What do you think?
Rate this book
From The Foster House To The White House
This is the poignant and triumphant story of Terrence K. Williams, who was born into nothing; neglected, starved, abused, and beaten, a product of the foster home system. He grew up without a table to sit at, let alone food to eat, yet today is endeared by millions of fans and followers...and welcomed at the White House!
A heart-wrenching yet ultimately victorious story, you'll cry and laugh as you experience his life through Terrence's eyes. With the odds stacked against him, Terrence believed that a hard life is still a valuable life. He let his deprived upbringing shape him, not destroy him. Surrounded by a victim hood mentality, he pushed himself to reject the acceptance that his life would never be better. Today he's a popular voice for common-sense and a defender of freedom.
This is the story of being let down by a system but not letting yourself down. If you're facing challenges and obstacles that seem insurmountable, Terrence's story will inspire and motivate you to find opportunities to grow in whatever situation you face. You'll discover how you can join Terrence as a part of the American Dream!
A heart-wrenching yet ultimately victorious story, you'll cry and laugh as you experience his life through Terrence's eyes. With the odds stacked against him, Terrence believed that a hard life is still a valuable life. He let his deprived upbringing shape him, not destroy him. Surrounded by a victim hood mentality, he pushed himself to reject the acceptance that his life would never be better. Today he's a popular voice for common-sense and a defender of freedom.
This is the story of being let down by a system but not letting yourself down. If you're facing challenges and obstacles that seem insurmountable, Terrence's story will inspire and motivate you to find opportunities to grow in whatever situation you face. You'll discover how you can join Terrence as a part of the American Dream!
208 pages, Hardcover
First published October 15, 2020
163 people are currently reading
582 people want to read
About the author
Terrence Williams
17 books32 followersTerrence K. Williams is born actor and comedian, with a passion to perform. Terrence is also one of the hottest viral internet sensations, with an online following nearly a million strong.
“Terrence was born and raised in Oklahoma City, where he spent the first 15 years of his life growing up as a child of the system, in and out of unstable foster-care homes.” After a long day at work, Terrence decided to push the “public” button on his videos, and the next day his normal 2 views turned into over 42 million. Mr. Williams has since dedicated his platform and comedic career to improving the lives of underprivileged children everywhere…
“Terrence was born and raised in Oklahoma City, where he spent the first 15 years of his life growing up as a child of the system, in and out of unstable foster-care homes.” After a long day at work, Terrence decided to push the “public” button on his videos, and the next day his normal 2 views turned into over 42 million. Mr. Williams has since dedicated his platform and comedic career to improving the lives of underprivileged children everywhere…
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
September 27, 2020
This was an excellent book that was hard to put down when I began reading it. His descriptions of his life made you feel like you were right there with him. Having a career as a social worker in the welfare system, I knew his experiences in the foster care system were very accurate and much too common. Mr. Williams inspired me with his life choices and his desire to look for opportunities to improve his life rather than embrace victimhood. I was familiar with Terrence Williams through his social media posts and was excited when I saw his book being offered. It did not disappoint and was a bright light in dark times. I would highly recommend it to other readers!
September 9, 2020
Amazing True Life Successful Life Story
This book made me sad, glad, weep with joy, and laugh out loud.
I have dearly loved Terrence from his first video. He has a common sense beyond his years and his laugh makes me laugh for no reason!
He deserves EVERY bit of success he has earned and thank God for the people in his life that helped him through.
We LOVE you dear man!
This book made me sad, glad, weep with joy, and laugh out loud.
I have dearly loved Terrence from his first video. He has a common sense beyond his years and his laugh makes me laugh for no reason!
He deserves EVERY bit of success he has earned and thank God for the people in his life that helped him through.
We LOVE you dear man!
October 24, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. This is a story of strength, courage and love. There were moments of laughter and tears. Honestly, this book arrived at a time I needed it most. His ability to survive and thrive through all life threw at him is inspiring.
October 2, 2020
I love Terrence Williams. This is a story of hope for the hopeless! It was a hard read at times because of the way he grew up. With God’s help Terrence overcame poverty, abuse, pain and hurt. He worked hard to make something of himself and God has rewarded him greatly! Nothing is impossible for you no matter where you have been or where you are right now!
October 23, 2020
So inspiring!
Short but fascinating read. Have watched his videos and seen his sense of humor. Politics aside, the book is an inspiration for anyone in tough life situations.
Short but fascinating read. Have watched his videos and seen his sense of humor. Politics aside, the book is an inspiration for anyone in tough life situations.
October 29, 2020
I just loved this book.
This is a very fast read. Each chapter makes you want to read the next one. I highly recommend this to anyone.
This is a very fast read. Each chapter makes you want to read the next one. I highly recommend this to anyone.
October 26, 2020
Terrence K. Williams' story is worthy of your attention. This is no maudlin tale of woe, despite the fact he was born fifth of nine children by six fathers to a crack cocaine addicted mother. Williams' tone is dispassionate and matter-of-fact as he relates how he came to be a media sensation with viral popularity. His life story is one of triumph over starvation, neglect, abuse, broken promises, instability, loss, loss and more loss, recognition of his gifts and hard work to hone them, and a broken neck that nearly paralyzes him on his way to the White House. If it weren't for a few blessings, like his sister, Keisha, who was under ten years old when he was born and cared for him, God's grace, and a foster family who lived on a farm and provided "the stabilizing influence of regular meals, nightly prayers, weekly Sunday church services, consistent chores, wise counsel, and intentional time invested in me" (78), Terrence says he would likely have been another tragic statistic, which, he tells us, all foster kids know.
In primary school, Terrence was constantly in trouble for his "motor mouth," and he writes, "Sometimes I think that as a society, we are too quick to try to discipline certain characteristics out of people instead of perceiving that if nurtured successfully, often those traits can become our greatest gifts" (121). Amen! Williams proceeded to follow a dangerous path with the wrong crowd, but was finally scared straight after some close calls and interventions, both familial and divine. He enrolled in college, but his natural curiosity and inquisitiveness were stifled; the instructors lectured and provided readings but told him what to think about them, when he had his own ideas. He courageously realized his purpose was other. He had to find a way to use his "personality that needs to be in front of the world," as a high school teacher told him (146).
He practiced and perfected his craft and auditioned for television and film roles, but it was his discovery of Facebook Live that led Williams to viral popularity and an invitation to the White House. Aware of Trump's failings as well as his own, he nevertheless wisely declares that "God uses imperfect people to do great things" (193).
Each chapter is prefaced with a pithy quote, which would make a fine book of inspirational Terrencisms. Not surprisingly, Williams is plain spoken and tells us how he sees it. "It strikes me as strange that people ...care about abused and neglected pets more than hurting and abandoned children...While shelter dogs are trendy, housing foster children is viewed as potentially dangerous and disruptive" (61). Williams' book is full of such unimpeachably pragmatic reflections and indictments of common assumptions. Above all, Terrence is a man of unshakeable faith: "In my mind, all the hard stuff that I went through was like my own boot camp, my training day for something bigger" (121). He learned adaptability, to stand up for others and for himself.
Williams doesn't describe the players in his life by their ethnic identity. We have no idea if his foster and adoptive parents were Black or White, which is admirably consistent with his belief in individual responsibility in contrast to tribal identity politics. He loves to learn and challenge the prevailing narrative. He resents being told what to think or how to vote. He points out that the Democratic party is the one "capitalizing on the use of victimhood that they had skillfully orchestrated as the party of slavery, the KKK, the modern-day plantation of the projects, race-baiting" (159), LBJ's policy disintegrated the Black family, the Clinton crime bill that resulted in mass incarceration. Williams states unequivocally that Democrats enslave Blacks to government handouts, make people believe they are victims and weak, people who can't survive without scraps from the master's table, instead of being self-reliant and entrepreneurial. It's the Trump administration that initiated the First Step Act to give ex-offenders a chance and $250M to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
"Why would I embrace the mentality that I saw hold so many other people in bondage? Why would I want to be told how to think when I can think for myself? Why would I want to depend on the government to live when America has given me the opportunity to make my own way? The American Dream is not poverty and the projects. The American Dream is not victimhood and handouts. The American Dream is not subjugation and suppression of free speech and thought. The American Dream is the freedom to succeed and thrive, blossoming in the gifts and abilities that God has endowed within us. I believe in this beautiful nation that God has given us. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are the things that make our nation great" (162).
Terrence K. Williams has written a unifying story that inspires faith in God, country and our fellow human beings, transcending race, tribal, and partisan identities. It would make a fine selection for youth groups, and church and community book discussions.
In primary school, Terrence was constantly in trouble for his "motor mouth," and he writes, "Sometimes I think that as a society, we are too quick to try to discipline certain characteristics out of people instead of perceiving that if nurtured successfully, often those traits can become our greatest gifts" (121). Amen! Williams proceeded to follow a dangerous path with the wrong crowd, but was finally scared straight after some close calls and interventions, both familial and divine. He enrolled in college, but his natural curiosity and inquisitiveness were stifled; the instructors lectured and provided readings but told him what to think about them, when he had his own ideas. He courageously realized his purpose was other. He had to find a way to use his "personality that needs to be in front of the world," as a high school teacher told him (146).
He practiced and perfected his craft and auditioned for television and film roles, but it was his discovery of Facebook Live that led Williams to viral popularity and an invitation to the White House. Aware of Trump's failings as well as his own, he nevertheless wisely declares that "God uses imperfect people to do great things" (193).
Each chapter is prefaced with a pithy quote, which would make a fine book of inspirational Terrencisms. Not surprisingly, Williams is plain spoken and tells us how he sees it. "It strikes me as strange that people ...care about abused and neglected pets more than hurting and abandoned children...While shelter dogs are trendy, housing foster children is viewed as potentially dangerous and disruptive" (61). Williams' book is full of such unimpeachably pragmatic reflections and indictments of common assumptions. Above all, Terrence is a man of unshakeable faith: "In my mind, all the hard stuff that I went through was like my own boot camp, my training day for something bigger" (121). He learned adaptability, to stand up for others and for himself.
Williams doesn't describe the players in his life by their ethnic identity. We have no idea if his foster and adoptive parents were Black or White, which is admirably consistent with his belief in individual responsibility in contrast to tribal identity politics. He loves to learn and challenge the prevailing narrative. He resents being told what to think or how to vote. He points out that the Democratic party is the one "capitalizing on the use of victimhood that they had skillfully orchestrated as the party of slavery, the KKK, the modern-day plantation of the projects, race-baiting" (159), LBJ's policy disintegrated the Black family, the Clinton crime bill that resulted in mass incarceration. Williams states unequivocally that Democrats enslave Blacks to government handouts, make people believe they are victims and weak, people who can't survive without scraps from the master's table, instead of being self-reliant and entrepreneurial. It's the Trump administration that initiated the First Step Act to give ex-offenders a chance and $250M to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
"Why would I embrace the mentality that I saw hold so many other people in bondage? Why would I want to be told how to think when I can think for myself? Why would I want to depend on the government to live when America has given me the opportunity to make my own way? The American Dream is not poverty and the projects. The American Dream is not victimhood and handouts. The American Dream is not subjugation and suppression of free speech and thought. The American Dream is the freedom to succeed and thrive, blossoming in the gifts and abilities that God has endowed within us. I believe in this beautiful nation that God has given us. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are the things that make our nation great" (162).
Terrence K. Williams has written a unifying story that inspires faith in God, country and our fellow human beings, transcending race, tribal, and partisan identities. It would make a fine selection for youth groups, and church and community book discussions.
October 11, 2020
Once I started reading his story I couldn't put it down. The way he wrote about how his life started the minute he was brought home from the hospital was horrific. The way he described everything made you feel that you were there. There were times when I cried while reading it and other times I was laughing.
September 26, 2020
I give Terrance Five Plus stars
Wonderful Book , Terrance is a wonderful person and what a testimony . I cried and I laughed . His positive outlook on life is contagious. His love for God and others is beautiful. I pray Terrance is showered with many blessings .
Wonderful Book , Terrance is a wonderful person and what a testimony . I cried and I laughed . His positive outlook on life is contagious. His love for God and others is beautiful. I pray Terrance is showered with many blessings .
January 28, 2021
Disclaimer: I have been a fan of Terrence Williams and all of his very funny posts on social media mocking current events for the past 2 years. I did not know about his youthful days and the difficulties he experienced before I began reading about his life. This book was an eye-opener, at least for me.
If you watched the movie DAS BOAT or read the book, the one aspect that came across loud and clear was that most of the time the German sailors spent underwater was extremely monotonous and boring. The first half of Williams book at first seems to be repetitive but that is exactly the point he desires to make regarding the turmoil in a very young boy’s life when they are brought into this world by a mother addicted to drugs and alcohol. The repeating of his treatment and the treatment of his many siblings is exactly the point of his book. To the young mind like his, there should have been no hope of ever escaping the abuse or looking forward to a brighter future. Just more of the same, day to day to day.
The title of Williams’ book nails it. Williams went from the depths of living in total poverty, not knowing where his next meal and clean clothes would come from, to sitting next to the President of the United Stated in the White House. This is a book about The American Dream and how it is available to anyone who sets out to achieve it in spite of their good or bad life stories.
Williams story is heartbreaking to say the least. He relates his ultimate success in believing in the will of God even when Williams gave God every reason to abandon him. While on his way to meet President Trump, Williams was involved in a very serious auto accident that resulted in a broken neck when he spent all of 2019 in recovery. His life story, thus far, is compelling and well worth reading. Many within the Black Community will undoubtedly take exception to his beliefs and HAVE taken exception to his position on advancing the wellbeing of Blacks and freeing them from the status quo of governmental dependency as evidenced by the many vial death threats he has received because of his beliefs and positions. This is a book about making choices, achieving what you want to achieve in spite of roadblocks thrown in your way to distract you.
Who should read this book? Everyone but especially any young child currently living in the foster care system
Would I read it again? Probably not but not because it is not worthy of a second read, just not necessary.
Would I give it as a gift? ABSOLUTELY!!!
If you watched the movie DAS BOAT or read the book, the one aspect that came across loud and clear was that most of the time the German sailors spent underwater was extremely monotonous and boring. The first half of Williams book at first seems to be repetitive but that is exactly the point he desires to make regarding the turmoil in a very young boy’s life when they are brought into this world by a mother addicted to drugs and alcohol. The repeating of his treatment and the treatment of his many siblings is exactly the point of his book. To the young mind like his, there should have been no hope of ever escaping the abuse or looking forward to a brighter future. Just more of the same, day to day to day.
The title of Williams’ book nails it. Williams went from the depths of living in total poverty, not knowing where his next meal and clean clothes would come from, to sitting next to the President of the United Stated in the White House. This is a book about The American Dream and how it is available to anyone who sets out to achieve it in spite of their good or bad life stories.
Williams story is heartbreaking to say the least. He relates his ultimate success in believing in the will of God even when Williams gave God every reason to abandon him. While on his way to meet President Trump, Williams was involved in a very serious auto accident that resulted in a broken neck when he spent all of 2019 in recovery. His life story, thus far, is compelling and well worth reading. Many within the Black Community will undoubtedly take exception to his beliefs and HAVE taken exception to his position on advancing the wellbeing of Blacks and freeing them from the status quo of governmental dependency as evidenced by the many vial death threats he has received because of his beliefs and positions. This is a book about making choices, achieving what you want to achieve in spite of roadblocks thrown in your way to distract you.
Who should read this book? Everyone but especially any young child currently living in the foster care system
Would I read it again? Probably not but not because it is not worthy of a second read, just not necessary.
Would I give it as a gift? ABSOLUTELY!!!
January 25, 2021
Dallas CASA had this book on the recommended reading list because he talks a lot - most of the book - about his life in and out of the system. An easy read but worth it to know how some kids start their lives and how they can overcome major challenges.
I love how he loves the many people who cared for him.
I love how he loves the many people who cared for him.
October 31, 2020
Foster House to the White House should come with a warning to have about a dozen boxes of Kleenex handy while reading it. This page turner, could not put down book tugged at my heart from page one to the very last word. Terrence is a shining example of strength, commitment and perseverance. He shows us that you can thrive no matter what situation you find yourself in, that you can make your life what you want it to be, so long as you stay focused and continuously work toward achieving the goals you set for yourself. Terrence believes in three of my favorite principles; never throw yourself a pity party, never play the blame game and always give back. By owning his life and all his actions, making decisions that sometimes were constructive and sometimes not, Terrence shows us that taking responsibility for your life will keep you steering it down the path of righteousness, goodness and personal success. Terrence demonstrates that not being a follower can help you to become a leader. Although Terrence often jokes about his stature, after reading his book, I see him as a giant among all men. God Bless you, Terrence in all you do!
January 17, 2021
I'm so glad I was able to read this. Such a powerful testimony and very inspiring. A crucial reminder of all I have to be thankful for.
February 23, 2021
The last paragraph says the following: "If a tiny boy, birthed from the poverty of the projects and a crack-addicted mother, can make it from a foster house to the White House, then the American Dream is real and achievable for everyone."
Terrence Williams has every reason to be bitter and angry but he chose the opposite. Through his hard work and self determination, he is an American success story. This is an encouraging read.
Terrence Williams has every reason to be bitter and angry but he chose the opposite. Through his hard work and self determination, he is an American success story. This is an encouraging read.
November 7, 2020
Whoa! What an emotional ride. I cried, got angry, felt joy and felt pride. With all the trauma and abuse this boy went through, he found lessons and strength in each scenario. As a man, he has no anger for his situations and doesn’t blame anyone. He realizes that his childhood was dictated by a disease his mother tried to beat. I pray that he has a relationship with her and especially his sister Keisha. I do believe she was the hero of this story, keeping Terrence and the other kids alive.
This should be required reading for all the youth in shelters and foster care. They should stay strong, have faith in the Lord and know that they can become whatever it is that they want.
Thank you “Clarence” for sharing your story with us. It will stay with me for a long time.
This should be required reading for all the youth in shelters and foster care. They should stay strong, have faith in the Lord and know that they can become whatever it is that they want.
Thank you “Clarence” for sharing your story with us. It will stay with me for a long time.
September 24, 2020
Brilliant read
I have been waiting to buy this book the day Terrance said,he had written it.
I started to read this book this afternoon. I could not put it down and finished the book at 10.15pm I have really enjoy the book. It's good to understand the hardship your childhood. I'm so happy for you and how far you have come.
Keep pushing yourself Terrance who knows where we will see you in years to come x
I have been waiting to buy this book the day Terrance said,he had written it.
I started to read this book this afternoon. I could not put it down and finished the book at 10.15pm I have really enjoy the book. It's good to understand the hardship your childhood. I'm so happy for you and how far you have come.
Keep pushing yourself Terrance who knows where we will see you in years to come x
September 23, 2020
Amazing story
I can't believe the way this unbelievable boy grew up...ndthe amazing man he became. After all the turmoil in his life he never gave up. I read this in 2 days. Very humbling and I can't imagine how much courage and strength it took to stand up and believe in himself and his journey that took him to the white house!
I can't believe the way this unbelievable boy grew up...ndthe amazing man he became. After all the turmoil in his life he never gave up. I read this in 2 days. Very humbling and I can't imagine how much courage and strength it took to stand up and believe in himself and his journey that took him to the white house!
October 25, 2020
All Americans and anybody wanting to become a citizen should read this book. Terrence is living proof that the American dream exists. Democrats will try to tell you otherwise, but this young man's life is testimony that in America, you can work hard and achieve a good life while living the American dream.
November 21, 2020
I was so inspired by Terrance’s story. I love his positivity and his outlook on life. Born into a life of neglect and abuse, bouncing in and out of foster homes, he chose to cling to the people and experiences that helped him to grow. Our circumstances do not make us who we are but what we choose to do with those circumstances do! 5++++ stars!
Read
January 26, 2021The American dream is real
The American dream is real, but it has to be worked for. Terrance's story is beautiful and instead of becoming a victim to what life doled out to him, he changed it and used everything to propel him forward to his American dream. God bless you Terrance and keep up the good fight.
The American dream is real, but it has to be worked for. Terrance's story is beautiful and instead of becoming a victim to what life doled out to him, he changed it and used everything to propel him forward to his American dream. God bless you Terrance and keep up the good fight.
March 9, 2021
The American Dream is real! Terrence's story is a heart-wreching tale of hardship turned to hope. He didn't let his past define him, but instead allowed it to refine him, shaping him to achieve success in the gifts that God gave him. His story is incredible and inspiring.
September 8, 2020
He's taking advantage of the Trump Presidency and the MAGA agenda to help boost his image. Once Trump is out of office he will have nothing to cling on to to make anything he says relevant. Skip this read.
September 18, 2020
Inspiring and Entertaining!
I really enjoyed this book and am thankful that Mr. Williams chose to share his story. It really shows how God is at work in our lives and how even the most awful circumstances can be overcome with faith and hard work.
I really enjoyed this book and am thankful that Mr. Williams chose to share his story. It really shows how God is at work in our lives and how even the most awful circumstances can be overcome with faith and hard work.
September 20, 2020
The American Dream
Wow! The American Dream is real! His story is inspiring & moving. Anything can happen! Thank you for opening up about everything you have been through. Good job, Terrence! 🇺🇸
Wow! The American Dream is real! His story is inspiring & moving. Anything can happen! Thank you for opening up about everything you have been through. Good job, Terrence! 🇺🇸
September 24, 2020
This is an inspirational young man! At times it's hard to read his story as he pulls no punches about his early years in the system. Well worth reading and I am very happy for him for grabbing his American Dream!
October 6, 2020
Inspiring!
Terrence’s story is inspirational and heartwarming. We can all learn the power of positivity from the words of Terrance’s life. How to keep reaching for the stars, no matter what life hands you.
Terrence’s story is inspirational and heartwarming. We can all learn the power of positivity from the words of Terrance’s life. How to keep reaching for the stars, no matter what life hands you.
October 11, 2020
Awesome Inspirational Read!
Very uplifting and insightful book! A must read for anyone struggling with loss and abandonment! God bless you Terrance!
Don't miss this heartwarming book!
Very uplifting and insightful book! A must read for anyone struggling with loss and abandonment! God bless you Terrance!
Don't miss this heartwarming book!
October 19, 2020
Foster House to the White House
The real story about endurance, determination and courage. The truth about foster care, good and bad and one little boy's resilience to become his own man! Loved it!
The real story about endurance, determination and courage. The truth about foster care, good and bad and one little boy's resilience to become his own man! Loved it!
Read
October 30, 2020Great read couldn't put it down.
Terrance Williams did an excellent job telling his story. He captivates the reader so you can't put the book down until the story is done. His life story is truly inspiring.
Terrance Williams did an excellent job telling his story. He captivates the reader so you can't put the book down until the story is done. His life story is truly inspiring.
September 11, 2020
A great read! So interesting to hear Terrance’s background.
He is funny and a good person.
Great book!!
He is funny and a good person.
Great book!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews