Being Henry - by Henry Winkler

Book Synopsis

Instant New York Times Bestseller!

Now in paperback, from Emmy-award winning actor, author, comedian, producer, and director Henry Winkler, a deeply thoughtful memoir of the lifelong effects of stardom and the struggle to become whole.

Henry Winkler, launched into prominence as "The Fonz" in the beloved Happy Days, has transcended the role that made him who he is. Brilliant, funny, and widely-regarded as the nicest man in Hollywood (though he would be the first to tell you that it's simply not the case, he's really just grateful to be here), Henry shares in this achingly vulnerable memoir the disheartening truth of his childhood, the difficulties of a life with severe dyslexia, the pressures of a role that takes on a life of its own, and the path forward once your wildest dream seems behind you.

Since the glorious era of Happy Days fame, Henry has endeared himself to a new generation with roles in such adored shows as Arrested Development, Parks and Recreation, and Barry, where he's been revealed as an actor with immense depth and pathos, a departure from the period of his life when he was so distinctly typecast as The Fonz, he could hardly find work.

Filled with profound heart, charm, and self-deprecating humor, Being Henry is a memoir about so much more than a life in Hollywood and the curse of stardom. It is a meaningful testament to the power of sharing truth and kindness and of finding fulfillment within yourself.

Review Quotes

"Smart and entertaining."
-The New York Times

"[An] inspirational story of one of Hollywood's most beloved figures who became an unlikely TV screen icon and later a champion for those with dyslexia."
--The Associated Press

"You want to brew him some tea, pat his arm. His tender memoir isn't explicitly dishy. It's an excavation of his challenges, pain and neuroses."
--The Washington Post

"More than anything, Being Henry is the story of a talented actor who, as his wife puts it, can "charm the pants" off of anyone...It's about the struggle to come into oneself after decades of self-alienation, and about perseverance."
--The Daily Beast

"This charming autobiography of personal struggles during times of career success and challenge deserves a big thumbs-up."
--Kirkus

"[A] winning memoir...Though Winkler includes plenty of inside-Hollywood fare, the book's frankness sets it apart from standard-issue actor memoirs. The result is a heartfelt chronicle of learning to love one's self, shortcomings and all."
--Publishers Weekly

"Sharing memorable and funny behind-the-scenes moments, Being
Henry entertains as an introspective, self-deprecating, and quite moving memoir from a versatile actor....The many, many fans Winkler has gathered over his 50 years in Hollywood won't be disappointed by this charming memoir."
--Booklist