Viola Davis

Finding Me

Viola Davis, the famous American actress, and producer, who received an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony (EGOT) and is well known for the movie The Woman King, presents a moving memoir that is best to be listened to. Vulnerable and personal, she discusses how she grew up in extreme poverty and abuse. It is inspiring how the little girl Viola, who didn’t believe in herself and had little to no hope and support to get out of poverty, made it to one of the world’s most famous and accoladed actresses. It also shows the difficulties many African-Americans still face as they continue to be disadvantaged in almost every aspect of life. It encourages one to let go of difficult pasts and the associated shame, accept oneself, and find one’s purpose, voice, and strength. A must-read!

“There is an emotional abandonment that comes with poverty and being black. The weight of generational trauma and having to fight for your basic needs doesn’t leave room for anything else.”