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Betty White's Pearls of Wisdom: Life Lessons from a Beloved American Treasure
A beautiful tribute to Betty White, one of the most beloved and treasured American icons.
Betty White’s award-winning career spanned seven decades. From the early days of television on the game-show circuit to her unforgettable roles on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Golden Girls , and Hot in Cleveland , she was the first lady of television. With her irreverent wit and comedic timing, she was a force of nature forever cherished by fans young and old.
In Betty White’s Pearls of Wisdom readers will find a more intimate look into Betty’s life as told through the eyes of Patty Sullivan, her lifelong friend and adopted family member. “My remembrances are perhaps an echo of things already said, but I hope my stories hold up a mirror, another reflection of her essence and how she affected my life so profoundly.”
Patty met Betty in the late 1960s, and the Sullivans—Patty, her husband, Tom, and their two children—enjoyed a rich relationship and amazing closeness through Betty’s final days. Through her stories we see Betty’s fun-loving banter over a game of Scrabble, her wisdom imparted on a moonlit Christmas sleigh ride, and her passionate advocacy for all members of the animal kingdom. Betty’s uncompromising values were the authentic core of the life she lived and savored—tasting every minute along the way.
Betty White’s Pearls of Wisdom gives you a glimpse into the personal relationship with “her Sullivans,” and the pearls of wisdom she imparted that forever transformed their lives.
Betty White’s award-winning career spanned seven decades. From the early days of television on the game-show circuit to her unforgettable roles on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Golden Girls , and Hot in Cleveland , she was the first lady of television. With her irreverent wit and comedic timing, she was a force of nature forever cherished by fans young and old.
In Betty White’s Pearls of Wisdom readers will find a more intimate look into Betty’s life as told through the eyes of Patty Sullivan, her lifelong friend and adopted family member. “My remembrances are perhaps an echo of things already said, but I hope my stories hold up a mirror, another reflection of her essence and how she affected my life so profoundly.”
Patty met Betty in the late 1960s, and the Sullivans—Patty, her husband, Tom, and their two children—enjoyed a rich relationship and amazing closeness through Betty’s final days. Through her stories we see Betty’s fun-loving banter over a game of Scrabble, her wisdom imparted on a moonlit Christmas sleigh ride, and her passionate advocacy for all members of the animal kingdom. Betty’s uncompromising values were the authentic core of the life she lived and savored—tasting every minute along the way.
Betty White’s Pearls of Wisdom gives you a glimpse into the personal relationship with “her Sullivans,” and the pearls of wisdom she imparted that forever transformed their lives.
- GenresNonfictionBiography
224 pages, Hardcover
Published December 13, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
November 20, 2022
Release Date: December 13, 2022 🧋
Thank you to Netgalley & Forefront Books for a ARC of this book!
Thank you to Netgalley & Forefront Books for a ARC of this book!
December 26, 2022
Many thanks to both Forefront Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review a copy of Betty White's Pearls of Wisdom: Life Lessons from a Beloved American Treasure.
Pearls of Wisdom takes a look into Betty’s life as told through the eyes of Patty Sullivan, her lifelong friend. “My remembrances are perhaps an echo of things already said, but I hope my stories hold up a mirror, another reflection of her essence and how she affected my life so profoundly.”
It's best not to go into this book expecting it to be about Betty White's TV shows, her movies, or her passionate advocacy for all members of the animal kingdom. Despite these topics being touched upon, Pearls of Wisdom is more about Betty's impact on the author's life and family. It gives the reader an enjoyable taste of what it was like to simply be Betty's friend.
Pearls of Wisdom takes a look into Betty’s life as told through the eyes of Patty Sullivan, her lifelong friend. “My remembrances are perhaps an echo of things already said, but I hope my stories hold up a mirror, another reflection of her essence and how she affected my life so profoundly.”
It's best not to go into this book expecting it to be about Betty White's TV shows, her movies, or her passionate advocacy for all members of the animal kingdom. Despite these topics being touched upon, Pearls of Wisdom is more about Betty's impact on the author's life and family. It gives the reader an enjoyable taste of what it was like to simply be Betty's friend.
February 2, 2023
I didn’t know much about this actress before reading this book. I had seen her in the movie The Proposal with Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock, caught a few episodes of Golden Girls, but that was it. I knew she was funny and loved animals.
I learned so much through this sweet, insightful, journey with Patty Sullivan as she remembers the special times and events, they were part of because of this amazing lady. Allen Ludden and Betty White were encouragers of new talent. They also liked to help where they could. Allen Ludden got Tom Sullivan on the Mike Douglas show when he was hosting it. The response to Tom’s visit aided in having his career take off. The friendships blossomed between Tom and Patty Sullivan and Betty and Allen, who treated Tom as their adopted son. They adored his music and songwriting talent but were even more amazed at how he navigated the stage like a pro, they'd never suspected he was blind.
Betty said her acting career helped her do what she loved. She not only helped in doing fundraisers, but she educated herself in matters at hand, so she could help in making the money go to where it would be most beneficial for all.
I was amazed at the gift she had in working with animals. She was an animal whisperer. So, when she saw the Sullivan family struggling about helping Tom’s old guide dog pass the baton to the new guide dog. Betty was happy to help. They weren’t sure if this was going to work but when Dinah sat at Betty’s chair when they ate dinner all sighed in relief. They became family through Dinah. I liked what Betty said, “If you can’t make memories, there is no reason to be alive.” She knew how to savor every moment and live life to the fullest.
If you are a fan of Betty White or if you are like me and knew of her a little, you’ll enjoy and be encouraged by this special lady and her fascinating life. This book is written by Patty Sullivan, wife of Tom Sullivan and dear friend of Betty. Patty said this about her friend,…”You have inspired me to do more, and be more. And that is a gift, there are no words with which I can express my gratitude – I love you with all my heart.”
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
I learned so much through this sweet, insightful, journey with Patty Sullivan as she remembers the special times and events, they were part of because of this amazing lady. Allen Ludden and Betty White were encouragers of new talent. They also liked to help where they could. Allen Ludden got Tom Sullivan on the Mike Douglas show when he was hosting it. The response to Tom’s visit aided in having his career take off. The friendships blossomed between Tom and Patty Sullivan and Betty and Allen, who treated Tom as their adopted son. They adored his music and songwriting talent but were even more amazed at how he navigated the stage like a pro, they'd never suspected he was blind.
Betty said her acting career helped her do what she loved. She not only helped in doing fundraisers, but she educated herself in matters at hand, so she could help in making the money go to where it would be most beneficial for all.
I was amazed at the gift she had in working with animals. She was an animal whisperer. So, when she saw the Sullivan family struggling about helping Tom’s old guide dog pass the baton to the new guide dog. Betty was happy to help. They weren’t sure if this was going to work but when Dinah sat at Betty’s chair when they ate dinner all sighed in relief. They became family through Dinah. I liked what Betty said, “If you can’t make memories, there is no reason to be alive.” She knew how to savor every moment and live life to the fullest.
If you are a fan of Betty White or if you are like me and knew of her a little, you’ll enjoy and be encouraged by this special lady and her fascinating life. This book is written by Patty Sullivan, wife of Tom Sullivan and dear friend of Betty. Patty said this about her friend,…”You have inspired me to do more, and be more. And that is a gift, there are no words with which I can express my gratitude – I love you with all my heart.”
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
February 18, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Forefront Books distributed by Simon & Schuster, Forefront Books for accepting my request to read and review Betty White's Pearls of Wisdom: Life Lessons from a Beloved American Treasure.
Published: 12/13/22
"If you can't make memories what's the point of being here."
This seemed too invasive at times. Other times, I had tears streaming down my face. Throughout my life I wondered about Betty. Her husband died so many years ago and she never married again, nor did she have children. The Sullivans (one being the author) were the people she loved, shared time with, and made memories.
This book recounts the love from both Betty and The Sullivans.
Published: 12/13/22
"If you can't make memories what's the point of being here."
This seemed too invasive at times. Other times, I had tears streaming down my face. Throughout my life I wondered about Betty. Her husband died so many years ago and she never married again, nor did she have children. The Sullivans (one being the author) were the people she loved, shared time with, and made memories.
This book recounts the love from both Betty and The Sullivans.
February 3, 2023
Thank you Forefront Books and NetGalley for approving my advanced access to this story.
This was a lovely story about Patty's connection with Betty and showcases some of her most cherished memories with her.
It allows an intimate look inside their friendship and history together and highlights some very special Betty moments.
I do wish it had more about Betty herself, but this was clearly a dedication to Patty and Betty's friendship.
This was a lovely story about Patty's connection with Betty and showcases some of her most cherished memories with her.
It allows an intimate look inside their friendship and history together and highlights some very special Betty moments.
I do wish it had more about Betty herself, but this was clearly a dedication to Patty and Betty's friendship.
June 21, 2023
This was such a sweet and lovely book about Betty White.
I especially loved the little details about her everyday life: like how she loved her dogs and the beauty of nature.
If loved her movies and want to know more about her, this is definitely your book.
I'd like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for the arc of this book.
I especially loved the little details about her everyday life: like how she loved her dogs and the beauty of nature.
If loved her movies and want to know more about her, this is definitely your book.
I'd like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for the arc of this book.
Read
December 13, 2022The veil is pulled back in BETTY WHITE'S PEARLS OF WISDOM, a beautiful portrait of the comedy icon by Patty Sullivan, her longtime friend & adopted family member.
Read the full review on Booktrib.com
Read the full review on Booktrib.com
January 9, 2023
Patty Sullivan and her family were close friends of Betty White. She wrote this memoir about the times they spent together. I thought there was too much of Patty and not enough of Betty in it. Thanks NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.
February 9, 2023
This book is such a beautiful tribute to Betty by one of her dearest friends, Patty Sullivan! As a long time Betty White fan, I thoroughly enjoyed discovering the many facets of Betty beyond her television persona. The book delves into Betty's charitable work, her love of animals and nature, and her amazing capacity to become a driving force behind various charitable organizations, many of which she either started or provided vital support to. She lived a life devoted to making the world a better place, for both humans and animals. Patty wrote of Betty's wonderful, devoted friendship to her and her family, and to others. Being a true and loyal friend was one of Betty's key "pearls of wisdom". The book follows Betty's life from glimpses of her girlhood, through the years to her final goodbye. Her many successes in the world of show business are part of this book, but the main focus is Betty's life, works, and friendships beyond the silver screen. Patty Sullivan has captured the wisdom and caring of Betty White in the pages of this wonderful, heartwarming book! I loved it! Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for my copy of this book. The opinions in this review are my own.
December 6, 2022
I received a copy of " Betty White's Pearls of Wisdom" from Netgalley for an honest review. Patty Sullivan and her husband, Tom Sullivan have been friends with Betty White for 50 years. This book shares pearls of wisdom from Betty White. It is nice to read about this wonderful loving lady. I have read many of Betty White's books. I could see the pearls of wisdom shared since I have read many of Betty' White's books. Her love of all animals. She ended up caring for Dinah the guide dog of Tom Sullivan after Dinah retired from being a guide dog. The many charities she has led. She was a surrogate grandma to the Sullivan's children.
I was glad I got the chance to learn more about this beloved lady.
I was glad I got the chance to learn more about this beloved lady.
October 11, 2022
This is such a short and sweet read and really focuses on Betty’s personal life and relationships instead of her career which I enjoyed!!!
February 23, 2023
5 / 5 ⭐️‘s
“Betty White's Pearls of Wisdom" by Patty Sullivan
“My remembrances are perhaps an echo of things already said, but I hope my stories hold up a mirror, another reflection of her essence and how she affected my life so profoundly.”
This was a delightful and inspiring read for a fan of the legendary actress and animal activist. The book features a collection of quotes and anecdotes from Betty White's life, highlighting her wit, humor, and wisdom.
Throughout the book, Sullivan shares Betty’s insights on various topics, including aging, friendship, love, and of course, animals. The advice is practical, heartfelt, and often humorous, making the book fun to read.
Sullivan does an excellent job of capturing Betty's voice and personality, making it feel as though the actress is speaking directly to the reader.
Overall, it is a lovely tribute to a remarkable woman, and an uplifting reminder that we can all learn a thing or two from this national treasure. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Betty White.
This ARC was provided by the publisher via @Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
“Betty White's Pearls of Wisdom" by Patty Sullivan
“My remembrances are perhaps an echo of things already said, but I hope my stories hold up a mirror, another reflection of her essence and how she affected my life so profoundly.”
This was a delightful and inspiring read for a fan of the legendary actress and animal activist. The book features a collection of quotes and anecdotes from Betty White's life, highlighting her wit, humor, and wisdom.
Throughout the book, Sullivan shares Betty’s insights on various topics, including aging, friendship, love, and of course, animals. The advice is practical, heartfelt, and often humorous, making the book fun to read.
Sullivan does an excellent job of capturing Betty's voice and personality, making it feel as though the actress is speaking directly to the reader.
Overall, it is a lovely tribute to a remarkable woman, and an uplifting reminder that we can all learn a thing or two from this national treasure. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Betty White.
This ARC was provided by the publisher via @Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 24, 2023
Betty White’s Pearls of Wisdom is essentially a love letter and celebration of her life. It is a heartfelt tribute to a very dear friend. The Sullivans (Patty and her blind husband Tom) first met Betty White and Alan Ludden in 1969 and became fast friends. Patty Sullivan, the author of Betty White’s Pearls of Wisdom, recounts many fascinating stories about Betty White as well as life lessons throughout the years via their close friendship. Above all else, Betty White’s Pearls of Wisdom is about family (the Sullivans became her adopted family), commitment, dedication, and compassion.
While I always greatly enjoyed watching Betty White perform, I did not really know that much about her. But after reading this book, some words I would use to describe her are extraordinary, kind, remarkable, fascinating, compassionate, amazing, wise, and exceptional. She loved animals and shared that love through philanthropy. There is no doubt that Betty White was a wonderful, caring soul that made the world a better place.
Fans of Betty White will get an intimate glimpse into her life along with her pearls of wisdom. The reader will feel like a part of this trio by hearing their meaningful conversations. The world lost an Angel in 2021 and this book provides a last look through loving memories that Patty Sullivan has graciously shared.
Thank you to Forefront Books distributed by Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
While I always greatly enjoyed watching Betty White perform, I did not really know that much about her. But after reading this book, some words I would use to describe her are extraordinary, kind, remarkable, fascinating, compassionate, amazing, wise, and exceptional. She loved animals and shared that love through philanthropy. There is no doubt that Betty White was a wonderful, caring soul that made the world a better place.
Fans of Betty White will get an intimate glimpse into her life along with her pearls of wisdom. The reader will feel like a part of this trio by hearing their meaningful conversations. The world lost an Angel in 2021 and this book provides a last look through loving memories that Patty Sullivan has graciously shared.
Thank you to Forefront Books distributed by Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 17, 2022
Betty White's Pearls of Wisdom by Patty Sullivan is a beautiful and intimate tribute to a beloved icon from the perspective of a very close and cherished friend. Ms Sullivan takes us on a journey from the early days of the Sullivan family's first meeting with Betty, through a growing love and respect that was fostered over many years, right up until her final days. Throughout, the author shares Betty's advice, elegance, and deep love of the natural world and her animal friends, for which she will forever remain in all of our hearts.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Forefront Books, and Simon & Schuster for an ARC.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Forefront Books, and Simon & Schuster for an ARC.
February 15, 2023
Thanks to #netgalley for a free ARC of this book. This is not a biography or memoir of Betty White. Is is a collection of stories and wisdom from her close friend over the years, Patty Sullivan. It has so many stories about Betty. It describes her many causes and charities that she supported for so long. It is a short and easy read and a must for any Betty White fan.
May 25, 2023
I received an electronic ARC of this exceptional memoir from Netgalley, author Patty Sullivan, and publisher Simon&Schuster - Forefront Books. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. I have read Pearls of Wisdom of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. I am pleased to recommend Pearl's of Wisdom to friends and family. Patty Sullivan, wife of Tom with who Betty wrote several books, brings us back to the life and times of this woman who made such a strong impact in the lives of many of my contemporaries. She is why I became a tree-hugger, an animal advocate, and a recycling fool. Thank you, Ms. Sullivan, for reminding us of where we acquired our 'clean up our world' notions and the need for the love of critters of all kinds in our lives. Life would be pretty dull without the influence of Ms. Better White. It is good to see a little window into her life, to know that her whole 99 years were filled with kids and dogs and sand and sea. What a lady!
Reviewed on May 25, 2023, at Goodreads, Netgalley, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, BookBub, and Kobo.
Reviewed on May 25, 2023, at Goodreads, Netgalley, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, BookBub, and Kobo.
December 1, 2022
Thank you, NetGalley for an ARC of this lovely book. I have been a fan of Betty White forever and have read many books about this remarkable woman but this book gives a whole new look at Betty. It is written by "Betty's", Sullivans. The Sullivan family had a very close relationship with Betty.
I love how this book is laid out, Pearls of Wisdom are treasures that the Sullivans have learned over the years from Betty. We can now all learn from this wisdom. What a lovely look into a more personal Betty. I had read recently, the last book Betty had written and enjoyed it a lot. This book is a lovely look at some of the same stories in Betty's life but from a different perspective. What a treasure Betty White gave us all and this book gives us a clearer look at just who she was and why she is loved so.
I love how this book is laid out, Pearls of Wisdom are treasures that the Sullivans have learned over the years from Betty. We can now all learn from this wisdom. What a lovely look into a more personal Betty. I had read recently, the last book Betty had written and enjoyed it a lot. This book is a lovely look at some of the same stories in Betty's life but from a different perspective. What a treasure Betty White gave us all and this book gives us a clearer look at just who she was and why she is loved so.
December 10, 2022
Betty White's Pearls of Wisdom by Patty Sullivan is a heartwarming book. It's great to get insight into this icon. Especially her love of animals and how her parents took her to the zoo, and they would sit for hours watching and observing the animals and their behavior. Is it no wonder she loved animals?!
Truly a great book about Betty White's personal life, her sage advice, and her way of finding good in everything. The author laid out Betty White's life, and the reader really gets a sense of the true person. It's a great book to read on a quiet weekend morning to find inspiration and to feel like you are reading about a great friend. Betty White would have been a great person to have in your life. She will leave a lasting legacy.
I would recommend this book without hesitation.
#NetGalley @romenashe
Truly a great book about Betty White's personal life, her sage advice, and her way of finding good in everything. The author laid out Betty White's life, and the reader really gets a sense of the true person. It's a great book to read on a quiet weekend morning to find inspiration and to feel like you are reading about a great friend. Betty White would have been a great person to have in your life. She will leave a lasting legacy.
I would recommend this book without hesitation.
#NetGalley @romenashe
December 10, 2022
review: betty white’s pearls of wisdom
this is such a heartwarming read, to have the opportunity to share this amazing moments of one of the most loved hollywood stars we have known, from a perspective of a friend and family, we get to know more about betty white and how much of an amazing human being she was.
this is a short compilation of patty sullivan’s moments with betty throughout their friendship and trying to show us how involved with life in general she was.
i really enjoyed it, i feel like i’ve learned way more of betty this way than through other public interviews.
thank you netgalley, forefront books & simon & schuster for providing me of the ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review.
this is such a heartwarming read, to have the opportunity to share this amazing moments of one of the most loved hollywood stars we have known, from a perspective of a friend and family, we get to know more about betty white and how much of an amazing human being she was.
this is a short compilation of patty sullivan’s moments with betty throughout their friendship and trying to show us how involved with life in general she was.
i really enjoyed it, i feel like i’ve learned way more of betty this way than through other public interviews.
thank you netgalley, forefront books & simon & schuster for providing me of the ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review.
December 3, 2022
Oh my heart.
I am in tears having just finished this beautiful tribute to one of the most amazing women.
Betty White has always been one of my heroes and after reading this I know it to be even more true.
I was nervous about reading this book because I didn’t want to constantly be in tears. Until the ending, the stories of Betty are so peaceful and beautiful that I was able to read and smile. Yes, as the ending approached I became very sensitive to every little moment as I’m sure the author was too.
I didn’t know much about Betty’s husband and I enjoyed learning about their love and connection. I loved hearing how Betty became Gram III to the Sullivan family. My favorite stories in the book involve Betty and her greatest passion, animals. I think I’ve always felt a big connection to Betty because of her work with animals. She didn’t care about being rich and famous. She wanted to use her platform and voice to help those most forgotten and in need.
The author did such a good job of making this book be about Betty. Not trying to sell millions of copies and get rich and famous. The book is a tribute and celebration of life for Betty White.
I highly recommend this to fans of Betty that want to see the Betty off camera and learn more about her.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read Betty White’s Pearls of Wisdom by Patty Sullivan. I have written this review voluntarily.
I am in tears having just finished this beautiful tribute to one of the most amazing women.
Betty White has always been one of my heroes and after reading this I know it to be even more true.
I was nervous about reading this book because I didn’t want to constantly be in tears. Until the ending, the stories of Betty are so peaceful and beautiful that I was able to read and smile. Yes, as the ending approached I became very sensitive to every little moment as I’m sure the author was too.
I didn’t know much about Betty’s husband and I enjoyed learning about their love and connection. I loved hearing how Betty became Gram III to the Sullivan family. My favorite stories in the book involve Betty and her greatest passion, animals. I think I’ve always felt a big connection to Betty because of her work with animals. She didn’t care about being rich and famous. She wanted to use her platform and voice to help those most forgotten and in need.
The author did such a good job of making this book be about Betty. Not trying to sell millions of copies and get rich and famous. The book is a tribute and celebration of life for Betty White.
I highly recommend this to fans of Betty that want to see the Betty off camera and learn more about her.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read Betty White’s Pearls of Wisdom by Patty Sullivan. I have written this review voluntarily.
September 3, 2023
I recently attended a live presentation on the In Perspective podcast by the author's husband, Tom, a singer and musician who worked with Betty White. He mentioned, among other things, Patty's book. Having enjoyed Betty White's portrayal of Rose on The Golden Girls and her book, If You Ask Me, which I reviewed here, I was intrigued. Since I had an Audible credit, I snatched up Patty's book faster than anyone could say, "St. Olaf," (the town where Rose grew up) and I'm glad I did.
This isn't a biography but a collection of the author's memories of Betty White. Each of the chapters, which the author refers to as pearls, tells a different story about her.
I enjoyed reading about Tom and Patty Sullivan's relationship with Betty White over the years, how White became a surrogate grandparent to the Sullivan children, her love of animals, and how she adopted one of Tom's retired guide dogs, who was having trouble adjusting to another dog taking her place in the harness. The pearl where Patty talks about Betty's decline during the COVID 19 pandemic tugged at my heart. I was almost in tears after reading the last pearl, in which Patty describes White's passing and how everyone shared their remembrances of her. If you're a Betty White fan, I'm sure you'll find this book an entertaining, moving tribute.
This isn't a biography but a collection of the author's memories of Betty White. Each of the chapters, which the author refers to as pearls, tells a different story about her.
I enjoyed reading about Tom and Patty Sullivan's relationship with Betty White over the years, how White became a surrogate grandparent to the Sullivan children, her love of animals, and how she adopted one of Tom's retired guide dogs, who was having trouble adjusting to another dog taking her place in the harness. The pearl where Patty talks about Betty's decline during the COVID 19 pandemic tugged at my heart. I was almost in tears after reading the last pearl, in which Patty describes White's passing and how everyone shared their remembrances of her. If you're a Betty White fan, I'm sure you'll find this book an entertaining, moving tribute.
November 23, 2022
We all have memories of good times with friends. And that's what Pearls of Wisdom is; Patty Sullivan's memories of her good friend Betty. She shares with us the at-home personal experiences - good, sad, silly, and serious - that she and her husband Tom shared with this iconic, beloved public figure.
Betty was a powerful force when it came to animal rights, and would help them in any and every way she could. Many of those stories are public knowledge, but here we learn about her own pets, along with behind-the-scenes glimpses of her work with a variety of charity causes.
It's clear that this book was a labor of love for Patty Sullivan. It's written in a gentle, rich, beautiful style. The love expressed is contagious!
Reading Tip: I enjoyed one "Pearl" each evening during my last-cup-of-tea and winding down time. It was a pleasant way to spend time in the company of a woman we all miss dearly. I highly recommend reading this during your own quiet, contemplative times. It's not a novel to speed your way through. Linger over it.
My thanks to author Patty Sullivan, Forefront Books/Simon & Schuster, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a digital advance review copy of this book. This review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Betty was a powerful force when it came to animal rights, and would help them in any and every way she could. Many of those stories are public knowledge, but here we learn about her own pets, along with behind-the-scenes glimpses of her work with a variety of charity causes.
It's clear that this book was a labor of love for Patty Sullivan. It's written in a gentle, rich, beautiful style. The love expressed is contagious!
Reading Tip: I enjoyed one "Pearl" each evening during my last-cup-of-tea and winding down time. It was a pleasant way to spend time in the company of a woman we all miss dearly. I highly recommend reading this during your own quiet, contemplative times. It's not a novel to speed your way through. Linger over it.
My thanks to author Patty Sullivan, Forefront Books/Simon & Schuster, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a digital advance review copy of this book. This review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
December 14, 2022
I love Betty White, I really don't know anyone who didn't. I chose this book because I was expecting quotes from the Queen herself. No one had better one-liners or double-entendres than Ms. White.
What I got was a love letter.
Written by Patty Sullivan, wife of Tom Sullivan. She gave me a look into who the real Betty White was. I always thought she was as close to perfect as God had made a human with her care and love of all animals, as well as her untiring work to save any animal she could. Be it her money, her name, or her time, she gave it all.
Here, we get to see her through the eyes of a woman and her family who knew and treasured Betty for more than 50 years. She became their surrogate mother and Gram III to their 2 children.
Mrs. Sullivan's recollections and memories of Betty are sweet and beautiful. You can see that she more than touched their lives she changed the very course of their lives.
Yes, there were points I had tears in my eyes, and moments I had to outright cry. But tears should be shed for a loss of such a bright light.
A beautiful book and love letter to Betty White. Highly recommended.
Thanks to @Netgalley and Patty Sullivan for the opportunity to read this eArc in exchange for my honest and unbised opinion.
What I got was a love letter.
Written by Patty Sullivan, wife of Tom Sullivan. She gave me a look into who the real Betty White was. I always thought she was as close to perfect as God had made a human with her care and love of all animals, as well as her untiring work to save any animal she could. Be it her money, her name, or her time, she gave it all.
Here, we get to see her through the eyes of a woman and her family who knew and treasured Betty for more than 50 years. She became their surrogate mother and Gram III to their 2 children.
Mrs. Sullivan's recollections and memories of Betty are sweet and beautiful. You can see that she more than touched their lives she changed the very course of their lives.
Yes, there were points I had tears in my eyes, and moments I had to outright cry. But tears should be shed for a loss of such a bright light.
A beautiful book and love letter to Betty White. Highly recommended.
Thanks to @Netgalley and Patty Sullivan for the opportunity to read this eArc in exchange for my honest and unbised opinion.
January 28, 2023
From the title, I was expecting this to be more a book of quotations or "pearls" from Betty and how they impacted Patty Sullivan. Not having this be the case was disappointing, at first. I have read nearly every book Betty White wrote and did a blog series on her for her 100th birthday (even though she didn't quite make it, though Patty disagrees with that when you count leap years). But the Sullivans' interactions and memories of their time with her still provided a fresh window into her quiet life behind the scenes. Not necessarily earth-shattering revelations, but more confirmations of her kindness, fascination with life and learning new things, and overwhelming devotion to animals and their care that we already hold as a cherished part of our memories of Betty White.
Some sections felt a bit repetitious, but I also read it in a couple of days instead of more spread out, like most people will. Others may not feels this same way.
If you are a fan of Betty White, you will thoroughly enjoy this book.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this review copy.
Some sections felt a bit repetitious, but I also read it in a couple of days instead of more spread out, like most people will. Others may not feels this same way.
If you are a fan of Betty White, you will thoroughly enjoy this book.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this review copy.
January 30, 2023
Read a print copy. The e-edition is just print put onto a reader which made it very difficult to physically read as there are no real distinguishing breaks between chapters that are supposed to distinguish the Pearls of Wisdom.
Overall an interesting memoire of Patty Sullivan and her tribute to Betty White.
Blind actor Tom Sullivan's work with Betty White opened the door to a life long bond with her. Known as Gram III her influence, especially regarding animal welfare and preservation of all creatures, is part of life choices and careers made by the Sullivan family. Covid-19 made Betty's final years cut-off from personal visits a hardship for all involved.
This should really be titled, The Sullivan Family included Betty White and her Pearls of Wisdom. The present title made me initially feel someone was using Betty White's celebrity to sell a book.
There are a few memories that are repeated in different chapters that should be edited out to keep the recollections moving forward. IMO: This book needs some serious editing.
I volunteered to read an ARC through Net Galley.
Overall an interesting memoire of Patty Sullivan and her tribute to Betty White.
Blind actor Tom Sullivan's work with Betty White opened the door to a life long bond with her. Known as Gram III her influence, especially regarding animal welfare and preservation of all creatures, is part of life choices and careers made by the Sullivan family. Covid-19 made Betty's final years cut-off from personal visits a hardship for all involved.
This should really be titled, The Sullivan Family included Betty White and her Pearls of Wisdom. The present title made me initially feel someone was using Betty White's celebrity to sell a book.
There are a few memories that are repeated in different chapters that should be edited out to keep the recollections moving forward. IMO: This book needs some serious editing.
I volunteered to read an ARC through Net Galley.
April 1, 2023
This book is a gift - a gift of love, compassion, acceptance and selflessness. Patty Sullivan shares with us her very personal observations of not just the celebrity Betty White, but the private Betty White who was widowed way too soon from the love of her life, and then went on to sustain a long career as not only an entertainer, but as a philanthropist for important animal causes. In these pages we see Betty White in private moments, in her private homes, exerting independence and lovingly influencing her heart-adopted children and grandchildren and their mutual friends. It is a very personal memory, shared lovingly and respectfully. At the end of the book, I found a renewed respect and appreciation for what Betty White brought to the world; but I ended the last page thinking about what a gracious and remarkable person Patty Sullivan must be to love not only Betty White but her family and friends we met in this book so well. The love, compassion, acceptance and selflessness I mentioned earlier may have been representative of Betty White, but it is personified in Patty Sullivan.
April 28, 2023
Patty Sullivan is the wife of Tom Sullivan, a popular singer/song writer in the 1970's. He also was a correspondent on Good Morning America for a while. Tom Sullivan is blind, and he first met Betty White and her husband with all three were working in Eastern vacation towns. It was the beginning of Tom's career and just before he met his wife. The two couples became good friends, and after Alan died, Tom's family sort became Betty's adopted family, spending major holidays together. They all shared a love for animals, especially Tom's seeing eye dogs. Over the years Patty witnessed Betty's dedication to her craft, but even more so to her charities, mostly animal centered. In this tribute book, the author details what she calls the life lessons Betty's life teaches us, lessons that go way beyond the perfect comedic timing she possessed. This was a loving, gentle read and I would recommend it to anyone who was a Betty White fan or who is an animal lover. I received a copy from Net Galley. All opinions are mine.
November 24, 2022
I knew Betty White as an actress, and her love for animals, but Patty Sullivan tells us about Betty White through the love and friendship she had with her. As Patty Sullivan says, the pearls of wisdom she imparted that forever transformed their lives, she is sharing with us.
The connections Betty White made through her life, with humans and animals, made an impact. Betty was famous, but she was caring, down to earth, and she was there, for so many things. What I like most is the connections she had, she made the best of things, and she found the beauty and the best in everything.
This book, is a book that I savored, like Betty savored life, I took my time reading, and did enjoy her pearls of wisdom. It is a reminder that life is what you make it, she lived every minute of her life and she stayed true to herself. She was an inspiration.
I received an ARC from Forefront Books through NetGalley.
The connections Betty White made through her life, with humans and animals, made an impact. Betty was famous, but she was caring, down to earth, and she was there, for so many things. What I like most is the connections she had, she made the best of things, and she found the beauty and the best in everything.
This book, is a book that I savored, like Betty savored life, I took my time reading, and did enjoy her pearls of wisdom. It is a reminder that life is what you make it, she lived every minute of her life and she stayed true to herself. She was an inspiration.
I received an ARC from Forefront Books through NetGalley.
December 13, 2022
This was a very sweet read, where Patty Sullivan shared about Betty White and the impact her friendship had on her and her family. I learned a lot about Betty White, particularly about her passion for animals and her efforts in supporting wildlife conservation. I loved reading about specific moments in Betty's life and career, like when she refused to have a specific role for the movie The Proposal because she couldn't be away from her golden retriever for months (and they ended up putting her in another role where she didn't have to travel so far). Something I really enjoyed learning about Betty was the care and intentionality she had for her friends. Even when she had a busy work schedule, she made time for time with friends. This book allowed me to learn more about Betty White as an individual, and about her interests beyond being a funny actress. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me a digital advanced copy!
March 6, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
No one would argue that Betty White was an American treasure and lived an extraordinary life. She is an icon and is missed.
Betty White's Pearls of Wisdom offers the reader a look into Betty's life via a lifelong friend. The reader is offered remembrances of Betty and "pearls of wisdom" that the author received from time spent with Betty.
As long as the reader keeps in mind that this is not a "tell all" nor is it a biography of Betty's life they will find it to be an enjoyable read if they are a fan of Betty. The book, instead of describing Betty and her life, is more based on how Betty impacted the life of her friend. This gives an enjoyable glimpse into Betty's life and allows the reader to remind themselves how special Betty was.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
No one would argue that Betty White was an American treasure and lived an extraordinary life. She is an icon and is missed.
Betty White's Pearls of Wisdom offers the reader a look into Betty's life via a lifelong friend. The reader is offered remembrances of Betty and "pearls of wisdom" that the author received from time spent with Betty.
As long as the reader keeps in mind that this is not a "tell all" nor is it a biography of Betty's life they will find it to be an enjoyable read if they are a fan of Betty. The book, instead of describing Betty and her life, is more based on how Betty impacted the life of her friend. This gives an enjoyable glimpse into Betty's life and allows the reader to remind themselves how special Betty was.
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