by Tavis Smiley
First published 2016
Tavis Smiley opens his life story in a cramped Indiana trailer, where his journey toward authentic living begins. The future media mogul faces the universal struggles of finding his true self while society pressures him to conform and fear threatens to derail his progress. Smiley navigates the pitfalls of ego and convenience as he builds relationships with cultural icons like Maya Angelou and Quincy Jones. Personal mentors including Rosa Parks, Peter Jennings, and his wise grandmother "Big Mama" guide him through setbacks and victories. From his humble beginnings to his success as a television and radio host, Smiley learns what authentic living requires. He transforms his hard-earned lessons into practical guidance for readers facing their own crossroads. The book serves as both map and compass for anyone seeking to live their best life.
Genres: self-help, autobiography, biography-memoir, inspirational
Vibes: inspirational, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: coming-of-age, found-family
Setting: Indiana
Period: 20th-century, 21st-century
208 pages · Hardcover · Smiley Books