Leslie Odom, Jr.

Odom burst on the scene in 2015, originating the role of Aaron Burr in the hit Broadway musical "Hamilton." But Odom had put in years of hard work as a singer and actor beforehand. Here, Odom offers guidance, encouragement, and inspiration for teens and adults who feel they're on the cusp of something big. Photos.

How to Take Risks, Aim Higher, and Never Stop Learning

Failing Up

Heaven Adore

Rating - 4.5 stars

Surprisingly, I enjoyed this book! Odom writes in a captivating way, causing you to not want to stop reading. And when you put it down for a minute and pick it up again, you're immediately drawn back into the stories of his life and the wisdom he sheds. 

This book is an encouragement to not give up, even when things get difficult, and strive to do your very best, even if it may cost you something. Challenge yourself to take risks because you never know what you can do until you try and seek to find mentors who will push and encourage you no matter what direction you may go. He emphasizes to not stop trying but try harder.

The many stories of Odom's life that he implemented throughout the book helped to make it more personal, as if to show that he too is human, just like everyone else in the world. He had doubts, failures, successes, etc., but nothing stopped him from aiming higher.

I would highly recommend this book to perfectionists (such as myself) and to those who want to give up. Reach for your dreams and don't shy away from the challenges...everything you face will help you to grow into a better person.

Caitlyn DeRouin

I've been a huge fan of Leslie's since he was on Smash, and I've followed his career since. When I heard that he was releasing a book I was ecstatic and knew that it would be at the top of my to be read list until I got to read it.

The whole book took me about 2 hours to read, and in those two hours Leslie's writing took me on a journey. Reading his story of how he got to where he is now was so wonderful, it was like listening to a friend. I laughed, I cried and I felt moved and inspired. 

If you're a fan of theatre, Hamilton or Leslie, I highly recommend that you pick up a copy for yourself.

Claire Klein

It was very well written and easy to read.

Andrew Marti

Hamilton is a favorite in our house. The musical is a beautiful, inspiring vision of America. It affirms that the ideals of the founding fathers still resonate, but through a lens of issues for today: immigration, diversity, the role of power, etc. 

Leslie Odom Jr. (Aaron Burr) was an important part of that musical and that journey. This is essentially a self-help book. Ordinarily, I prefer my self help content in more subtle forms. Yet, Odom is likable, his story is appealing and his advice is relatable. 

His questions resonate: "What are you ignoring today? What did you do to help yourself today? Who did you call? What did you read? Did you take one step toward something that makes you come alive today?"

Jacqui Siroia

Carly Kloack

Ellie DeBeer

Mandi Jayne

Erika

Sally

Bay Cos

Kyra Ann Dawkins

Leslie Odom Jr., burst on the scene in 2015, originating the role of Aaron Burr in the Broadway musical phenomenon Hamilton. Since then, he has performed for sold-out audiences, sung for the Obamas at the White House, and won a Tony Award for Best Leading Actor in a Musical. But before he landed the role of a lifetime in one of the biggest musicals of all time, Odom put in years of hard work as a singer and an actor. With personal stories from his life, Odom asks the questions that will help you unlock your true potential and achieve your goals even when they seem impossible. What work did you put in today that will help you improve tomorrow? How do you surround yourself with people who will care about your dreams as much as you do? How do you know when to play it safe and when to risk it all for something bigger and better? These stories will inspire you, motivate you, and empower you for the greatness that lies ahead, whether you’re graduating from college, starting a new job, or just looking to live each day to the fullest.

Failing Up How to Take Risks, Aim Higher, and Never Stop Learning

Reviews