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 An Author's Artistry
Victoria Rowell has created a jewel of a book that will be relevant to all. She is first and foremost an artist. Her art has taken many forms, including dancer and actress, and she can certainly add gifted author to her list of talents and accomplishments. Ms. Rowell has created a personal and family history in "The Women Who Raised Me". It is at times awe-inspiring, brutal, and beautiful. She tells a complex, heart-rending story that flows off the page as though a mosaic is being created. Every aspect of the hardcover book, from its format to its unique cover art with a fold-out photo gallery, reflect the care and thought that went into this true-life saga. This is a story that will inspire and never be forgotten by its readers. Humanity, grace, realism, grit. It is all here..
 Abandonment + Mentorshop + Talent = Success
Victoria Rowell, film and television actress, chronicles her life as a foster child in her memoir, The Women Who Raised Me: A Memoir. Rowell was the product of a blue-vein, old money Caucasian mother, whose family were Mayflower descendants, and an unknown black man. Her mother, Dorothy Collins, suffered from mental illness exhibiting schizophrenia. There were six children, three boys and three girls, all from different fathers. When Rowell was three months-old she was taken in as a foster child by Bertha Taylor, who wanted to adopt her but was not allowed to because of the state of Maine's statutes regarding interracial adoption. Little Vicki was only two years-old when she was taken away from her and placed in the home of a black woman, Agatha Wooten Armistead. Her two older sisters, also, both biracial, were taken in by Agatha.
Under Agatha's care, Rowell thrived in a loving, extended family in rural Maine. Bertha came from a family of formidable women with austere backgrounds. Agatha encouraged Rowell's love of dance and purchased a how-to book so that when she had her first audition at eight years-old, though she was self-taught, her natural talent netted a scholarship to a prestigious dance program. At age 17, she received a scholarship to ABT, American Ballet Theater, thus starting an illustrious career that would lead her into modeling, commercials and eventually television, most notably an actress on The Young and the Restless and Diagnosis: Murder.
Along the way, Rowell had an on again, off again relationship with her mother, Dorothy, who finally died in 1983. She also had other temporary and foster mothers of various backgrounds before she became an emancipated minor. Each of these women left something precious with her that she treasures to this day. Rowell married in her mid-twenties and had a daughter and later had a son with Wynton Marsalis. Marsalis's mother also became a role model and mentor as well as Latonya Jackson, wife of Samuel L. Jackson, as did other women who came into her life. But it was a turning point in 2002, that caused Rowell to retreat and reassess her life. That is when she also began to research her background which was the beginning of her life story.
Part family history, memoir and inspirational guide, Rowell gave a credible account of the racial and social history of Maine, the story of her childhood navigating the foster care system, of the women who were so vital in her growing years, learning to love and accept herself and the monumental act of forgiveness--of herself and others. I met Rowell last fall when she was promoting her book in Oakland and she struck me as a warm, down-to-earth woman who is fiercely dedicated to her cause, foster care rights and her love of the arts. Though the middle of the book moved a little slow, I recommend to those who enjoy memoirs and stories of perseverance.
Dera R. Williams
APOOO BookClub
Rising Above...
In a splendid and glorious memorializing of a company of women who contributed to her growth, opportunities and eventual success, Victoria Rowell has created a grand gesture of epic proportions.
Her story, told with grace and honesty, reveals the multi-layered character she became as a result of the fostering and mentoring she received...as she describes it, like the piecing together of a quilt.
In successive foster homes in the state of Maine, from infancy, Victoria Rowell sets an example of triumph over adversity. Despite the early deprivation of a "biological mother", she grew in a positive direction through experiences that many would find challenging, at the very least. And yet, with the help of her foster mothers and mentors, social workers and others along the way, she faced every challenge, excelling as a ballet dancer and later as an actress, a mother, and then as a creator of her own network of support for foster youth by founding the Rowell Foster Children's Positive Plan and serving as a spokesperson for the Annie E. Casey Foundation/Casey Family Services.
While in LA recently, attending Book Expo America, I had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Rowell while signing copies of her book. I felt very honored to be in her presence for a brief time and want to congratulate her on her many accomplishments, including this wonderful book.
10 stars for The Women Who Raised Me! Fantastic!
Fantastic! Amazon should permit a 10 star rating for The Women Who Raised Me. This is a moving and beautifully written testament of perseverance and determination against all odds. I thank Ms. Rowell for writing and sharing such an inspiring story of her life. Also, what's really important is that the Women Who Raised Me brings issues surrounding foster care to light. If you are looking for a fullfilling story please read the Women Who Raised Me and you will not be disappointed. This `hard-to-put-down' page-turner is well worth your time and investment. I highly recommend The Women Who Raised Me as required reading for high school and college students enrolled in social studies, art, and literary courses. Ms. Rowell I wish you continued success in all your endeavors to improve the state of foster care through your outstanding creative talents.
Carla McManus
Sisters and Brothers of Hotlanta Bookclub
http://www.sistersbrothers.com
A Book of Love
This memoir is a testament to one woman's love and adoration for all of the woman who took part in raising her. I had the privilege of meeting Victoria Rowell at her book signing. She was deeply passionate, and determined to give back to all of the woman, living or deceased, who loved her and guided her in her walk through life. Life as a biracial child of black and white was difficult for victoria but it was not long before she found the love and acceptance of several woman who, during her formative and teenage years, feverishly encouraged, prepared, and nurtured her. Victoria soon found her niche for dancing and then later acting which eventually propelled her into stardom. This book is written with love, intelligence, and diction. She is clear and poetic in her writing. This book is a wonderful, easy flowing memoir, not drama packed, but just enough sauce to keep you interested. Loaded with photos and also includes information about foster care.
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