Viola Davis Book Read, 1/24/26; 11:30 am; 2718 Lyons Road, Miamisburg, OH

We decided it would be easier to have individuals bring their own lunch to this event. So that is all you will need to bring along with any notes you have taken from reading the book.

**(Please note date correction: (1/26/26 should have been Sat 1/24/26) as well as changes about the carry in. Thanks.

We are going to start the year off with a winter read that is sure to keep you warm and cozy yet alert as we explore Viola Davis's Grammy-winning memoir, Finding Me. It is a raw and honest account of her journey from profound childhood poverty and trauma in Rhode Island to becoming a celebrated, award-winning actress. An account of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of embracing one's own identity in a world that often failed to see her will empower you.

This inspiring story of how Davis transformed adversity into strength, becoming the only Black actor to achieve the "triple crown" of acting (Oscar, Emmy, and Tony awards) while staying true to her authentic self. The audiobook, narrated by Davis, won a Grammy Award for Best Audiobook, Narration & Storytelling Recording in 2023.

The story begins with her account of her childhood growing up in Central Falls, Rhode Island, where her family faced hunger, domestic violence, and a lack of basic necessities. She also endured racial bullying and discrimination.

So come with me and our new Black Love Member, Ms. Clara who will be your lovely host, while we discuss how we too, can learn how the past does not have to define us or deter us from our goals and dreams.

Here are some resources for finding this book:

Kindle Books Amazon - Free
AudioBooks $22.00

Public Domain & Free Sites (No Membership Needed):

• LibriVox: Offers thousands of free audiobooks read by volunteers.
• Project Gutenberg: Provides free ebooks and audiobooks.
• Internet Archive: A vast digital library with free audio.
• Libby by OverDrive & Hoopla: Connect with your local library to borrow free audiobooks.
• Loyal Books & Open Culture: Offer curated lists of free audiobooks.

Other Options:

• YouTube: Search for free audiobooks and readings.
• LearnOutLoud & Lit2Go: Resources for free audio content, including educational titles.

This Book Reading will be held:

January 24, 2026
2718 Lyons Road, Miamisburg, Ohio
11:30 am to 1:30 pm