Being Henry: The Fonz . . . and Beyond

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book about beloved Henry Winkler. He was very honest about his sad childhood, his insecurities and his career. The book was humorous at times and sad at times. I have enjoyed his work as Fonzie, but he has proven himself beyond that role. I will always be one of his fans.

Happy Days was an essential and fun part of my childhood television experience. I remember tuning in after school to The Fonz and the gang. Being Henry by Henry Winkler describes his childhood and early adulthood, his time playing the Fonz and career and life post-Happy Days. Henry Winkler faced several obstacles. His parents were critical and emotionally neglectful; given the circumstances of their escape to the US from Nazi Germany, it's fair to say there was intergenerational trauma, which Henry had to work through in therapy, years later. Henry also has severe dyslexia which was not diagnosed until he in his thirties. School was a struggle for him, as was reading scripts. After launching into the iconic role of The Fonz early in his acting career, Henry was typecast and had trouble getting acting roles. Being Henry is an honest, interesting and unpretentious memoir. The reader has the feeling that they are a friend of Henry's sitting in a cafe with him hearing his story. I enjoyed Henry's insights into Hollywood and family life. Henry seems like a genuinely nice guy and has used his fame to help people, especially children, like creating a series of children's books about a dyslexic kid and raising awareness of dyslexia. Henry's gratitude and appreciation shine through. A lovely addition to his memoir was the perspective of his wife Stacey. I really enjoyed reading this wonderful memoir.

"Being Henry" by Henry Winkler is a touching and inspirational memoir that takes readers on an incredible journey through the life of one of the most beloved actors of our time. From his iconic role as Fonzie on "Happy Days" to his numerous accomplishments beyond the screen, Winkler's story is a testament to the power of determination and positivity. Winkler's writing is both heartfelt and witty, capturing his unique charm and charisma on the page. He shares the ups and downs of his life with remarkable candor, making you feel like you're sitting down for a conversation with a close friend. His humor and humility shine through, making this memoir not only a reflection of his life but also a source of laughter and inspiration. One of the standout features of "Being Henry" is the way Winkler navigates his personal struggles, particularly his journey with dyslexia. He offers readers a glimpse into the challenges he faced and the perseverance that ultimately led him to success. His advocacy for individuals with learning disabilities is both heartwarming and educational. Throughout the book, Winkler emphasizes the importance of kindness, family, and believing in oneself. His anecdotes and life lessons are both relatable and genuinely moving. You can't help but be inspired by his resilience and unwavering optimism. "Being Henry" is not just a memoir; it's a guide on how to live life to the fullest, embracing every obstacle as an opportunity. It's a reminder that with passion, hard work, and a touch of "Fonzie cool," anyone can achieve their dreams. Henry Winkler's book is a testament to the enduring power of hope and positivity, and it's a must-read for anyone seeking a dose of inspiration and a smile on every page.