Usually, when a celebrity releases a memoir, it gets a ton of sound bites in the news because of the “tea” they spill (Britney) or the traumas they reveal (Matthew Perry, Jennette McCurdy). Henry Winkler’s engaging memoir shares less sensational things, but it’s no less interesting. I loved hearing him read the story of how he went from the crazy fame of The Fonz to a more subdued but fulfilling professional life as an Emmy-winning actor in Barry.

Personally, Henry had a tense relationship with his parents. As Jews who escaped Nazi Germany, they were unable to parent him with the love and grace he needed. They didn’t realize he suffered from severe dyslexia. He’s been married to his wife for over 40 years, and has a big, loving family. Although this seems mostly idyllic, he has been in therapy for years and discusses the work he’s done to feel less anxious and inadequate. Ironically, he speaks to feeling like the “uncool” kid trying to hang out with the cool kids.

Professionally, Henry’s story is very from the usual.He didn’t let intense fame go to his head. He fought with the powers-that-be when they wanted to change Happy Days to be “The Fonzie” show. To this day, has a lovely friendship with Ron Howard, whom he was often pitted against by executives during filming. He’s very close to Adam Sandler and credits him with helping him rise above being typecast as the Fonz.

Henry’s showbiz stories are fun and entertaining. He turned down the role of Danny Zuko in Grease and was the original director of Turner and Hooch, until he got fired. He’s continually awed by big celebrities. He writes children’s books and speaks to kids across the country about overcoming dyslexia and other struggles.

Heartwarming, humorous, and interesting, this memoir stands out from the pack. I loved spending a few hours in Henry’s world and I think you would, too!

First things first, I LOVE Thrity's books. Honor was one of my favorites of 2021 and has a spot on my "best of all time" shelf. I was so excited to dive into her latest--and even got an early copy from @netgalley (which I promptly finished after the pub date. :/). Still, this book was so emotionally satisfying. Not many authors can pull the heartstrings, educate about other cultures, and speak to the endurance of humanity in the face of tragedy like Thrity.

Remy Wadia is back in Bombay to adopt a baby from a young pregnant relative of his friend. When back in the city he calls, the "museum of failures," he reconnects with his mother, whose distance and coldness have plagued Remy and his relationship with her for most of his life. While there, family secrets are uncovered, tragedies are revealed, and he slowly makes peace with his family, his life, and, most importantly, his home city and country.

Unlike Honor, which revolved around a pretty stark and horrific cultural practice, this one is more personal and domestic. Remy's family struggles, as well as those of his mother and father, speak to Indian culture, the Indian-American experience, and issues that affect anyone. In Umrigar's delicate and deft writing hands, each is explored with emotion and grace.

If you're not in the mood to read about riding dragons or heading off to London to find your soulmate during the holiday season, check out this affecting and emotional drama. It's the perfect book to cozy up to when you're stuck inside during chilly, snowy season and want to cry but also be moved by the resilience of humanity.

Thanks to @netgalley and @algonquinbooks for the gifted copy!