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Whiskey in a Teacup
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Nonfiction (2018)Academy award-winning actress, producer, and entrepreneur Reese Witherspoon invites you into her world, where she infuses the Southern style, parties, and traditions she loves with contemporary flair and charm.
Reese Witherspoon's grandmother Dorothea always said a combination of beauty and strength made Southern women "whiskey in a teacup". We may be delicate and ornamental on the outside, she said, but inside, we're strong and fiery.
Reese's Southern heritage informs her whole life, and she loves sharing the joys of Southern living with practically everyone she meets. She takes the South wherever she goes with bluegrass, big holiday parties, and plenty of Dorothea's fried chicken. It's reflected in how she entertains, decorates her home, and makes holidays special for her kids - not to mention how she talks, dances, and does her hair (in this audiobook, you will learn Reese's fail-proof, only slightly insane hot-roller technique). Reese loves sharing Dorothea's most delicious recipes as well as her favorite Southern traditions, from midnight barn parties to backyard bridal showers, magical Christmas mornings to rollicking honky-tonks.
It's easy to bring a little bit of Reese's world into your home, no matter where you live. After all, there's a Southern side to every place in the world, right?
Reese Witherspoon's grandmother Dorothea always said a combination of beauty and strength made Southern women "whiskey in a teacup". We may be delicate and ornamental on the outside, she said, but inside, we're strong and fiery.
Reese's Southern heritage informs her whole life, and she loves sharing the joys of Southern living with practically everyone she meets. She takes the South wherever she goes with bluegrass, big holiday parties, and plenty of Dorothea's fried chicken. It's reflected in how she entertains, decorates her home, and makes holidays special for her kids - not to mention how she talks, dances, and does her hair (in this audiobook, you will learn Reese's fail-proof, only slightly insane hot-roller technique). Reese loves sharing Dorothea's most delicious recipes as well as her favorite Southern traditions, from midnight barn parties to backyard bridal showers, magical Christmas mornings to rollicking honky-tonks.
It's easy to bring a little bit of Reese's world into your home, no matter where you live. After all, there's a Southern side to every place in the world, right?
304 pages, Hardcover
First published September 18, 2018
2145 people are currently reading
36714 people want to read
About the author
Reese Witherspoon
14 books7,398 followersReese Witherspoon is an award-winning actress, producer, New York Times bestselling author and founder. In 2016, she established the media brand, Hello Sunshine, which puts women at the center of every story across all platforms– from scripted and unscripted television, feature films, animated series, podcasts, audio storytelling, and digital series. Hello Sunshine is also home to “Reese’s Book Club,” a community propelled by meaningful connections with stories, authors, and fellow members. Witherspoon is best known for her roles in feature films like WALK THE LINE, WILD, ELECTION and LEGALLY BLONDE as well as Emmy award-winning TV series “Big Little Lies,” “Little Fires Everywhere” and “The Morning Show.”
source: Amazon
source: Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,398 reviews
January 20, 2019
Mostly inane.
Now, another thing you'll find in most Nashville homes is a wide array of patterned wallpaper. Let's discuss wallpaper for a minute... I love wallpaper. Almost every room in my house is wallpapered. Wallpaper can make a little room, such as a powder room, into a big surprise. My powder room has wallpaper with giant fish on it... all these fish, just swimming around without a care in the world. And don't get me started about a bird motif... pg. 35
Or, for example, she has "An Ode to Quilts" which is literally a paragraph where she says how much she likes quilts. She says she sometimes uses them as tablecloths which honestly made me cringe just thinking of getting food stains on quilts, which are precious.
Recently I came home from the flea market with a little frog soap dish. I put it on my windowsill. I stood back, admiring the little frog in the window. It was so jaunty, so charming, in the way it caught the sun. I loved its charcacter and its little hat and its... Oh, dear God, I thought in a flash of horror, I've become my mother! pg. 43
>.<
There's nothing personal or riveting or educational in this book. It's basically Witherspoon briefly writing her thoughts on being Southern, in the most shallow, superficial way. All the photos are stunningly beautiful and professional. There's nothing personal or real. Even when Witherspoon describes something like
In second grade, on the way into school for picture day, I heard my mother's voice: "No, no, get back here!" She attacked me with the blush brush while muttering "You just don't look awake." As a result, I have on so much blush in my second-grade picture that I look like I have a sunburn. pg. 55
This would be a GREAT time to insert that picture. But she doesn't. The book isn't real. She doesn't discuss her husbands or children. There's nothing personal or real here. I'm not looking for salacious gossip - there would be tons of innocuous and cute ways to insert her loved ones into this book without being exploitative or revealing anything personal and she'd still be able to keep it really shallow, which is apparently what she wants. But no. It's all gloss.
She doesn't really... while I feel she is friendly and tries to be kind about vegetarians and teetotalers, I feel like she really has absolutely no understanding or ability to sympathize with people who choose not to eat meat or choose not to drink alcohol. She isn't mean, just clueless. She also throws a lot of "Black women are great! I like and admire black women!" in here to be supportive and inclusive, but still, it comes off as a little random and forced. I'M NOT SAYING SHE IS RACIST. SHE IS NOT RACIST AFAIK. I'm only saying she lives in a bubble, it's not even a white bubble, it's a rich white Southern bubble. So. Take this book with a grain of salt.
RECIPES
She has some recipes in here. They are simple and not unique, but I'm sure they would taste amazing. If I make any, I will update this review with results.
A whole chapter on monograms, although if you can call what this book contains as chapters you are already stretching it quite a bit. It's short and double-spaced.
One page I genuinely enjoyed in the book is Witherspoon's pronunciation key for Southern speaking. It's funny and fun and educational and I enjoyed it. :)
Another small section I really enjoyed was her talking about the Twentieth-Century Donut Insult in which she and generations of her family boycott one specific Kroger because that Kroger accused her 80-year-old grandmother of stealing a donut. As a result, she and her family boycott that individual Kroger to this day. I found that hilarious, and it sounds like something that would happen to me or to my family. :) Really cute and relatable story, I wish there had been more anecdotes like this in the book.
TL;DR A book about absolutely nothing. You will finish this having learned nothing, and you won't have been entertained, either.
The pictures are professional and gorgeous. They show Witherspoon doing 'Southern things' like driving in the car with curlers in her hair and baking cookies with one of her kids.
The kids are adorable, she never labels them in pictures. I'm even uncertain that all of them are hers. She only has three, right?
She thinks she's quirky and cute because she chases frogs and has an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. But again, she's not sharing anything real here.
I don't hate Witherspoon, she's made some films I've enjoyed. I think she is generally okay. I don't adore her and I wouldn't say I'm a huge fan of hers, but I don't have anything against her.
However, this book is pure fluff and she's charging $35 for it. She's not delivering $35 worth of material. If you are a huge Reese Witherspoon fan who absolutely adores her, you might think it's worth it. For everyone else... skip it. It's a book about nothing.
Now, another thing you'll find in most Nashville homes is a wide array of patterned wallpaper. Let's discuss wallpaper for a minute... I love wallpaper. Almost every room in my house is wallpapered. Wallpaper can make a little room, such as a powder room, into a big surprise. My powder room has wallpaper with giant fish on it... all these fish, just swimming around without a care in the world. And don't get me started about a bird motif... pg. 35
Or, for example, she has "An Ode to Quilts" which is literally a paragraph where she says how much she likes quilts. She says she sometimes uses them as tablecloths which honestly made me cringe just thinking of getting food stains on quilts, which are precious.
Recently I came home from the flea market with a little frog soap dish. I put it on my windowsill. I stood back, admiring the little frog in the window. It was so jaunty, so charming, in the way it caught the sun. I loved its charcacter and its little hat and its... Oh, dear God, I thought in a flash of horror, I've become my mother! pg. 43
>.<
There's nothing personal or riveting or educational in this book. It's basically Witherspoon briefly writing her thoughts on being Southern, in the most shallow, superficial way. All the photos are stunningly beautiful and professional. There's nothing personal or real. Even when Witherspoon describes something like
In second grade, on the way into school for picture day, I heard my mother's voice: "No, no, get back here!" She attacked me with the blush brush while muttering "You just don't look awake." As a result, I have on so much blush in my second-grade picture that I look like I have a sunburn. pg. 55
This would be a GREAT time to insert that picture. But she doesn't. The book isn't real. She doesn't discuss her husbands or children. There's nothing personal or real here. I'm not looking for salacious gossip - there would be tons of innocuous and cute ways to insert her loved ones into this book without being exploitative or revealing anything personal and she'd still be able to keep it really shallow, which is apparently what she wants. But no. It's all gloss.
She doesn't really... while I feel she is friendly and tries to be kind about vegetarians and teetotalers, I feel like she really has absolutely no understanding or ability to sympathize with people who choose not to eat meat or choose not to drink alcohol. She isn't mean, just clueless. She also throws a lot of "Black women are great! I like and admire black women!" in here to be supportive and inclusive, but still, it comes off as a little random and forced. I'M NOT SAYING SHE IS RACIST. SHE IS NOT RACIST AFAIK. I'm only saying she lives in a bubble, it's not even a white bubble, it's a rich white Southern bubble. So. Take this book with a grain of salt.
RECIPES
She has some recipes in here. They are simple and not unique, but I'm sure they would taste amazing. If I make any, I will update this review with results.
A whole chapter on monograms, although if you can call what this book contains as chapters you are already stretching it quite a bit. It's short and double-spaced.
One page I genuinely enjoyed in the book is Witherspoon's pronunciation key for Southern speaking. It's funny and fun and educational and I enjoyed it. :)
Another small section I really enjoyed was her talking about the Twentieth-Century Donut Insult in which she and generations of her family boycott one specific Kroger because that Kroger accused her 80-year-old grandmother of stealing a donut. As a result, she and her family boycott that individual Kroger to this day. I found that hilarious, and it sounds like something that would happen to me or to my family. :) Really cute and relatable story, I wish there had been more anecdotes like this in the book.
TL;DR A book about absolutely nothing. You will finish this having learned nothing, and you won't have been entertained, either.
The pictures are professional and gorgeous. They show Witherspoon doing 'Southern things' like driving in the car with curlers in her hair and baking cookies with one of her kids.
The kids are adorable, she never labels them in pictures. I'm even uncertain that all of them are hers. She only has three, right?
She thinks she's quirky and cute because she chases frogs and has an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. But again, she's not sharing anything real here.
I don't hate Witherspoon, she's made some films I've enjoyed. I think she is generally okay. I don't adore her and I wouldn't say I'm a huge fan of hers, but I don't have anything against her.
However, this book is pure fluff and she's charging $35 for it. She's not delivering $35 worth of material. If you are a huge Reese Witherspoon fan who absolutely adores her, you might think it's worth it. For everyone else... skip it. It's a book about nothing.
June 8, 2018
Witherspoon's book about southern living covers topics like food, decorating, and getting dressed up, but it doesn't have enough of any one topic to be useful. The recipes are common southern dishes that you've seen a hundred times and probably done better. When she says she scouts flea markets for little decorative items I don't believe her. I like her as an actress and admire her work as a producer, but this book is a cash grab. Review from e-galley.
October 26, 2018
Whiskey in a Tea Cup: What Growing Up in the South Taught Me About Life, Love & Baking Biscuits by Reese Witherspoon is a 2018 Touchstone publication.
I feel like I’ve watched Reese Witherspoon grow up. She was always so funny and seemed approachable. She has proven herself to be not only an accomplished actress, but a highly successful entrepreneur and businesswoman. However, she did face an uncomfortable moment in her life, a situation that may have been the catalyst that rededicated Reese to her southern roots.
This is an adorable book, with wonderful color photos, recipes and lots of southern-isms. I’m from the south- born in the deep rural south, at that, moving around a great deal until I finally landed in Texas. So, I could relate to some of the rules and etiquette unique to the southern region.
However, Reese’s version of southern is more suited to certain social classes than the one in which I was born.
There's some old southern traditions Reese heartily embraces, that I simply couldn’t see myself reverting to, like wallpaper, for example. But, that’s probably just a matter of taste. I’m also not too big on bluegrass or country music, but again, that’s just me.
However, I did enjoy her emphasis on civility, politeness, and manners. Those things should never go out of style. The book has a very upbeat and fun tempo, although at times I thought it went a little overboard, bordering on contrived.
The book almost has the same lay- out as a women’s magazine might, centering on family traditions, popular eateries, decorating for various holidays, hosting dinner parties and of course the requisite recipes included. There are lovely photos of Reese and her children and her beautiful home, with anecdotes about her parents and grandparents.
But, the book is also a memoir, and I think Reese’s message is that her southern upbringing is hardwired into her very being. No matter where she is living she still adheres to those values and principles. She’s matured and realizes that she can be a strong feminist voice, run her businesses and enjoy a successful career and still be a lady and enjoy doing things that makes her feel feminine, and brings her comfort and joy, as well.
She enjoys the benefits of her success, has weathered a few bumps in the road, and learned to embrace a simpler life, creating a nice homey environment for her family and friends and still seems just as approachable as ever.
This is a fun book and gives fans an intimate glimpse at Reese’s life away from Hollywood, which, by the way, is seldom mentioned. This is strictly about her personal time, her southern roots, and about fond family memories and influences that inspired her to become the person she is today.
I feel like I’ve watched Reese Witherspoon grow up. She was always so funny and seemed approachable. She has proven herself to be not only an accomplished actress, but a highly successful entrepreneur and businesswoman. However, she did face an uncomfortable moment in her life, a situation that may have been the catalyst that rededicated Reese to her southern roots.
This is an adorable book, with wonderful color photos, recipes and lots of southern-isms. I’m from the south- born in the deep rural south, at that, moving around a great deal until I finally landed in Texas. So, I could relate to some of the rules and etiquette unique to the southern region.
However, Reese’s version of southern is more suited to certain social classes than the one in which I was born.
There's some old southern traditions Reese heartily embraces, that I simply couldn’t see myself reverting to, like wallpaper, for example. But, that’s probably just a matter of taste. I’m also not too big on bluegrass or country music, but again, that’s just me.
However, I did enjoy her emphasis on civility, politeness, and manners. Those things should never go out of style. The book has a very upbeat and fun tempo, although at times I thought it went a little overboard, bordering on contrived.
The book almost has the same lay- out as a women’s magazine might, centering on family traditions, popular eateries, decorating for various holidays, hosting dinner parties and of course the requisite recipes included. There are lovely photos of Reese and her children and her beautiful home, with anecdotes about her parents and grandparents.
But, the book is also a memoir, and I think Reese’s message is that her southern upbringing is hardwired into her very being. No matter where she is living she still adheres to those values and principles. She’s matured and realizes that she can be a strong feminist voice, run her businesses and enjoy a successful career and still be a lady and enjoy doing things that makes her feel feminine, and brings her comfort and joy, as well.
She enjoys the benefits of her success, has weathered a few bumps in the road, and learned to embrace a simpler life, creating a nice homey environment for her family and friends and still seems just as approachable as ever.
This is a fun book and gives fans an intimate glimpse at Reese’s life away from Hollywood, which, by the way, is seldom mentioned. This is strictly about her personal time, her southern roots, and about fond family memories and influences that inspired her to become the person she is today.
October 28, 2018
Hey y’all! Mind your manners, love your family, don’t act ugly, get or give something monogrammed, and bake something with peaches or pecans. There, I saved you $20.
December 17, 2018
Review later....
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
September 22, 2018
I enjoy reading about, "The South." The lifestyle, fashion, food, and history fascinates me. I like Reese Witherspoon and her spin on how growing up in the South (Tennessee) influenced her life.
This is a coffee-table type of book. It's not exactly a memoir but just her thoughts on how the South and her family traditions contributed to her outlook on life. The pictures are nice and the stories are cute. There are some standard southern recipes as well. There's nothing really new or substantial in the book but it's put together nicely and a joy to read. I found it rather sweet. It's a delightful book to flip through with a cup of tea (and perhaps a splash of whiskey.). Why not? Reese says that's the way in the South.
This is a coffee-table type of book. It's not exactly a memoir but just her thoughts on how the South and her family traditions contributed to her outlook on life. The pictures are nice and the stories are cute. There are some standard southern recipes as well. There's nothing really new or substantial in the book but it's put together nicely and a joy to read. I found it rather sweet. It's a delightful book to flip through with a cup of tea (and perhaps a splash of whiskey.). Why not? Reese says that's the way in the South.
November 25, 2018
Well, bless her heart, Reece Witherspoon has written a primer on being Southern and it’s as charming as she is. From the dedication to the last word, there is an authenticity and warmth that permeates this offering and I enjoyed a few hours in her company.
From chapter titles such as ‘If It’s Not Moving, Monogram It,’ to ‘My Did Do Language & Notes on Southern Conversation’ complete with pronunciation key, her self-effacing wit and humor come through as she takes us on a journey through her roots and arrives at a place of celebration of her Southern heritage while, as she puts it, spreading the gospel of southern living. This is about family, food, hospitality, traditions, generosity and most of all, how you can bring a little bit of the South to your life.
From chapter titles such as ‘If It’s Not Moving, Monogram It,’ to ‘My Did Do Language & Notes on Southern Conversation’ complete with pronunciation key, her self-effacing wit and humor come through as she takes us on a journey through her roots and arrives at a place of celebration of her Southern heritage while, as she puts it, spreading the gospel of southern living. This is about family, food, hospitality, traditions, generosity and most of all, how you can bring a little bit of the South to your life.
October 18, 2018
0 stars for the memoire, 3 for the recipes
~random thoughts~
The South is THE BESTEST!!!1
Seriously this book is a huge collection of lists about, mostly, "the south" and how to be a proper lady/host/guest/cook/whatever.
Very awkward attempt to advocate about the non-racism of THE SOUTH by listing the accomplishments of black women and men.
But OF COURSE she would love gender reveal parties.
"You don't have to lose your femininity to be a strong woman."
A possible summary could be the quote "there's a time and a place for chewing gum."
OF COURSE she monograms stuff.
God damn this really feels like it was written in a past decade, I cannot imagine how a modern woman can be so clueless.
Don't mind the recipes, it'll be fun to try them out. I cringe at the photos that look like ones from a catologue for expensive furniture.
All in all, a very rich-and-white kind of book. I would expect this from Goop, but Witherspoon? I hoped for better.
~random thoughts~
The South is THE BESTEST!!!1
Seriously this book is a huge collection of lists about, mostly, "the south" and how to be a proper lady/host/guest/cook/whatever.
Very awkward attempt to advocate about the non-racism of THE SOUTH by listing the accomplishments of black women and men.
But OF COURSE she would love gender reveal parties.
"You don't have to lose your femininity to be a strong woman."
A possible summary could be the quote "there's a time and a place for chewing gum."
OF COURSE she monograms stuff.
God damn this really feels like it was written in a past decade, I cannot imagine how a modern woman can be so clueless.
Don't mind the recipes, it'll be fun to try them out. I cringe at the photos that look like ones from a catologue for expensive furniture.
All in all, a very rich-and-white kind of book. I would expect this from Goop, but Witherspoon? I hoped for better.
September 26, 2018
Part memoir, part cookbook, part family tribute, part southern lifestyle guide...Whiskey in a Teacup: What Growing Up in the South Taught Me About Life, Love & Baking Biscuits has a little bit of everything for those who enjoy the culture of Southern living and/or fans of the actress Reese Witherspoon. In my personal opinion, it's not a super regrettable experience if you can't get your hands on it right away but it was indeed interesting to explore.
I listened to the audiobook initially, which is narrated by Reese Witherspoon herself, and she made reference to an attached PDF that provides visuals of recipes, photos, etc. Since I borrowed the audiobook from my library's database, I couldn't access the PDF (some compatibility issue), so I went a few days later to the bookstore to sneak a peek at the visuals. There are tidbits, notes, lists, ideas, etc. also that aren't in the audiobook. I'd have to admit, it probably would have been a tedious listening experience if they were all in there. I've listened to audiobooks where whole recipes were narrated and it is pretty pointless in my opinion. While I enjoyed listening to Reese Witherspoon and her fiery Southern drawl, I'd have to recommend the physical book/ebook on this one...unless you are certain you can access the PDF on your device. Enjoy!
My favorite quote:
"To me, southern womanhood is about both the teacup and the whiskey – the music and the manners, the hospitality and the fight for fairness. Some people think that caring about “silly” things like cooking or fashion is mutually exclusive with “serious” politics. But my mother and grandmother and their friends taught me that finding pleasure at home – whether in a family dinner or a book club or a backyard barbecue – can give us the strength to go out into the world and do incredible things."
Recipes I plan to try:
Reese's Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
Sauteed Baby Kale
John's BBQ Sauce
I listened to the audiobook initially, which is narrated by Reese Witherspoon herself, and she made reference to an attached PDF that provides visuals of recipes, photos, etc. Since I borrowed the audiobook from my library's database, I couldn't access the PDF (some compatibility issue), so I went a few days later to the bookstore to sneak a peek at the visuals. There are tidbits, notes, lists, ideas, etc. also that aren't in the audiobook. I'd have to admit, it probably would have been a tedious listening experience if they were all in there. I've listened to audiobooks where whole recipes were narrated and it is pretty pointless in my opinion. While I enjoyed listening to Reese Witherspoon and her fiery Southern drawl, I'd have to recommend the physical book/ebook on this one...unless you are certain you can access the PDF on your device. Enjoy!
My favorite quote:
"To me, southern womanhood is about both the teacup and the whiskey – the music and the manners, the hospitality and the fight for fairness. Some people think that caring about “silly” things like cooking or fashion is mutually exclusive with “serious” politics. But my mother and grandmother and their friends taught me that finding pleasure at home – whether in a family dinner or a book club or a backyard barbecue – can give us the strength to go out into the world and do incredible things."
Recipes I plan to try:
Reese's Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
Sauteed Baby Kale
John's BBQ Sauce
November 6, 2018
This could alternately be titled, The Rich White Woman's Guide on How to Live as a Rich White Woman in the South.
I picked this up from the library a couple of weeks ago, read about 100 pages, and had a lot of thoughts on it. But I never wrote them down, and now the book is due back and I had no interest in picking it up again, so I can't really comment much beyond that.
All I can say is, I've lived most of my life in the South, and I couldn't relate to a single page in this book. And it has me questioning whether Reese Witherspoon is a Republican now.
I picked this up from the library a couple of weeks ago, read about 100 pages, and had a lot of thoughts on it. But I never wrote them down, and now the book is due back and I had no interest in picking it up again, so I can't really comment much beyond that.
All I can say is, I've lived most of my life in the South, and I couldn't relate to a single page in this book. And it has me questioning whether Reese Witherspoon is a Republican now.
February 27, 2019
Whiskey in a Teacup: What Growing Up in the South Taught Me About Life, Love & Baking Biscuits is a modern day guide to being the quintessential Southern hostess with the mostest, by Reese Witherspoon.
I recently received this book as a gift and though I predicted I’d enjoy it, I liked it more than I anticipated I would. I’ve been a long time fan of Reese Witherspoon and to me, this book highlights the personable vibe she appears to emanate. It is worth noting for Reese fans though, this book is not a traditional memoir. There are many memories referenced, and family photos included throughout, but the book is mostly a guide to embracing southern traditions and having fun while doing so. I think knowing this in advance (as I did) will help readers manage expectations accordingly.
I enjoyed that Whiskey in a Teacup covered a wide range of topics, like dinner party hosting tips, holiday celebration ideas, decor, and even book clubs (Rejoice, fellow avid readers!). There are also many recipes included throughout the book, tied to various occasions and festivities. Though I’m personally not a big chef and several of these recipes seemed daunting to me, I will say they look delicious and I wouldn’t mind helping a more seasoned chef give them a go. The book also discusses southern etiquette and maintaining manners. All of the pictures - not just the food ones - were great! There were a few things I knew right away upon reading that I would never get on board with, but overall I found Whiskey in a Teacup to be an enjoyable, entertaining read.
I recently received this book as a gift and though I predicted I’d enjoy it, I liked it more than I anticipated I would. I’ve been a long time fan of Reese Witherspoon and to me, this book highlights the personable vibe she appears to emanate. It is worth noting for Reese fans though, this book is not a traditional memoir. There are many memories referenced, and family photos included throughout, but the book is mostly a guide to embracing southern traditions and having fun while doing so. I think knowing this in advance (as I did) will help readers manage expectations accordingly.
I enjoyed that Whiskey in a Teacup covered a wide range of topics, like dinner party hosting tips, holiday celebration ideas, decor, and even book clubs (Rejoice, fellow avid readers!). There are also many recipes included throughout the book, tied to various occasions and festivities. Though I’m personally not a big chef and several of these recipes seemed daunting to me, I will say they look delicious and I wouldn’t mind helping a more seasoned chef give them a go. The book also discusses southern etiquette and maintaining manners. All of the pictures - not just the food ones - were great! There were a few things I knew right away upon reading that I would never get on board with, but overall I found Whiskey in a Teacup to be an enjoyable, entertaining read.
October 7, 2018
I should have known when she introduced it and explained what the book would be that it was not my cup of tea, but I did the audible anyway and wish I could get those 2hrs and 47 minutes back. Yes, that's how short this book is. It's fluffy, it's full of all the southern charm you can get from any book about the south and it's just not what I was expecting. I guess when I hear whiskey in a teacup, I think the book with have some bite to it, but no, it was all sweet and sugar and I didn't find it worth it. The best part was the introduction.
July 25, 2025
This is a Non Fiction Memoir. I love watching movies Reese Witherspoon is in, so when I saw she wrote a book I had to read it. I also grow up in the South. I found this book very funny and I really enjoyed reading it.
Want to read
November 19, 2021Legally Blonde wrote a book! I must get this one!
December 9, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An absolutely delightful story narrated by Reese Witherspoon. I loved hearing about the love and lessons Reese Witherspoon experienced while growing up in the south.
An absolutely delightful story narrated by Reese Witherspoon. I loved hearing about the love and lessons Reese Witherspoon experienced while growing up in the south.
February 15, 2021
I'm sad I read this because I actually really like Reese and I thought she had more depth. Perhaps she does, but this book does not demonstrate that at all. It's basically all about southern "manners". It's all "always RSVP" and how to do rollers on your hair and how to do table settings. I guess it's Reese in Sweet Home Alabama and not Little Fires or even legally blonde.
December 4, 2022
I'm a southern and love Reese Witherspoon. However, this book was mundane at best. Very bland. Pretty disappointed.
October 6, 2018
Update: Just received the ebook and I may need to update from 3 1/2 stars to 4 just for the pictures! Not only pics of Reese and her family, but her home and surrounding area. Nicely done. Plus, every recipe comes with a perfect picture. Oh my, am I gushing?
Very light, but fun read (or listen) on Reese’s take on being a Southern woman. I like Reese as an actor and person so I was willing to continue listening to the very end. I say that because I feel this book is geared more toward twenty/thirty-somethings, since to us mature women, it seems just common sense. It’s mostly about entertaining, decorating, food, etc. The best parts are when she talks about her grandmother Dorothea, and her Mom. Keeping memories is her best advice in my opinion.
The audio comes with a PDF of recipes, etc. which I haven’t downloaded yet. I’m sure the ebook includes them. Reese narrates so it’s great to hear her voice However, do yourself a favor, while Reese does have a pleasant voice, the pictures in the ebook are much better. And who wants to fuss with downloading a PDF anyway. Go for the book! .
Enjoy!
Very light, but fun read (or listen) on Reese’s take on being a Southern woman. I like Reese as an actor and person so I was willing to continue listening to the very end. I say that because I feel this book is geared more toward twenty/thirty-somethings, since to us mature women, it seems just common sense. It’s mostly about entertaining, decorating, food, etc. The best parts are when she talks about her grandmother Dorothea, and her Mom. Keeping memories is her best advice in my opinion.
The audio comes with a PDF of recipes, etc. which I haven’t downloaded yet. I’m sure the ebook includes them. Reese narrates so it’s great to hear her voice However, do yourself a favor, while Reese does have a pleasant voice, the pictures in the ebook are much better. And who wants to fuss with downloading a PDF anyway. Go for the book! .
Enjoy!
December 18, 2018
This is a thoroughly charming book from Reese Witherspoon. She shares favorite recipes, her tips for throwing good parties, her advice on dressing well (and how to use hot rollers), and has lots of sweet stories about her childhood in the South and life lessons from her grandparents and parents.
The book is also filled with lovely photographs, and reading this was a perfectly pleasant experience. My favorite sections were the longer personal essays and family anecdotes Reese includes, such as how she realized her childhood dream of being Dolly Parton wasn't going to work out, and why the beauty parlor scene in the movie "Steel Magnolias" is a masterpiece of acting. If you're a fan of Reese, you will enjoy this book.
Favorite Quotes
"[Grandmother] Dorothea always said that it was a combination of beauty and strength that made southern women 'whiskey in a teacup.' We may be delicate and ornamental on the outside, she said, but inside we're strong and fiery. Our famous hospitality isn't martyrdom; it's modeling. True southern women treat everyone the way we want to be treated: with grace and respect -- no matter where they come from or how different from you they may be. Dorothea taught me to never abide cruelty or injustice. The Golden Rule, she said, applies to everyone."
"My mother and grandmother and their friends taught me that finding pleasure at home -- whether in a family dinner or a book club or a backyard barbecue - can give us the strength to go out into the world and do incredible things."
"Poor Dorothea would not be happy to see how many people travel in athletic wear these days. 'You don't wear sweatpants on an airplane,' she used to say. 'It's a privilege to fly. Make sure you wear a nice outfit.' I guess she is why I have a real mental block about wearing workout wear all day long. I just don't do it. I think you gotta get up, you gotta work out, and then you gotta get dressed in a real, proper outfit by ten in the morning."
"This is my little public service announcement: If you get invited to something, it's incumbent upon you to RSVP as soon as possible. A quick 'no' is better than a long 'maybe.' People go to a lot of trouble to plan a party, and it's a big deal to open up your home. What's more, it's essential to show up if you say you will ... Being tired just isn't a good enough excuse. C'mon! Make an effort!"
[advice from her mother, Betty]
"If you want something done, do it yourself -- or ask another woman."
"A bigger house won't make you happier, you'll just have more to clean."
"You won't meet any friends on your couch."
The book is also filled with lovely photographs, and reading this was a perfectly pleasant experience. My favorite sections were the longer personal essays and family anecdotes Reese includes, such as how she realized her childhood dream of being Dolly Parton wasn't going to work out, and why the beauty parlor scene in the movie "Steel Magnolias" is a masterpiece of acting. If you're a fan of Reese, you will enjoy this book.
Favorite Quotes
"[Grandmother] Dorothea always said that it was a combination of beauty and strength that made southern women 'whiskey in a teacup.' We may be delicate and ornamental on the outside, she said, but inside we're strong and fiery. Our famous hospitality isn't martyrdom; it's modeling. True southern women treat everyone the way we want to be treated: with grace and respect -- no matter where they come from or how different from you they may be. Dorothea taught me to never abide cruelty or injustice. The Golden Rule, she said, applies to everyone."
"My mother and grandmother and their friends taught me that finding pleasure at home -- whether in a family dinner or a book club or a backyard barbecue - can give us the strength to go out into the world and do incredible things."
"Poor Dorothea would not be happy to see how many people travel in athletic wear these days. 'You don't wear sweatpants on an airplane,' she used to say. 'It's a privilege to fly. Make sure you wear a nice outfit.' I guess she is why I have a real mental block about wearing workout wear all day long. I just don't do it. I think you gotta get up, you gotta work out, and then you gotta get dressed in a real, proper outfit by ten in the morning."
"This is my little public service announcement: If you get invited to something, it's incumbent upon you to RSVP as soon as possible. A quick 'no' is better than a long 'maybe.' People go to a lot of trouble to plan a party, and it's a big deal to open up your home. What's more, it's essential to show up if you say you will ... Being tired just isn't a good enough excuse. C'mon! Make an effort!"
[advice from her mother, Betty]
"If you want something done, do it yourself -- or ask another woman."
"A bigger house won't make you happier, you'll just have more to clean."
"You won't meet any friends on your couch."
November 8, 2018
Sweet tea, fried chicken, cheddar biscuits, Bluegrass music and BBQ. These are a few of the things I think about when I think of southern living. Southen hospitality, holiday decorating, monograms, fashion and makeup. These bring back memories of family and friends. Road trips (driving, not flying), drive-in theaters, and southern restaurants bring thoughts of visiting family and of family reunions. I've enjoyed going down memory lane with this book, Whiskey in a Teacup. It reminded me of my southern roots and what made family and friends so important. In the hussle and bussle world, these things can be forgotten. It's time to slow down and get back in contact with them.
A few passages from the book I enjoyed:
"[Grandmother] Dorothea always said it was a combination of beauty and strength that made southern women."
Whiskey in a Teacup -- "We may be delicate and ornamental on the outside, she [Dorothea] said, but inside we're strong and fiery. Our famous hospitality isn't martyrdom; it's modeling. True southern women treat everyone the way they want to be treated: with grace and respect -- no matter where they come from or how different from you they may be. Dorothea taught me [Reese Witherspoon] to never abide cruelty or injustice. The Golden Rule applies to everyone."
"To me, southern womanhood is about both the teacup and the whiskey -- the music and the manners, the hospitality and the fight for fairness."
"Life isn't about perfection. There is no rule book. Life has many different chapters, and every chapter deserves celebrating."
"Southern women are strong and outspoken but also beautifully composed and always present their best selves to the world. They believe in character and the presentation of that character. They aren't afraid to tell you how they really feel."
This book satisfies A Book for All Seasons challenge number four: Who are you?
A few passages from the book I enjoyed:
"[Grandmother] Dorothea always said it was a combination of beauty and strength that made southern women."
Whiskey in a Teacup -- "We may be delicate and ornamental on the outside, she [Dorothea] said, but inside we're strong and fiery. Our famous hospitality isn't martyrdom; it's modeling. True southern women treat everyone the way they want to be treated: with grace and respect -- no matter where they come from or how different from you they may be. Dorothea taught me [Reese Witherspoon] to never abide cruelty or injustice. The Golden Rule applies to everyone."
"To me, southern womanhood is about both the teacup and the whiskey -- the music and the manners, the hospitality and the fight for fairness."
"Life isn't about perfection. There is no rule book. Life has many different chapters, and every chapter deserves celebrating."
"Southern women are strong and outspoken but also beautifully composed and always present their best selves to the world. They believe in character and the presentation of that character. They aren't afraid to tell you how they really feel."
This book satisfies A Book for All Seasons challenge number four: Who are you?
January 8, 2022
This was a fun book to dip into from time to time. I enjoyed reading how Reese engages with her children about how their day went by using "Roses and Thorns," which gets them to think about the best and worst parts of their day, and gives them something to aim for, or answer to rather than the broad, "How was your day?" which is like being handed a blank page and told to draw something and tends to elicit a one word response. Using the "Roses and Thorns" method is like providing an outline and then the child, or adult can 'color' in the details, which, hopefully, leads to a more meaningful conversation or point of engagement.
Also, I loved the baby shower idea - each guest brings a scrap of fabric and tells the story of why it is important to them. Perhaps it is from an outfit from a special occasion etc. Then, all the fabric scraps are collected and sewn into a quilt for the new baby.
Favorite quote: "I always love it when there's both a groom's cake and a bride's cake. Usually, the bride's cake is a traditional white cake and the groom's cake is a chocolate cake. Both are important, because variety is the spice of life."
I have mixed thoughts about separate cakes, wouldn't a single cake present the uniting of two people? Anyhow, if my partner and I were just getting married and choosing our favorite flavor of cake, his would be carrot cake and mine would be a flourless chocolate cake! Try uniting those flavors ;)
Also, I loved the baby shower idea - each guest brings a scrap of fabric and tells the story of why it is important to them. Perhaps it is from an outfit from a special occasion etc. Then, all the fabric scraps are collected and sewn into a quilt for the new baby.
Favorite quote: "I always love it when there's both a groom's cake and a bride's cake. Usually, the bride's cake is a traditional white cake and the groom's cake is a chocolate cake. Both are important, because variety is the spice of life."
I have mixed thoughts about separate cakes, wouldn't a single cake present the uniting of two people? Anyhow, if my partner and I were just getting married and choosing our favorite flavor of cake, his would be carrot cake and mine would be a flourless chocolate cake! Try uniting those flavors ;)
October 23, 2018
If you want something to lift your spirits and keep you smiling, this is it!
Written with Reese’s fun personality and charm this is all about her life in the South, funny southernisms and how she entertains friends.
Take a peek at hot-rolling your hair, baking up a mess of cheddar biscuits or sipping a ‘sun brewed’ glass of sweet tea with Reese’s how-to’s + recipes. My fav chapter, The Perfect Bookclub paired with a bookclub menu.. I mean, just that chapter alone, sold!
Written with Reese’s fun personality and charm this is all about her life in the South, funny southernisms and how she entertains friends.
Take a peek at hot-rolling your hair, baking up a mess of cheddar biscuits or sipping a ‘sun brewed’ glass of sweet tea with Reese’s how-to’s + recipes. My fav chapter, The Perfect Bookclub paired with a bookclub menu.. I mean, just that chapter alone, sold!
November 26, 2018
Whiskey in a Teacup: How to be a Rich, White, Southern Lady from the South, which is a Perfect Place with No Problems
I was very much set up to like this book. I like party-throwing! I like folksy wisdom! I like pretty and frivolous things! I listened to this while I baked pies for Thanksgiving (more pies than anyone wanted! Before helping to way over-decorate for our small family party! I am telling you, I should have been the target audience!), and hoo-boy, did it just not sit right with me. She calls Draper James "affordable" (the cheapest dress has a $135 sticker price), she says that dogs have the best life in the south "because no one puts them on a leash", and she never acknowledges that there might be an ounce of privilege that might have come from her generational wealth. She also attributes a lot of normal home-maker things to "being a Southern woman." Did you know that Southern women have bins of seasonal decorations? That's just a Southern thing! Which means that every Northern household I've been to must secretly be Southern, I guess.
I don't want her to apologize for her wealth or success, and I know she truly has worked hard, and I'm not taking away from that.
I still like RW, but I wish there had been just a little humility mixed into the book, along with the prescriptive instructions on the best and only way to wear makeup and dress.
Oh also, RW reads the audiobook, and does a good job. I was disappointed that she doesn't read the recipes in the book, and instead refers you to the PDF. This might just be a me thing, but I love having recipes read to me in audiobooks.
I was very much set up to like this book. I like party-throwing! I like folksy wisdom! I like pretty and frivolous things! I listened to this while I baked pies for Thanksgiving (more pies than anyone wanted! Before helping to way over-decorate for our small family party! I am telling you, I should have been the target audience!), and hoo-boy, did it just not sit right with me. She calls Draper James "affordable" (the cheapest dress has a $135 sticker price), she says that dogs have the best life in the south "because no one puts them on a leash", and she never acknowledges that there might be an ounce of privilege that might have come from her generational wealth. She also attributes a lot of normal home-maker things to "being a Southern woman." Did you know that Southern women have bins of seasonal decorations? That's just a Southern thing! Which means that every Northern household I've been to must secretly be Southern, I guess.
I don't want her to apologize for her wealth or success, and I know she truly has worked hard, and I'm not taking away from that.
I still like RW, but I wish there had been just a little humility mixed into the book, along with the prescriptive instructions on the best and only way to wear makeup and dress.
Oh also, RW reads the audiobook, and does a good job. I was disappointed that she doesn't read the recipes in the book, and instead refers you to the PDF. This might just be a me thing, but I love having recipes read to me in audiobooks.
March 8, 2023
I have loved Reese Whiterspoon ever since I first saw her in Legally Blonde, some 20 years ago, and I always imagined her to be as awesome in real life as she has been in most of her roles. From what I've seen in interviews, and now read here, she seems to be just that: warm, kind, driven and probably a fun person to be around.
It was a no-brainer that I'd read her book the moment I learned she had written one, and I can honestly say I am not disappointed. I cannot wait to try all the recipes she shared with us and I am surely going to follow some of her advice, too.
I don't know why this book doesn't have a higher rating, I thoroughly enjoyed it 😊
It was a no-brainer that I'd read her book the moment I learned she had written one, and I can honestly say I am not disappointed. I cannot wait to try all the recipes she shared with us and I am surely going to follow some of her advice, too.
I don't know why this book doesn't have a higher rating, I thoroughly enjoyed it 😊
October 12, 2019
Whiskey in a Teacup: What Growing Up in the South Taught Me About Life, Love, & Baking Biscuits was a delightful memoir of what growing up in the south meant to actress and author Reese Witherspoon. It was a wonderful change of pace, packed with the wisdom of her grandmother Dorothea, and many wonderful recipes, one I had to save - the iconic black-eyed peas with collard greens for New Years Day celebrations. Having spent a lot of time traveling through the South in recent years, I enjoyed this book.
"Dorothea always said that it was a combination of beauty and strength that made southern women 'whiskey in a teacup.' We may be delicate and ornamental on the outside, she said, but inside we're strong and fiery. Our famous hospitality isn't martyrdom; it's modeling. True southern women treat everyone the way we want to be treated: with grace and respect--no matter where they come from or how different from you they may be."
"To me, southern womanhood is about both the teacup and the whiskey--the music and the manners, the hospitality and the fight for fairness."
"One historical note that I just love: When the suffragettes were marching, at one point they started wearing red lipstick so they would all be wearing the same bold color and stand in solidarity with one another. I love how this little thing that many had in their purses became a powerful political symbol."
"Dorothea always said that it was a combination of beauty and strength that made southern women 'whiskey in a teacup.' We may be delicate and ornamental on the outside, she said, but inside we're strong and fiery. Our famous hospitality isn't martyrdom; it's modeling. True southern women treat everyone the way we want to be treated: with grace and respect--no matter where they come from or how different from you they may be."
"To me, southern womanhood is about both the teacup and the whiskey--the music and the manners, the hospitality and the fight for fairness."
"One historical note that I just love: When the suffragettes were marching, at one point they started wearing red lipstick so they would all be wearing the same bold color and stand in solidarity with one another. I love how this little thing that many had in their purses became a powerful political symbol."
October 13, 2018
Why did I buy this book? I’ve had such guilt about it since the moment I tossed it in the cart. Love Reese Witherspoon films, she’s a great actress. Cannot stand Reese Witherspoon the hypocritical lying person. Ever since she had her DUI during which she was horribly obnoxious and rude to the police officer and pulled the - Don’t you know who I am! - line, which is always so disgusting. Who she truly is doesn’t really square up with her carefully cultivated, cutesy little image of a sweet, well mannered, conscientious and caring Southern belle.
That said, this book is precisely what I feared - a bunch of fake bullshit that I would bet a million dollars Reese Witherspoon has no link to at all except for depositing checks into her bank account. The book is just a substance lacking, shallow project for someone who wants a new hobby. Book, check; cookbook, check (this book has mediocre recipes too); clothing line, check; furniture, unknown; overpriced boutique of stupid crap; probably in the works. This ranks up there with wasting precious moments of your life on a Goop website.
If you really must have a copy, look for it at garage sales near you for $.50 in a few months.
That said, this book is precisely what I feared - a bunch of fake bullshit that I would bet a million dollars Reese Witherspoon has no link to at all except for depositing checks into her bank account. The book is just a substance lacking, shallow project for someone who wants a new hobby. Book, check; cookbook, check (this book has mediocre recipes too); clothing line, check; furniture, unknown; overpriced boutique of stupid crap; probably in the works. This ranks up there with wasting precious moments of your life on a Goop website.
If you really must have a copy, look for it at garage sales near you for $.50 in a few months.
December 13, 2018
I am now stupider for having read this book.
December 1, 2018
A wonderful combination of Reese Witherspoon's life and her grandmothers inspirations and receipes
plus a quote " My mother and grandmother and their friends taught me that finding"Pleasure at home"-whether in a family dinner or a book club or a backyard barbecue- can give us the strength to go out into the world and do incredible things".
There are dinner menus for all occasions, plus a play list of music.
All these wonderful inspirations will give the reader such good ideas for their get togethers.
This is also a great coffee table book.
Loved it!!
plus a quote " My mother and grandmother and their friends taught me that finding"Pleasure at home"-whether in a family dinner or a book club or a backyard barbecue- can give us the strength to go out into the world and do incredible things".
There are dinner menus for all occasions, plus a play list of music.
All these wonderful inspirations will give the reader such good ideas for their get togethers.
This is also a great coffee table book.
Loved it!!
April 8, 2019
This book is a little bit of everything: memoir, recipes, and southern lifestyle guide. The photography is stunning, and I enjoyed the bits of 'memoir' of Reese's childhood growing up in the south and the family values of her grandparents and parents. The lifestyle advice portions felt at times a bit superficial and perhaps a bit aristocratic, but Reese is very genuine, caring, and gives back, so she's able to pull this off in a sweet way. It's a lovely ode to southern lifestyle and culture.
January 8, 2019
This book was light, fun, and so cute! I had no idea what to expect from this book so I decided to listen to it from Scribd since I’ve always loved Reese and it was a really fun listen! Reese reads the book herself which is fun and it made me want to move to Nashville right now 😍 The Hard cover copy is now on my wish list ;)
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