Just as I Am Audiobook By Cicely Tyson cover art

Just as I Am

A Memoir

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“In her long and extraordinary career, Cicely Tyson has not only exceeded as an actor, she has shaped the course of history.” –President Barack Obama, 2016 Presidential Medal of Honor ceremony

"Just As I Am is my truth. It is me, plain and unvarnished, with the glitter and garland set aside. Here, I am indeed Cicely, the actress who has been blessed to grace the stage and screen for six decades. Yet I am also the church girl who once rarely spoke a word. I am the teenager who sought solace in the verses of the old hymn for which this book is named. I am a daughter and mother, a sister, and a friend. I am an observer of human nature and the dreamer of audacious dreams. I am a woman who has hurt as immeasurably as I have loved, a child of God divinely guided by His hand. And here in my ninth decade, I am a woman who, at long last, has something meaningful to say.” –Cicely Tyson

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Editor's Pick

A study in Black excellence
Icon Cicely Tyson graces us with her hard-won wisdom and indefatigable spirit in her autobiography, almost a century in the making. In Just as I Am, Tyson takes us on the journey of her lifetime, revisiting her youth and the work of honing her craft, forging a path as a legendary actress in a time rife with racism and limitations. Tyson shares her perspective on how she selected roles after coming face-to-face with deep racial divides while doing press for her Academy Award-nominated turn as Rebecca in Sounder in 1972. She took the position that “her art had to mirror the times and propel them forward.” It was her mission to choose parts with the intention “to change the way Black women were perceived, by reflecting our dignity.” And she did just that. Narrated by Viola Davis and Robin Miles, with the introduction provided by Tyson herself, their performances are elegant and illuminating. How lucky we are that this legend gave us a glimpse of her beautiful soul in this powerful account of a life so well lived. —Kelley S., Audible Editor

Rich Historical Context • Inspiring Life Journey • Authentic Voice Representation • Profound Wisdom • Intimate Storytelling

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I'm so glad we got to hear a synopsis of the life of one of our national treasures before she departed this Earth.
Cicely Tyson has been a household name for 6 decades and has cemented herself into the fabric of the Black community. She was truly the last of a group of Black American Titans who paved the way for so many of us, in so many different areas.
Though she was born of my grandmother's generation, her life story was highly relatable. Her upbringing, the mistakes she endured through, the sacrifices she made to pursue her dreams, the disappointments of giving your all for men and love, and the resilience to push through in spite of were particularly encouraging.
I especially enjoyed hearing her reflect on her career, her interactions with other dignitaries and how she navigated the underbelly of Hollywood. The more things change, the more they remain the same.
She lived a LONG and fruitful life and mentored some of our up and coming legends. That's how it should be done. I'm so glad that she received proper acknowledgement while she was here with us and I truly hope that she is at eternal peace. She told us EVERYTHING at the very end. She gave us so much and absolutely did her very best. Journey well, Ms. Tyson!

Beautifully Human; Great Narration

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This book has changed my life. Reading Just As I Am made me fall in love yet again with Cicely Tyson. I was able to identify with her story and lessons as I’m sure many black women do. She was such a giant, still is!

Wow! Amazing

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l enjoyed every word spoken. Thank you Ms. Tyson for sharing your life in words.

Exceptional reading

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I have read and listened to a lot of books in my life and only two (2) have brought me to tears, The Warmth of Others Suns and now Just As I Am. I’m a southerner, born and raised in Alabama in the mid 50’s. I remember listening to my parents tell stories of what life was like in the early years. This book brought back memories. THANK You!!!
Glenn E. Caffey

Wonderful!!!!

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Everything about this great life story and the dropping of personal gems were beautiful. Thank you Ms Tyson!!

Beautiful

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