October 27, 2015

The Facts of My Life


"You really don't get to write your own script in this life, do you?" ~ pg. 70

We know her as Mrs. Garrett from the TV series Diff'rent Strokes and its spinoff The Facts of Life. Charlotte Rae is an actress, comedienne, theater performer and entertainer. Her career spans over 70 years. She is hilarious and quick to make someone smile whether on stage with her or through the television screen.

"I had so many feelings, deep feelings, and I used them as an actress." ~ pg. 8

So I was expecting a funny memoir, one with anecdotes and behind-the-scenes comedy. I was prepared to read interesting tales of her on set with fellow co-stars of the popular TV shows with just a sprinkle of personal facts. Instead the book starts off about her autistic, schizophrenic, epileptic son and other challenges in her life such as alcoholism, a broken marriage with her bisexual husband, financial crisis and stardom. After all these years I had no idea of what was going on with the woman who played Molly the Mail Carrier on Sesame Street. The facts of Charlotte Rae's 89-year-old life is full of joy and personal tragedy.

"For months at a time, I craved solitude–the total escape from the world's observations and judgments." ~ pg. 19

This memoir is well written (co-authored with her son) and recommended for those who grew up watching Mrs. Garrett. After reading it, I can watch her on TV with a renewed sense of awe and appreciation. As evidenced in some of the chapter titles (Geometry and Bourbon, Highs and Lows, Strokes of Good Fortune, and Cold Hard Facts), Charlotte Rae is living a full life. The Facts of My Life will be published November 1, 2015.



DISCLAIMER: This book was received directly from the publisher for review purposes only. In no way does it influence my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Title: The Facts of My Life
Author: Charlotte Rae and Larry Strauss
Published: November 2015
Pages: 264
Edition: Galley
Challenge: New Author; Popsugar A Memoir
Rating: ♥♥♥

 

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