Simply More: A Book for Anyone Who Has Been Told They’re Too Much
This awesome book is called Simply More: A Book for Anyone Who Has Been Told They’re Too Much by Cynthia Erivo. You know her – she’s the super talented star who plays Elphaba (the green witch) in the Wicked movies, singing those big songs like “Defying Gravity”! The book came out on November 18, 2025, from Flatiron Books (part of Macmillan). It’s her first memoir, a mix of her life story and helpful advice. It’s an instant New York Times bestseller, and people love it for making them feel strong and okay just as they are. The book is about 208 pages, with short chapters that are easy to read, and it feels like Cynthia is talking right to you like a big sister.
What the Book Is About
Cynthia wrote this for anyone who’s ever heard “You’re too loud,” “too emotional,” “too weird,” or “too much” – especially if it hurt your feelings. She says being “too much” is actually a superpower! The book shares her own stories from growing up, becoming a famous singer and actress, and dealing with tough stuff like judgment because she’s a Black woman, queer, and super passionate. She talks about learning the Wicked songs years before she got the role, showing it’s never too late to chase dreams. A big part is about running marathons (real ones and hard life challenges), how moving your body helps your mind, and taking small steps every day to get better. It’s part life story and part cheer-up guide to be your biggest, brightest self without hiding who you are.
What’s Inside the Pages
The book has short, powerful stories (called vignettes) from Cynthia’s life – like her theater days, Broadway wins (she has a Tony!), movie magic in Wicked, and personal moments. There are no tons of pictures, but the words paint clear pictures in your head. She shares lessons on listening to your body, staying balanced, learning from mistakes, and turning “too much” into “just right.” Chapters are quick and inspiring, like mini pep talks. Readers say it feels gentle, wise, and full of hope – some finish feeling ready to run toward their dreams! It connects a lot to Wicked fans because Elphaba is “too much” too, but that’s what makes her amazing.
Why It’s Cool and Important
This book is super important because it tells kids (and grown-ups) that being different or extra isn’t bad – it’s what makes you shine! Cynthia shows how she turned hard times into strength, like when people judged her looks or energy, but she kept going. For 12-year-olds, it’s great if you ever feel like you don’t fit in at school or worry about being “too” anything. It teaches bravery, self-love, taking care of your body and mind, and that dreams take time but are worth it. It’s empowering for anyone feeling lost or needing a boost, and ties perfectly to Wicked‘s message of being yourself no matter what. Fans say it hits the heart and makes you feel seen!
My Final Thoughts
I give Simply More 5 stars out of 5! It’s warm, honest, and makes you want to be kinder to yourself. If you’re a Wicked fan or just someone who’s been told to “tone it down,” this book is like a big hug saying “You’re perfect as you are – be simply more!” It’s inspiring without being too heavy, and perfect for reading a chapter at a time. It might cost around $25-30, but it’s worth it for the feel-good vibes. Cynthia is amazing on stage and now on the page too – read this and feel ready to defy gravity in your own life!
