Author: Viola Davis
Title: Finding Me
Genre: Memoir
Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
C.W: Poverty, Hunger, Sexual abuse, Domestic violence, bed-wetting, Racism.
During a Book Afrique meeting, our discussion centered around this extraordinary book that left a lasting impact on all of us. The book delved deep into the life story of Viola, a woman who faced immense adversity and struggled to break free from the cycle of poverty that plagued her childhood.
Viola’s early years were marked by hardship and despair. Growing up in a troubled family with constantly warring parents, she was subjected to bullying both at school and in her neighborhood. The book vividly portrayed the harsh reality of poverty, giving us a glimpse into the struggles faced by millions worldwide. However, what set Viola apart was her unwavering determination to change her fate.
Throughout the book, Viola’s resilience and hard work were emphasized as we followed her journey from a disadvantaged background to becoming a shining star in Hollywood. Her story served as a powerful reminder that determination and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. The quote, “You need to have a really clear idea of how you’re going to make it out if you don’t want to be poor for the rest of your life. You have to decide what you want to be. Then you have to work really hard,” encapsulated the essence of her struggle and the path to success.
Beyond poverty, the book bravely tackled other critical issues that plague society, including hunger and domestic violence. Viola’s mother’s harrowing experiences at the hands of her husband were heart-wrenching, exposing the grim reality of domestic abuse. Her strength to endure such cruelty raised awareness of the plight faced by many women trapped in abusive relationships. It sparked discussions about the importance of supporting victims of domestic violence and working towards breaking the cycle of abuse.
Moreover, the book fearlessly addressed sensitive topics like sexual abuse and racism, which are unfortunately prevalent in society. These issues leave deep scars on the victims, affecting their lives in profound ways. The impact of abuse on an individual’s psyche was portrayed eloquently through the quote, “Abuse elicits so many memories of trauma that embed themselves into behavior that is hard to shake.” This quote opened our eyes to the long-lasting effects of abuse and the need for a more compassionate and understanding society.
Amidst the challenges, there were also glimpses of hope and resilience in Viola’s journey. The book highlighted the significance of holding onto positive memories as a source of strength during difficult times. The quote, “Memories are immortal. They’re deathless and precise. They have the power of giving you joy and perspective in hard times,” resonated with all of us, reminding us of the importance of cherishing the moments that bring us joy and courage.
As avid readers, we couldn’t help but be moved by Viola’s life story and the issues tackled in the book. It shed light on the importance of addressing societal problems and promoting empathy and understanding. This book not only entertained but also left a profound impact, making it a commendable recommendation for anyone willing to explore the complexities of life and the human spirit.
In conclusion, the book we discussed at the Book Afrique meeting was a thought-provoking journey through the life of Viola, a woman who faced poverty, abuse, and other societal challenges with unyielding determination. It left us inspired to reflect on our own lives and the lives of those around us, emphasizing the power of resilience, empathy, and the human spirit. This book is a powerful reminder that literature can be a catalyst for change, sparking meaningful conversations and fostering a more compassionate world.