Synopsis -
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.
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.
Review -
I love memoirs that are both intimate and honest. While I prefer reading eBooks, when there is the option of the book being read by the author, I always chose the audio version. There is something about hearing the author sharing about their lives in their own voice that brings the narrative alive for me. Bits and Pieces was a true gem that offered everything I love. From joy to sorrow, from triumph to challenge, it was fascinating to learn more about Goldberg's early years.
What comes alive in this book is a family dynamic full of magic. To this day Goldberg doesn't know how her mother managed to pay for the wonderful experiences they enjoyed. Her mother kept many things secret, which just added to their mystery. It goes to show our kids don't need everything their friends have. Instead they need to be nurtured, loved, feel safe, and have experiences that open their eyes to the wider world.
There were hard times as well. The pace of the story helps us understand how these challenges unfolded for a child. I would love to share moments I found powerful, but they are better left to experience with fresh eyes. I loved that Goldberg acknowledges she is sharing her memories and they be biased and shaped by time.
I am normally an avid reader of ebooks, but this title is hands down best experienced as an audio book. Enjoy!
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