What do you think?
Rate this book
If You Ask Me
ŷ Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Humor (2011)It-girl Betty White delivers a hilarious, slyly profound take on love, life, celebrity, and everything in between.
Drawing from a lifetime of lessons learned, seven-time Emmy winner Betty White's wit and wisdom take center stage as she tackles topics like friendship, romantic love, aging, television, fans, love for animals, and the brave new world of celebrity. If You Ask Me mixes her thoughtful observations with humorous stories from a seven- decade career in Hollywood. Longtime fans and new fans alike will relish Betty's candid take on everything from her rumored crush on Robert Redford (true) to her beauty regimen ("I have no idea what color my hair is and I never intend to find out") to the Facebook campaign that helped persuade her to host Saturday Night Live despite her having declined the hosting job three times already.
Featuring all-new material, with a focus on the past fifteen years of her life, If You Ask Me is funny, sweet, and to the point-just like Betty White.
Drawing from a lifetime of lessons learned, seven-time Emmy winner Betty White's wit and wisdom take center stage as she tackles topics like friendship, romantic love, aging, television, fans, love for animals, and the brave new world of celebrity. If You Ask Me mixes her thoughtful observations with humorous stories from a seven- decade career in Hollywood. Longtime fans and new fans alike will relish Betty's candid take on everything from her rumored crush on Robert Redford (true) to her beauty regimen ("I have no idea what color my hair is and I never intend to find out") to the Facebook campaign that helped persuade her to host Saturday Night Live despite her having declined the hosting job three times already.
Featuring all-new material, with a focus on the past fifteen years of her life, If You Ask Me is funny, sweet, and to the point-just like Betty White.
258 pages, Hardcover
First published May 3, 2011
1,315 people are currently reading
61.6k people want to read
About the author
Betty White
83books527followersBetty White was an American five-time Emmy Award-winning film and television actress with a career spanning sixty years. She also appeared in radio programs, movies, theater, commercials, and was also a talk show and game show host. White is perhaps best known for her roles in the sitcoms The Mary Tyler Moore Show and The Golden Girls.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,112 reviews
December 9, 2020
If one has no sense of humor, one is in trouble.Oh Betty, you are too precious for this world.
Betty White is a true American icon - she's simply magnificent from her candy-floss hair to her tippy-toes.
You don't luck into integrity. You work at it.Betty White disperses advice and anecdotes in her novel - anywhere from her success to her pets to aging in Hollywood.
I absolutely adored this novel - Betty is hilarious and an absolute doll through and through.
I loved her attitude when she talks about animals and why they are so important to her life.
Animals don’t lie. Animals don’t criticize. If animals have moody days, they handle them better than humans do.In addition, I really enjoyed how Betty talks about getting older and loving it.
So you may not be as fast on your feet, and the image in your mirror may be a little disappointing, but if you are still functioning and not in pain, gratitude should be the name of the game.If I could be half the woman Betty White when I get to her age...
Audiobook Comments
Betty White read her novel - and she is the best.
| | | | | Snapchat @miranda_reads
May 22, 2011
Back in the sixties, there was a man on our block who worked at a television studio as a stage hand. He once told me that there was a lot of dead time during the shootings while he waited to change the sets. The guys would go over to the studio where they were filming the TV game show Password. The attraction: watching Betty White cuss and swear between takes. He told me, "She really has a mouth on her but she is so sweet and funny it's hilarious."
When a friend loaned me this book, I thought it was an autobiography. But she already wrote five of those. If You Ask Me is more of a reflection on various aspects in her life, noticeably the last fifteen years. It's a very fast read. I finished it in one morning. But it impressed me because it confirmed how I envisioned the 89 year old actress. Sweet, funny and totally down to earth. The closest thing to raunchiness is when a reporter asked her if there was anything in life she wanted to do and she answered, "Robert Redford." Redford responded to her with a poem which she refuses to share with us. Most of her reflections are simply good advice on how to live a satisfying life which is always nice to hear. If You Ask Me was a nice way to spend a morning with a personality whose greatest talent is that she was simply always there.
When a friend loaned me this book, I thought it was an autobiography. But she already wrote five of those. If You Ask Me is more of a reflection on various aspects in her life, noticeably the last fifteen years. It's a very fast read. I finished it in one morning. But it impressed me because it confirmed how I envisioned the 89 year old actress. Sweet, funny and totally down to earth. The closest thing to raunchiness is when a reporter asked her if there was anything in life she wanted to do and she answered, "Robert Redford." Redford responded to her with a poem which she refuses to share with us. Most of her reflections are simply good advice on how to live a satisfying life which is always nice to hear. If You Ask Me was a nice way to spend a morning with a personality whose greatest talent is that she was simply always there.
January 29, 2022
Betty White is timeless, appealing to all generations. She was a humble, grateful, down-to-earth, classy woman, genuine in her advice, and always maintaining a positive outlook. I enjoyed learning more about her personality and interests, and wish I could have known her. Conversations with such an upbeat, personable, and interesting person would have flowed naturally and readily, and would have left me cheered, amused, and gratified.
I don't know how much I liked the book as compared to how much I like Betty White. I admit I may have rated this higher simply because of my fondness for her. But through the pages, Betty left a vivid remembrance of her essence. Her grace, wisdom, and entertaining ways have left a positive mark on me and many others.
I don't know how much I liked the book as compared to how much I like Betty White. I admit I may have rated this higher simply because of my fondness for her. But through the pages, Betty left a vivid remembrance of her essence. Her grace, wisdom, and entertaining ways have left a positive mark on me and many others.
June 3, 2023
I listened to the audiobook book narrated by Betty White and absolutely loved it.
I can say enough amazing things about this incredible woman.
Betty White you are very dearly missed�
I can say enough amazing things about this incredible woman.
Betty White you are very dearly missed�
April 23, 2015
First off, is there anyone who doesn't love Betty White? You show me that person and I will...oh you don't want to know what I'll do! There's no room on this planet for haters of lovely old ladies! Hold me back! I'm not responsible for my actions!
If you don't love her book, well, that's another thing.
Her latest autobiography If You Ask Me, is a slim volume that relates a few enjoyable anecdotes about showbiz, gives advice on acting, and talks about her love of animals. There's nothing earth-shattering here and you'll probably only find yourself chuckling at a few of the passages, but regardless it's still an overall good read and I'm not 100% sure why. What can I say, the woman is charming.
SAUCY GILF
If you don't love her book, well, that's another thing.
Her latest autobiography If You Ask Me, is a slim volume that relates a few enjoyable anecdotes about showbiz, gives advice on acting, and talks about her love of animals. There's nothing earth-shattering here and you'll probably only find yourself chuckling at a few of the passages, but regardless it's still an overall good read and I'm not 100% sure why. What can I say, the woman is charming.
SAUCY GILF
December 22, 2017
Find all of my reviews at:
I grabbed this from the library after seeing my friend HFK's review a week or so ago when I was looking for something new to listen to on the drive to and from work. This fit perfectly into my 15-20 commute window and I was able to finish it in just a couple of days. While there's nothing real deep about this selection, if you like Betty White - you should like it just fine. And if you don't like Betty White?????
I grabbed this from the library after seeing my friend HFK's review a week or so ago when I was looking for something new to listen to on the drive to and from work. This fit perfectly into my 15-20 commute window and I was able to finish it in just a couple of days. While there's nothing real deep about this selection, if you like Betty White - you should like it just fine. And if you don't like Betty White?????
August 13, 2018
I saw this at my local library and I instantly got a big cheesy grin on my face. Heck yeah I had to pick it up. This is the sixth book Betty White has written but the first I have had the pleasure of reading. I assume her other books contain the bulk of her life stories as this one didn't contain a lot of substance. That's not to say I didn't enjoy it but even at 250+ pages this is an extremely quick read. About a quarter of the book is just photos and title pages. The margins on the pages are pretty wide so this is a book that can easily be read in a day. To be honest most of the book just states things I already knew about Betty such as she loves Allen and still feels his presence years after his death, is grateful for her career, and is highly involved with animal charities. Betty is so darn charming though that this is still an enjoyable read even if there isn't a lot of meat to the book.
August 22, 2024
Betty White is such a delight to watch, listen to, or read. I chose the audiobook version for this, and it felt like I was sitting right there with her. This book was a very varied group of short stories and anecdotes from her later years. Anytime I pass by one of her books in a store, I will never fail to buy it.
December 15, 2017
*** 3.44 ***
"...“Animals don’t lie. Animals don’t criticize. If animals have moody days, they handle them better than humans do.�..."
I love Betty White! I don't think that anything she does or touches could ever be awful, but I do have to admit, this book of biographical musings is not the best she has ever written. She was 89 years old when she wrote it and the cadence of the prose and way of writing make you feel like your grandma is telling you stories of her daily life. Nothing is wrong with it, and Betty is a wonderful grandma to listens stories from, but there was nothing exceptional about it. Very pleasant, very touching, just because as most all of us, I have watched and loved the woman for the whole of my life, so just the sentiment alone makes you feel warm and cuddly on the inside. But it is what it is - Betty gifts us with a bit more of herself at this time in her life and we can only say thank you and keep adoring her from a far:):):)
"...“It’s [old age] not a surprise, we knew it was coming � make the most of it. So you may not be as fast on your feet, and the image in your mirror may be a little disappointing, but if you are still functioning and not in pain, gratitude should be the name of the game.�..."
The book is just snippets and opinions, a lot about her love for animals and some about her passion - showbiz! Enjoyed a lot, but I was hoping for a bit more... Still, if you are a fan of Betty, everything she writes is a treat!
"...“That’s when you have to remember that image in the mirror and not let success get to you. It is important that you not believe your own publicity. Be grateful for whatever praise you receive, but take it with a grain of salt.�..."
I wish you all Happy Reading and many more wonderful books to come!
"...“Animals don’t lie. Animals don’t criticize. If animals have moody days, they handle them better than humans do.�..."
I love Betty White! I don't think that anything she does or touches could ever be awful, but I do have to admit, this book of biographical musings is not the best she has ever written. She was 89 years old when she wrote it and the cadence of the prose and way of writing make you feel like your grandma is telling you stories of her daily life. Nothing is wrong with it, and Betty is a wonderful grandma to listens stories from, but there was nothing exceptional about it. Very pleasant, very touching, just because as most all of us, I have watched and loved the woman for the whole of my life, so just the sentiment alone makes you feel warm and cuddly on the inside. But it is what it is - Betty gifts us with a bit more of herself at this time in her life and we can only say thank you and keep adoring her from a far:):):)
"...“It’s [old age] not a surprise, we knew it was coming � make the most of it. So you may not be as fast on your feet, and the image in your mirror may be a little disappointing, but if you are still functioning and not in pain, gratitude should be the name of the game.�..."
The book is just snippets and opinions, a lot about her love for animals and some about her passion - showbiz! Enjoyed a lot, but I was hoping for a bit more... Still, if you are a fan of Betty, everything she writes is a treat!
"...“That’s when you have to remember that image in the mirror and not let success get to you. It is important that you not believe your own publicity. Be grateful for whatever praise you receive, but take it with a grain of salt.�..."
I wish you all Happy Reading and many more wonderful books to come!
March 25, 2016
If you Ask Me: And of Course You Won't narrated by the author, Betty White, is simply delightful.
She talks about all kinds of different subjects, but the majority of them involved animals and how much she loves them. And I love that about her.
The only flaw I found with this is that it was too short. I love you Betty, but I needed more!
If you adore Betty White, then I highly recommend you listen to her narrate this audiobook!
She talks about all kinds of different subjects, but the majority of them involved animals and how much she loves them. And I love that about her.
The only flaw I found with this is that it was too short. I love you Betty, but I needed more!
If you adore Betty White, then I highly recommend you listen to her narrate this audiobook!
November 27, 2019
Short, simple, and sweet. I enjoyed learning some things about Betty White that I didn't know. I hear there are a lot of photos in this book, so kind of regretting listening to it on Audio, but she narrates it herself so that's a big plus!
April 14, 2015
3.5 stars :)
How can you not love Betty White ? :)
A fun collection of reminisces, an added bonus listening to it in Betty's voice... she's adorable and I want to adopt her as a grandma :)
My favorite anecdotes were the ones from the proposal, the time she locked herself out of the house, and about her animals.
Not much to say except this was a fun read... check it out:)
March 30, 2019
Guaranteed to make you miss your grandmother.
This audiobook was the bees knees, Betty did a stellar job and I'm not surprised this won a Grammy for Best Spoken Word Album in 2012.
I got misty eyed more than once, and hearing Betty's voice break as she recounted when Butterscotch the horse "had galloped on," was just heartbreaking in a sweet way.
She is a national treasure!
Super short book, I now have an irresistible desire to watch something with Betty White, specifically You Again, and The Proposal (both mentioned in the book).
This audiobook was the bees knees, Betty did a stellar job and I'm not surprised this won a Grammy for Best Spoken Word Album in 2012.
I got misty eyed more than once, and hearing Betty's voice break as she recounted when Butterscotch the horse "had galloped on," was just heartbreaking in a sweet way.
She is a national treasure!
Super short book, I now have an irresistible desire to watch something with Betty White, specifically You Again, and The Proposal (both mentioned in the book).
November 30, 2011
Awwwww, Betty White. I haven't had grandparents in years and I want her! She loves animals possibly more than I do and she has a room full of stuffed ones (not taxidermied!). She tells them that she loves them. Out loud.
Then again, Cloris Leachman would be a good grandma too. She might have a room full of liquor that she talks to.
Then again, Cloris Leachman would be a good grandma too. She might have a room full of liquor that she talks to.
January 23, 2022
In this book you’ll learn everything from Bettys’s love of French fries & hot dogs (especially the “Betty White Naked Dog� named after her by the famous Pink’s Hot Dog Company in California) to how she enjoys a cocktail with dinner. But, no sweet tooth! ( She’s already sweet enough!)
The reader also has the pleasure to travel down memory lane with her battling for animal welfare & how she came to adopt her furkids. She even befriended a gorilla who learned sign language and slapped the tongue of a Great White Whale!
Betty even prefers the company of animals to people! ( Me too girlfriend, me too!)
She urges us all to live in the moment; the now. Everyone can rest assure that she made every second count! She learned the hard way in watching her father pass away at a mere 64.5 when he had so many plans in tail for when he retired at 65.
So we shouldn’t be mourning her but instead celebrating that she made the most of her almost 100 years here. You can bet your bottom dollar that she was welcomed at the pearly gates by SO MANY family & friends but not before being reunited with her furballs.
This book was exactly what I expected from Betty & so much more! Her personality & quick wit shone through the entire time. I only wished that it was longer! I highly recommend the audio version so that you can hear her sweet voice!
I LOLed so many times! ❤️
5 ⭐️.
December 7, 2022
I'm surprised I've never read this before. I love Betty White! I thought this book was an intriguing look into her life. Great book with tons of laughs along the way!
May 10, 2011
My God, I love Betty White.
I already finished one book today, cracked into this one and found that I could not go to bed until I finished it.
Not so much a memoir (she's already written 5 of those), but more like little topics that she reviews. She's adorable.
A couple of things made me sad. A) In talking about age and how it shouldn't bother you, she says that Estelle Getty was TERRIFIED of getting old and sick, to the point that the writers of Golden Girls had to be careful of the kind of jokes they wrote for her (heartbreaking since she was the first to die, and suffered in a bed for something like 7 years before going). B) Also on the topic of age, saying that she always assumed she'd be the FIRST of the Golden Girls to go because she's the oldest, and now she's the last left standing. And C) Always the consumate animal lover, she says that she now only owns one dog. Why? Because she's 89 years old, and has officially out-lived her last puppy. *lump in throat*
When Rue McClannahan died The Stranger reported on it with a remark at the end that I have not forgotten. To paraphrase it... "Take care of your precious self, Betty White. We're not ready yet to live in a world entirely devoid of Golden Girls."
I already finished one book today, cracked into this one and found that I could not go to bed until I finished it.
Not so much a memoir (she's already written 5 of those), but more like little topics that she reviews. She's adorable.
A couple of things made me sad. A) In talking about age and how it shouldn't bother you, she says that Estelle Getty was TERRIFIED of getting old and sick, to the point that the writers of Golden Girls had to be careful of the kind of jokes they wrote for her (heartbreaking since she was the first to die, and suffered in a bed for something like 7 years before going). B) Also on the topic of age, saying that she always assumed she'd be the FIRST of the Golden Girls to go because she's the oldest, and now she's the last left standing. And C) Always the consumate animal lover, she says that she now only owns one dog. Why? Because she's 89 years old, and has officially out-lived her last puppy. *lump in throat*
When Rue McClannahan died The Stranger reported on it with a remark at the end that I have not forgotten. To paraphrase it... "Take care of your precious self, Betty White. We're not ready yet to live in a world entirely devoid of Golden Girls."
December 22, 2022
To me this is an example of what a memoir should be. It tells a small portion of Betty’s life, but the way it is written speaks in her voice so it really gives the reader a glimpse at who she was. Betty White has always been one of my favorite actresses and to get to read some of her thoughts not only on her work but on her passions was great. It was full of humor and was just lovely. I will say that I thought it was a bit too short and I would have loved more. The pages aren’t really filled and I would have loved more of her thoughts and stories. I did really like the photos. I hadn’t realized she had written prior books but I will definitely be looking for those too.
December 21, 2022
If You Ask Me (And Of Course You Won't) by Betty White
Book Review 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Is there anyone who doesn't adore Betty White? Funny and energetic, she was a delightful entertainer. Betty wrote three memoirs. In 2011, she published her last autobiography, If You Ask Me And Of Course You Won't. At the time, she was 89 years old.
It was a pleasure reading this book during the pandemic when she was still alive. I reread it last night and fell in love with her all over again. In all of her writings, she was quick with her wit, and wise with her advice. It is a delight to view the many photographs she shared in the novel. It is likely that I will reread this novel every year to revisit her wisdom. Her impact on our lives was profound.
On December 31st, it will be a year since we lost her. There is a sense of emptiness in the world as we honor this iconic and gracious woman. Thank you Betty White for the example of a life well lived. We miss you!
#IfYouAskMyAndOfCourseYouWont #BettyWhite #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #Bookishcom #trending #bestsellingbooks #b
Book Review 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Is there anyone who doesn't adore Betty White? Funny and energetic, she was a delightful entertainer. Betty wrote three memoirs. In 2011, she published her last autobiography, If You Ask Me And Of Course You Won't. At the time, she was 89 years old.
It was a pleasure reading this book during the pandemic when she was still alive. I reread it last night and fell in love with her all over again. In all of her writings, she was quick with her wit, and wise with her advice. It is a delight to view the many photographs she shared in the novel. It is likely that I will reread this novel every year to revisit her wisdom. Her impact on our lives was profound.
On December 31st, it will be a year since we lost her. There is a sense of emptiness in the world as we honor this iconic and gracious woman. Thank you Betty White for the example of a life well lived. We miss you!
#IfYouAskMyAndOfCourseYouWont #BettyWhite #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #Bookishcom #trending #bestsellingbooks #b
May 7, 2015
Who doesn't love Betty White? I mean does anyone actually dislike her? If so...why?
I can remember watching Betty White on TV when I was a kid (sorry Betty but there aren't many performers I can still say that about) and she's just a sharp and just as funny (unless of course she's doing drama) as she ever was.
This book is more a book of quick reminiscences on her life and then comments on what's going on NOW in her life. We get a lot of vignettes about various parts of her life (I'd say especially her relationships with animals).
Highly enjoyable so....enjoy.
I can remember watching Betty White on TV when I was a kid (sorry Betty but there aren't many performers I can still say that about) and she's just a sharp and just as funny (unless of course she's doing drama) as she ever was.
This book is more a book of quick reminiscences on her life and then comments on what's going on NOW in her life. We get a lot of vignettes about various parts of her life (I'd say especially her relationships with animals).
Highly enjoyable so....enjoy.
August 13, 2019
A fun little read.
October 25, 2020
A very sweet collection of stories. Betty's voice shines in her writing. If you need something upbeat and entertaining in these Covid times, I highly recommend this.
July 18, 2016
This was a cute story that took me very little time to read, because it is so short. The book was short, simple and cute. There wasn't anything really eye-opening or super special about this book, but I did find it interesting when she talked about her love for animals and all the volunteering and adopting of pets that she does.
This book was written like an interview.
A solid 3 stars.
This book was written like an interview.
A solid 3 stars.
Read
January 24, 2023Another celebrity memoir. I just love these on audio.
I listened to this little book today while I was cleaning my apartment and found it to be very entertaining and even sweet. Don't expect any mindblowing revelations about life or even her life but it was very nice to listen to. I got the feeling that even if there was nothing in particular she wanted to bring across, Betty White just really likes to write. That's why she tells us about some of her friends and co-workers, experiences in the show business, her animals. Basically, just was life has been like for her these past years.
I have loved Betty White since I used to watch her and the wonderful ensemble of ladies on The Golden Girls when I was just a child. Her character Rose was always my favourite because she was so naive and sweet (and funny, obviously) but there was a lot more to her than initially met the eye.
In these past couple of years, Betty White seems to have become some sort of icon and if you have seen interviews with her, you know she is a delight. This woman is hilariously funny, quick-witted, and has impeccable comedic timing. She is also a great animal lover, and all in all seems like a genuinely nice person, who works hard but makes it look easy, doesn't take any nonsense, and is very down-to-earth.
So, summing up: I like Betty White, I liked this book but it really was very short and didn't have a lot of "content" so to say. I guess I'll have to pick up one of her other five or six books if I want more Betty. ;)
I listened to this little book today while I was cleaning my apartment and found it to be very entertaining and even sweet. Don't expect any mindblowing revelations about life or even her life but it was very nice to listen to. I got the feeling that even if there was nothing in particular she wanted to bring across, Betty White just really likes to write. That's why she tells us about some of her friends and co-workers, experiences in the show business, her animals. Basically, just was life has been like for her these past years.
I have loved Betty White since I used to watch her and the wonderful ensemble of ladies on The Golden Girls when I was just a child. Her character Rose was always my favourite because she was so naive and sweet (and funny, obviously) but there was a lot more to her than initially met the eye.
In these past couple of years, Betty White seems to have become some sort of icon and if you have seen interviews with her, you know she is a delight. This woman is hilariously funny, quick-witted, and has impeccable comedic timing. She is also a great animal lover, and all in all seems like a genuinely nice person, who works hard but makes it look easy, doesn't take any nonsense, and is very down-to-earth.
So, summing up: I like Betty White, I liked this book but it really was very short and didn't have a lot of "content" so to say. I guess I'll have to pick up one of her other five or six books if I want more Betty. ;)
November 27, 2023
What a gem Betty White was, and I just loved listening to her narrate this audiobook! I have always loved her humor, her wit, and her intelligence. She truly led a long, fun, inspiring life, and I love that she wrote books to tell about it. Her lifelong love of animals was a credit to her as well. She was always as real as it gets and a class act. This book was written when she was 89 years old, and I loved every minute of it! 💕
April 30, 2015
It's Betty White, what's not to love! I listened to this on audiobook and it was fantastic, I loved hearing Betty talk about her experiences, she is a wonderful human being. I would for sure recommend this book for a little inspiration, some laughs, and for an overall enjoyable experience!
June 11, 2016
From the book jacket - Seven-time Emmy winner Betty White’s wit and wisdom take center stage as she tackles topics like friendship, romantic love, aging, television, fans, love for animals, and the brave new world of celebrity.
My Reactions
I feel a little mean not liking this more. I love Betty White, and some of the essays in this book are spot on perfect. But it’s pretty lightweight in substance, and I felt a little like I was on one of those obligatory visits to an elderly relative when I was a kid � I sat politely and tried not to fidget, but all I could think of was when I’d be able to go play. It’s a very fast read, and includes several photos.
Still, giving credit where credit is due, White is a lovely woman and has a keen sense of humor. There were sections that were completely delightful. I’d love to have her at my table at a dinner party! It just didn’t satisfy what I look for in a reading experience (yes, even from a celebrity memoir). I’ll continue to watch and enjoy her performances, but I’ll read something else.
My Reactions
I feel a little mean not liking this more. I love Betty White, and some of the essays in this book are spot on perfect. But it’s pretty lightweight in substance, and I felt a little like I was on one of those obligatory visits to an elderly relative when I was a kid � I sat politely and tried not to fidget, but all I could think of was when I’d be able to go play. It’s a very fast read, and includes several photos.
Still, giving credit where credit is due, White is a lovely woman and has a keen sense of humor. There were sections that were completely delightful. I’d love to have her at my table at a dinner party! It just didn’t satisfy what I look for in a reading experience (yes, even from a celebrity memoir). I’ll continue to watch and enjoy her performances, but I’ll read something else.
March 28, 2016
Betty White reading a book by Betty White about Betty White's thoughts and memories, what's not to love. The acres, comedian, activist and beautiful human let's her mind fly open and give us some tidbits into her soul. She is a treat in this this to short novel. I didn't even finish weeding half my yard and the book was done :(
September 29, 2024
This book was a very short read for me. I picked it up because I am a huge Betty White fan. It was not Earth Shattering, but I didn't expect it to be. It was short biographical blurbs.
Pros: Betty White photos. Betty's love for animals bleeds through the pages and are mentioned in over half of the book. Betty's witty personality.
Cons: Formatting, formatting, formatting. For Betty's conservation effort for the environment, you would think that she may have had a problem with the waste of paper that was put forth with this book. To make the book appear long, the margins were so huge if you put both sides together, it would be equal to or more than the space in which the writing occurs. Instead of letting a short passage BE short, they tried to stretch it out. There were several instances in the short book where the same anecdote was mentioned almost verbatim two or three times. There would be at least one blank page per chapter. Betty spends much of the book explaining her busy schedule and how she probably shouldn't have written this book but couldn't say no.
Overall, it was a quick read, and I enjoyed it, but it could have been done more efficiently. Just let the book be shorter. If she only had time to write this much, let it be. That's ok.
3 Stars
Pros: Betty White photos. Betty's love for animals bleeds through the pages and are mentioned in over half of the book. Betty's witty personality.
Cons: Formatting, formatting, formatting. For Betty's conservation effort for the environment, you would think that she may have had a problem with the waste of paper that was put forth with this book. To make the book appear long, the margins were so huge if you put both sides together, it would be equal to or more than the space in which the writing occurs. Instead of letting a short passage BE short, they tried to stretch it out. There were several instances in the short book where the same anecdote was mentioned almost verbatim two or three times. There would be at least one blank page per chapter. Betty spends much of the book explaining her busy schedule and how she probably shouldn't have written this book but couldn't say no.
Overall, it was a quick read, and I enjoyed it, but it could have been done more efficiently. Just let the book be shorter. If she only had time to write this much, let it be. That's ok.
3 Stars
March 12, 2022
Ever since the 1980's and the golden era of the Golden Girls, I have been a fan of Betty White. To me, she is one the great amusements of my life right up there with Lucille Balle and Ellen Degeneres. I like the fact that she is such an animal lover and I enjoyed seeing her continue to play major roles in television and movies.
If You Ask Me is an easy read, a touching, honest look at the thoughts and life of Betty White. The book features photographs along with Betty's handwritten Forward and Afterword. At the library, I found an audiobook read by the author which was an enjoyable companion to my hardcover copy :-)
Originally published in 2011, I've experienced this book twice.
Favorite Passages:
GROWING OLDER
It's not a surprise, we knew it was coming - make the most of it. So you may not be as fast on your feet, and the image in your mirror may be a little disappointing, but if you are still functioning and not in pain, gratitude should be the name of the game.
_______
There is even a funny side to aging, if one has a warped sense of humor. If one has no sense of humor, one is in trouble.
ON REFLECTION
In show business, the mirror obviously plays a big part in one's life, but early on - long before I started working - my beloved mother taught me another role the mirror plays. I can still hear her:
"Bets, you can lie to anyone in the world and even get away with it, perhaps, but when you are alone and look into your own eyes in the mirror, you can't sidestep the truth. Always be sure you can meet those eyes directly. Otherwise, it's big trouble, my girl."
HEALTH
As for my hair, I have no idea what color it really is, and I never intend to find out.
______
But in the end, the energy is also very much due to enjoying what I am so lucky to do for a living. Show business. If all this sounds too "Little Mary Sunshine," please put up with me while I celebrate it.
______
Can you blame me? Animals don't lie. Animals don't criticize. If animals have moody days, they handle them better than humans do.
HUMOR
For me, humor is about rhythm. It's like an ear for music.
ENTHUSIASM
I think everybody needs a passion. Whether it's one passion or a hundred, that's what keeps life interesting. If you live without passion, you can go through life without leaving any footprints. You might leave behind pleasant memories in the minds of friends and acquaintances, but those dissipate quickly.
You often hear about people who can't wait to retire. When they're sixty-five years old - that's when they'll start to live. And I think it's so sad!
HOT IN CLEVELAND
Sixty-three years in this business and I still find it difficult to refuse a job offer. That could be a hangover from the early days when jobs were hard to come by and I always thought each one might be my last.
WRITER'S BLOCK
. . . I am strange for stationary stores. Not for the fancy writing paper - it's those tablets and packs of lined three-hole notebook pages and those packs of typing paper that turn me on.
ON STAGE FRIGHT
It's amazingly common for actors to have some form of stage fright. It just manifests itself in different ways.
I remember Rue McClanahan used to say, "That's one thing I never get! I never get stage fright!"
I think she was lying through her teeth.
TYPECASTING
After more than thirty hours a week on live television for four years, there were those who thought of me as sickeningly sweet. They'd say, "She'll make your teeth fall out!" But if we met at a party they would tell me, "Oh, you're not as bad as I thought you were!"
DATING DU JOUR
Well, animal lover that I am, a cougar I am not. All my life, even as a kid, I have preferred men older than I am.
Unfortunately, today I don't think there is anyone older than I am!
FRIENDSHIPS
Friendship takes time and energy if it's going to work. You can luck into something great, but it doesn't last if you don't give it proper appreciation. Friendship can be so comfortable, but nurture it - don't take it for granted.
______
I had to watch myself. I didn't want to get a reputation that I don't like women, because that's not true at all. I just like guys best.
That's not politically correct these days. But it's still fun.
STUFFED ANIMALS
Where it begins to get a little weird is that to me, these stuffed animals are almost real. They have their individual personalities - some are looking right into my eyes - and when a new member joins the group, I introduce him to the others.
SPEAKING ANIMAL
You're never too old to adopt a pet if you look ahead and make arrangements for their future. Then relax and enjoy each other.
DINING ROOM TABLE
At four a.m., which seems to be my witching hour, I wake up not in a panic about memorizing my lines or what the day on the set might bring. No, I wake up haunted by that mess in that office - and the growing mess on my dining room table!
I think to myself, Betty, you must clean this mess before you die. God forbid someone else has to rifle through what's piled on there. I fantasize about bringing in giant garbage bags and just tossing everything out - but I can't bring myself to do it.
What about my potential dinner guests? With no place to serve them, we wind up with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres in the den, then we go out to eat. I am not what might be called one of the world's greatest hostesses.
One of my New Year's resolutions will be to finally clear that table.
But not this year.
POKER
We don't play for big money, but we play for blood.
It's dealer's choice, and each hand is high/low. We don't play a lot of wild games. Screw Thy Neighbor (it's really Screw Your Neighbor, but we call it Screw Thy Neighbor, to class it up) is my favorite.
INTEGRITY
You don't just luck into integrity. You work at it.
I'M EIGHTY-NINE?
But I don't get depressed as the number climbs. Perhaps because I don't fear death.
______
If you've ever lost a loved one, or witnessed it, you can't help but see that the body is an envelope for the letter.
My friends kid me that when it happens to me, Allen's going to be up there waiting for me and probably my mom and dad. That's my family. But before I can get to them I'm going to have to wade through Booty and Binky and Bob and Panda and Kitta and all my pets through the years --
Picturing that always starts me laughing.
AFTERWORD
If you have stuck with me this far I say a big thank you. Hope you enjoyed the trip. If not, take comfort in the fact that I had a wonderful time.
Love, Betty
If You Ask Me is an easy read, a touching, honest look at the thoughts and life of Betty White. The book features photographs along with Betty's handwritten Forward and Afterword. At the library, I found an audiobook read by the author which was an enjoyable companion to my hardcover copy :-)
Originally published in 2011, I've experienced this book twice.
Favorite Passages:
GROWING OLDER
It's not a surprise, we knew it was coming - make the most of it. So you may not be as fast on your feet, and the image in your mirror may be a little disappointing, but if you are still functioning and not in pain, gratitude should be the name of the game.
_______
There is even a funny side to aging, if one has a warped sense of humor. If one has no sense of humor, one is in trouble.
ON REFLECTION
In show business, the mirror obviously plays a big part in one's life, but early on - long before I started working - my beloved mother taught me another role the mirror plays. I can still hear her:
"Bets, you can lie to anyone in the world and even get away with it, perhaps, but when you are alone and look into your own eyes in the mirror, you can't sidestep the truth. Always be sure you can meet those eyes directly. Otherwise, it's big trouble, my girl."
HEALTH
As for my hair, I have no idea what color it really is, and I never intend to find out.
______
But in the end, the energy is also very much due to enjoying what I am so lucky to do for a living. Show business. If all this sounds too "Little Mary Sunshine," please put up with me while I celebrate it.
______
Can you blame me? Animals don't lie. Animals don't criticize. If animals have moody days, they handle them better than humans do.
HUMOR
For me, humor is about rhythm. It's like an ear for music.
ENTHUSIASM
I think everybody needs a passion. Whether it's one passion or a hundred, that's what keeps life interesting. If you live without passion, you can go through life without leaving any footprints. You might leave behind pleasant memories in the minds of friends and acquaintances, but those dissipate quickly.
You often hear about people who can't wait to retire. When they're sixty-five years old - that's when they'll start to live. And I think it's so sad!
HOT IN CLEVELAND
Sixty-three years in this business and I still find it difficult to refuse a job offer. That could be a hangover from the early days when jobs were hard to come by and I always thought each one might be my last.
WRITER'S BLOCK
. . . I am strange for stationary stores. Not for the fancy writing paper - it's those tablets and packs of lined three-hole notebook pages and those packs of typing paper that turn me on.
ON STAGE FRIGHT
It's amazingly common for actors to have some form of stage fright. It just manifests itself in different ways.
I remember Rue McClanahan used to say, "That's one thing I never get! I never get stage fright!"
I think she was lying through her teeth.
TYPECASTING
After more than thirty hours a week on live television for four years, there were those who thought of me as sickeningly sweet. They'd say, "She'll make your teeth fall out!" But if we met at a party they would tell me, "Oh, you're not as bad as I thought you were!"
DATING DU JOUR
Well, animal lover that I am, a cougar I am not. All my life, even as a kid, I have preferred men older than I am.
Unfortunately, today I don't think there is anyone older than I am!
FRIENDSHIPS
Friendship takes time and energy if it's going to work. You can luck into something great, but it doesn't last if you don't give it proper appreciation. Friendship can be so comfortable, but nurture it - don't take it for granted.
______
I had to watch myself. I didn't want to get a reputation that I don't like women, because that's not true at all. I just like guys best.
That's not politically correct these days. But it's still fun.
STUFFED ANIMALS
Where it begins to get a little weird is that to me, these stuffed animals are almost real. They have their individual personalities - some are looking right into my eyes - and when a new member joins the group, I introduce him to the others.
SPEAKING ANIMAL
You're never too old to adopt a pet if you look ahead and make arrangements for their future. Then relax and enjoy each other.
DINING ROOM TABLE
At four a.m., which seems to be my witching hour, I wake up not in a panic about memorizing my lines or what the day on the set might bring. No, I wake up haunted by that mess in that office - and the growing mess on my dining room table!
I think to myself, Betty, you must clean this mess before you die. God forbid someone else has to rifle through what's piled on there. I fantasize about bringing in giant garbage bags and just tossing everything out - but I can't bring myself to do it.
What about my potential dinner guests? With no place to serve them, we wind up with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres in the den, then we go out to eat. I am not what might be called one of the world's greatest hostesses.
One of my New Year's resolutions will be to finally clear that table.
But not this year.
POKER
We don't play for big money, but we play for blood.
It's dealer's choice, and each hand is high/low. We don't play a lot of wild games. Screw Thy Neighbor (it's really Screw Your Neighbor, but we call it Screw Thy Neighbor, to class it up) is my favorite.
INTEGRITY
You don't just luck into integrity. You work at it.
I'M EIGHTY-NINE?
But I don't get depressed as the number climbs. Perhaps because I don't fear death.
______
If you've ever lost a loved one, or witnessed it, you can't help but see that the body is an envelope for the letter.
My friends kid me that when it happens to me, Allen's going to be up there waiting for me and probably my mom and dad. That's my family. But before I can get to them I'm going to have to wade through Booty and Binky and Bob and Panda and Kitta and all my pets through the years --
Picturing that always starts me laughing.
AFTERWORD
If you have stuck with me this far I say a big thank you. Hope you enjoyed the trip. If not, take comfort in the fact that I had a wonderful time.
Love, Betty
Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,112 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.