
Do yourself a favor—get the audiobook version and listen to Jenifer Lewis read her memoir! My goodness! This woman is a Black and National treasure!!
March 24, 2018
This is a really GoodRead!......LMAO
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2020
Jenifer Lewis is amazing and this was a great opportunity to learn more about her life, her struggles and her accomplishments. She's funny and heartbreaking all at the same time.
November 26, 2017
I love Jenifer Lewis. Always have. So when I found out she'd be releasing a memoir, I immediately added it to my TBR list. This book is, in many ways, exactly what you'd imagine, if you follow Lewis's career. The voice is very authentic; you can tell she penned it all herself. No "as told to"s here. The language is colorful and there are enough accounts of sexual escapades to leave you blushing. (As someone who grew up with a crush on Gregory Hines, I was especially flustered when he appeared here.)
There were surprises, too. I thought I knew a bit about Lewis's acting career, but she's done soooo much more than I knew. I appreciated her candor about growing up in poverty, with an unaffectionate and strict mother, as well as her painstaking accounts of her struggles with bipolar disorder. I loved reading about all the close friendships she's cultivated, even as her mental health challenges have threatened many of them.
This was an inspiring read, mostly, although -- as Ms. Lewis herself notes more than once -- she talks about herself a *lot.* That's to be expected in a memoir, of course, but the tone and voice and framing of this work threatens to be exhausting in its self-centeredness. Ms. Lewis certainly works hard to convey her commitment to causes and politics but much like the actress onscreen, her personality tends to eclipse whatever commentary she's offering. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing. It can just get to be a lot (maybe this was the case for me because I read the whole thing in a day?).
All in all, I'd recommend this to any fan.
There were surprises, too. I thought I knew a bit about Lewis's acting career, but she's done soooo much more than I knew. I appreciated her candor about growing up in poverty, with an unaffectionate and strict mother, as well as her painstaking accounts of her struggles with bipolar disorder. I loved reading about all the close friendships she's cultivated, even as her mental health challenges have threatened many of them.
This was an inspiring read, mostly, although -- as Ms. Lewis herself notes more than once -- she talks about herself a *lot.* That's to be expected in a memoir, of course, but the tone and voice and framing of this work threatens to be exhausting in its self-centeredness. Ms. Lewis certainly works hard to convey her commitment to causes and politics but much like the actress onscreen, her personality tends to eclipse whatever commentary she's offering. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing. It can just get to be a lot (maybe this was the case for me because I read the whole thing in a day?).
All in all, I'd recommend this to any fan.
September 17, 2018
A Must Read Memior
Dr. Jenifer Lewis IS the mother of Black Hollywood, reading this memoir shows why. Reading everyone's review, its clear I should have listened to the audiobook instead of reading, but the message remains the same- this is a MUST READ MEMIOR.
I generally do not care for Hollywood memoirs because they can seem a bit trite, superficial and lacking in substance. As far as memoirs goes, this is a must read for me. Dr. Lewis bares it all for her audience in the most heart felt and moving way. While I know some of her works, nothing could prepare me for the struggle Dr. Lewis went through to get where she is today.
I love how she kept it real the entire time. It was so refreshing reading someone- especially a black person, speak so openly about mental health. I laughed, I cried, I celebrated and I shouted reading this book.
This is definitely a stand out memoir for the year for me.
Recovery and healing require patience, something that is difficult for many people, and certainly was difficult for someone like me. But, I learned to submit to patience because it was either go step-by-step or die. Having patience means knowing that it is never too late to get well.
Dr. Jenifer Lewis IS the mother of Black Hollywood, reading this memoir shows why. Reading everyone's review, its clear I should have listened to the audiobook instead of reading, but the message remains the same- this is a MUST READ MEMIOR.
I generally do not care for Hollywood memoirs because they can seem a bit trite, superficial and lacking in substance. As far as memoirs goes, this is a must read for me. Dr. Lewis bares it all for her audience in the most heart felt and moving way. While I know some of her works, nothing could prepare me for the struggle Dr. Lewis went through to get where she is today.
I love how she kept it real the entire time. It was so refreshing reading someone- especially a black person, speak so openly about mental health. I laughed, I cried, I celebrated and I shouted reading this book.
This is definitely a stand out memoir for the year for me.
Recovery and healing require patience, something that is difficult for many people, and certainly was difficult for someone like me. But, I learned to submit to patience because it was either go step-by-step or die. Having patience means knowing that it is never too late to get well.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,369 reviews