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I Am These Truths: A Memoir of Identity, Justice, and Living Between Worlds
Asunción «Sunny» Hostin, la célebre coanfitriona de The View , siempre sintió que pertenecía a diferentes mundos y que debía elegir uno de ellos. De madre puertorriqueña y padre afroamericano, dejó atrás la pobreza y los obstáculos de su niñez en el sur del Bronx gracias a una combinación de esfuerzo, algo de suerte y becas universitarias. Al acabar sus estudios de Derecho, se sumergió de lleno en el sistema de justicia criminal y ejerció como fiscal en Washington, D.C. Más adelante, apostó todos sus conocimientos para convertirse en periodista legal. Fue una de las primeras que cubrió el caso de Trayvon Martin, contra el criterio de sus productores, que lo consideraban una historia local. Hoy, Sunny Hostin es una de las voces ineludibles del mundo de las noticias y entretenimiento y aprovecha su enorme visibilidad para abogar por la justicia social y los marginados. En este libro, Sunny reflexiona sobre su lucha por tener hijos, sus dilemas personales y muchos de los casos de alto perfil en los que trabajó en CNN, Fox News, ABC y The View , siempre con ese estilo incisivo y «sin pelos en la lengua» que tan bien la define. Yo soy estas verdades son las conmovedoras memorias de una mujer que supo compaginar varios mundos sin abandonar las raíces de su identidad, y logró el éxito profesional sin renunciar a sus ideales. Sunny Hostin es la galardonada periodista, reportera y coanfitriona de The View . Anteriormente fue analista legal y presentadora en CNN. Ha escrito para Forbes Woman , Essence , New York Post , Wall Street Journal , Latina y Ebony . Es neoyorquina de pura cepa y vive con su esposo y dos hijos en Westchester, Nueva York.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published September 8, 2020
386 people are currently reading
2149 people want to read
About the author
Sunny Hostin
4 books775 followersSunny Hostin is the 3x Emmy Award-winning legal journalist, New York Times bestselling author, and co-host of The View. On May 4, Hostin released her debut novel, "Summer on the Bluffs" (William Morrow), which skyrocketed to #11 on The New York Times Bestseller List, the first book in her "Summer" trilogy. Last fall, Hostin released her memoir, “I Am These Truths: A Memoir of Identity, Justice, and Living Between Worlds,” with HarperOne. Hostin has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes Woman, Essence, Newsweek, The New York Post, Latina, and Ebony. A sought-after public speaker, she has delivered a TEDxTalk called “A Possibility Model” and spoken at and moderated panels for the U.C. Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism, Corporate Counsel Women of Color, and the National Bar Association, and served as a witness at the Federal Judiciary’s Congressional Hearing for the Public’s Right of Access to the Courts. Hostin lives with her husband and two children in New York.
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December 4, 2021
I enjoyed reading Sunny Hostin’s memoir. I knew very little about Sunny Hostin before reading this book. I had seen her a few times on television.
The book is well written. SH describes her life growing up in the tenements of the Bronx as well as difficulties of being mixed race. She goes into great detail about her pregnancies as well as her career as a federal prosecutor and T.V. legal analyst. The book did provide me with a better understand of what it is like to be mixed race (Black/Latina) in the United States. Sunny Hostin’s intelligence, ambition and her parents’ sacrifices allowed her to escape from poverty
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is eight hours and eight minutes. Sunny Hostin does a good job narrating the book.
The book is well written. SH describes her life growing up in the tenements of the Bronx as well as difficulties of being mixed race. She goes into great detail about her pregnancies as well as her career as a federal prosecutor and T.V. legal analyst. The book did provide me with a better understand of what it is like to be mixed race (Black/Latina) in the United States. Sunny Hostin’s intelligence, ambition and her parents’ sacrifices allowed her to escape from poverty
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is eight hours and eight minutes. Sunny Hostin does a good job narrating the book.
October 12, 2020
I really wanted to like this book, actually, I really wanted to like Sunny. But, alas, she's quite the whiny narcissist. By the the time I had finished the book, I realized I missed a chance to keep count on how many times she'd referred to herself as "beautiful", and, "exceptionally bright"/straight A student...Oh, and how so-and-so just couldn't BELIEVE she was part Latina until they heard her speak Spanish...And, always suspicious that she was turned down/passed over for jobs simply bc of her ethnic background. Nope, it's solely due to her off putting attitude and personality. And, the WHINING!!! Waiting for The VIEW to show you The EXIT..Your ongoing complaints about your friggin dressing room, you should've been embarrased writing about it, I was actually embarrassed for YOU!!! So, maybe the veterans didn't want you near them, oh yea, they're intimidated by your beauty and exceptional brilliance!!! Augh!!!! Learn to be humble, get off that high horse and people WILL respect you!!! Just my 2 cents....
September 22, 2020
I Am These Truths is one of my favorite reads of 2020. It's an impactful and empowering memoir that details how Sunny Hostin became the person that she is today. I have been a fan of hers for some time always appreciating her genuine nature and tenacity to fight for justice and equality. Her memoir will give fans and readers an insight into her past and present in a way that is truly inspiring.
As I started reading the first few pages, I was captivated. I am a fan of Sunny's but I admit that I didn't know much about her background. I learned so much about her that I didn't know before which made me feel so many emotions. I felt sad for the young girl that had to witness hard times, I felt proud when her parents believed in the importance of her education and dedication to provide for her, I felt happy when she talked about her marriage and children, and so much more.
As a Latinx woman, I appreciate all the work that she has done and continues to do and applaud her even more for never giving up on her dreams. According to some people, a bi-racial woman like Sunny shouldn't be successful. But Sunny proved all her doubters wrong. She brings up the topic of race in this book to celebrate her Puerto Rican and African American roots. When she talked about all the racial prejudice she faced, I felt disheartened because I understand how it feels to be disregarded because of the color of our skin. The sad truth is that because of that prejudice so many give up because they feel like that is the only option. Instead of giving up Sunny reminded herself of the people who believed in her like her teacher, her parents, and friends. And the wonderful thing about her never give up attitude is that she paved the way for so many.
Like I mentioned previously, Sunny is bi-racial being both Puerto Rican and African American. Culture is such a huge part of her life and to be proud of her background was sometimes frowned upon. Many people pressured her to pick one or the other. Why couldn't she be both? In some cases, when it came to reporting or jobs she either wasn't too black enough or Latina enough. I love that she embraced her culture. Even when some friends questioned her or asked her if she was really Latina, she handled it with class.
Readers will get to see how Sunny became a prosecutor, reporter, TV personality, and journalist, but one of the most beautiful parts of the story was when she talked about her family. At the beginning of the book, we see her relationship with her family and how important it is to her. Even when she left the Bronx, her family could never be too far away. There is a part of the book where she talks about starting a family with her husband. She details the struggles with conceiving. The love she has for children is exponential and to see the lengths she went through to have her two children brought tears to my eyes. Paloma and Gabriel are so lucky to call this strong and fierce woman, mom.
I give I Am These Truths 5 stars. This was an absolute page-turner and must-read. I appreciate Sunny's honesty and openness because it wasn't always sunshine and rainbows. By Sunny telling her truth, she's able to inspire so many people of color and remind us that our dreams are possible. We can achieve anything if we fight for our truth and happiness.
As I started reading the first few pages, I was captivated. I am a fan of Sunny's but I admit that I didn't know much about her background. I learned so much about her that I didn't know before which made me feel so many emotions. I felt sad for the young girl that had to witness hard times, I felt proud when her parents believed in the importance of her education and dedication to provide for her, I felt happy when she talked about her marriage and children, and so much more.
As a Latinx woman, I appreciate all the work that she has done and continues to do and applaud her even more for never giving up on her dreams. According to some people, a bi-racial woman like Sunny shouldn't be successful. But Sunny proved all her doubters wrong. She brings up the topic of race in this book to celebrate her Puerto Rican and African American roots. When she talked about all the racial prejudice she faced, I felt disheartened because I understand how it feels to be disregarded because of the color of our skin. The sad truth is that because of that prejudice so many give up because they feel like that is the only option. Instead of giving up Sunny reminded herself of the people who believed in her like her teacher, her parents, and friends. And the wonderful thing about her never give up attitude is that she paved the way for so many.
Like I mentioned previously, Sunny is bi-racial being both Puerto Rican and African American. Culture is such a huge part of her life and to be proud of her background was sometimes frowned upon. Many people pressured her to pick one or the other. Why couldn't she be both? In some cases, when it came to reporting or jobs she either wasn't too black enough or Latina enough. I love that she embraced her culture. Even when some friends questioned her or asked her if she was really Latina, she handled it with class.
Readers will get to see how Sunny became a prosecutor, reporter, TV personality, and journalist, but one of the most beautiful parts of the story was when she talked about her family. At the beginning of the book, we see her relationship with her family and how important it is to her. Even when she left the Bronx, her family could never be too far away. There is a part of the book where she talks about starting a family with her husband. She details the struggles with conceiving. The love she has for children is exponential and to see the lengths she went through to have her two children brought tears to my eyes. Paloma and Gabriel are so lucky to call this strong and fierce woman, mom.
I give I Am These Truths 5 stars. This was an absolute page-turner and must-read. I appreciate Sunny's honesty and openness because it wasn't always sunshine and rainbows. By Sunny telling her truth, she's able to inspire so many people of color and remind us that our dreams are possible. We can achieve anything if we fight for our truth and happiness.
July 1, 2021
..Over and over again, we have seen the weaponization of race against black people in our country. Driving while black, barbecuing while black, shopping while black, bird waching while black: Living while black may lead to confrontation, police intervention, death. Where the innocent are assumed guilty, because of the color of their skin. hope to see a reckoning,. Real introspection combined with real action. Because of what is going on from the street, to the classroom, to housing, to financial credit, to hospitals to the newsoom- it has to stop. Now.
I enjoyed what I read for the most part, it was basically about Hostin upbringing and the inequalites that she faced as a mixed race. I don't know much about her other than seeing a few clips from the View and CNN, but I always admired her voice to tackle issues on race and discrimination.
I loved how she overcame her obstacles and paid tribute to the people that paved her way. The pictures that accompanied the book was a nice touch, you can tell that she really loves her family and she will do anything to protect them.
Amazing novel with themes of race, justice and lberation in america.
I enjoyed what I read for the most part, it was basically about Hostin upbringing and the inequalites that she faced as a mixed race. I don't know much about her other than seeing a few clips from the View and CNN, but I always admired her voice to tackle issues on race and discrimination.
I loved how she overcame her obstacles and paid tribute to the people that paved her way. The pictures that accompanied the book was a nice touch, you can tell that she really loves her family and she will do anything to protect them.
Amazing novel with themes of race, justice and lberation in america.
June 29, 2020
Disclaimer: I received an uncorrected proof of I Am These Truths from HarperOne.
I watch The View semi-regularly and Sunny has always been my favorite host. I find that she is consistently clear-headed and makes really great arguments. I knew a little about her from anecdotes she tells during segments on the show but was not familiar with her past work prior to reading this book. I came away impressed by her motivation, talent, and commitment while pursuing different career paths.
More than halfway through the memoir, Sunny emphasizes this idea that one of the most important days of someone's life is when they find out what their purpose is. She later comes to the realization that advocating for social justice and being a truth teller were her callings. Her passion for social issues really shines throughout the book. I thought two chapters that concern racial, ethnic, and class identities, "I Am What I Am" and "Trayvon", were standouts. In comparison, I did not find Sunny's accounts of her academic experience and legal career as interesting, although I do not know much about the law world.
My other critique is that the organization of the chapters was not entirely chronological, and I think reorganizing some parts may benefit the story more. I didn't feel like I was able to keep clear track of Sunny's career path, for example.
But overall I really enjoyed this read! I Am These Truths evoked a lot of strong emotions in me and only increased my admiration for Asuncion. The language used throughout is well-crafted (it's almost as if Mrs. Hostin used to write carefully-worded legal documents, lol) and I felt like she gave me excellent insight into unfamiliar worlds. I was able to breeze through the book because it kept me interested. I will recommend it to my friends upon its eventual publication in the fall!
I watch The View semi-regularly and Sunny has always been my favorite host. I find that she is consistently clear-headed and makes really great arguments. I knew a little about her from anecdotes she tells during segments on the show but was not familiar with her past work prior to reading this book. I came away impressed by her motivation, talent, and commitment while pursuing different career paths.
More than halfway through the memoir, Sunny emphasizes this idea that one of the most important days of someone's life is when they find out what their purpose is. She later comes to the realization that advocating for social justice and being a truth teller were her callings. Her passion for social issues really shines throughout the book. I thought two chapters that concern racial, ethnic, and class identities, "I Am What I Am" and "Trayvon", were standouts. In comparison, I did not find Sunny's accounts of her academic experience and legal career as interesting, although I do not know much about the law world.
My other critique is that the organization of the chapters was not entirely chronological, and I think reorganizing some parts may benefit the story more. I didn't feel like I was able to keep clear track of Sunny's career path, for example.
But overall I really enjoyed this read! I Am These Truths evoked a lot of strong emotions in me and only increased my admiration for Asuncion. The language used throughout is well-crafted (it's almost as if Mrs. Hostin used to write carefully-worded legal documents, lol) and I felt like she gave me excellent insight into unfamiliar worlds. I was able to breeze through the book because it kept me interested. I will recommend it to my friends upon its eventual publication in the fall!
January 3, 2022
Stayed up TOO LATE reading Sunny Hostin’s memoir “I Am These Truths” Her background, as a gifted child and living between two cultures - Puerto Rican and African American. She's wonderful at writing compelling stories.
Throughly enjoyed reading her story.
Throughly enjoyed reading her story.
November 1, 2020
Sonny Hostin crossed my radar due to her coverage of Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman on CNN. Hostin was the only journalist at the time challenging the prevailing narrative about Trayon, which set the blueprint for character assassination of the dead to justify extrajudicial killings of unarmed Black people. Hostin argued with a passion and zeal I found lacking from other journalists that adopted a prosaic approach absent of nuance. Each time I watched her argue a point, she took the words out of my word. Hostin spoke for the voiceless and written off urban communities across the nation. I became a fan.
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Sunny Hostin I Am These Truths: A Memoir of Identity, Justice, and Living Between Worlds examines Hostin’s place in the world as she comes of age. She details living in the Bronx and being poor. The importance of education in her home resulted in Hostin being skipped from the 2nd grade to the 5th. She entered high school at 12 and graduated at 16. Wow. She expounds upon being African American and Puerto Rican and the erasure of her dual identities. Hostin speaks Spanish, cooks arroz con gradules or pernil or pollo guisado, and her Grandmother was a Bruja. On the other hand, Hostin cooks collard greens, turkey necks, and loves soul music. She wanted to be a journalist, but her watershed moment occurred when she served as a juror on The Butcher of Tompkins Square Park case. It set Hostin on the path to become a lawyer. Eventually, she transitioned to broadcast news and described her rocky rise to prominence. The most challenging chapter to read was Motherhood. Whew.
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Sunny’s memoir was highly entertaining and informative. It provided a unique perspective about prosecutors and how crucial it is to be in the room where it happens to affect the system from the inside out.
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Favorite: "I think there are three defining days in your life. Besides day one, when you are born, and the day when you discover your purpose, I believe there is a day in between. And that is the moment when you find out who you will not be, who you will not become. Your day two."
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Sunny Hostin I Am These Truths: A Memoir of Identity, Justice, and Living Between Worlds examines Hostin’s place in the world as she comes of age. She details living in the Bronx and being poor. The importance of education in her home resulted in Hostin being skipped from the 2nd grade to the 5th. She entered high school at 12 and graduated at 16. Wow. She expounds upon being African American and Puerto Rican and the erasure of her dual identities. Hostin speaks Spanish, cooks arroz con gradules or pernil or pollo guisado, and her Grandmother was a Bruja. On the other hand, Hostin cooks collard greens, turkey necks, and loves soul music. She wanted to be a journalist, but her watershed moment occurred when she served as a juror on The Butcher of Tompkins Square Park case. It set Hostin on the path to become a lawyer. Eventually, she transitioned to broadcast news and described her rocky rise to prominence. The most challenging chapter to read was Motherhood. Whew.
🐓
Sunny’s memoir was highly entertaining and informative. It provided a unique perspective about prosecutors and how crucial it is to be in the room where it happens to affect the system from the inside out.
🐓
Favorite: "I think there are three defining days in your life. Besides day one, when you are born, and the day when you discover your purpose, I believe there is a day in between. And that is the moment when you find out who you will not be, who you will not become. Your day two."
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December 6, 2022
Loved this book. It was the perfect combination of learning about another person’s life + thoughtful/smart insight into so many important topics/issues + inside baseball on the industries Sunny's worked in. And I listened to it -wonderful hearing the story straight from Sunny herself. Highly recommend.
November 13, 2023
Sunny is clearly a very intelligent woman with amazing insight on life which is what lead to her success in life. Her childhood story was interesting and her parents were quite remarkable with how much they taught her. She had so many obstacles that she had based on how she looked on the outsideanf getting ignored for how smart abd clever she was. She speaks out on race issues that I can only hope others can read and learn from. How she keeps positive and never gives up is very inspiring! My only issue was the timeline which seemed to bounce around and confused me at times. Definitely a must read!
November 9, 2020
Real, Raw, Real, Unique, Real, Truth. This book was more than what I expected it to be. I've watched Sunny for years on The View and her way of explaining things and the knowledge she has, has always been inspiring. I'm glad I listened and purchased the physical book. Very enlightening. Must Read. A Great Read.
February 27, 2021
A self imposed struggle
I am so glad I didn't buy this book, but checked it out from the library. I wanted to give 2.5 stars, 2 for her because I really like her on The View. The book is confusing to read, I found it hard to continue most of the time. It dragged on and on til I finally got to the end. Sunny was a whiny anxious self depreciating child who remained the same into adulthood. She seems really hung up on skin color and ethnicity and of course being biracial which she mentioned ad nausea soul. This is a very smart woman who surprisingly bounced around through several career choices, difficult but successful. I was surprised that as hard a time she had becoming a mother she would stay away so much chasing journalism and broadcasting. The only good thing I have to say is as she was told"stay in your lane" writing isn't it
I am so glad I didn't buy this book, but checked it out from the library. I wanted to give 2.5 stars, 2 for her because I really like her on The View. The book is confusing to read, I found it hard to continue most of the time. It dragged on and on til I finally got to the end. Sunny was a whiny anxious self depreciating child who remained the same into adulthood. She seems really hung up on skin color and ethnicity and of course being biracial which she mentioned ad nausea soul. This is a very smart woman who surprisingly bounced around through several career choices, difficult but successful. I was surprised that as hard a time she had becoming a mother she would stay away so much chasing journalism and broadcasting. The only good thing I have to say is as she was told"stay in your lane" writing isn't it
September 24, 2020
I am now a fan of Asunción! Her story was so relatable and honest. I don’t watch television or know her shows. Apparently she’s a lawyer, tv personality, and journalist. She talks a lot about being Afro Latina, colorism, and her fight for social justice for people of color. I loved this book so much I think I am in love with her! I think is so important to hear her story during National Hispanic Heritage Month but especially at a time when Black women are so under valued in this country. And not to mention she is a phenomenal woman who has accomplished a lot!
October 1, 2020
Sunny, one of the hosts on the View talks about her growing up the Bronx, becoming a lawyer and covering the Travon Martin case. She mentions how Barbara Walters said "when people come on this show, they are a guest in your house and your must treat them that way. I wonder what in the world happened to that philosophy? This book was ok, check it out from your library like I did.
September 27, 2020
Loved this. Well written. From the heart and both heartwarming and heart-wrenching at times. I remember Sunny from Court TV and love watching The View. Thank you for sharing your most personal stories with us.
May 21, 2024
Sunny has certainly lived a unique life full of dichotomies, obstacles, and triumphs! I loved reading about her time growing up between the Bronx and the LES. I really identified with the way she describes feeling like she is often straddling the fence of two worlds. The chapter about her pregnancy experience was the most vivid, and best written part of the whole book I thought, followed by her time working on the Trayvon Martin story.
I did feel the writing was a bit elementary at times, so it was easy to understand but I wanted more of her personality injected into it. Sometimes she comes off a bit self-righteous as though she is a martyr for certain things she’s experienced, but that’s part of why we love Sunny!
I did feel the writing was a bit elementary at times, so it was easy to understand but I wanted more of her personality injected into it. Sometimes she comes off a bit self-righteous as though she is a martyr for certain things she’s experienced, but that’s part of why we love Sunny!
February 17, 2021
I'm so glad I read Hostin's Memoir. Excellent read.
October 27, 2021
Four stars for honesty and insight. Minus one star for repeatedly expressing the conviction that her experiences, her dedication to work and her exceptionalism are so rare that she is almost a species sui generis. While I appreciated her commitment to justice and her sensitivity to the unfortunate and undeniable existence of race and colorism, she isn’t on the barricades alone. There are many, many outstanding warriors for justice and equality on the public scene. They speak with the same force and conviction as her. And speak their truth with, perhaps, a great deal more humility. Her journey from the projects to a coveted position on “The View” and her persistence, preparation and determination are laudable. But some of her language betrays dismissiveness towards those who have achieved as much or more. And her use of the word “sidled” in reference to Joy Behar was belittling. Can imagine that others of her co-workers Sunny mentioned in a similar way must have felt a bit put-off by her attitude. Over all, though, even though the author is far from achieving the omniscience of her title, she does have worthy things to say.
Read
September 8, 2020I won a free copy of this book during BookCon thanks to HarperOne in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
In this memoir we follow Hostin’s life from growing up in the South Bronx in poverty to her journey to law school and into her career as a legal journalist. She was one of the first to report on Trayvon Martin’s death. We follow the case, how it impacted her, and how she came to use her platform to speak out for equality and justice. She touched on the adversity she’s had to overcome–both personally and professionally.
This book was really interesting. Honestly, I hadn’t heard much about Hostin so it was fascinating to read about all of the things that she’s done and accomplished. It was a little eye-opening—where have I been the last 2 decades!? I’m ashamed to admit I don’t remember hearing of her. Reading about her life’s journey was inspiring. I really appreciate that she took her life experiences and used them to help connect with people during her career. I love that she is using her position of influence to stand up for equality and justice for minorities.
Not only does she share her professional life, she shared her personal life as well. We learned how hard her parents worked so that she could have a better future, a work ethic she inherited. Even when she was a lawyer or on TV, she constantly worked to make sure she got things perfect. We learned about her family’s traditions and beliefs. We were privy to her struggles with fertility. She shared the indignities she often suffered from others for various things, including her race and her talent.
Overall I recommend this book. I think this memoir is one that is timely and Hostin’s story is important.
In this memoir we follow Hostin’s life from growing up in the South Bronx in poverty to her journey to law school and into her career as a legal journalist. She was one of the first to report on Trayvon Martin’s death. We follow the case, how it impacted her, and how she came to use her platform to speak out for equality and justice. She touched on the adversity she’s had to overcome–both personally and professionally.
This book was really interesting. Honestly, I hadn’t heard much about Hostin so it was fascinating to read about all of the things that she’s done and accomplished. It was a little eye-opening—where have I been the last 2 decades!? I’m ashamed to admit I don’t remember hearing of her. Reading about her life’s journey was inspiring. I really appreciate that she took her life experiences and used them to help connect with people during her career. I love that she is using her position of influence to stand up for equality and justice for minorities.
Not only does she share her professional life, she shared her personal life as well. We learned how hard her parents worked so that she could have a better future, a work ethic she inherited. Even when she was a lawyer or on TV, she constantly worked to make sure she got things perfect. We learned about her family’s traditions and beliefs. We were privy to her struggles with fertility. She shared the indignities she often suffered from others for various things, including her race and her talent.
Overall I recommend this book. I think this memoir is one that is timely and Hostin’s story is important.
December 4, 2020
I don’t think I am the target audience for this book though I honestly don’t know who the target audience would be. I picked up this book because I was interested in learning more about Sunny and I was curious about how she transitioned from a career in law to a career as a journalist. Unfortunately reading about it wasn’t as interesting as I thought it would be. I have been aware of Sunny since her days making appearances as a legal analyst on various networks but I must say I haven’t really followed her career nor do I know a lot about her personal beliefs. I think I should have left it that way. There were so many moments that I had to stop reading this book and just walk away because something she said really rubbed me the wrong way. But in all fairness there were also moments where I 100% related to her especially when she talked about her experiences as a minority woman trying to develop her career without the same opportunities and support afforded to some of her colleagues. All in all I just wasn’t a huge fan of this book but I do appreciate how Sunny has been able to carve a place for herself and how she strives to give a much needed voice to Afro-Latina women.
November 17, 2020
I like Sunny Hostin and usually agree with her on most issues discussed on The View. I admire her stance with being both Black & Latina. So I am disappointed with her memoir. I don’t doubt her story but I felt it came across as far fetched at times. I’m sure she worked hard for her education and the career paths that led her to a successful spot as part of The View. The book just seemed like a back and forth of whining and self congratulations. Parts of her story were TMI. I really don’t know why she felt compelled to write a memoir at this point in her life although that’s surely her prerogative. I just did not find this story interesting, skipped around some and finished as quickly as possible. I still like Sunny Hostin and admire her as a role model for young women but I would not enthusiastically recommend this book. It is not a primer on how to achieve success. Sunny Hostin was always at the right place at the right time. Not everyone is as fortunate, certainly not minorities of any type.
January 3, 2023
My friend gifted me this book because he watches the View religiously and absolutely adores Sunny. He said I could be inspired by her since we have some things in common (i.e., being mixed latina women and having lived in DC). I have seen clips here and there but was not too familiar with her before I read this book.
Often, the writing felt corny and a bit forced. I’m not sure if she used a ghostwriter or not, but that’s how the book read. However, I appreciated how honest she was about her personal struggles and how much detail she gave about her work as a prosecutor. She also spilled the tea when it came to working in media. I thought the lessons she learned from her experiences gave me new ways to think about things and were very inspiring. Her book definitely made a me fan but not sure if I would read her fiction works if the writing is similar.
Often, the writing felt corny and a bit forced. I’m not sure if she used a ghostwriter or not, but that’s how the book read. However, I appreciated how honest she was about her personal struggles and how much detail she gave about her work as a prosecutor. She also spilled the tea when it came to working in media. I thought the lessons she learned from her experiences gave me new ways to think about things and were very inspiring. Her book definitely made a me fan but not sure if I would read her fiction works if the writing is similar.
September 17, 2021
As a Latina woman I can completely relate to so much of Sunny’s life. I admire her strength, discipline, and tenacity. Although I don’t agree with all of her views I do believe that she is a great role model to so many girls and women. I wholeheartedly agree that your success has nothing to do with just luck or being in the right place at the right time but rather being prepared, qualified and having the right attitude.
October 1, 2020
Very Relatable
Even though the theme throughout the her story began with lack of acceptance because she is biracial, I found other relatable issues dealing with finding the confidence to believe she was not only good enough but exceeded expectations and able to find success on her own terms.
Even though the theme throughout the her story began with lack of acceptance because she is biracial, I found other relatable issues dealing with finding the confidence to believe she was not only good enough but exceeded expectations and able to find success on her own terms.
November 28, 2020
Wow I’m always fascinated by people who attend high school and college at young ages. It was interesting reading about not being black enough in the black community or Latina enough in the Latin community. It’s nice to get an inside look into the personality of someone I see on tv everyday and how important it is to her to be prepared for every interview she does.
May 9, 2023
Sunny has led a very interesting life and has a very knowledgeable grasp on the law and the improvements that need to be made in the U.S.A. As far as racial equality. Very enjoyable & entertaining read.
December 6, 2020
Disappointing
I was very disappointed. It was boring. Just one after another example of her career path. Very impersonal. I never thought this before but now feel she is very full of herself.
I was very disappointed. It was boring. Just one after another example of her career path. Very impersonal. I never thought this before but now feel she is very full of herself.
October 20, 2020
I a long time fan of the view, and I enjoyed listening to Sunny Hostin tell her life story.
December 3, 2022
Not only did I enjoy reading this book, but I found myself altering my schedule to watch The View. Many times the banter, in the past, would turn me off. I enjoyed watching it this past week because, even when disagreeing, the ladies seemed a bit more cordial. Maybe, like a major nugget in the book, they are making an effort to extend more grace to one another. I attempted to look at the segment with different eyes (based upon the manner in which she explained their setup, etc).
I found the memoir to be freeing, transparent and somewhat of an elixir. Let me explain: For far too long, we have been encouraged to fit in where you get in. That thinking doesn’t do anything for anyone. I loved how Sunny invited the reader into every walk of her life. Every walk wasn’t pretty and she didn’t attempt to dress it up. Ironically, the reading, had me reflecting upon my own life, the one foot in and one foot out of various domains and how, in some areas, it’s just damn difficult to navigate. And, too, regardless of the discomfort she felt from the world, she always knew that she could find comfort at home. Home is truly where everyone should be able to go when the world is unkind! At least that has always been where I could find comfort. I knew, just like Sunny, that a mother, a father, my loving aunt, an extended relative or a much loved teacher or mentor, would always be there to love me up and help give insight and support.
I found myself taking copious notes and desiring to have a chance at some past event or battle to respond differently. During some of the encounters I wasn’t as mature as I could have been…and with others…I chose to hurt or admonish others…just as they had me. A do over is sometimes needed. I have since come to realize that I am not always who I am and what I present on my worst days.
It was truly eye opening and a great read. I particularly loved the manner in which her parents, though limited with dollars, ensured that there were great experiences. It reminded me of opportunities my parents ensured that I had. They wanted me too see beyond my neighborhood and encouraged me to go beyond where they had traveled. I have always given them credit for my ability to see beyond where I was as well credit for my believing that nothing was impossible. The allowances that were given, telling me that my voice was valuable, taking the stance that education levels the playing field and my early exposure to traveling served to wet my appetite for what was before me. Nothing stands out more for me than their investment in the volumes of Childcraft Books, The How and Why Library, World Book Encyclopedias and always purchasing books at the School’s Book Fair. They definitely nurtured my love of reading from an early age.
I loved how the Sister, at the Academy, enjoyed her honesty in accepting responsibility for the misdeed, but clued her parents in as well as reprimanded. I loved how the visits down South and the Boogie Down Bronx were welcomed and desired aspects of her past that she never diluted. Again, I was reminded of code switching and how she handled it. I loved how Dr. Sanjay Gupta and Soledad O’Brien aided her in the doggish politics of the world of work while trying to get her footing. But, above all, I marveled at her fighting spirit, her mettle and the ability to take a punch and to give one.
I felt pain when she hurt. I particularly felt for her with the tragedies surrounding the inability to get pregnant, the miscarriages and her not being seen as herself until being overheard speaking Spanish. It took me back to “using proper grammar was considered a sale out/Oreo and then when I one upped another I was cool.” Her ability to shut down various guests on the show with tact was wonderful. And, her ability to empathize with Meek Mills and wonderfully cover Trayvon Martin was a masterclass.
I could go on and on about nuggets that resonated with me. But, I would rob you of the benefits you could get from reading it. It was indeed easy like Sunday morning😊😊. My most treasured nuggets were her views on: the lesson taught by Barbara Walters and the direction America is going as it determines policies as it pertains to the “majority.” I so agree with every point that she raised. The world is indeed shifting. We must shift with it…or forever bear the burden for not doing so.
I found the memoir to be freeing, transparent and somewhat of an elixir. Let me explain: For far too long, we have been encouraged to fit in where you get in. That thinking doesn’t do anything for anyone. I loved how Sunny invited the reader into every walk of her life. Every walk wasn’t pretty and she didn’t attempt to dress it up. Ironically, the reading, had me reflecting upon my own life, the one foot in and one foot out of various domains and how, in some areas, it’s just damn difficult to navigate. And, too, regardless of the discomfort she felt from the world, she always knew that she could find comfort at home. Home is truly where everyone should be able to go when the world is unkind! At least that has always been where I could find comfort. I knew, just like Sunny, that a mother, a father, my loving aunt, an extended relative or a much loved teacher or mentor, would always be there to love me up and help give insight and support.
I found myself taking copious notes and desiring to have a chance at some past event or battle to respond differently. During some of the encounters I wasn’t as mature as I could have been…and with others…I chose to hurt or admonish others…just as they had me. A do over is sometimes needed. I have since come to realize that I am not always who I am and what I present on my worst days.
It was truly eye opening and a great read. I particularly loved the manner in which her parents, though limited with dollars, ensured that there were great experiences. It reminded me of opportunities my parents ensured that I had. They wanted me too see beyond my neighborhood and encouraged me to go beyond where they had traveled. I have always given them credit for my ability to see beyond where I was as well credit for my believing that nothing was impossible. The allowances that were given, telling me that my voice was valuable, taking the stance that education levels the playing field and my early exposure to traveling served to wet my appetite for what was before me. Nothing stands out more for me than their investment in the volumes of Childcraft Books, The How and Why Library, World Book Encyclopedias and always purchasing books at the School’s Book Fair. They definitely nurtured my love of reading from an early age.
I loved how the Sister, at the Academy, enjoyed her honesty in accepting responsibility for the misdeed, but clued her parents in as well as reprimanded. I loved how the visits down South and the Boogie Down Bronx were welcomed and desired aspects of her past that she never diluted. Again, I was reminded of code switching and how she handled it. I loved how Dr. Sanjay Gupta and Soledad O’Brien aided her in the doggish politics of the world of work while trying to get her footing. But, above all, I marveled at her fighting spirit, her mettle and the ability to take a punch and to give one.
I felt pain when she hurt. I particularly felt for her with the tragedies surrounding the inability to get pregnant, the miscarriages and her not being seen as herself until being overheard speaking Spanish. It took me back to “using proper grammar was considered a sale out/Oreo and then when I one upped another I was cool.” Her ability to shut down various guests on the show with tact was wonderful. And, her ability to empathize with Meek Mills and wonderfully cover Trayvon Martin was a masterclass.
I could go on and on about nuggets that resonated with me. But, I would rob you of the benefits you could get from reading it. It was indeed easy like Sunday morning😊😊. My most treasured nuggets were her views on: the lesson taught by Barbara Walters and the direction America is going as it determines policies as it pertains to the “majority.” I so agree with every point that she raised. The world is indeed shifting. We must shift with it…or forever bear the burden for not doing so.
May 5, 2021
So this is a good book, in terms of messaging and the issues it raises. I, however, expected more from the Sunny I watch on the View. I’m a big fan and was expecting better writing. She’s very straightforward, which is good, but Sunny is a well-read intellectual. I just expected a more elevated writing style, that’s all.
She also sometimes sounds self-congratulatory, which I’m ok with (she has to be proud of herself for all her hard work), but I’m not sure I would’ve stomached that from someone else. I know from the View that she’s not arrogant and that she’s probably one of the most thoughtful and empathetic people on TV.
Overall, this is worth reading and you can’t help but respect the writer and the subjects raised. Also she gives us an inside glimpse into the TV world (which sounded very cruel). I appreciated her honesty about her experiences at CNN and ABC. Someone else might have chosen to be too diplomatic about how tough working there could be.
She also sometimes sounds self-congratulatory, which I’m ok with (she has to be proud of herself for all her hard work), but I’m not sure I would’ve stomached that from someone else. I know from the View that she’s not arrogant and that she’s probably one of the most thoughtful and empathetic people on TV.
Overall, this is worth reading and you can’t help but respect the writer and the subjects raised. Also she gives us an inside glimpse into the TV world (which sounded very cruel). I appreciated her honesty about her experiences at CNN and ABC. Someone else might have chosen to be too diplomatic about how tough working there could be.
March 30, 2022
I’ve watched Sunny on The View for several years. I’ve always been impressed by her, and being able to read her story made me even more impressed. Sunny has often shared some of these stories in short form while on The View, but here, we readers got to hear more and learn more about Sunny and what brought her to where she is today.
There are a few name-drop moments in this book. Name-dropping always cringes me out, but I know it is what it is in the entertainment business, so I got over that.
Not surprisingly, based on who Sunny is, the book is written well, and the rhythm of the book flows from section to section almost seamlessly.
Overall, I Am These Truths is a quick, enjoyable, and insightful read. Sunny Hostin has one of those true American success stories. She is a very hard worker and deserves all that she has earned.
There are a few name-drop moments in this book. Name-dropping always cringes me out, but I know it is what it is in the entertainment business, so I got over that.
Not surprisingly, based on who Sunny is, the book is written well, and the rhythm of the book flows from section to section almost seamlessly.
Overall, I Am These Truths is a quick, enjoyable, and insightful read. Sunny Hostin has one of those true American success stories. She is a very hard worker and deserves all that she has earned.
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