Book Reviews

Book Blurb

It's been said that our mistakes are the sculptors that shape who we are. In actor, producer, director and fabulous "gaylebrity" Dwight Allen O'Neal's new book Shoulda! Coulda! Woulda! he explores some of his own missteps, and reflects on how they have affected his personal journey. In a series of vignettes ranging from lighthearted to traumatic, Dwight lets you know what happened, what he was thinking, and how each experience changed his life. Each chapter teaches as it entertains; you'll doubtless find yourself returning to Shoulda! Coulda! Woulda! again and again, as a candid, genuine source of wisdom. When you're an accomplished Black, gay public figure like Dwight, sometimes your mistakes aren't things to be embarrassed by--they're the experiences that enable you to grow and become great. This engaging companion piece to Dwight's popular Shoulda! Coulda! Woulda! podcast is not to be missed! Our Mistakes Teach and Inspire Us. Enjoy it! 

 

Book Review

This was an enjoyable, poignant, and educational read that balanced modern day with snippets from Mr. O’Neal’s past. I’m going to be upfront here – I had no idea who Dwight Allen O’Neal was when I selected this book, but I fully admit, the cover and blurb made me want to find out more.  

 

This isn’t a very long narration, but it covers a fair amount – from early modeling, first loves, wrong loves, friends, career changes, career modifications, and the meaning of friends and mentors.   

 

Oddly, my main critique of this would be it wasn’t long enough. I felt a bit like I was stepping into the middle of a conversation that had started earlier. Mr. O’Neal mentions how integral his mentor was during his formulative modeling years, but… that was it. I would have liked to have read more about this chapter in his life. And maybe it was covered in Mr. O’Neal’s podcast.  

 

I also would have liked some of the relationships – both friend and romantic – elaborated on. Why were these people important, how did they become so integral in Mr. O’Neal’s life, and why did some fall out? 

 

I do think for someone who is a fan, has watched, or has been following Mr. O’Neal’s career, TV show, or podcast, then this will perhaps fill in a few blanks. If you are new to Mr. O’Neal, this is a good introduction and I think a gateway book to finding out more about this enigmatic gentleman and what he feels strongly about. 

 

 

 

 

DISCLAIMER: Books reviewed on this site were usually provided at no cost by the publisher or author. This book has been provided by the author for the purpose of a review.

Additional Information

Format	ebook and print
Length	Novel, 170 pages
Heat Level
Publication Date	01-June-2020
Price	$4.99 ebook, $12.99 paperback
Buy Link	https://www.amazon.com/Shoulda-Coulda-Woulda-Inspirational-Mistakes-ebook/dp/B0877BLVL5