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Just Being Audrey
From Roman Holiday to Breakfast at Tiffany's, when Audrey Hepburn starred in a movie, she lit up the screen. Her unique sense of fashion, her grace, and, most important, her spirit made her beloved by generations. But her life offscreen was even more luminous. As a little girl growing up in Nazi-occupied Europe, she learned early on that true kindness is the greatest measure of a person—and it was a lesson she embodied as she became one of the first actresses to use her celebrity to shine a light on the impoverished children of the world through her work with UNICEF.
This is Audrey Hepburn as a little girl, an actress, an icon, an inspiration; this is Audrey just being Audrey.
This is Audrey Hepburn as a little girl, an actress, an icon, an inspiration; this is Audrey just being Audrey.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 25, 2011
19 people are currently reading
1645 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 324 reviews
September 7, 2011
Just read it!
The author and illustrator make their feelings clear in their notes. They admire Audrey, and that comes across beautifully in the story and in the illustrations.
I have always admired Audrey Hepburn: her acting and dancing, and particularly her work for UNICEF. But, I learned so much about her early life, including her time during WWII (including a UN tie-in), some about her struggles, her hard work, her motherhood, how she treated the crews when she starred in movies, and most importantly her lifelong outlook on life and self. I’d never realized how much she overcame by hard work, sense, and most importantly never being anybody but herself. Here is someone I’d feel perfectly comfortable to have young people emulate. This picture book biography does a marvelous job of bringing the “real” Audrey to light. I’m so glad that this book was created. I’m very grateful to Goodreads’ friend Kathryn for alerting me to this book. It’s a winner. I loved it!
I knew I’d gush. I am so enthusiastic about this book that I almost decided not to write a review for it; I almost just rated it.
The author and illustrator make their feelings clear in their notes. They admire Audrey, and that comes across beautifully in the story and in the illustrations.
I have always admired Audrey Hepburn: her acting and dancing, and particularly her work for UNICEF. But, I learned so much about her early life, including her time during WWII (including a UN tie-in), some about her struggles, her hard work, her motherhood, how she treated the crews when she starred in movies, and most importantly her lifelong outlook on life and self. I’d never realized how much she overcame by hard work, sense, and most importantly never being anybody but herself. Here is someone I’d feel perfectly comfortable to have young people emulate. This picture book biography does a marvelous job of bringing the “real” Audrey to light. I’m so glad that this book was created. I’m very grateful to Goodreads’ friend Kathryn for alerting me to this book. It’s a winner. I loved it!
I knew I’d gush. I am so enthusiastic about this book that I almost decided not to write a review for it; I almost just rated it.
August 26, 2011
This charmingly illustrated biography for children is a beautiful tribute to Audrey Hepburn. It being with her childhood, dancing fairy-tale ballets in her family's garden, dreaming of being the best ballerina in all of Europe, through the rough years of WWII when she and forty other souls hid in a small house in the country where there was no heat and little food and no one could clap at the end of the little dance performances Audrey gave because they were afraid the noise would give them away. After the war, Audrey and her mother moved to England. They had little money and Audrey had only a few blouses, skirts and one colorful scarf; "But she could tie that scarf twenty different ways to make a new outfit every day." Indeed, Audrey knew how to choose happiness over sorrow, hope over despair. When she finally admitted to herself that she was, indeed, too tall to be a ballerina, she turned to acting. And, how happy she made audiences around the world through her films, and how deeply she enriched the lives of children through her work with UNICEF, using her celebrity for the good of others and to create positive changes in the world. This story warmed my heart and lifted my spirits. Audrey always sought to remain true to herself, and I think her story will inspire many young girls to do the same... and, one would hope, be a little like Audrey, too.
March 2, 2013
I absolutely loved this book! Many people do not know much about the background of Audrey Hepburn, and this book brings it to life. The message is a great one, portraying Audrey as a wonderful girl with simple, but essential values. The illustrations in this book are beautiful. Although it could be more detailed, it does still manage to appeal to the intended audience (young readers, perhaps primary grades) and it sends a valuable message to young children to pursue their dreams and be open to what can come of those experiences. Although Audrey's first dream did not necessarily come true, she still was able to pursue another dream and make that one come true (being an actress!). This is a great book to include in the introductions of biographies to students because of its simplicity and really appealing illustrations.
September 25, 2011
I love this book because it seems to excel in so many things: lovely writing, yes! Lovely illustrations that perfectly fit the story, definitely! Great story told in a beautiful way, yup and yup!
I had no idea the delightful Audrey Hepburn had such a trying childhood. But what makes the story even more amazing and wonderful, is how she overcame it all with a positive attitude and a kind heart. I love how she kept her own giving personality and determination, and was still totally loved and respected in Hollywood (and, well, the world I guess!)
Definitely pick this book up - even if you're not into Hepburn herself, it's still a wonderful story about overcoming the odds and about a good heart winning the day!
I had no idea the delightful Audrey Hepburn had such a trying childhood. But what makes the story even more amazing and wonderful, is how she overcame it all with a positive attitude and a kind heart. I love how she kept her own giving personality and determination, and was still totally loved and respected in Hollywood (and, well, the world I guess!)
Definitely pick this book up - even if you're not into Hepburn herself, it's still a wonderful story about overcoming the odds and about a good heart winning the day!
January 3, 2013
Read this quite quickly and although this really shouldn't count towards my book goal for its shortness, I just couldn't help myself ;)
The illustrations in this are absolutely stunning and although the biography in this book isn't too detailed, it still emulates the life of audrey quite well. An excellent little book for young people to learn and appreciate one of the most amazing human beings that ever lived. Not to mention this book is fabulous just to have for any Audrey fan, like me :)
The illustrations in this are absolutely stunning and although the biography in this book isn't too detailed, it still emulates the life of audrey quite well. An excellent little book for young people to learn and appreciate one of the most amazing human beings that ever lived. Not to mention this book is fabulous just to have for any Audrey fan, like me :)
June 9, 2019
A picture-book biography and tribute to film legend Audrey Hepburn, Just Being Audrey follows the life story of this actress and trend-setter, from her youthful days in Belgium, when she longed to become a ballerina, through her adolescence in German-occupied Holland, her post-war switch from dancing to acting, in London, and her growing fame as a film actress, after coming to America. The narrative, which emphasizes Hepburn's inimitable style and sense of self, focuses on the actress' kindness to others, and concludes with her involvement in UNICEF.
Unlike some other reviewers, I am not a great fan of Audrey Hepburn - I think I've seen one or two of her movies, amongst them Breakfast at Tiffany's, but I can't say I really have thought that much about her, one way or another - but I found Just Being Audrey an engaging tale, nevertheless. I had been unaware of Hepburn's activism for children, which is most admirable, or of her own childhood trauma, as a survivor of WWII, so I was glad to learn of those things. I found it rather amusing that Hepburn had to struggle (more or less) against a standard of beauty that emphasized curves, rather than slimness, as I think the opposite could be said today (and to the great detriment of most woman). A lesson in how times change! Informative, with charming artwork, Just Being Audrey is a book I would recommend to young readers who are curious about Audrey Hepburn, or who are interested in classic film stars.
Unlike some other reviewers, I am not a great fan of Audrey Hepburn - I think I've seen one or two of her movies, amongst them Breakfast at Tiffany's, but I can't say I really have thought that much about her, one way or another - but I found Just Being Audrey an engaging tale, nevertheless. I had been unaware of Hepburn's activism for children, which is most admirable, or of her own childhood trauma, as a survivor of WWII, so I was glad to learn of those things. I found it rather amusing that Hepburn had to struggle (more or less) against a standard of beauty that emphasized curves, rather than slimness, as I think the opposite could be said today (and to the great detriment of most woman). A lesson in how times change! Informative, with charming artwork, Just Being Audrey is a book I would recommend to young readers who are curious about Audrey Hepburn, or who are interested in classic film stars.
March 5, 2019
Along with adorable illustrations of Audrey, this book book is a brief timeline of Audrey's career and influence on us today.
April 3, 2025
Sweet and charming—just like Audrey herself! This book is wonderful! You can actually "see" Audrey in the goregous illustrations, especially in the eyes and clothes. I loved reading about this stylish, kindhearted and inspirational woman shared in such a simple and beautiful way. There's even a timeline of Audrey Hepburn's life in the back of the book. It's now one of my all-time favorite books about this amazing lady! Highly recommended!
April 20, 2011
Audrey Hepburn lit up the silver screen, starring in Hollywood hits Breakfast at Tiffany’s, My Fair Lady, Sabrina, and more. Her unique style was copied all around the world and even garnered its own name: the Audrey look. Margaret Cardillo and Julia Denos have teamed up to introduce this dazzling superstar to a new generation of children with their beautiful new picture book biography, Just Being Audrey. The brief look at her life begins with her childhood in war-torn Europe and concludes across the sea in Hollywood. Particular attention is given to her kindness and compassion, manifested in her work as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF. Julia Denos' broad watercolor strokes, reminiscent of fashion designers’ sketches, are a simply sparkling companion to the text, breathing fresh life into Audrey's humanitarian story.
Most children today have no idea who Audrey Hepburn is, but this beautiful book will introduce a whole new generation to a star who was the best kind of celebrity--professional, caring, and kind.
Now I'm off to watch Breakfast at Tiffany's....
Most children today have no idea who Audrey Hepburn is, but this beautiful book will introduce a whole new generation to a star who was the best kind of celebrity--professional, caring, and kind.
Now I'm off to watch Breakfast at Tiffany's....
March 21, 2011
This biography chronicles the life of Audrey Hepburn in a way that children can easily read and understand. Audrey was a child in Europe when WWII broke out and just like many other families, Audrey and her family had to go into hiding. At an early age Audrey wanted to be a dancer but was teased by the other girls “She was too tall, her feet were too big, and her neck was too long,”. Audrey went on to try acting and as we all know, the rest is history!
I love, love, love this book! I thought the length of the text was just right and the illustrations are absolutely gorgeous. Not only is this a light-hearted and fun-loving read, it also emphasizes the importance of being who you are. More than once it lets children know that Audrey never gave up and practiced harder than anyone else. I would absolutely recommend this to anyone, but especially for kids grades 3-5 wanting a biography on a famous actress.
I love, love, love this book! I thought the length of the text was just right and the illustrations are absolutely gorgeous. Not only is this a light-hearted and fun-loving read, it also emphasizes the importance of being who you are. More than once it lets children know that Audrey never gave up and practiced harder than anyone else. I would absolutely recommend this to anyone, but especially for kids grades 3-5 wanting a biography on a famous actress.
July 21, 2012
As a young girl Audrey Hepburn dreamed of becoming a ballerina and loved to dance whatever chance she got. Her family was forced to flee Europe during WWII and head to Holland with her family. Times were hard for her family, but she never let it get her down. When she became older she became very tall and decided to focus her attention on becoming an actress. Audrey tall and eloquent stature caught the attention of some important people in the acting world. She found herself on the stage in New York and then landed several famous movie roles. Her style, grace, and humanity made people fall in love with her. To this day people copy her style and love to watch her movies. She never forgot the struggles she went through as a child and dedicated her time and popularity to UNICEF.
This is a delightful story that children will enjoy looking through the illustration and hearing about the struggles and obstacles she had to go through to make her dream come true.
This is a delightful story that children will enjoy looking through the illustration and hearing about the struggles and obstacles she had to go through to make her dream come true.
January 28, 2013
Love Audrey Hepburn and loved learning about her... and LOVE her movie Wait Until Dark. She seemed to have such a natural grace. There are a lot of interesting observations that can be made based on her story...
Don't pay attention to people who don't appreciate you because you are "different"!
There are more important things than fame... like kindness.
If you have a dream that isn't going to work out, something else wonderful might be the thing for you.
Working hard and being yourself may result in wonderful things happening in your life.
The thing about you that makes you an awkward child, may be just the things that makes you a beautiful or amazing adult.
If you make it big, don't forget the little people (referring to her work in UNICEF).
Choose hope over sorrow when your life isn't always the fairy tale you hoped it to be.
Don't pay attention to people who don't appreciate you because you are "different"!
There are more important things than fame... like kindness.
If you have a dream that isn't going to work out, something else wonderful might be the thing for you.
Working hard and being yourself may result in wonderful things happening in your life.
The thing about you that makes you an awkward child, may be just the things that makes you a beautiful or amazing adult.
If you make it big, don't forget the little people (referring to her work in UNICEF).
Choose hope over sorrow when your life isn't always the fairy tale you hoped it to be.
December 6, 2013
Margaret Cardillo's "Just Being Audrey" is very much like Audrey Hepburn: charming, beautiful, and thin. This book is a wonderful introduction to those who don't know Audrey's life story. Everything is covered from Audrey's childhood in Holland during WWII to her film career to her work with UNICEF later in life. Cardillo's prose is simple enough for all ages. llustrations by Julia Denos are beautiful and capture Audrey's glow. Though not as detailed as a longer, full-length biography would be, Denos' art makes this a beautiful addition to any Hepburn fan's collection. My only problem is, as a librarian, where do I catalog it? The pictures and size make it a children's book; but the subject appeals to adults. Really, it is a book all ages can enjoy.
April 5, 2011
If you’re looking for a picture book for a young girl, you can’t do any better than Just Being Audrey. I happened upon it today & realized what a fantastic role model Audrey is, from being an awkward girl no one thought could be a dancer, going into hiding during WWII, becoming a huge star, mother and finally spending the rest of her life helping others through UNICEF. It’s so inspiring to think that maybe a little girl will discover Audrey through this book and aspire to be more than what the current crop of “role models” has to offer. The art is beautiful, too. I really just fell completely in love with this book.
April 28, 2012
I am definitely an Audrey Hepburn fan, so I'm very happy that there is a picture book to introduce our younger readers to her. I've always been impressed by her, even in roles that I wasn't fond of. I admired her as a person and for having her own beauty. Her confidence and poise--at least on screen--is an inspiration to me. The author tells just the right points of her life to show what there was/is to admire, and the illustrator nailed her. Wow. Very impressive. The illustrations and subject are enough for me to agree to the book becoming a Beehive nominee.
Now I must go watch a bunch of Audrey movies--I need my own marathon!
Now I must go watch a bunch of Audrey movies--I need my own marathon!
June 7, 2017
It's such a beautiful book. The illustrations and summary of Audrey Hepburn's life is beautiful. This is a beautiful book for her fans old and young.
February 25, 2015
Loved it, but wish it had more information.
March 19, 2021
Just Being Audrey is a children's picture book written by Margaret Cardillo and illustrated by Julia Denos. Audrey Hepburn proves as irresistible a character in the pages of a children's book as she is in those soigné roles of the silver screen.
Audrey Hepburn was a British actress and humanitarian. Recognized as both a film and fashion icon, she was ranked by the American Film Institute as the third-greatest female screen legend from the Golden Age of Hollywood, and was inducted into the International Best Dressed List Hall of Fame.
Cardillo's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. Cardillo's literal, matter-of fact storytelling could have used a little more panache, but she gets her point across. Denos is spot-on in her watercolor portraits of Hepburn at each stage of her life.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. It tells a story, which is packed with fascinating details about Hepburn's upbringing in WWII Europe and her foray into acting, which she would become a Hollywood and fashion icons worldwide.
All in all, Just Being Audrey is a wonderful biography of a Hollywood starlet and fashion star that is Audrey Hepburn.
Audrey Hepburn was a British actress and humanitarian. Recognized as both a film and fashion icon, she was ranked by the American Film Institute as the third-greatest female screen legend from the Golden Age of Hollywood, and was inducted into the International Best Dressed List Hall of Fame.
Cardillo's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informative. Cardillo's literal, matter-of fact storytelling could have used a little more panache, but she gets her point across. Denos is spot-on in her watercolor portraits of Hepburn at each stage of her life.
The premise of the book is rather straightforward. It tells a story, which is packed with fascinating details about Hepburn's upbringing in WWII Europe and her foray into acting, which she would become a Hollywood and fashion icons worldwide.
All in all, Just Being Audrey is a wonderful biography of a Hollywood starlet and fashion star that is Audrey Hepburn.
January 7, 2026
"it was such a different style that it got its own name: the audrey look.and the very things that made her appear awkward as a child? they were precisely the things that made her beautiful as an adult. from los angeles to new york, paris to tokyo, there were imitations of her walking about town. everyone wanted to be just like audrey."
"she was the kindest actress any of them had ever worked with."
"she was the kindest actress any of them had ever worked with."
June 19, 2018
Absolutely lovely.
October 18, 2018
Wonderfully written, great for kids who just want a fun bio read, well rounded information. The dainty illustrations certainly enhance the whole feel.
March 5, 2021
Lovely tribute to Audrey Hepburn. The art style is perfect for the icon. It does a very balanced job of including all aspects of her, not just the actress.
January 6, 2018
Cute picture book about Hepburn’s early life, career, and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadorship.
May 23, 2022
»»» A aquisição:
Primeira compra, há muitos anos, online. O fascínio que esta capa e, em especial, a sua ilustração me causaram ao passar os olhos por uma livraria online fez-me ganhar coragem para a compra. [Relido em 2022]
»»» A aventura:
Uma breve e maravilhosa história ilustrada da vida da atriz Audrey Hepburn, desde a infância na Europa ocupada pelos nazis até aos filmes que agraciou que a tornaram numa estrela de Hollywood e aos seus momentos de dádiva para com os outros.
»»» Sentimento final:
Deslumbrante e imensamente cativante.
A história verídica é encantadora, admito que desconhecia as origens da atriz na Europa em tempos cruéis, que a fizeram apreciar as pequenas coisas da vida, e um laivo dos filmes e vestidos (guarda-roupa) que a tornaram um ícone do cinema valem qualquer livro e especialmente um tão maravilhosamente ilustrado.
Uma ode à altura desta grande senhora.
Para todas as idades.
»»» Nota final (Capa e outras considerações):
--- [Capa] – Capa simples mas cativante e bem representativa da protagonista e da ilustração que vamos encontrar na nossa leitura. Tudo de muito bom gosto, incluindo os tipos de letra escolhidos.
--- [Ilustração] – O que mais gostei, para além de saber mais da Audrey. Parece uma mistura de lápis de cor e lápis de cera que dá uns contornos e um acabamento adoráveis a todas as figuras e cenas representadas.
»»» Uma espreitadela:
Primeira compra, há muitos anos, online. O fascínio que esta capa e, em especial, a sua ilustração me causaram ao passar os olhos por uma livraria online fez-me ganhar coragem para a compra. [Relido em 2022]
»»» A aventura:
Uma breve e maravilhosa história ilustrada da vida da atriz Audrey Hepburn, desde a infância na Europa ocupada pelos nazis até aos filmes que agraciou que a tornaram numa estrela de Hollywood e aos seus momentos de dádiva para com os outros.
»»» Sentimento final:
Deslumbrante e imensamente cativante.
A história verídica é encantadora, admito que desconhecia as origens da atriz na Europa em tempos cruéis, que a fizeram apreciar as pequenas coisas da vida, e um laivo dos filmes e vestidos (guarda-roupa) que a tornaram um ícone do cinema valem qualquer livro e especialmente um tão maravilhosamente ilustrado.
Uma ode à altura desta grande senhora.
Para todas as idades.
»»» Nota final (Capa e outras considerações):
--- [Capa] – Capa simples mas cativante e bem representativa da protagonista e da ilustração que vamos encontrar na nossa leitura. Tudo de muito bom gosto, incluindo os tipos de letra escolhidos.
--- [Ilustração] – O que mais gostei, para além de saber mais da Audrey. Parece uma mistura de lápis de cor e lápis de cera que dá uns contornos e um acabamento adoráveis a todas as figuras e cenas representadas.
»»» Uma espreitadela:
November 19, 2013
The life of Audrey Hepburn is chronicled through her years as a little girl, an actress, and an icon. It highlights the experiences that lead her to becoming an inspiration in film, fashion, but most importantly in her kindness towards others. From growing up during World War II, to becoming a world-famous actress, and finally an Ambassador for UNICEF she sought to bring happiness to everyone she met.
The language seemed to reflect her life and the positive light surrounding it. The vocabulary was appropriate for a wide range of readers both young and old. Little facts given throughout the book (i.e. she would cook spaghetti dinners for the cast and crew of her films) continually highlighted her kindness. I learned a lot about her childhood and life growing up that I had never heard before such as, her first love of dance and then her time hiding during World War II. This new perspective made her success even more impressive. I think the artwork captured her essence and style very well. She is one of the most popular fashion icons in the world and the illustrator depicted her most well known looks but in a unique way. I thought this book did a very good job of mapping Audrey’s life from her childhood to late adulthood, while still keeping the theme of how far hard work can get you as well as the importance of true kindness. I really loved this book. It showed the life of someone so glamorous and yet kept her life’s work and legacy very down to earth.
The language seemed to reflect her life and the positive light surrounding it. The vocabulary was appropriate for a wide range of readers both young and old. Little facts given throughout the book (i.e. she would cook spaghetti dinners for the cast and crew of her films) continually highlighted her kindness. I learned a lot about her childhood and life growing up that I had never heard before such as, her first love of dance and then her time hiding during World War II. This new perspective made her success even more impressive. I think the artwork captured her essence and style very well. She is one of the most popular fashion icons in the world and the illustrator depicted her most well known looks but in a unique way. I thought this book did a very good job of mapping Audrey’s life from her childhood to late adulthood, while still keeping the theme of how far hard work can get you as well as the importance of true kindness. I really loved this book. It showed the life of someone so glamorous and yet kept her life’s work and legacy very down to earth.
March 24, 2013
Just Being Audrey by by Margaret Cardillo, illustrated by Julia Denos
As the title suggests, this picture book is about Audrey Hepburn--her early life, her aspirations to become a ballerina, her success in Hollywood and her later-life work with UNICEF.
I love Audrey, who doesn't? Cardillo's text was an interesting insight into the background of an actress who many still remember as the epitome of style and elegance. The text offered an interesting but slightly unbalanced look at Audrey's life from her childhood to her old age. (A timeline at the back details key events that were not mentioned in the narrative.) However there are very few transitions with each page spread seeming to have little connection to the pages that come before or after. The overall effect was a very choppy story albeit one filled with interesting tidbits.
Denos' illustrations are gorgeous with beautiful details and color. The pictures all have a lovely sense of movement as Audrey "glides" through the pages.
There is certainly enough here to pique a child's interest about Audrey Hepburn but fans looking for more thorough information will have to find a different book.
This would be a fun addition to a "non-fiction" or "biography" themed storytime with it's large, bright pictures and relatively short text.
As the title suggests, this picture book is about Audrey Hepburn--her early life, her aspirations to become a ballerina, her success in Hollywood and her later-life work with UNICEF.
I love Audrey, who doesn't? Cardillo's text was an interesting insight into the background of an actress who many still remember as the epitome of style and elegance. The text offered an interesting but slightly unbalanced look at Audrey's life from her childhood to her old age. (A timeline at the back details key events that were not mentioned in the narrative.) However there are very few transitions with each page spread seeming to have little connection to the pages that come before or after. The overall effect was a very choppy story albeit one filled with interesting tidbits.
Denos' illustrations are gorgeous with beautiful details and color. The pictures all have a lovely sense of movement as Audrey "glides" through the pages.
There is certainly enough here to pique a child's interest about Audrey Hepburn but fans looking for more thorough information will have to find a different book.
This would be a fun addition to a "non-fiction" or "biography" themed storytime with it's large, bright pictures and relatively short text.
December 4, 2012
Just Being Audrey is a very good and inspirational book. It proves to be one of those relatively rare cases where the author and illustrator are completely in synch regarding the theme and tone of the book. Author Margaret Cardillo writes like she has always known Audrey Hepburn by heart and after extensive research by the author and illustrator, Julia Denos, the two artists bring her best qualities to life for a new generation of readers. To be kind above all, a message Hepburn's mother, a baroness, instilled in Audrey, is timely in our age of a disturbing increase in bullying as a result of ignorance of differences and issues of diversity. It is a welcome theme throughout the book and one that children respond very well to. Audrey always felt different, but with her mother's significant encouragement we learn how she turns her unique qualities into strength of character. Just Being Audrey is a beautifully written and illustrated children's book and a special gift to older generations who have grown up loving Audrey Hepburn. I would recommend this story to any children ages 2nd grade-6th
June 29, 2012
Loved, loved this delightful picture book. The illustrations are fantastic.
1 of 5 people to win an Oscar, Golden Globe, Tony, Grammy, and Emmy!
Audrey always wanted to be the best ballerina in Europe until she got too tall and then dreamed of being an actress. Her Mom always reminded her to always be kind.
When WWII broke out at the age of 10, her family fled to Holland where they lived in a small house in the country with 40 people. After WWII Audrey and her Mom moved to London.
In 1951 a role in France led her to be Gigi on Broadway. There she was discovered as the fresh face for Hollywood.
Audrey always stayed true to herself. A perfectionist, always professional, kind, and chose hope over sorrow.
1988 Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF which saved her as a child during the war.
1989 spoke to Congress
1992 Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom
January 20, 1993 Audrey Hepburn, the mother of 2 boys, died in Switzerland. Movies: Roman Holliday, My Fair Lady, Sabrina, Breakfast @ Tiffanys.
1 of 5 people to win an Oscar, Golden Globe, Tony, Grammy, and Emmy!
Audrey always wanted to be the best ballerina in Europe until she got too tall and then dreamed of being an actress. Her Mom always reminded her to always be kind.
When WWII broke out at the age of 10, her family fled to Holland where they lived in a small house in the country with 40 people. After WWII Audrey and her Mom moved to London.
In 1951 a role in France led her to be Gigi on Broadway. There she was discovered as the fresh face for Hollywood.
Audrey always stayed true to herself. A perfectionist, always professional, kind, and chose hope over sorrow.
1988 Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF which saved her as a child during the war.
1989 spoke to Congress
1992 Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom
January 20, 1993 Audrey Hepburn, the mother of 2 boys, died in Switzerland. Movies: Roman Holliday, My Fair Lady, Sabrina, Breakfast @ Tiffanys.
September 13, 2012
Sometimes reading biographies can tend to be boring; from my experience, students do not read biographies or autobiographies because they do not enjoy the way these are written. However, after reading Just Being Audrey, I discovered that books like this one should be used to introduce students to reading biographies. The book is well written, it gives the reader an accurate account of Audrey Hepburn’s life, and the illustrations are beautiful. Even if you weren’t a fan of Audrey Hepburn before, I promise that after reading this biography, you will become one of her most loyal fans. Margaret Cardillo did an excellent job at pulling the most important information of her life to add to this biography; the text is not wordy or overwhelming, it just flows beautifully. Moreover, at the end of the biography, the author gives a simple timeline of Audrey’s life for the reader to look through. Overall, this is one of the best biographies I have read because of its simplicity and beautiful illustrations.
December 4, 2012
Amazing book! The pictures of this book are simply beautiful and keep the interest of readers. I think that this book is great because it accurately tells the story of Audrey Hepburn and it is an inspirational book. It talks about how Audrey wanted to be a ballerina, but got too tall so instead she decided to be an actress. I think that this is important because young girls (and boys too!) need to set their dreams and goals high in order to get somewhere in life. But what is most important to this story is that even though her first dream couldn't happen, she made her second dream work. This is the part that is most important for young girls to realize because most girls are very harsh on their looks. They say things like "I'm too fat. I'm too skinny. I'm too short. Etc." This leads them to believe that they can't do anything because of how they look. This is a very false statement. I would definitely recommend reading this book to students because it is a great lesson and great way to introduce biographies!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 324 reviews