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Problem Child
Problem Child is a heart-wrenching story that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride that makes the Twilight Zone look like Disneyland. Problem Child is the unbelievably true story of Terrell Carter, an American musician and actor who grew up in Buffalo, New York, in a dysfunctional family, each member crazier than the next. And the Problem Child is the only one in the story who may, or may not, actually have a problem. An emotional journey of trials and revelations, with a huge secret at its core, this story may force you to laugh—just to keep from crying. “Terrell, we’re still feeling the goosebumps.”—Quincy Jones “My beautiful baby boy, even more beautiful on the inside, and he sings even better than that. Now Ms. Patti is giving him his wings to fly among the greats.”—Patti LaBelle
241 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2020
106 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
December 12, 2024
This was a very touching story, and I love how he delved into the complexities of growing up with a handicapped mother and absent father and still went on to be successful. However. I still have questions. 95% of the book is his backstory before he went to Hollywood. His whole life story seemed drawn out and at times I felt myself skimming through pages of events that just didn’t hold my attention. Great memoir, but I’m disappointed that he barely shared anything about working with Tyler Perry and Lee Daniels, as that is the only reason I wanted to read this book in the first place.
December 23, 2022
I knew of Terrell prior to this book from his previous work on Tyler Perry productions and from Empire, but I never knew his backstory. His family story is sad, powerful, and haunting. This is a profound heartbreaking story, with triumph at the end.
September 26, 2025
Wow. What a life you lived Mr. Carter. I will never forget the goosebumps rising on my arm the first time I watched The Diary of a Mad Black Woman, and heard you sing, “Father Can You Hear Me?”
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August 14, 2020This is the autobiography of Terrell Carter, an actor, singer, and survivor of unfathomable abuses.
I don't want to give this one a rating because your reaction to this book will be based on your own history and background. I will include trigger warnings at the end because I didn't get any going in and it made this a much more difficult read for me.
This is the real story of the horrific things he endured as a child, and the things that happened even before his birth. He literally has no business being alive, let alone healthy and successful when you look at his beginnings. He overcame rape, abuse, neglect, alcoholism, and poverty.
But this story is hard. It is brutal. It is his real telling but it didn't make it easy to read.
"Nothing is by chance...if I hadn't had all those difficulties in my life, I wouldn't have the depth of feeling and the heart for people that I have now. I wouldn't be the artist I am, the songwriter I am, the person I am. I'm here to compassionately help others heal and usher people in the right direction."
My one wish for this book would be that it had more in the end. He went through great lengths to describe his past and went into extreme detail to share his history. But the actual moments of rising up and moving forward, the how he got to where he is now, and the hope of change for the future are only included in the last fews pages. After reading so much harrowing pain, I personally would have like more about what came next and how he is helping others.
I hope other survivors of abuse can read this and be comforted that they are not alone and that they too can overcome. But if you are squeamish in any way or if reenactments of abuse are a trigger for you, I would skip this one.
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TRIGGER WARNINGS: rape, abuse, neglect, child rape, sex, alcoholism, homophobia
I don't want to give this one a rating because your reaction to this book will be based on your own history and background. I will include trigger warnings at the end because I didn't get any going in and it made this a much more difficult read for me.
This is the real story of the horrific things he endured as a child, and the things that happened even before his birth. He literally has no business being alive, let alone healthy and successful when you look at his beginnings. He overcame rape, abuse, neglect, alcoholism, and poverty.
But this story is hard. It is brutal. It is his real telling but it didn't make it easy to read.
"Nothing is by chance...if I hadn't had all those difficulties in my life, I wouldn't have the depth of feeling and the heart for people that I have now. I wouldn't be the artist I am, the songwriter I am, the person I am. I'm here to compassionately help others heal and usher people in the right direction."
My one wish for this book would be that it had more in the end. He went through great lengths to describe his past and went into extreme detail to share his history. But the actual moments of rising up and moving forward, the how he got to where he is now, and the hope of change for the future are only included in the last fews pages. After reading so much harrowing pain, I personally would have like more about what came next and how he is helping others.
I hope other survivors of abuse can read this and be comforted that they are not alone and that they too can overcome. But if you are squeamish in any way or if reenactments of abuse are a trigger for you, I would skip this one.
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TRIGGER WARNINGS: rape, abuse, neglect, child rape, sex, alcoholism, homophobia
March 21, 2025
Based on real-life experiences and shines a light on struggles that are far too common yet often hidden within families. The story focuses on a young Black girl born with special needs, including a leg amputated at birth and organs that never fully developed. Despite these challenges, she grows into a beautiful young girl and faces a life full of secrets and hidden trauma.
The narrative takes you through the harrowing journey of how this young girl, despite her circumstances, gives birth to a musical prodigy. Along the way, you’ll see the complex, often dark side of family dynamics, where deep secrets are kept behind closed doors. As the saying goes in many Black American households, “what happens in this house stays in this house.” The book explores that idea with raw honesty, diving into the trauma, abuse, and emotional scars that often go unspoken in families, especially in communities where therapy and open conversation about pain can be rare.
One of the most striking aspects of the story is the question: How does an 11-year-old give birth, and then have another child, all while no one acknowledges the trauma or speaks about it? Although, they are aware of thier actual relationship; the mother and son are essentially raised as siblings, with no mention of the darker truths surrounding conception. Being muted is a heavy theme throughout the story.
Overall, The Problem Child is a compelling and powerful read. I finished it in a single day because I couldn’t put it down. If I had to rate it, I would give it 4.5 stars—maybe even 4.7. The only reason it’s not a perfect 5 is because the story didn’t grab me from the very first sentence. However, I would highly recommend this book, though with caution due to the sensitive nature of the subject matter. KINDA HEAVY.
The narrative takes you through the harrowing journey of how this young girl, despite her circumstances, gives birth to a musical prodigy. Along the way, you’ll see the complex, often dark side of family dynamics, where deep secrets are kept behind closed doors. As the saying goes in many Black American households, “what happens in this house stays in this house.” The book explores that idea with raw honesty, diving into the trauma, abuse, and emotional scars that often go unspoken in families, especially in communities where therapy and open conversation about pain can be rare.
One of the most striking aspects of the story is the question: How does an 11-year-old give birth, and then have another child, all while no one acknowledges the trauma or speaks about it? Although, they are aware of thier actual relationship; the mother and son are essentially raised as siblings, with no mention of the darker truths surrounding conception. Being muted is a heavy theme throughout the story.
Overall, The Problem Child is a compelling and powerful read. I finished it in a single day because I couldn’t put it down. If I had to rate it, I would give it 4.5 stars—maybe even 4.7. The only reason it’s not a perfect 5 is because the story didn’t grab me from the very first sentence. However, I would highly recommend this book, though with caution due to the sensitive nature of the subject matter. KINDA HEAVY.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2025
OMG! This book was sooooo good! I was told about this book by my neighbor. She knows I love reading. The fact that I just so happened to bring up Beauty in Black (Netflix y’all) was an easy segue into this book. She told me the premise and if y’all know me…I am mosey. I need the whole story. I immediately went to audible and used a credit. It did not disappoint.
Let me just say, it reads like a fiction book. There is so much drama to the point you would think Terrell grew up in backwoods Alabama or something. No tea no shade to anyone from Bama…hell, I’m from Arkansas so maybe I should’ve said that. Anyway, I digress…ever the nosey one I had a need to find out the back story…and yes I did.
Now if I ever get a chance to meet Terrell in person, he will probably run because I have a whole slew of follow- up questions. Now if you know me, I’m not adverse to someone telling me “none of your business” and I will ask before I launch in if I may ask some of the follow up questions but man…the story is THAT goodt.
Anyway, I will get off my soapbox but if you’re curious go read it and tell me what YOU think.
Let me just say, it reads like a fiction book. There is so much drama to the point you would think Terrell grew up in backwoods Alabama or something. No tea no shade to anyone from Bama…hell, I’m from Arkansas so maybe I should’ve said that. Anyway, I digress…ever the nosey one I had a need to find out the back story…and yes I did.
Now if I ever get a chance to meet Terrell in person, he will probably run because I have a whole slew of follow- up questions. Now if you know me, I’m not adverse to someone telling me “none of your business” and I will ask before I launch in if I may ask some of the follow up questions but man…the story is THAT goodt.
Anyway, I will get off my soapbox but if you’re curious go read it and tell me what YOU think.
February 1, 2025
This was very much a memoir by Terrell Carter for himself. I think he just wanted to get down on paper all the crazy things that happened to him growing up and to process his trauma. From a listener’s perspective (audiobook for me), his deep soulful voice was beautiful, but misplaced. Most of the characters were female and him trying to interpret their voices was just odd. And keeping track of all the family members and their relationships to one another was almost impossible.
About 95% of the book focused on his childhood and only 5% on his career and success as an adult and getting out of the mess of a family he was brought into. I would have liked to hear more about his life outside of Buffalo. Maybe a few more chapters at least. At the end of the book he spoke about forgiveness, which was very meaningful, but I wish he would expand on that more. Maybe one day he can add some bonus material. I’m interested to know how he navigates relationships in adulthood considering he did not have many good role models growing up.
About 95% of the book focused on his childhood and only 5% on his career and success as an adult and getting out of the mess of a family he was brought into. I would have liked to hear more about his life outside of Buffalo. Maybe a few more chapters at least. At the end of the book he spoke about forgiveness, which was very meaningful, but I wish he would expand on that more. Maybe one day he can add some bonus material. I’m interested to know how he navigates relationships in adulthood considering he did not have many good role models growing up.
November 23, 2024
Writing reviews for biographies always gives me pause. How can one truly review another person's life? There were moments in this book that completely shattered my heart, especially when reflecting on Terrell's childhood. Yet, witnessing the man he has become fills me with hope and joy.
Is it possible to say one “enjoys” reading about the very real trauma and dysfunction he experienced? I find it difficult to give a straightforward yes. However, I am genuinely grateful that Terrell chose to open up and share his journey; it’s a remarkable evolution from “his story” to “the story”—a true testament to resilience.
The book itself was well written, and I found myself swept up in a whirlwind of emotions—sadness, laughter, and a deep sense of inspiration. Thank you for sharing your truth, Mr. Terrell Carter. May you continue to be blessed on your journey!
Is it possible to say one “enjoys” reading about the very real trauma and dysfunction he experienced? I find it difficult to give a straightforward yes. However, I am genuinely grateful that Terrell chose to open up and share his journey; it’s a remarkable evolution from “his story” to “the story”—a true testament to resilience.
The book itself was well written, and I found myself swept up in a whirlwind of emotions—sadness, laughter, and a deep sense of inspiration. Thank you for sharing your truth, Mr. Terrell Carter. May you continue to be blessed on your journey!
June 17, 2025
I found that the beginning of the book didn’t engage me greatly but later I recognized how necessary it was to tell the story accurately. Outside of the truth and rawness of the story, I really loved Tyrell’s voice as the narrator. It was refreshing after the previous book I listened to. A voice filled with texture, rasp, inflections and emotion. When it ended I wanted more and hope that he writes a second book to give us perspective on the rest of the journey. Beautifully expressed.
December 13, 2025
Learning the backstory of Terrell was very touching. He gave readers a view of where he came from. A glimpse of who he was/is. Reading his story was very touching to me in certain was with certain parts. The structure of his upbringing would be unbelievable if you didn’t read this book and just hearing word of mouth. God sent him angels when he needed them and to show him his path. Look forward to hearing/seeing Terrell in so many things
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April 1, 2023Wow, Terrell Carter shared "all" the details of his dysfunctional family in his book, Problem Child. As a young child, his life started with tears and hardships. But his spirit knew there was something better for him. God gave him a gift. A gift that others would not only hear him but see him -- a beautiful voice to sing! An along came a talent to act. All true stories are great reads.
March 26, 2025
I thought the book was a good read but I can’t help to think if the story was told from his mom’s perspective it would have been even better. Is the author telling the beginning of the story from other people accountability or from what he thought what may have happened? The story that he tells before he was born is it fiction? I would have love to read his grandmother/ mother story from her.
March 30, 2025
A Misunderstood Child
I loved reading about the Problem Child that was misunderstood. He was the only one that knew his worth and did what he had to do to achieve it. It’s amazing to have a young endure so much pain, suppress it, and become successful without becoming a victim of alcohol or drug addiction.
I loved reading about the Problem Child that was misunderstood. He was the only one that knew his worth and did what he had to do to achieve it. It’s amazing to have a young endure so much pain, suppress it, and become successful without becoming a victim of alcohol or drug addiction.
June 28, 2025
Amazing
This book was an amazing read! There are so many relatable moments that hit me personally on here. I'm glad I read it because it is very inspiring. I can't wait to suggest to others to read as I'm sure everyone can gather something great from it. Thanks for sharing this personal and heartfelt story. I love it.
This book was an amazing read! There are so many relatable moments that hit me personally on here. I'm glad I read it because it is very inspiring. I can't wait to suggest to others to read as I'm sure everyone can gather something great from it. Thanks for sharing this personal and heartfelt story. I love it.
July 22, 2025
i’ve been wanting to listen to this for months now and am so intrigued by how lovingly (or at worst, neutrally) he speaks about all of his family members, even those who did horrible things. makes sense since he’s talented in singing but he was entertaining to listen to even when he described grim situations
September 21, 2025
great story, horrible writing
I don’t want to talk bad about someone being as vulnerable as Terrell was in this story, but he definitely should’ve gotten an editor. Sometimes it was hard to follow - and not because of the content. He has an excellent story telling ability but just needs a tad bit more polish to make sure the characters flow.
I don’t want to talk bad about someone being as vulnerable as Terrell was in this story, but he definitely should’ve gotten an editor. Sometimes it was hard to follow - and not because of the content. He has an excellent story telling ability but just needs a tad bit more polish to make sure the characters flow.
September 29, 2025
Problem Child
This was a very great read. I enjoyed reading about Mr. Carter's life and although there were plenty of tear dropping moments I still found this to be an amazing book. I would recommend to any and everyone. God works in mysterious ways and this problem child was placed on earth for a reason. Give all the glory to God. Mr. Carter I need a part two please.
This was a very great read. I enjoyed reading about Mr. Carter's life and although there were plenty of tear dropping moments I still found this to be an amazing book. I would recommend to any and everyone. God works in mysterious ways and this problem child was placed on earth for a reason. Give all the glory to God. Mr. Carter I need a part two please.
June 28, 2020
Wonderful
Wow! I couldn't put the book the down! It was sad, funny and inspiring. It was very courageous of him to tell his story. You are incredibly talented and
may God continue to shower you with blessings.
Wow! I couldn't put the book the down! It was sad, funny and inspiring. It was very courageous of him to tell his story. You are incredibly talented and
may God continue to shower you with blessings.
November 30, 2024
Climbing out of a family of Dysfunction
A child born out of a bad situation in a family filled with dysfunction and trauma struggling to make it in the world. Making it without help from the family. Crazy book.
A child born out of a bad situation in a family filled with dysfunction and trauma struggling to make it in the world. Making it without help from the family. Crazy book.
January 29, 2025
A compelling life story that deserved better writing. I found the structure and presentation to be very awkward. I’d have given up on it after the first few chapters had the real life experience not been so tragic and irresistible.
September 6, 2025
Excellent Story Telling
Terrell grew up with horrific family circumstances and raised himself to be a kind, loving man. He got very little help from his family. Great writing style.
Terrell grew up with horrific family circumstances and raised himself to be a kind, loving man. He got very little help from his family. Great writing style.
September 30, 2025
Problem child is an amazing book to read
Problem Child is amazing book to read. I learned a lot from this book like love, hate, forgiveness, and no matter what you going through you will persevere if you don’t give up no matter how hard it gets. Better days are coming.
Problem Child is amazing book to read. I learned a lot from this book like love, hate, forgiveness, and no matter what you going through you will persevere if you don’t give up no matter how hard it gets. Better days are coming.
October 30, 2025
This book was a phenomenal book by Terrell Carter. It was touching and I would recommend everyone to read this book because it is a great book. Thank you Terrell for letting us come into your world. You are truly blessed.
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November 22, 2025Not quite finished with this, but the sexual abuse is so terrible 😞 I don’t know if I can handle it. I wanted to get to the part where he found music and God and his life changed for the better… not sure if I can.
January 18, 2026
Problem Child
Wow, Mr. Carter has been through so much. I'm really at a lost for words, what a dysfunctional family. I can only imagine what else went on in that family. As parents (adults period) we have to do better protecting our kids.
Wow, Mr. Carter has been through so much. I'm really at a lost for words, what a dysfunctional family. I can only imagine what else went on in that family. As parents (adults period) we have to do better protecting our kids.
June 22, 2023
This was an amazing book. Very well written. I saw myself in parts of this book. I would recommend this book to all.
November 30, 2024
Great read, straight to the point with some mystery and lots of laughs.. would def recommend.
March 25, 2025
Heartbreaking and terrible story, but unfortunately, also very sloppy writing. Should not take anything away from the experiences that this man has had to endure. Much respect
May 15, 2025
phenomenal
This was a phenomenal read!!! Highly recommend. My family is from Buffalo and I have never been but always told it’s not much there.
This was a phenomenal read!!! Highly recommend. My family is from Buffalo and I have never been but always told it’s not much there.
July 2, 2025
Having never watched Empire, I didn’t know who Terrell Carter was and TBH, I wish I could remember how I stumbled upon this book. For me, this was a potent reminder of how resilience and grit can shape a person’s life.
Without giving the storyline away, there were multiple situations he faced that would have taken an ordinary person down. Fear, uncertainty, abandonment, trust issues, lack of money to name a few.
Terrell’s ability to find a path forward is inspiring. I’m going to go back and watch Empire now 😉
Without giving the storyline away, there were multiple situations he faced that would have taken an ordinary person down. Fear, uncertainty, abandonment, trust issues, lack of money to name a few.
Terrell’s ability to find a path forward is inspiring. I’m going to go back and watch Empire now 😉
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews