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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Thicker Than Water summary
Kerry Washington
A Memoir
18 mins
Brief summary
Thicker Than Water by Kerry Washington is a poignant memoir that delves into her personal journey, uncovering family secrets and exploring the themes of identity, resilience, and the transformative power of truth.
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Thicker Than Water
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A meteoric rise
Kerry Washington's path to fame began like many – with big dreams seeded in childhood. Born in the Bronx in 1977, Kerry grew up the daughter of a real estate broker and professor. Her parents divorced when she was still young, leading to a childhood split between two very different worlds.
Kerry spent weekdays living in more affluent suburban Bronxville with her mother, while weekends were in the city with her father. She credits her ancestors for giving her the strength to adapt and thrive in diverse communities early on. This experience of navigating contrasting worlds shaped Kerry's worldview.
Though life was stable thanks to her middle-class upbringing, these years also influenced her activism later on. Kerry was aware of the privilege she carried compared to her ancestors who endured slavery and oppression. She felt driven to use her opportunity to make an impact.
In high school, Kerry's creative side flourished when she landed the lead role in a play. The thrill of performing set her on the path to pursuing acting. She was accepted to George Washington University, where she earned a double major in anthropology and sociology. But Kerry couldn't shake her passion for the stage.
She soon realized acting was more than just a pipe dream – it could be a viable career path. Kerry began intense study of her craft in college, while also booking early roles in productions like ABC's Magical Make-Over and indie film Our Song. She spent a semester training in New York City too.
After graduation, Kerry began the tough work of grinding out auditions while studying acting further at Fordham University. She supported herself with side jobs between roles.
In 2002, Kerry got her first big break on television in the ABC legal drama 100 Centre Street. More TV and film roles followed, but it was her recurring part on Boston Legal that really opened doors.
Still, Kerry paid her dues with many small roles over the next few years. She never lost faith she could make it as a black actress, even when parts were slim. Her motivation was both personal and political – to expand limited opportunities in Hollywood for women of color.
Kerry's persistence paid off in 2012 when she landed the career-defining role of Olivia Pope on Scandal. As a complex lead character, Olivia was a rarity. Kerry's nuanced acting earned critical praise and mainstream fame. Over seven seasons, Scandal cemented her as a pioneering actress – and household name.
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What is Thicker Than Water about?
Thicker than Water (2022) is an intimate memoir by acclaimed actress Kerry Washington, who opens up about the childhood experiences, activism, and personal challenges that shaped her groundbreaking career. With courageous vulnerability, Washington shares her winding journey to amplify underrepresented voices and make an impact as an artist, mother, and role model.
Thicker Than Water Review
Thicker Than Water is a thrilling novel by Kerry Washington that explores family secrets and the bonds that hold us together. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:
- With its vivid and complex characters, this book takes readers on a compelling journey through love, betrayal, and redemption.
- Set against the backdrop of a small town, the book delves into deep-rooted family dynamics and the impact of past choices on present relationships.
- Through its tightly woven plot and unexpected twists, the book keeps readers engaged from start to finish, ensuring that it is anything but boring.
Who should read Thicker Than Water?
- Those interested in uplifting marginalized voices in arts, culture and storytelling
- People intrigued by behind-the-scenes Hollywood stories and celebrity memoirs
- Anyone facing struggles with mental health, infertility, or overcoming adversity looking for inspiring biographies
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Thicker Than Water FAQs
What is the main message of Thicker Than Water?
The main message of Thicker Than Water is revealed through a gripping family drama.
How long does it take to read Thicker Than Water?
The reading time for Thicker Than Water varies, but you can get the key insights in just 15 minutes with the Blinkist summary.
Is Thicker Than Water a good book? Is it worth reading?
Thicker Than Water is worth reading for its thought-provoking exploration of family relationships and the complexities of human nature.
Who is the author of Thicker Than Water?
The author of Thicker Than Water is Kerry Washington.
What to read after Thicker Than Water?
If you're wondering what to read next after Thicker Than Water, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Sonny Boy by Al Pacino
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- No Ego by Cy Wakeman
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- The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
- Free Speech by Jacob Mchangama
- The 4-Hour Body by Tim Ferriss
- The Law of Success by Napoleon Hill
- The Art of Seduction by Robert Greene