Redefining Diva: Life Lessons from the Original Dreamgirl
"In Ralph's sharp account of the stage performance [Dreamgirls], she reveals intimate views of Nell Carter, Quincy Jones, Jennifer Holliday, and especially Michael Bennett, the show's director and choreographer . . . She offers stories about Diana Ross, adding new drama to theDreamgirlssaga . . . Ralph's involvement in children's charities, politics, and her own Diva Foundation, which promotes AIDS awareness, portrays a deeply compassionate woman. Readers will welcome her honesty." --Publishers Weekly"A highly enthusiastic memoir by one of the original BroadwayDreamgirls . . .Ralph presents an engrossing story of a woman who challenged Hollywood and its limited roles for black women." --Kirkus"Every chapter of Sheryl Lee Ralph's new book,Redefining Divabrilliantly interweaves her captivating life story in Hollywood and projects in humanitarianism with inspirational messages to all women to be fearless, to embrace sisterhood, and to have courage to go for their dreams. The Dreamgirl's tome is so well-written, honest and heart-warming that I savored every word, knowing that every woman will find it a comfort and an inspiration." -- Dr. Judy Kuriansky, internationally noted clinical psychologist, United Nations NGO representative, author and TV and radio commentator"Sheryl Lee Ralph is a true D.I.V.A. She uses her powers for good, not evil. This book is truly an inspiration to all who read."--Wendy Williams"Sheryl Lee Ralph'sRedefining Divais delightful, insightful, humorous and delicious in every sense of the word. A must read for every person looking to be divinely inspired."--Fitness and motivational icon Richard Simmons"Sheryl Lee Ralph is the epitome of a TRUE DIVA -- she isDivine-- she isInspiredandInspiring -- she isVictoriousin all she does -- and she isAnointed-- all of which comes to light in her extraordinary new book. I am proud to call herFriend!"--Grammy winning diva Patti Austin"Sheryl Lee Ralph has written a book that should be read by everybody! A real page turner to live and learn by."--Deidre Hall, soap opera diva and icon"Everyone should read Miss Ralph's book. She is an excellent role model for young people and her continuing fight against AIDS makes her a true humanitarian. Oh, and she is an undeniable Diva!" -- Raven Symone"If anyone can redefine diva, it's The Sheryl Lee Ralph. This book is truly a gift for all generations. Heartwarming. Poignant. Real. Where the hair and eyelashes end, her "real" diva begins." -- Niecy Nash"I use to have a negative image of the woman who classified herself as a "diva" until I met Miss Sheryl Lee Ralph. She truly is divinely inspirational vivacious & absolutely blessed! Sheryl Lee has taken the term diva and put it into the practical. I love how she shows you how to go inside and bring the diva out to inspire others. Way to go!" -- Sherri Shepherd, actress, comedienne, and co-host ofThe View“In her book,Redefining Diva, Sheryl Lee Ralph does just that! Through personal reflections and testimonials coupled with words of wisdom—both learned and passed down by others—Ralph takes back the wordDiva. She owns it, and in doing so encouragesDivasfrom all walks of life to embrace the title that is truly and rightfully their own.”--Cynthia M. A. Butler-McIntyre, National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.With REDEFINING DIVA, Dreamgirl Sheryl Lee Ralph shares her inspiring and insightful life experiences in order that ALL women can celebrate their inner and outer DIVA joyously and gloriously."--Shaun Robinson, Host ofAccess Hollywood