Member Reviews

Memoir of Henry Winkler who was made famous by his role of Fonzi in the TV sitcom Happy Days. He narrates the book and has his wife of over 40 years speak about him in parts. The book jumps around quite a bit with no real distinction between chapters. He describes his constant fight to get jobs on tv shows and movies after his Happy Days success. He does a lot of name dropping. He talks about his many projects, many of which I did not recognize. The book makes me want to go stream some of his portfolio, especially his HBO show Barry. I felt that Henry Winkler was very sincere in his writing.

Was this review helpful?

Really entertaining and fun memoir! Henry Winkler seems like a great person and his stories are very good. I feel like he has tried to maintain integrity in a cut throat business and people think very well of him so I'm happy for all his success and this book was very readable.

Winkler read the audiobook himself and was a delight, injecting a lot of humor and pathos into the material.

Was this review helpful?

Being Henry is an outstanding, captivating, and heartfelt memoir by Henry Winkler! I listened to it on audiobook. It is narrated by Henry Winkler with several narration sessions by his wife, Stacey Winkler. They are both phenomenal narrators with tons of voice intonation, humor, humility, and self-awareness.

The book shares Henry's childhood and his fifty years in Hollywood. The character Fonz is very different from Henry. Henry has dyslexia but wasn't diagnosed until he was thirty-four years old. He struggles to read and works incredibly hard to memorize his lines. Henry is not confident and worries a lot, oftentimes about money.

Henry's memoir shares stories about his children, grandchildren, and dogs as well as the family's commitment to helping children through philanthropic efforts. I did not know that Henry and Lin Oliver have written thirty-nine children's books; the first one is called Niagara Falls or Does it?

Highly, highly recommend!

Was this review helpful?

The autobiography audiobook 'Being Henry' read by Henry Winkler is exceptional. A kind and generous man, his narration of his work really brings his experiences to life. Mr. Winkler is an even-keeled narrator who put emphasis on specific words to help the listener focus on his points. It was a smart idea to have his wife Stacey read parts of their story. For those who enjoy autobiographies and audiobooks this is a highly recommended selection.

Was this review helpful?

There are not enough words to describe how much I loved this book! As a fan of Henry (who isn't?!) I knew I was going to enjoy hearing about his life, but this was much more than a simple memoir. It is filled with such tender warmth and soul, leaving the reader with the message that is intertwined throughout the book- You Are Enough! I was moved to tears several times, sometimes out of frustration of the difficult journey young Henry had dealing with his dyslexia and parents who were unable to understand him. But mostly the tears were from the moving passages dispersed throughout the book, particularly at the end. Henry's gratitude and appreciation of everything, the good and the bad, forces the reader to gain a new perspective. It is nearly impossible for Henry's positive vibes not to rub off on whoever is reading this book. And I can't forget to mention how funny it is! I had to rewind sections of the audiobook because I was laughing so hard. I can't recommend this book highly enough and I really hope that he will write more books in the future. Henry is an absolute gem!

Was this review helpful?

Book 107 of 200 ~ 2023

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

AYYYYY....

Some peeps will recognise hi as the Fonz. Others may have seen him in Adam Sandler's Water Boy while those who religiously followed Arrested Development will remember him as the not so competent family lawyer.

All I know is listening to this audiobook read by the man himself, you can really tell he is a kind and genuine fella who I would love to meet.

His story is an interesting path, especially when he shares about heading to an ivy league in spite of dyslexia - something he found out much much later in life.

Hats off to you Mr @official_henrywinkler .. and I love your quote - Don't put a period on a negative thought...

I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thanks @netgalley

#book106of200 #amreading #netgalley #tbrpile #instareads #readstagram
#reading #bookreview #bookreviewer #booklover #booksAreLife #booksForTheWin #thisbookfairyisreading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookstagramfeature #bookshelf #booksofinstagram #bookish #bookworm #goodreads #booklovers #theSGbookfairyReads #theSGtrekkiereads #bookaholic #bookaddict #bookchallenge2023 #reviews #lovebooks #booknerds

Was this review helpful?

Henry Winkler’s memoir is a nostalgic trip to the past. He unfolds the details of his acting life with both humility and confidence. He dips in to his complicated relationship with is parents but the focus is on his career sharing experiences starting with an episode of the Mary Tyler Moore show to his breakout role as the Fonz on Happy Days all the way to his career defining moments on Barry. He reveals the significance of therapy in both his personal and professional life. He tells stories of experiences with Robin Williams, John Ritter, Burt Reynolds, and his good friend Adam Sandler. A unique aspect of his memoir is that his wife Stacey shares her perspective as well, she even reads her parts on the audiobook giving listeners a real glimpse into their long-standing Hollywood marriage. Henry narrates his story with just enough feeling and personality to create a connection between listener and reader.

Was this review helpful?

AHHH! I am so thankful to Macmillan Audio, Netgalley, and Henry Winkler, himself for granting me advanced audio access to this sweet and reminiscent memoir that I'll cherish forever.

Was this review helpful?

“Trust your tummy, not your head. Your head only knows some things, your tummy knows everything, if you just listen.” Henry Winkler

This is not your average celebrity memoir. There are no salacious details, dirty secrets or jaw breaking revelations. This one is better in EVERY way!

Henry (I’ll call him that because I feel like he’s my friend now) reveals his rollercoaster ride from Yale Drama, through the Fonzi phenomenon, and onto the years when his phone stopped ringing. His sincere respect and admiration for his co stars, producers and production partners comes through on every page as a genuine reflection. But just when I could not love this man more, he shares the connection he and his wife Stacey have to championing children. The discovery of his dyslexia in thirties informs so much about his complicated life and relationships and the incredible journey authoring 39 children’s books just magnifies my endorsement. The smart pacing and intentional but brief backstories create a basically linear journey I raced through in one sitting. If you’re looking for a heartwarming narrative and a trip back to Happy Days, this audiobook is for you!

Many thanks to Henry Winkler, Celadon Books, Macmillan Audio and Net Galley for the advance audio copy in exchange for my honest review!

Was this review helpful?

I was so excited to receive an early copy of this audiobook to listen to and review because I will be meeting Henry in November at a talk and signing for this book. I am grateful to get the opportunity to hear it read by the Fonz himself! I found myself taking notes while listening, there are so many amazing things that the readers/listeners will learn about this tv legend! Everyone knows him as the Fonz, but I would’ve loved to hear more about his time on Royal Pains and the Hallmark Movies he’s been in. My favorite parts of this biography is when Henry talks about his connection with Special Olympics, life with Dyslexia and his experience working with Adam and Kevin. Stacy’s narration was a pleasant surprise!

Was this review helpful?

2 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“Being Henry The Fonz…and Beyond” by Henry Winkler

Edition: ARC Audiobook via @netgalley

This was a memoir that offers an intimate look into the life and career of a beloved cultural icon, Henry Winkler, famously known as 'The Fonz' from the TV series "Happy Days." While the book provides a comprehensive account of Winkler's journey through the entertainment industry and glimpses into his personal life, it really falls short of delivering any particularly thrilling or unexpected revelations.

For die-hard fans of Henry Winkler and his iconic character, 'The Fonz,' this memoir may serve as a nostalgic trip down memory lane, filled with anecdotes and insights about his experiences. However, for anyone like myself seeking a memoir with gripping storytelling or profound insights, this one may come across as somewhat underwhelming. The narrative largely focuses on the well-documented aspects of his career and family life, without delving into groundbreaking or captivating territory.

Overall, a solid read for fans eager to learn more about the man behind the leather jacket, but it may leave others hoping for a bit more excitement and depth in its storytelling.

Was this review helpful?

Being Henry
The Fonz…and Beyond
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Candid, refreshing and witty. Henry is one of the sweetest guys in Hollywood but had a troubled childhood and was shy.

I love all the personal stories of how he met his wife and his lifelong friendship with the Happy Days gang. Such fond memories of my childhood. He tried for years to work past the stereotype of The Fonz. He was active in theater and became a novelist of many children’s books. He struggled with dyslexia and had a successful career and marriage.

Being in Texas I loved his mention of Franklins bar b cue in Austin. I look forward to more books. Thank you Celadon books and Macmillian audio for the advanced copies. Due out October 31, 2023. It was nice to listen to Henry narrate his memoir.
#henrywinkler, #beinghenrythefonzandbeyond, #celadonbooks, #macmillianaudio, #netgalley, #stamperlady50, #bookreview, #booksconnectus, #bookstagram, #audioreview, #netgalley

Was this review helpful?

First off, probably one of the best autobiographies I have ever read/ listened to. While it jumps around chronologically it all flows together beautifully. Henry is an excellent narrator, which given his career as an actor is not all that surprising. It was also a joy to hear his wife Stacy adding her thoughts. I'm sure she would have had a lot more to say but held back for the love of Henry.
There only two things that I wish had been included in the book. The first is any thoughts that Henry had on the production of an American Christmas Carol. It was a show that I truly loved. Not seen much about it since then. Secondly, is the two miniseries of "Better Late Than Never" with Henry, William Shatner, Terry Bradshaw, and George Foreman. I'm sure there would have been some great comments that have never seen the light of day. Other than that, this book is a wonder. In fact it has now put another entry in my impossible bucket list. You know the list of things that you would love to have happen but because them being celebrities and you being you you know will never occur. So now just above having dinner with Jenna Coleman is going fly fishing with Henry Winkler.
Thank you for writing this Henry. You did such a marvelous job of it both in the writing and in the audio presentation. I hope you sell a billion copies

Was this review helpful?

I've loved Henry Winkler since childhood, when I would run home from school to watch the reruns of Happy Days on TV.
I would daydream with my friends that one day we would have a boyfriend as cool as Fonzie. Then collapse giggling. 🤣💕

I've read a lot of memoirs over the years, but none quite as heartwarming or intimate as Henry's. He talks about his life, a sad and shy young Jewish boy. The product of cold, distant, and verbally abusive German Jew parents who never supported him and always conveyed he wasn't good enough.

This set the tone that would burden Henry for the rest of his life. He felt unloved and insecure and had debilitating anxiety at times, yet through his portrayal of the "The Fonz," he captured hearts all around the world. But this did not cure his lack of confidence or insecurities.

Henry also had what he thought was a humiliating secret.. He struggled for most of his life with undiagnosed dyslexia which made it difficult, if not impossible, to get through a script.

It was wonderful having Mr. Winkler's voice in my ear, narrating his life story along with his his wife of 47 years, Stacey. She gave such insight into her husbands journey to become someone beyond "The Fonz"

Even if you're not a fan of Happy Days, you can't help but love Henry, especially after this memoir. It's not for nothing they call him the nicest man in Hollywood. ❤️

Thank you to netgalley and McMillan audio for the audio arc. The review was voluntary.

Was this review helpful?

I really enjoyed this book. Even though I have seen him as The Fonz on Happy Days, I didn’t know very much about Henry Winkler’s life. He is a very kind, gentle, and down-to-earth person. He tells us about his childhood and his school years where he struggled with severe dyslexia. And, of course, he tells us all about how he ended up as The Fonz. It was interesting to find out that he has written children’s books about his dyslexia.
I listened to the audio version read by Henry himself and thoroughly enjoyed it.
If you enjoy memoires written and read by celebrities, you should give Being Henry a try!

Was this review helpful?

Thank you to Macmillan Audio and to NetGalley for an ARC of this audiobook.

Is there anyone out there that doesn't like Henry Winkler? He is just a funny a likeable person. This audiobook was short and sweet but a lot of fun because Henry reads it himself. There are also portions of the book that is read by his wife which is really fun.

I really like all of the details that he talks about of his acting career. He talks about working with Bill Hader, Adam Sandler, and Robin Williams to name only a few. He also talks about growing up and being treated poorly by his parent as well. He doesn't sugar coat anything which I like and he just tells it like it is.

I really enjoyed this book especially as an audiobook.

Was this review helpful?

Thank you NetGalley, MacMillan Audio and Celadon Books for the opportunity to listen to Henry Winkler's memoir, Being Henry.
I LOVED watching Happy Days as a kid! And I love listening to celebrity memoirs, so this was a great book to hear, narrated by the Fonz himself!
I enjoyed learning more about Henry Winkler, including how he met the love of his life, who we hear from as well in the audiobook. I never knew he authored children's books, and I wasn't aware of all his other acting gigs after his days with Happy Days.

If you enjoy celebrity memoirs read by the author, check this one out!

Was this review helpful?

Being Henry
By: Henry Winkler
Narrated By: Henry Winkler
Review Score: 4 Stars

Boogie’s Bulletpoints

-I loved learning about his entire trajectory in acting.

-No spoilers, but it was very interesting to hear about his parents, and how they escaped Nazi Germany.

-One of my favorite messages from Henry: Travel is the best education.

-It was interesting to hear about his connections to Robin Williams, Adam Sandler, and Bill Hader.

-Winkler does such a great job of sharing his difficulties with dyslexia.

——

Being Henry was kindly provided as an ARC by Netgalley and MacMillan Audio. Thank you for allowing me to read this wonderful book!

Release Date: 10/31/23

Henry Winkler always makes me think of my Grandma, who passed over a decade ago, and who I miss every day.

This may seem like a weird way to start this, but hear me out. I remember, as a kid, watching Happy Days with my Grandma. I always thought Fonzie was a cool character, and I enjoyed the show. Later on in my life, my Grandma absolutely loved the movie The Waterboy. She just thought it was hilarious. Once again, there is Henry Winkler, owning his role.

Listening to Being Henry was like being back with my Grandma, watching all of these shows that she loved. I enjoyed learning about his history, the different shows and movies he either acted in or produced, and his family. I also found it so interesting to learn about his dyslexia, and how it shaped his childhood before there was any specific diagnosis for it.

In short, I really enjoyed this book. I find celebrity memoirs to be hit or miss, but I loved this one. Definitely check it out!


#bookstagram #books #readingnow #boogiereadsbooks #fivekeyfeels #audiobooks #audiobook #arcreview #nonfiction #netgalley #boogiesbulletpoints #macmillanaudio #henrywinkler #beinghenry #fonzie #happydays #thewaterboy #adamsandler

Was this review helpful?

Review: This is a very enjoyable and detailed memoir. Henry Winkler and his wife narrate this audiobook. It covers his life as child to present day. He speaks of others in the business with so many accolades it felt fake, but the rest felt very real. Since my daughter has dyslexia like he does I found those stories and his children’s book series to be of particular interest. And I was so glad he covered “jump the shark”.
Recommended For: Memoir of famous people fans.

Was this review helpful?

Who doesn't love Henry Winkler? I am sure there are a few out there, but they would be in the minority.

Being Henry is an honest look at his life - warts and all. At times, I have to say, I didn't like the guy he was describing himself to be and wondered why in the world would his wife stay? That's how honest this is, I hadn't known about the horrible family life he had as a child. It is heartbreaking to hear how he was humiliated and crushed as a young boy. This makes the impact he has had on other neurodivergent children through his Hank Zipzer books that much more extraordinary.

The book itself does jump around in time a bit too much for me. It feels a little ADHD . He mentions how his dyslexia impacted him in later years before telling of how he was diagnosed at 34, when his stepson was being evaluated for learning differences. This is a big driving force in who he developed into as a person and why, so I think it would have been helpful to have that earlier in timeline of the book.

There are stories around projects and famous names dropped along the way, as one would expect from a talent in the industry for so many decades. I would have loved to hear about the show "Better Late Than Never", but that is kind of like leaving a concert and a band did not play your favorite song. You can't put everything not one sitting.

Some portions are read by his wife Stacy. giving her point of view. I am working on the assumption that she wrote those sections, but it is not mentioned in the audio book.

So much of his life was trying to be what people wanted him to be - his parents, teachers, directors, family. It is tough job just Being Henry, and it is a work in progress.

My thanks to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the ALC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Was this review helpful?