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Being Henry

The Fonz . . . and Beyond, A Deeply Personal Memoir

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Being Henry

By: Henry Winkler
Narrated by: Henry Winkler
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About this listen

Charmingly and joyfully read by the author, Henry Winkler.

The instant New York Times bestseller.
Winner of 'Humour' – Goodreads Choice Awards, Best Books of 2023.

Henry Winkler, launched into prominence by his role as 'The Fonz' in the beloved Happy Days, has transcended the role that made him who he is.


Brilliant, funny, and widely-regarded as the nicest man in Hollywood (though he would be the first to tell you that it’s simply not the case, he’s really just grateful to be here), Henry shares in this achingly vulnerable memoir the disheartening truth of his childhood, the difficulties of a life with severe dyslexia, the pressures of a role that takes on a life of its own, and the path forward once your wildest dream seems behind you.

Since the glorious era of Happy Days fame, Henry has endeared himself to a new generation with roles in such adored shows as Arrested Development, Parks and Recreation, and Barry, where he’s revealed himself as an actor with immense depth and pathos, a departure from the period of his life when he was so distinctly typecast as 'The Fonz', he could hardly find work.

Filled with profound heart, charm, and self-deprecating humor, Being Henry is a memoir about so much more than a life in Hollywood and the curse of stardom. It is a meaningful testament to the power of sharing truth and kindness and of finding fulfillment within yourself.

Entertainment & Celebrities Entertainment & Performing Arts Film & TV Funny Heartfelt Witty

Critic Reviews

Smart and entertaining (New York Times)
You want to brew him some tea, pat his arm. His tender memoir isn’t explicitly dishy. It’s an excavation of his challenges, pain and neuroses (The Washington Post)
Sharing memorable and funny behind-the-scenes moments, Being Henry entertains as an introspective, self-deprecating, and quite moving memoir from a versatile actor . . . The many, many fans Winkler has gathered over his 50 years in Hollywood won't be disappointed by this charming memoir (Booklist)
This charming autobiography of personal struggles during times of career success and challenge deserves a big thumbs-up (Kirkus)
[An] inspirational story of one of Hollywood’s most beloved figures who became an unlikely TV screen icon and later a champion for those with dyslexia (Associated Press)
All stars
Most relevant
I particularly liked Henry's honesty about himself and his feelings. I also enjoyed the subtle humour. Lastly, I ;over the touching moments such as the little autistic girl uttering his stage name as her first spoken words and the reaction of that little girls mother. Thank you Henry for being yourself.

Being Doug

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The life of Henry Winkler told by the great man himself. A very witty, easy listening style. Henry takes us from his early childhood, thru his days as The Fonz, and to his current role in Barry. A great book read by a fantastic actor. Definitely recommend.

Fantastic Story

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I was surprised and captivated by the depth, vulnerability and candor of this book. What a joy to read. Thank you Henry.

Insightful and vulnerable gem

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Taking me right back to my childhood to happy days. And catching all Henry’s work along his life as well as mine a great listen too
Thanks

Never give up

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I am unsure whether Mr Henry Winkler will ever see this post but just in case...

In Australia, watching Channel 7’s “Sunrise” programme early this February 2024, I was informed that Henry Winkler was in Australia to promote a speaking tour and to try to spruik extra sales of his book, “Being Henry – The Fonz … and Beyond.” I searched Audible and was amazed to find the not only was a copy available but the great man himself was narrating it. I purchased a copy immediately.

I was expecting to read how “Mr H” has let drugs ruin a great career like in Elton John’s and Jimmy Barnes’ autobiographies. Not only was I wrong but “Mr H” knew about dyslexia and was trying to right so many wrongs suffered by so many. I have just finished listening to the book and am grateful that it came into my life.

Without boring you with ANOTHER story, I was diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of 14 by which time I had learnt coping strategies, so I was written-off as “beyond help.” Over the years I became a Computer Geek and an International Banker and ended-up as a consultant to the South Australian Government before a massive stroke completely changed my life.

I was sent for Rehab because my right side was paralysed, and I was without language. Eventually, I was able to explain to my speech therapist, a young lady fresh out of university, that my dyslexia made it difficult to spell and complete my homework. She had no knowledge of dyslexia. We agreed that whilst I did my homework, she would research dyslexia.

“Mr H” please accept my thanks for writing your book, I really enjoyed it and it is evident that you are a great actor, but the work you have done on behalf of fellow dyslexia sufferers is, in my opinion, your “Mr Winkler Opus.”

Henry Winkler's Opus

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