Being Henry

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What to expect

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.

Critics Review

  • 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

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