I'm No Philosopher, But I Got Thoughts

November 7, 2022
In this humorous volume, actor Chenoweth (A Little Bit Wicked) opines on how to handle life’s hurdles. She uses personal anecdotes to frame her meditations on anxiety, failure, love, and work, as when she describes accidentally wearing a designer tube top as a skirt and remarks that readers should “do what works for you” regardless of the expectations of others. Expounding on the benefits of humility, Chenoweth recounts how her college singing professor asked her to perform for the class as a contrast to the more refined upperclassman who sang immediately after her, and she explains that the humbleness she felt afterward motivated her to improve. The connections between the author’s stories and the morals she draws from them can feel strained, as when she discusses her struggle with vertigo and urges readers to keep close friends who can help one deal with the “many kinds of personal vertigo” that cause one to spin out (though the dizzying design of the chapter—with portions printed sideways and in wavy fonts—is a fun touch). However, this benefits greatly from the author’s effortless charm, plucky attitude, and humorous candor. Chenoweth’s fans will be enchanted.

January 1, 2023
Chenoweth follows up 2009's A Little Bit Wicked with another memoir, this time addressing the things that keep us all up at night. Belonging, humility, working, mistakes--Chenoweth provides her thoughts with her signature mix of brash boldness and folksy, Southern charm. Her book--part essay collection, part workbook--provides readers with their own opportunity to think about the topics she ruminates on and also provides affirmations, prayers, and quotes from thinkers ranging from Rumi to Michaela Coel. Chenoweth's not afraid to talk about the rougher parts of life, sharing behind-the-scenes stories about her struggles with Meniere's disease, the on-set injury that put her in the hospital, and connecting with her birth family, but she does it all with a sense of gratitude, joy, and appreciation for the life she's led. Her sense of humor is on full display here, providing plenty of laughs. Die-hard fans and dabblers alike will find much to be intrigued by. Perfect for fans of funny memoirs and feel-good inspiration or anyone with a love for Broadway's leading ladies.

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December 9, 2022

There is a lot to like about Broadway star Chenoweth's title, especially if you read it in her trademark voice. Chenoweth's humor and Southern charm are on full display, as is her vast knowledge of Broadway shows and insider experience in show business. There are helpful prompts throughout inciting the reader to use the book as more of a workbook and to reflect on the author's thoughts and suggestions along the way. It feels a bit disjointed and thin at times. It's hard to determine exactly what kind of book this is supposed to be, as it seems to straddle the lines of memoir, spiritual reflection, quote calendar, and just a really long social media post. VERDICT While there is helpful and funny information here, especially thought-provoking quotes from everyone from Rumi to Bren� Brown, the casual tone and writing style may not not be for everyone. That said, readers looking for a fast, fun read with helpful and biblical tidbits sprinkled throughout will enjoy this book.

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