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Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me
From multi-award winner Whoopi Goldberg comes a new and unique memoir of her family and their influence on her early life.
If it weren’t for Emma Johnson, Caryn Johnson would have never become Whoopi Goldberg. Emma gave her children the loving care and wisdom they needed to succeed in life, always encouraging them to be true to themselves. When Whoopi lost her mother in 2010—and then her older brother, Clyde, five years later—she felt deeply alone; the only people who truly knew her were gone.
Emma raised her children not just to survive, but to thrive. In this intimate and heartfelt memoir, Whoopi shares many of the deeply personal stories of their lives together for the first time. Growing up in the projects in New York City, there were trips to Coney Island, the Ice Capades, and museums, and every Christmas was a magical experience. To this day, she doesn’t know how her mother was able to give them such an enriching childhood, despite the struggles they faced—and it wasn’t until she was well into adulthood that Whoopi learned just how traumatic some of those struggles were.
Fans of personal memoirs such as Finding Me by Viola Davis and In Pieces by Sally Field will be touched by Bits and a moving tribute from a daughter to her mother, and beautiful portrait of three people who loved each other deeply. Whoopi writes, “Not everybody gets to walk this earth with folks who let you be exactly who you are and who give you the confidence to become exactly who you want to be. So, I thought I’d share mine with you.”
If it weren’t for Emma Johnson, Caryn Johnson would have never become Whoopi Goldberg. Emma gave her children the loving care and wisdom they needed to succeed in life, always encouraging them to be true to themselves. When Whoopi lost her mother in 2010—and then her older brother, Clyde, five years later—she felt deeply alone; the only people who truly knew her were gone.
Emma raised her children not just to survive, but to thrive. In this intimate and heartfelt memoir, Whoopi shares many of the deeply personal stories of their lives together for the first time. Growing up in the projects in New York City, there were trips to Coney Island, the Ice Capades, and museums, and every Christmas was a magical experience. To this day, she doesn’t know how her mother was able to give them such an enriching childhood, despite the struggles they faced—and it wasn’t until she was well into adulthood that Whoopi learned just how traumatic some of those struggles were.
Fans of personal memoirs such as Finding Me by Viola Davis and In Pieces by Sally Field will be touched by Bits and a moving tribute from a daughter to her mother, and beautiful portrait of three people who loved each other deeply. Whoopi writes, “Not everybody gets to walk this earth with folks who let you be exactly who you are and who give you the confidence to become exactly who you want to be. So, I thought I’d share mine with you.”
258 pages, Hardcover
First published May 7, 2024
About the author
Whoopi Goldberg
56 books315 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 451 reviews
May 29, 2024
Do yourself a favor and listen to the audio book, which the author does not read, but rather perform herself, as if she would tell you the story of her family over a couple of beers. The text is a fragmented love letter to her late mom Emma and late brother Clyde, highlighting various instances and specific circumstances that shaped Whoopi. And this means that the author celebrates a single Black mom who had a lot of financial and mental struggles, but did everything she could to raise her children with compassion and a love for the arts.
And while this is good and well, it's also sometimes the weakness of the book, because there are factors in there that scream for a more analytical approach, like a nervous breakdown that led Emma to be submitted to electroconvulsive therapy, or the fact that the love of her life, Whoopi's father, was gay. There would also be room for more critical thoughts, like regarding the fact that Emma hit her kids with a belt. It's the messiness and complexity of the people we love that are worth exploring, not to take away from all of their good traits, but to understand them better. I'm also pretty sure that getting a Master's degree while raising two children alone was very hard, but there is not much we hear about the price Emma must have paid for her dedication and achievements. Rather, it's implied in the statements of a (rightfully!) proud daughter to keep the mood light.
So all in all, the book is a little too concerned about the pleasantness of the anecdotes and the general good mood it wants to radiate, but more changes in emotional temperatures and even analytical depth would have added to better understanding both Emma and Clyde (who tends to play a minor role here). Looking at other books about mothers like Combats et métamorphoses d'une femme, the gain for readers can be way more than uplifting entertainment.
And while this is good and well, it's also sometimes the weakness of the book, because there are factors in there that scream for a more analytical approach, like a nervous breakdown that led Emma to be submitted to electroconvulsive therapy, or the fact that the love of her life, Whoopi's father, was gay. There would also be room for more critical thoughts, like regarding the fact that Emma hit her kids with a belt. It's the messiness and complexity of the people we love that are worth exploring, not to take away from all of their good traits, but to understand them better. I'm also pretty sure that getting a Master's degree while raising two children alone was very hard, but there is not much we hear about the price Emma must have paid for her dedication and achievements. Rather, it's implied in the statements of a (rightfully!) proud daughter to keep the mood light.
So all in all, the book is a little too concerned about the pleasantness of the anecdotes and the general good mood it wants to radiate, but more changes in emotional temperatures and even analytical depth would have added to better understanding both Emma and Clyde (who tends to play a minor role here). Looking at other books about mothers like Combats et métamorphoses d'une femme, the gain for readers can be way more than uplifting entertainment.
April 17, 2024
This book is a love story to Whoopi's mother and brother. They both passed away unexpectedly in 2010 and 2015 and left her lost. The three of them did everything together. She was now alone. This book is short and a quick read. I have watched Whoopi in so many things so I was very excited to get this ARC. Her mother was a very mysterious person. She would never answer Whoopi's questions which was very interesting and frustrating. Her mother seemed like an incredible and wise person. This book was a great way to remember Whoopi's mother and brother. I highly recommend it.
-She did not believe in self-pity. Her attitude was simple, and one of the big things she put in my head was this: "You've got two choices. You can waste a lot of time complaining, or you can get up and figure out how to fix it."
-I looked at her and started laughing. She looked back at me and laughed. That's how we did life, right up to the day she died.
-She thought the most important opinion was what you thought of yourself and how you lived your life.
-She never forced a choice on me. She always made me choose for myself and live with the good or bad consequences.
-"When you do stuff like this with other people, they are undoubtedly going to leave you in the lurch. You'll be the one left to answer for it. When you make choices, you have to be ready to deal with it all alone."
-She really wanted me to understand that I had to be able to count on myself. And do for myself.
-She would tell me quite often that it was important to make my own money and that I couldn't count om somebody else to take care of me.
-This is why my mother told me to be forgiving of what people don't know and help them understand instead of walking away mad. The thing is, when you're looking at something like a television show and you always see someone who looks like you, then you don't notice what else is missing. You only notice when what's always missing is you.
-I didn't have to fear punishment from God. I only had to think about whether I could live with myself and my choices.
-They were my home base, my reality check, because they both knew me from the start.
-The way I was raised is that you pull yourself together. And if you can't, then you need to ask for help. You have to talk to someone about it. It has happened a couple of times for me since she died.
-My best advice to anybody who has lost their mom is to find a way to celebrate her life. Regardless of what your relationship was with her, figure out how to find some humor in who she was and your life with her. The best way to honor your mom is to laugh.
-She did not believe in self-pity. Her attitude was simple, and one of the big things she put in my head was this: "You've got two choices. You can waste a lot of time complaining, or you can get up and figure out how to fix it."
-I looked at her and started laughing. She looked back at me and laughed. That's how we did life, right up to the day she died.
-She thought the most important opinion was what you thought of yourself and how you lived your life.
-She never forced a choice on me. She always made me choose for myself and live with the good or bad consequences.
-"When you do stuff like this with other people, they are undoubtedly going to leave you in the lurch. You'll be the one left to answer for it. When you make choices, you have to be ready to deal with it all alone."
-She really wanted me to understand that I had to be able to count on myself. And do for myself.
-She would tell me quite often that it was important to make my own money and that I couldn't count om somebody else to take care of me.
-This is why my mother told me to be forgiving of what people don't know and help them understand instead of walking away mad. The thing is, when you're looking at something like a television show and you always see someone who looks like you, then you don't notice what else is missing. You only notice when what's always missing is you.
-I didn't have to fear punishment from God. I only had to think about whether I could live with myself and my choices.
-They were my home base, my reality check, because they both knew me from the start.
-The way I was raised is that you pull yourself together. And if you can't, then you need to ask for help. You have to talk to someone about it. It has happened a couple of times for me since she died.
-My best advice to anybody who has lost their mom is to find a way to celebrate her life. Regardless of what your relationship was with her, figure out how to find some humor in who she was and your life with her. The best way to honor your mom is to laugh.
June 6, 2024
There's no one out there like this girl! I've been a fan since Day 1. . .
I listened to this one, like spending the day with her, back with a friend who got me through a lotta stuff with her fiesty, fierce self!
All the stars!
I listened to this one, like spending the day with her, back with a friend who got me through a lotta stuff with her fiesty, fierce self!
All the stars!
May 9, 2024
I listened to the audiobook and mostly enjoyed Whoopi’s narration although there were times it sounded a bit over the top as if she was auditioning for a part in a movie. I didn’t feel as though this was a memoir. It mostly focused on her mom. Those stories I loved. Her mom was inspiring and strong and loving. I didn’t enjoy the other stories Whoopi told. It was as if she was trying to justify things she did and needed to convince others. I loved Whoopi in “Ghost” and “Sister Act” but was so totally turned off after listening to her on the view.
May 9, 2024
Thanks to Blackstone Publishing for the gifted eARC in exchange of an honest review.
This memoir is a precious love letter from Whoopi to her mother. It truly touched my heart and resonated with me on so many levels.
Whoopi begins the book writing about fond childhood memories with her mother and her brother. Life was fun for them. A lot of laughs and love. However, there was one moment in her childhood that I didn’t see coming. Reading about the life changing experience was a shocker. But the family of three made it out of that experience just as close as they were before.
What I enjoyed most about this book was reading how Whoopi’s mom handled Whoopi rise to fame. I loved all the stories of how her mom was able to meet her favorite celebrities, attend awards shows, and move from NYC to LA.
As a woman that has experienced the loss of my mom, this story deeply resonated with me. There was so much I could relate to. For example, Whoopi shares how she had a sense of relief knowing her mother didn’t have to experience the madness this country experienced when the 45th president was elected. This shocked me to read because I felt the same way. I had a huge sense of peace knowing my mother didn’t have to experience the craziness of that election including covid.
Whoopi also gives phenomenal advice for handling the passing of a parent. She explains that one of the most difficult things to do when your mom transitions is to dismantle her life. And I completely agree with Whoopi! Having to decide who gets what, what items to keep, and what to throw away, is a painful task. But, Whoopi gave excellent advice by stating that all siblings should go to the house together. Do not leave this heartbreaking task for just one person to handle alone. This way everyone has a voice and can get whatever they want. This is exactly what my sisters and I did after our mom’s passing and it worked out very well for the three of us.
Overall, there is so much I love about this book. It’s filled with so many wonderful stories, it’s very well written. Fast paced and touching, I got to see a softer side of Whoopi. And I loved every word of it!
This memoir is a precious love letter from Whoopi to her mother. It truly touched my heart and resonated with me on so many levels.
Whoopi begins the book writing about fond childhood memories with her mother and her brother. Life was fun for them. A lot of laughs and love. However, there was one moment in her childhood that I didn’t see coming. Reading about the life changing experience was a shocker. But the family of three made it out of that experience just as close as they were before.
What I enjoyed most about this book was reading how Whoopi’s mom handled Whoopi rise to fame. I loved all the stories of how her mom was able to meet her favorite celebrities, attend awards shows, and move from NYC to LA.
As a woman that has experienced the loss of my mom, this story deeply resonated with me. There was so much I could relate to. For example, Whoopi shares how she had a sense of relief knowing her mother didn’t have to experience the madness this country experienced when the 45th president was elected. This shocked me to read because I felt the same way. I had a huge sense of peace knowing my mother didn’t have to experience the craziness of that election including covid.
Whoopi also gives phenomenal advice for handling the passing of a parent. She explains that one of the most difficult things to do when your mom transitions is to dismantle her life. And I completely agree with Whoopi! Having to decide who gets what, what items to keep, and what to throw away, is a painful task. But, Whoopi gave excellent advice by stating that all siblings should go to the house together. Do not leave this heartbreaking task for just one person to handle alone. This way everyone has a voice and can get whatever they want. This is exactly what my sisters and I did after our mom’s passing and it worked out very well for the three of us.
Overall, there is so much I love about this book. It’s filled with so many wonderful stories, it’s very well written. Fast paced and touching, I got to see a softer side of Whoopi. And I loved every word of it!
May 25, 2024
I loved every second of this book. I usually struggle with paying attention to audio books, but I was riveted to every word of this one. I've always loved Whoopi. The fact that she put such a beautiful tribute to her family out into this world makes me love her even more!
May 19, 2024
I love Whoopi Goldberg! She is the epitome of what black & beautiful looks like. She is and has always been unapologetically her and didn't allow anyone to change who she is. She shows up as herself and dares anyone to change her. From her skin to her white teeth to her locs, she is herself tried and true. I listened to her audiobook, and it's in her distinct voice. I enjoyed getting to know her, and I am so thankful she shared herself with the world. Her mom was a real MVP, and she gave both her children what they needed to soar high and not look back. She encouraged them to be themselves and make their own choices and show up and face whatever they had to based on their choices. Thanks, Whoopi, for giving us a little snippet of your world. It's beautiful!
June 2, 2024
The audiobook read by the author makes this a five-star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read.
May 12, 2024
Lovely tribute to her mom. Perfect to read on Mother’s Day weekend.
May 24, 2024
Take a moment to consider the individuals who have left the most significant imprint on your life. Who comes to mind? Perhaps it's friends, family members, teachers, or mentors—those who truly understand you. Are they still present in your life today? Reflecting on those who have influenced me, I feel a twinge of sadness, realizing that many of them are no longer a part of my life. Whether due to distance, circumstances, or the passage of time, there inevitably comes a point when we must come to terms with the loss of those significant individuals who are no longer with us. In her latest book, Bits and Pieces, actor and comedian Whoopi Goldberg reminisces about her inner circle, particularly her late mother and brother—two individuals who knew her best. Following their passing, Goldberg reflects on their profound impact on her life and the void left behind in their absence.
For many around the world, Whoopi Goldberg is a familiar name. The EGOT winner has entertained us for decades, from her acclaimed Broadway performances and memorable film and TV roles to her recent tenure on The View. However, only two people truly knew Goldberg on a deeply personal level. To them, she wasn't Whoopi Goldberg but simply Caryn, a daughter and sister who made up the third member of a small family living in the projects of New York.
Despite being impoverished, Goldberg never noticed the lack of money and resources. Her mother, Emma, was determined not just to raise her children to survive but to thrive. Through a series of deeply personal stories and recollections, Goldberg shares her childhood experiences, her relationship with her brother and mother, and the pivotal moments that shaped her into the woman she is today. The audiobook, narrated by Goldberg herself, enhances the intimacy of these reflections. Her conversational delivery makes you feel like you're listening to an old friend or family member reminiscing about the good old days. Her mother's resilience stands out, as Emma never allowed their circumstances to limit her children's potential, instilling in Goldberg the belief that she could achieve greatness.
Beyond her immediate family, Goldberg credits mentors like Mike Nichols and Steven Spielberg for instilling in her the same confidence in her career that her family provided in other aspects of her life. She acknowledges that she hasn't always been perfect—after all, we all "step in poo" from time to time—but she takes pride in learning and growing from her mistakes and is committed to continuing that growth. Goldberg lost her mother in 2010 and her brother five years later. She writes about the profound sense of loss that still fills her, a grief that she has learned to live with but that never fully goes away. She finds solace in knowing she is still here for a reason, that her presence in her work and with her family remains fulfilling.
Ultimately, Bits and Pieces is a love story about the power of family, friends, and living life authentically. It combines humor with heartfelt reflections on the candid moments of a woman who still has much to offer the world. The book serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact that loved ones have on our lives and the importance of cherishing those connections.
For many around the world, Whoopi Goldberg is a familiar name. The EGOT winner has entertained us for decades, from her acclaimed Broadway performances and memorable film and TV roles to her recent tenure on The View. However, only two people truly knew Goldberg on a deeply personal level. To them, she wasn't Whoopi Goldberg but simply Caryn, a daughter and sister who made up the third member of a small family living in the projects of New York.
Despite being impoverished, Goldberg never noticed the lack of money and resources. Her mother, Emma, was determined not just to raise her children to survive but to thrive. Through a series of deeply personal stories and recollections, Goldberg shares her childhood experiences, her relationship with her brother and mother, and the pivotal moments that shaped her into the woman she is today. The audiobook, narrated by Goldberg herself, enhances the intimacy of these reflections. Her conversational delivery makes you feel like you're listening to an old friend or family member reminiscing about the good old days. Her mother's resilience stands out, as Emma never allowed their circumstances to limit her children's potential, instilling in Goldberg the belief that she could achieve greatness.
Beyond her immediate family, Goldberg credits mentors like Mike Nichols and Steven Spielberg for instilling in her the same confidence in her career that her family provided in other aspects of her life. She acknowledges that she hasn't always been perfect—after all, we all "step in poo" from time to time—but she takes pride in learning and growing from her mistakes and is committed to continuing that growth. Goldberg lost her mother in 2010 and her brother five years later. She writes about the profound sense of loss that still fills her, a grief that she has learned to live with but that never fully goes away. She finds solace in knowing she is still here for a reason, that her presence in her work and with her family remains fulfilling.
Ultimately, Bits and Pieces is a love story about the power of family, friends, and living life authentically. It combines humor with heartfelt reflections on the candid moments of a woman who still has much to offer the world. The book serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact that loved ones have on our lives and the importance of cherishing those connections.
May 21, 2024
It’s been awhile since I’ve written a review, but I really wanted to share my thoughts on Whoopi’s memoir, “Bits and Pieces.”
I had the pleasure of reading her previous book, “If they say they complete you, RUN!” a few years ago, and after reading that book, it solidified my reasoning for why I love Whoopi so much. Her candid nature, and transparency has always been a big deal for me. I feel she is one of the few actors/people who live their lives on their own terms, and actually means what she says. Many people talk a good game, and give advice on what to or not to do, but don’t really follow the things they tell others. Whoopi doesn’t have that problem. She is tells you how it is. No sugar coating or anything. She lives her life exactly as she wants to, and it has served her well.
Her memoir is so profound in that she brings you into a part of her life she has kept close to her. The relationship between her mom and brother seemed so magical and wholesome, but I know that is only how I feel after seeing it wrapped up in words. I’m sure growing up as a Black girl in Chelsea, NY wasn’t a pretty walk in the park. Colorism was most likely at its all time high for the Black community, and showering a dark-skin girl with accolades and attention was not something people did back when Whoopi was growing up. She talked about her close relationship with her brother and how they stood up for each other, was amazing to read. It reminded me of the relationship I had with my brother. Though we were close in age, we had a love/hate relationship, but we definitely stood up for each other outside of the house no matter what. Even today, we have remained an anchor in each other’s lives, no matter how long it’s been since we last talked.
It was sad to hear how her mother was institutionalized for two years. How she had virtually no rights as a woman back then, and a double punishment, if you will, because she was a Black woman. The fact that no one told Whoopi and her brother what was happening to their mom, was also a shame. Growing up not knowing if you would see your mom again had to be traumatizing for all of them. Even when her mother came back, the shock of that entire experience didn’t even get explained until Whoopi was grown-grown. However, Whoopi does explain that with her mother being gone for that length of time, it served her well because she started to do things on her own, and gain independence at an early age that has served her well during her entire life.
I thoroughly enjoyed her stories and anecdotes of her childhood and how Whoopi developed as a young woman. Her mother sounded like an amazing person. A woman who, against the odds, raised 2 kids on her own, worked, provided, supported, and showered her kids with love, attention, and exposed them to the world in a way that helped them navigate real life. In turn, they were allowed to have personality, creative expression, and develop their sense of self without inhibition.
Whoopi has a way of telling stories that just makes you feel at home. I felt like I was her friend, and she was sharing a part of her life with me. She wants to take you on this journey, and welcome you into her world, in this book, and it makes you feel so included. This memoir is more so about her relationship with her mother and brother, so if you are looking for a memoir about her whole life, then this book is not the book for that. In this memoir, I feel like she’s honoring her mother and brother at a time where it is very crucial for her in her grieving process, as both her mother and brother have both passed on to the next life. This book was probably very cathartic in helping her to move on and live with the loss. The two most closest people in her life are now gone, and this book exemplifies how important they were to her development as a person.
I listened to this book, and I loved her voice, her laughter, her sighs, her self-reflection as she remembers things, and it made for a really special book. I thoroughly enjoyed her memoir.
5 stars.
I had the pleasure of reading her previous book, “If they say they complete you, RUN!” a few years ago, and after reading that book, it solidified my reasoning for why I love Whoopi so much. Her candid nature, and transparency has always been a big deal for me. I feel she is one of the few actors/people who live their lives on their own terms, and actually means what she says. Many people talk a good game, and give advice on what to or not to do, but don’t really follow the things they tell others. Whoopi doesn’t have that problem. She is tells you how it is. No sugar coating or anything. She lives her life exactly as she wants to, and it has served her well.
Her memoir is so profound in that she brings you into a part of her life she has kept close to her. The relationship between her mom and brother seemed so magical and wholesome, but I know that is only how I feel after seeing it wrapped up in words. I’m sure growing up as a Black girl in Chelsea, NY wasn’t a pretty walk in the park. Colorism was most likely at its all time high for the Black community, and showering a dark-skin girl with accolades and attention was not something people did back when Whoopi was growing up. She talked about her close relationship with her brother and how they stood up for each other, was amazing to read. It reminded me of the relationship I had with my brother. Though we were close in age, we had a love/hate relationship, but we definitely stood up for each other outside of the house no matter what. Even today, we have remained an anchor in each other’s lives, no matter how long it’s been since we last talked.
It was sad to hear how her mother was institutionalized for two years. How she had virtually no rights as a woman back then, and a double punishment, if you will, because she was a Black woman. The fact that no one told Whoopi and her brother what was happening to their mom, was also a shame. Growing up not knowing if you would see your mom again had to be traumatizing for all of them. Even when her mother came back, the shock of that entire experience didn’t even get explained until Whoopi was grown-grown. However, Whoopi does explain that with her mother being gone for that length of time, it served her well because she started to do things on her own, and gain independence at an early age that has served her well during her entire life.
I thoroughly enjoyed her stories and anecdotes of her childhood and how Whoopi developed as a young woman. Her mother sounded like an amazing person. A woman who, against the odds, raised 2 kids on her own, worked, provided, supported, and showered her kids with love, attention, and exposed them to the world in a way that helped them navigate real life. In turn, they were allowed to have personality, creative expression, and develop their sense of self without inhibition.
Whoopi has a way of telling stories that just makes you feel at home. I felt like I was her friend, and she was sharing a part of her life with me. She wants to take you on this journey, and welcome you into her world, in this book, and it makes you feel so included. This memoir is more so about her relationship with her mother and brother, so if you are looking for a memoir about her whole life, then this book is not the book for that. In this memoir, I feel like she’s honoring her mother and brother at a time where it is very crucial for her in her grieving process, as both her mother and brother have both passed on to the next life. This book was probably very cathartic in helping her to move on and live with the loss. The two most closest people in her life are now gone, and this book exemplifies how important they were to her development as a person.
I listened to this book, and I loved her voice, her laughter, her sighs, her self-reflection as she remembers things, and it made for a really special book. I thoroughly enjoyed her memoir.
5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2024
I know of many people who think memoirs shouldn’t be rated as they are the telling of someone’s story. Well, I’m a big consumer of memoirs and while I agree with the sentiment - I rate them anyway. Mostly, I rate them on how much I enjoyed the memoir. Did it resonate? Was it worth my time? Did I connect with it? And the answers of course are very personal to me.
A lot of celebrity memoirs I have read focus on the relationship they had with their parents and most often with their mother. Some of them are heartbreaking. Some are heartwarming. Some bring you into the circle. Some keep you at arm’s length.
I didn’t know much about Whoopi’s life or story when I picked up this book. I don’t watch the View (she only mentions it a handful of times). But I have seen many of her movies and enjoy her work.
Listening on audio, it was like hearing a friend talk for awhile about tales and loves and success and heartbreak. It’s almost as if she is bringing us up to speed on the highlights of her life and what she holds dear most. Her non sequitur style might put off some readers, but that’s just Whoopi.
There are certainly gaps in the book - while her memories are so strong in parts, she blinks past her mother’s two-year institutionalization in a mental hospital. And her brother is really a minor figure, even if he is in the title.
Truly this book is a love letter to her mother and in the end, all mothers. It’s about her mother’s sacrifices and struggles, and how they made Whoopi into the person she is today. Her mother’s commitment to education, perseverance, and creativity - all emblematic in the person she raised.
The book ends with Whoopi’s reflections on grief specifically for the grief for a mother and her advice to others who join that club. I sobbed, and you might too. I am crying writing this. I don’t think a book should be rated on making one cry. But stirring emotion? Yes, yes, yes.
If you want to read about a celebrity overcoming childhood poverty, read Viola Davis’ book.
If you want to read about a celebrity overcoming dyslexia, read Henry Winkler’s recent book.
Of course if you like celebrity memoir, read them all :)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ listened on audio 🎧
A lot of celebrity memoirs I have read focus on the relationship they had with their parents and most often with their mother. Some of them are heartbreaking. Some are heartwarming. Some bring you into the circle. Some keep you at arm’s length.
I didn’t know much about Whoopi’s life or story when I picked up this book. I don’t watch the View (she only mentions it a handful of times). But I have seen many of her movies and enjoy her work.
Listening on audio, it was like hearing a friend talk for awhile about tales and loves and success and heartbreak. It’s almost as if she is bringing us up to speed on the highlights of her life and what she holds dear most. Her non sequitur style might put off some readers, but that’s just Whoopi.
There are certainly gaps in the book - while her memories are so strong in parts, she blinks past her mother’s two-year institutionalization in a mental hospital. And her brother is really a minor figure, even if he is in the title.
Truly this book is a love letter to her mother and in the end, all mothers. It’s about her mother’s sacrifices and struggles, and how they made Whoopi into the person she is today. Her mother’s commitment to education, perseverance, and creativity - all emblematic in the person she raised.
The book ends with Whoopi’s reflections on grief specifically for the grief for a mother and her advice to others who join that club. I sobbed, and you might too. I am crying writing this. I don’t think a book should be rated on making one cry. But stirring emotion? Yes, yes, yes.
If you want to read about a celebrity overcoming childhood poverty, read Viola Davis’ book.
If you want to read about a celebrity overcoming dyslexia, read Henry Winkler’s recent book.
Of course if you like celebrity memoir, read them all :)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ listened on audio 🎧
June 4, 2024
I love Whoopi Goldberg, so I was excited to listen to this audiobook. She is such an beautiful and authentic person. She is true to who she is unapologetically. This was a beautiful tribute to her mother and brother. I enjoyed getting to hear about her upbringing and stories of her childhood, as well as her life after she became a mom and her journey in Hollywood. Her mother seemed like a wonderful woman. This book had everything in it - advice, humor, and relatability. I love that she wrote this book the way that she thinks, because it felt like I was sitting around chatting with a friend. I found myself laughing at the funny parts and going through the other various emotions she displays in this book. Overall, this book was heartwarming and such a great read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing - Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing - Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
May 20, 2024
I loved this book- but I listened to the audio version which was narrated by Whoopi Goldberg herself! So it felt like listening to a conversation with Whoopi. The writing was very much in a “stream-of-consciousness” style of writing so I’m not sure if I had just read the words on the page that I would have liked it as much! It was funny and heartfelt and engaging! She deeply loved her mother and brother and the loss she experienced in their sudden deaths is just wrenching. The advice she gives in dealing with the grief surrounding the loss of your most significant parent loss -deeply touched me! I liked the book so much that even though I had checked the audio book out of the library, I returned the library copy and bought the book myself so I could keep my notes about her words about loss! Really enjoyable!
June 1, 2024
I wasn't going to pick this one up but I'm so glad I did. It was funny, moving and highly interesting and entertaining. Definitely recommended and great on audio narrated by Whoopi herself. She shares stories about her mother and brother who recently died as well as memories from various movies (Ghost & The color purple were especially good ones!). Not one to miss!
May 30, 2024
I didn't read this because I'm a massive fan of Whoopi. Because, I'm not. But I do value a lot of what she has done as a dark skinned Black woman with locs in Hollywood. I really appreciated her words here. It's a book that gently unpacks grieving, but it also chronicles the beautiful relationship she had with her family. I enjoyed thoroughly.
May 25, 2024
Memoirs/ Biographies are my favorite and it has been a while since I read one. So glad I dipped back into the genre with this one. Filled with poignant memories, Whoopi shares with us her love for her mother and her brother (and a little bit her daughter). Listened to the audiobook read by Whoopi herself and couldn't have been more delighted with narration.
May 13, 2024
Great read did not know her real name is Karen lol glad to know she was close to her mom and brother she came from a family of love really enjoyed knowing more abt Whoopi the person
June 2, 2024
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🎧
I received this ALC (Advanced Listener Copy) of the audiobook from NetGalley | Blackstone Publishing.
Whoopie gives a small glimpse into her childhood, early acting, and the present. We learn how tightly knit her mother and brother were to her and how they were just pure supportive. I completely feel like this was a love letter to her mother and brother. And if you pick up the audiobook, you will see that. I loved getting her experience and her voice.
Their losses have impacted her, and she explains how and why. It's a compelling read, and it reminds us that we don't always get our loved ones for as long as we would like.
It almost felt like Karen Johnson was evolving into Whoopie Goldberg. What an interesting person and a great storyteller.
I received this ALC (Advanced Listener Copy) of the audiobook from NetGalley | Blackstone Publishing.
Whoopie gives a small glimpse into her childhood, early acting, and the present. We learn how tightly knit her mother and brother were to her and how they were just pure supportive. I completely feel like this was a love letter to her mother and brother. And if you pick up the audiobook, you will see that. I loved getting her experience and her voice.
Their losses have impacted her, and she explains how and why. It's a compelling read, and it reminds us that we don't always get our loved ones for as long as we would like.
It almost felt like Karen Johnson was evolving into Whoopie Goldberg. What an interesting person and a great storyteller.
May 27, 2024
Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother and Me
I Picked Up This Book Because: I’ve enjoyed other work from this author.
Media Type: Audiobook
Source: BC Public Library
Dates Read: 5/21/24 - 5/23/24
Rating: 4 Stars
Narrator(s): Whoopi Goldberg
The Story:
Ms. Goldberg’s writing is darn near poetic. She made Coney Island sound like a garden oasis. It was interesting seeing how her career took off and how she came to be where she is.
I Picked Up This Book Because: I’ve enjoyed other work from this author.
Media Type: Audiobook
Source: BC Public Library
Dates Read: 5/21/24 - 5/23/24
Rating: 4 Stars
Narrator(s): Whoopi Goldberg
The Story:
Ms. Goldberg’s writing is darn near poetic. She made Coney Island sound like a garden oasis. It was interesting seeing how her career took off and how she came to be where she is.
Read
May 21, 2024Nice reflections on her mother's presence in her life (though they get equal billing in the subtitle, there wasn't nearly as much about her brother).
The title was an apt one. I was going to read this regardless because I mean, come on, it's Whoopi, but "Bits and Pieces" is right - a lot of the book jumps around. The audiobook almost felt more like a podcast mini series than a book.
I'd have liked to have heard more about her career in particular.
The title was an apt one. I was going to read this regardless because I mean, come on, it's Whoopi, but "Bits and Pieces" is right - a lot of the book jumps around. The audiobook almost felt more like a podcast mini series than a book.
I'd have liked to have heard more about her career in particular.
June 9, 2024
I just finished reading a very detailed memoir on comedian Whoopi Goldberg. She describes her experiences living in Chelsea. New York as a child living with her mother and her brother. She also goes into how she dealt with the grief of losing her mother and her brother.
May 9, 2024
This is not only a warm and funny book, but it's a wise piece on the loss of two of her beloved family members, namely her mother and brother. It was like spending a few hours quietly sitting with her as she shares her thoughts on her extraordinary family and life. Very enjoyable read!
May 15, 2024
This read like a love letter to Whoopi’s family. Especially her mother. ❤️
May 24, 2024
I enjoyed hearing Whoopi (Karen) talk about her mother and brother. Sadly after their deaths she was lost.
Whoopi shares so many stories and people who influenced her life. She has worked in theater, movies and TV. She is truly talented and no-nonsense.
Whoopi shares so many stories and people who influenced her life. She has worked in theater, movies and TV. She is truly talented and no-nonsense.
May 22, 2024
I received this book from my Grandson Elias because he know I watch Whoopi Goldberg on the view each day and I’m a big fan of hers. It’s also a signed copy which I will treasure.
A book written from the heart about her relationship with her mother and brother, and the influence they had on her life. I love memoirs❣️
A book written from the heart about her relationship with her mother and brother, and the influence they had on her life. I love memoirs❣️
May 19, 2024
I loved listening to Whoopi giggle. This would not have been the same if I read it on paper. Definitely recommend listening to the audiobook. Fun to get to know Karen.
May 9, 2024
Oh how I loved this audio! It's not your typical structured memoir, no linear retelling of Whoopi Goldberg's entire life from start to finish. But after reading it, it makes complete sense. It's exactly how Goldberg is, how she rolls to the beat of her own drum. The title is fitting, Bits and Pieces, how she tells her story, in bits and pieces from what she can remember.
This was ultimately an endearing love story to her deceased mother and brother, the central theme threaded throughout her life and each chapter, particularly her mom. You hear the wisdom of how her mother raised her, all the questions Whoopi asked her, and the questions her mother always answered back with, never an answer, only a question. Her mother's answers and the way she let Whoopi come to her own conclusion made for such memorable life lessons to Goldberg and in turn, the reader. They told so much about the person her mother was. Goldberg did an amazing job bringing her mother to life on the page. Her personality and essence really shined through. There were some stories she told that made me grin widely, hanging on her every word or truly laughing out loud.
At the end, she tackles the subject of grief, especially for the grief over losing your mother, which really struck a nerve with me.
Over all, this memoir was both heartwarming and funny. It felt like less of a book and more of a conversation, like a great friend you're sitting down with who tells you memorable stories, complete with her laughs and acting out of voices or showing of emotions with her animated style.
What a beautiful homage to her mother and brother.
This was ultimately an endearing love story to her deceased mother and brother, the central theme threaded throughout her life and each chapter, particularly her mom. You hear the wisdom of how her mother raised her, all the questions Whoopi asked her, and the questions her mother always answered back with, never an answer, only a question. Her mother's answers and the way she let Whoopi come to her own conclusion made for such memorable life lessons to Goldberg and in turn, the reader. They told so much about the person her mother was. Goldberg did an amazing job bringing her mother to life on the page. Her personality and essence really shined through. There were some stories she told that made me grin widely, hanging on her every word or truly laughing out loud.
At the end, she tackles the subject of grief, especially for the grief over losing your mother, which really struck a nerve with me.
Over all, this memoir was both heartwarming and funny. It felt like less of a book and more of a conversation, like a great friend you're sitting down with who tells you memorable stories, complete with her laughs and acting out of voices or showing of emotions with her animated style.
What a beautiful homage to her mother and brother.
May 26, 2024
This is a must listen! Whoopi reads in her very recognizable style and wow does she do it well. Great story, lots of love, laughter and warmth.
April 9, 2024
More of an homage to Whoopi’s mother than a memoir of her own life, although it does include milestone periods of her career.
Whoopi’s description of all that her mother provided for both her and her brother is remarkable as she was a single parent living in the tenements.
Well worth reading!
Whoopi’s description of all that her mother provided for both her and her brother is remarkable as she was a single parent living in the tenements.
Well worth reading!
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