Aerie fam, are you ready to jump into the October pick for our #AerieREAL Reads book club? This month, AerieREAL Role Model Manuela Barón has selected a work titled What I Know For Sure, written by none other than Oprah Winfrey. Filled with lessons and personal stories from Oprah’s illustrious journey, the book reminds Manuela of a “warm cup of tea on a Sunday afternoon,” as she fondly describes it.
Learn more about why she picked this book below in our Q&A interview. Then make sure to jump into the discussion questions and share your own thoughts about the work!
Why did you choose this book: Imagine a warm, slow Sunday afternoon drinking tea with your wise aunt. What I Know for Sure by Oprah Winfrey creates this welcoming environment. With nuggets of wisdom so good, you have to take notes. I first read Oprah’s book when I was 19 years old. At the time, I didn’t have many female role models. I yearned to create my own path but lacked the confidence and know-how to do so.
Maybe you are looking for direction or a helping hand to become the person you dream of? I hope you find this book as insightful as I did. This is not a self-help book. It’s a collection of life’s simple and truthful lessons.
What stuck with you from this book: After film critic Gene Siskel asked Oprah “What do you know for sure?”, Oprah Winfrey began writing the “What I Know For Sure” column. She documented her journey through life and the “aha moments” along the way. Oprah is quite candid about her struggles with weight loss, self-acceptance and business setbacks. Her resilience through it all has stuck with me and inspired me to write down my own quirky life lessons.
A book to reference when you are in need of an uplifting friend.
What do you hope readers take away from it: You might cry at times. I hope this book brings you a sense of contentment and calm. A book to reference when you are in need of an uplifting friend. Oprah’s writing style is touching and close to hearts. You will definitely need a highlighter pen!
Did you relate to any of the characters in the book: This book is relatable. We are all navigating life and learning as we go. While I’m not a household name like Oprah, I see a lot of similarities in how I have handled hardship and the resilience I’ve had to learn. Finding out my own truths.
As you’re reading What I Know For Sure or if you already finished it, we want to know what you think! Were your takeaways similar to Manuela’s?
1. What was your favorite lesson that Oprah shared throughout the book?
2. Did you relate to any of Oprah’s experiences that she shared?
3. What stuck with you after you finished?
Now it’s your turn! Comment below and share your thoughts.