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In the bestselling tradition of Seinlanguage, Couplehood and My Point . . . and I Do Have One, comes "Whoopi". Here the Oscar -winning actress and comedian offers her own unique take on the world today. Performed by Goldberg herself, this audiobook is as entertaining, outrageous and as real as the woman herself. 4 cassettes. (Biography)
286 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1997
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1205 people want to read
About the author
Whoopi Goldberg
65 books413 followersWhoopi Goldberg is one of an elite group of artists who have won the EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards) and is the bestselling author of the Sugar Plum Ballerina series, Book, and Is It Just Me? While performing in the Bay Area she created the characters that became The Spook Show and evolved into her hit Broadway show, Grammy Award–winning album, and the HBO special that helped launch her career. Spanning decades, Whoopi’s credits include roles in the well-known films The Color Purple, Ghosts of Mississippi, Sister Act, and Ghost. She produced the documentary Whoopi Goldberg Presents Moms Mabley, and she appeared in and was one of the producers of the critically acclaimed 2022 feature film Till. She loves VW Bugs, working casinos, and comfortable clothing; is a passionate supporter of the audio arts and dedicated collector of audiobooks; and heads the Whoopfam Group, makers of Emma & Clyde, Whoopi & Maya, and other recreational and medicinal marijuana products.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
October 23, 2019
In the words of another reviewer..."Over the Top" "Out of Line" "Offensive.
I bought this book some time ago and have only just got round to reading it as it is just a short book and it covers a series of short, rambling and often crude monologues. I bought it on a whim as I do admire the author as an actress of talent. I loved the two movies - "Sister Act" "Sister Act 2" and "Ghost" also but nothing prepared me for this book. Even pre-reading some of the reviews on Amazon still did not prepare me for the reality.
It didn't work for me at all. The very first chapter should have told me what I could probably expect but I hoped it might get better. It didn't. My distaste grew as I skipped through a few more titles, especially as every page, indeed often every sentence, is literally filled with crudity in the form of four letter words. Now I know she comes from a very poor background which of course has nothing nothing to do with the book, nor has it anything whatever to be ashamed of but really!!!! Given her years as an actress and presumably mixing among many personalities, is this how they all speak? Perhaps it is, but surely not when writing books? Whilst swearing is so much more open and accepted these days in books, movies and all manner of programmes on TV I still feel this book is way over the top with the subject matter in some of her chapters.
Lots of reviews speak of her forthright honesty and strong personality telling us she couldn't care less if people don't like what she has to say and how she says it. Like exercising our right to switch off the TV if we find a programme not to our liking, we can decide not to read a book. That is true and many of her observations are or might be also true but many of them are surely not
appropriate in their brutally open crude comments. She deals with subject matter that some people including me, think are topics that we don't discuss publicly in this form, mainly concerned with bodily functions. They deserve perhaps privacy when discussed, but obviously nothing is sacred where this author is concerned.. Even then not all of her choice of topics are what I would expect to read about at all!
She is entitled to her opinions of course and some people will possibly read her book and find it hilarious. Fair enough. They will probably see me as an old fashioned grump. Well that may be but this is still my honest opinion of the book. Where is it now? In the bin!
I bought this book some time ago and have only just got round to reading it as it is just a short book and it covers a series of short, rambling and often crude monologues. I bought it on a whim as I do admire the author as an actress of talent. I loved the two movies - "Sister Act" "Sister Act 2" and "Ghost" also but nothing prepared me for this book. Even pre-reading some of the reviews on Amazon still did not prepare me for the reality.
It didn't work for me at all. The very first chapter should have told me what I could probably expect but I hoped it might get better. It didn't. My distaste grew as I skipped through a few more titles, especially as every page, indeed often every sentence, is literally filled with crudity in the form of four letter words. Now I know she comes from a very poor background which of course has nothing nothing to do with the book, nor has it anything whatever to be ashamed of but really!!!! Given her years as an actress and presumably mixing among many personalities, is this how they all speak? Perhaps it is, but surely not when writing books? Whilst swearing is so much more open and accepted these days in books, movies and all manner of programmes on TV I still feel this book is way over the top with the subject matter in some of her chapters.
Lots of reviews speak of her forthright honesty and strong personality telling us she couldn't care less if people don't like what she has to say and how she says it. Like exercising our right to switch off the TV if we find a programme not to our liking, we can decide not to read a book. That is true and many of her observations are or might be also true but many of them are surely not
appropriate in their brutally open crude comments. She deals with subject matter that some people including me, think are topics that we don't discuss publicly in this form, mainly concerned with bodily functions. They deserve perhaps privacy when discussed, but obviously nothing is sacred where this author is concerned.. Even then not all of her choice of topics are what I would expect to read about at all!
She is entitled to her opinions of course and some people will possibly read her book and find it hilarious. Fair enough. They will probably see me as an old fashioned grump. Well that may be but this is still my honest opinion of the book. Where is it now? In the bin!
February 26, 2017
Well, this was fun. The style of the book immediately reminded me of the scene in one of my favourite Goldberg films Jumping Jack Flash, where her character, Terry Doolittle, is injected with a truth serum and can't stop herself from commenting on everything that is going on around her.
I loved that scene, but I can see how the train-of-thought approach to writing might not be to everyone's tastes.
Nevertheless, this was a book I really enjoyed. Goldberg is honest and forthcoming, to the point that she does admit that she had the help of a co-author when writing this, her first ever, book.
The sad aspect of the book of course is that many of the issues she writes about in this mixture of biography and social commentary are still relevant 20 years after the original publication in 1997.
I loved that scene, but I can see how the train-of-thought approach to writing might not be to everyone's tastes.
Nevertheless, this was a book I really enjoyed. Goldberg is honest and forthcoming, to the point that she does admit that she had the help of a co-author when writing this, her first ever, book.
The sad aspect of the book of course is that many of the issues she writes about in this mixture of biography and social commentary are still relevant 20 years after the original publication in 1997.
December 19, 2010
I read this many years ago and still remember how entertaining it was, so that says a lot for the book. Whoopi is just incomparable. Funny, bold, and surprisingly insightful.
Some good things I copied from the book:
"If everything else went away and the penis was still alive, men would probably be okay with that. They'd be lying there thinking, Well, at least my dick still works."
"A man will show a woman his penis at the drop of a hat, but he will not show it to another man."
"Don't come in the room acting like God, because, honey, when you're meeting me, you're meeting God. And there can't be two Gods."
"So I realized I wasn't God, which was a slight disappointment, you know. Just a slight disappointment---and a mild surprise."
"I believe we come into this world through a revolving door; we leave and then we come back again. Call it reincarnation...when I look at children who are ill, or dying, I know that they will come back in some other body, in some different form. I know they'll get another shot at a happy ending; I know they will be at peace."
(I disagree with Whoopi on the above topic, but I think it shows the softness of her heart.)
Some good things I copied from the book:
"If everything else went away and the penis was still alive, men would probably be okay with that. They'd be lying there thinking, Well, at least my dick still works."
"A man will show a woman his penis at the drop of a hat, but he will not show it to another man."
"Don't come in the room acting like God, because, honey, when you're meeting me, you're meeting God. And there can't be two Gods."
"So I realized I wasn't God, which was a slight disappointment, you know. Just a slight disappointment---and a mild surprise."
"I believe we come into this world through a revolving door; we leave and then we come back again. Call it reincarnation...when I look at children who are ill, or dying, I know that they will come back in some other body, in some different form. I know they'll get another shot at a happy ending; I know they will be at peace."
(I disagree with Whoopi on the above topic, but I think it shows the softness of her heart.)
April 17, 2020
Revisiting this book after it was first published 23 years ago, I was astonished to read that not much has changed. Whoopi's musing on life, using everything that was happening at the time, are still relevant today. If some of the names were changed, this could have been written yesterday! It's easy to hear Whoopi's voice as you read this hilarious book of her musings. At times sad, at times thought provoking, it still reads as if you were sitting and chatting with Whoopi. Her smarts, wit, and humor shine through.
July 7, 2024
I think Whoopi and I are on the same wavelength.
March 3, 2014
Whoopi Goldberg's book, BOOK, is hilarious. Whoopi is a comic genius as it is and her views on life, death and more are both hysterical and poignant. She makes no apologies for her sailor mouth and witty anecdotes. Whoopi Goldberg is a storyteller of epic proportions hitting us with such important topics like, faith, trust, race, sex, love, dreams, and even funnier topics like dicks (penises), breaking wind, and the nature and power of words. If you are looking for a quiet read this is not it. She has opinions and she fucking has a voice to say them with. Whoopi's captivating rawness makes this a page turner.
The book was published in 1997 and though some of her references are dated the material is far ahead of it's time and very relevant to today's readers.
Whoopi gives us a glimpse of her childhood and what it was like growing up. She moves forward into her love lives and the various jobs she worked while being a single mother. Whoopi leaves very little out and with an unabashed sense of humility with her words.
I love the storytelling of this book. Especially love the casual tone in which Whoopi delivers her messages. Her use of the word fuck is absolutely wonderful and her chapter on words is incredibly relate-able to me. I think that's why I love this book so much, I can relate to damn near everything she talks about. We share a lot of the same opinions and thoughts on many of the subjects discussed.
Whoopi Goldberg is a powerful comedian and narrator and BOOK is an insightful uproarious journey through a strong opinionated woman's mind.
The book was published in 1997 and though some of her references are dated the material is far ahead of it's time and very relevant to today's readers.
Whoopi gives us a glimpse of her childhood and what it was like growing up. She moves forward into her love lives and the various jobs she worked while being a single mother. Whoopi leaves very little out and with an unabashed sense of humility with her words.
I love the storytelling of this book. Especially love the casual tone in which Whoopi delivers her messages. Her use of the word fuck is absolutely wonderful and her chapter on words is incredibly relate-able to me. I think that's why I love this book so much, I can relate to damn near everything she talks about. We share a lot of the same opinions and thoughts on many of the subjects discussed.
Whoopi Goldberg is a powerful comedian and narrator and BOOK is an insightful uproarious journey through a strong opinionated woman's mind.
July 17, 2009
Whoopi is incredibly honest. I enjoy the movies that she's been in, but I'm not liking her on the "View". It seems she has no patience for other people's view point, especially if it doesn't mirror her own. She either has nothing to say or cuts people off unless it is something she wants to talk about. She's not a team player, she is full of Whoopi. This book is funny and grossfully truthful. Now I know more than I ever wanted to know about Whoop(Caryn)Goldberg.
October 8, 2007
Whoopi is just one honest woman who is outspoken and know her grounds...she has hell of a lot of wit too...and definitely definitely hilarious.
This "Book" is indeed a page turner and it's interesting to read about her hardship and how she struggled as a child, a sister, a daughter, a single mother, etc etc etc. It's educating and it's an eye opener...sort of.
This "Book" is indeed a page turner and it's interesting to read about her hardship and how she struggled as a child, a sister, a daughter, a single mother, etc etc etc. It's educating and it's an eye opener...sort of.
April 27, 2011
I have always absolutely loved Whoopi Goldberg. This book is HILARIOUS. I always return to it when I've had a bad day and need a good laugh. Her take on relationships, families, and sharing bathrooms cracks me up every time. Whoopi also shares her personal experiences that I think almost anyone can relate to and appreciate. I just love this book.
June 25, 2015
I bought this to listen to on my daily commute. I had to listen to it at home because I kept driving off the road from laughing so hard. Whoopi Goldberg is honest, funny and real. Book was hilarious, but this is so much better from her reading and adlibs. Find a copy and share!
June 21, 2013
This is Whoopi speaking on various subjects. It is not for the faint of heart or those that don't like the 'f' word, which is also a subject discussed. This book was written in 1997 and it's interesting to see how things have NOT changed. I definitely want to read more of what she has written.
April 30, 2016
This is a light, fast, enjoyable read. Sometimes very funny. But there isn't much substance: after reading it I remember feeling as if I'd seen Goldberg do a series of comedy skits. This lady has worked hard to be where she is today, and that's what I'd like to read about.
April 6, 2009
This is the funniest book I've read in awhile. Whoopi's telling of everyday things is very humorous. The part about living with men is hysterical!!
February 4, 2014
Easy read....received as gift years ago. Wouldn't buy it but was entertaining. I like whoopi more after reading the book.
July 16, 2009
Dissappointing. Some worthwhile essays, but lots of bathroom humor
April 8, 2021
Whoopi is cool as ice with me, I loved most, if not, all of the pictures that I've seen her in, and when this book hit the shelves back in the 90's, I was one of the first to pick up a copy. While the book is not a complete and total bust, in fact, far from it, it's actually quite enjoyable, it's hard to tell what direction the book wants to go in, as it just seems to go all over the place with random subjects. And perhaps that's the point, and why it's just called 'Book'. From her hate to eggs, to rules when we pass wind ( yes, THAT wind!), and over to an unplanned pregnancy, and not afraid to talk about sex, Whoopi is as unapologetic in the book as she is doing stand up comedy. It's got it's moments, but the bulk of the book just feels humorless to me, it's as if I'm just listening to her talk instead of reading an actual humor book, which is what I was expecting. In the humor light, I was disappointed, Whoopi is great, funny, and extremely smart, and I just felt she was a little better then this. To accept it as a memoir or an autobiography, I'd give the book 3 stars, however, that's not what I tuned in for.
September 25, 2017
Classified as an autobiography. Yes, it's a loose one but more like a collection of essays. Whoopi adresses herself as different, special and liberal. All true and that's why I actually admire her. I was hoping the book to be inspiring because of the nature of subjects she's talking about but I found it controversial instead. The beginning was funny but I laughed less towards the end. Anyway, while reading this book you should remember 2 things: Whoopi is unconventional and you shouldn't expect any less of her. Also, the purpose of good comedy is exposing taboos and dealing with simple, everyday subjects. All found in here. I took off some stars because of her dirty language and because I disagreed with her on few subjects. But in a nutshell, disagreement doesn't stop me from admiring her work (movies). You disagree even with your loved ones but love them nevertheless. This is a good book for fans because it explains very well where she's coming from and it helps you to understand some of her movie roles, especially Sister Act.
May 13, 2025
Book by Whoopi Goldberg has been sitting on my shelf for almost 20 years and was written nearly 30 years ago when she was on Broadway in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. It is her first autobiography where we learn a bit about her upbringing and also begin to see her thoughts on some of the topics she would tackle 15 years later when she became the moderator on The View. This was a fun and quick read on topics as varied as affirmative action, to men’s peeing habits, to farts (this chapter had me laughing out loud in the middle of my coffeehouse). I try to read some books by and about people that are not of my life experiences. And a black woman who grew up in New York City is about as far away from my life experience as it gets. But I think it’s important to open myself up to perspectives and experiences outside my own. I always want to learn no matter how old I get.
January 5, 2026
Book 3 of 2026 - "Book" by Whoopi Goldberg (240 - but really more like 180 with the way the chapters are laid out with blank pages between) -- I picked this up on a whim last year because I was trying to branch out in my book genres and autobiographies aren't something I read alot of. So I grabbed this cleverly titled Book, because Whoopi has always made me laugh growing up. I know she has gotten more political since she wrote this, but the book held fast to her 90's persona, witty, a bit vulgar, and thought provoking. I enjoyed it for what it was, for when it was written, which was very blunt and a bit all over the place, but again- thought provoking. It's interesting to think about how much the world has changed since this was written. Anyway - wasnt a waste of time, but not life-changing. 5/10.
May 12, 2017
This is all Whoopi! No areas are off limits.. sex, politics, farts! Musings on any and all topics, written 20 years ago now, when she was appearing on Broadway in "Forum". At times it makes you long for the time of innocence when she was growing up in the Chelsea section of NYC in a true melting pot of America. Of course her 8 year old self saw it as idyllic. Being on the View for 10+ years, she has related a number of these stories. But there was still a lot of new material here that I had not heard.
December 28, 2017
I have to admit that I chuckled a few dozen times reading Whoopi’s take on numerous subjects. It is not the most profound piece of writing but what do you expect from a celebrity book. I am a fan of Whoopi’s but this left me wanting more. It is set up as a stand up routine, where she discusses taboos such as the n word, sex heck even pee stains. Nothing is off limits. Overall, it was quick and casual read which delighted me.
January 18, 2018
I like Whoopi she says it like it is and doesn't care what anyone thinks or says. Her books are the same way. In this one she covers all topics and how she feels about them. She even lets in to her private life a little bit when she shares the story about how her daughter at 14 told her she was having a grandchild. No not for everyone and yes I was shocked a few times when I read it but on the whole I enjoyed the book.
April 25, 2020
I wouldn't necessarily call this book funny (although, some parts caused me to laugh out loud). The 'Book' is outdated in some ways, yes, but still addressing some major current issues. All in all, it was a good read.
'It's not what you call me, but what I answer to.' - African proverb
'If you come to a thing with no preconceived notions of what that thing is, the whole world can be your canvas. Just dream it, and you can make it so.'
'It's not what you call me, but what I answer to.' - African proverb
'If you come to a thing with no preconceived notions of what that thing is, the whole world can be your canvas. Just dream it, and you can make it so.'
November 28, 2020
I think Ms Goldberg herself would agree that the book represents a specific time in her life and a specific time in society.
Some of her opinions might not stand the test of time but there are some real gold nuggets and moments of true reading bliss.
Reading about her family Christmas made me emotional, reading her take on death made laugh and reading about her politics made me think.
The one cardinal sin is that the book isn’t as funny as the woman herself.
Some of her opinions might not stand the test of time but there are some real gold nuggets and moments of true reading bliss.
Reading about her family Christmas made me emotional, reading her take on death made laugh and reading about her politics made me think.
The one cardinal sin is that the book isn’t as funny as the woman herself.
June 16, 2025
She had a few sweet moments of reflection about Coney Island, Christmas time & an lol section about farting but other than that this book showcased a lot of her opinions and philosophies that I sincerely find to be terrible.
This is like a don’t meet your heroes moment for me because I love so many of her movies from the 90s but I think I don’t like her at all as a person HAHA okay well now I know so the memoir wasn’t a waste!
This is like a don’t meet your heroes moment for me because I love so many of her movies from the 90s but I think I don’t like her at all as a person HAHA okay well now I know so the memoir wasn’t a waste!
March 13, 2022
Amazingly funny memoir! The first half of the book really got into some funny pieces from Whoopi. I had quite a few laugh out loud moments, however the book is only getting 4-stars because it got more serious in the later half of the book. It still had humour and some funny excerpts but it lost a star because of how it trailed off near the end
April 29, 2023
Gawd, I love me some Whoopi! The book is hilarious. She has a unique way of sharing her life story, or more so her views on life with some sweet memories thrown in there. I can hear her voice narrating the entire book as I’m reading. You will always be a positive figure in both my childhood and adult life.
August 31, 2024
Amazingly Whoopie!! Honestly brutal about topics which were important to her in 1997! Her opinions are raw unrefined and reflective on her life experiences. Being of her racial and ethnic origin-
I related. If I had a suggestion to anyone I would recommend reading them in chronological order.
Sit back immerse learn reflect and appreciate her!
I related. If I had a suggestion to anyone I would recommend reading them in chronological order.
Sit back immerse learn reflect and appreciate her!
October 20, 2018
Not what I was expecting. This isn’t your usual biography more a collection of Whoopi’s thoughts and opinions on life and it’s eccentricities. She does mention her childhood and growing up but mostly in how it has shaped her as an adult.
November 8, 2020
i found it uninteresting, wanted to give up but one or two interesting chapters, mostly the retrospective ones about growing up kept me invested. But those were few and far between. the rest were her spouting run of the mill stuff about race, parenting, sex, or whatever.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews