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An American Story

By: Wilmer Valderrama
Narrated by: Wilmer Valderrama
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Publisher's summary

Read by the author.

A love letter to America from the pen of actor, producer, immigrant, and activist Wilmer Valderrama.

In this timely memoir, Valderrama looks back on his journey from a tiny pueblo in Venezuela to the big city of Los Angeles—how he discovered his calling as an actor and later as a USO Global Ambassador, found work in Hollywood as an unproven Latino actor, and used his determination and success to build a new life for himself, his family, and many others.

Raised by two hard working parents as they navigated their family through a rapidly changing country and the rise of Venezuela's controversial former leader Hugo Chavez, Valderrama delves into his family's flight from their home and the challenges of emigrating to the United States.

After being cast in a school theatre production, Valderrama knew he had found his calling and began thinking of ways to help support his struggling family. He would attempt the impossible: find work in Hollywood as an unproven Latino actor. Following countless auditions and frequent criticisms of his accent, he created the personality that would eventually land him the role as Fez on That 70s Show.

It catapulted him to stardom.

Over the coming years, he would create the smash show, Yo Mamma, voice the lead character in Disney's Encanto, and eventually join the cast of NCIS. But it was through service to others and his first USO trip where Valderrama found his further calling—entertaining and encouraging U.S. troops around the world.

The saga of a determined soul, An American Story: Everyone's Invited is an exploration of America through the eyes of a young immigrant from Venezuela who had a dream to change the world, a talent for entertaining, and the resolve to build a new life, taking as many as possible with him on the journey.

"This is my way of showing my love, my gratitude to the country that changed my whole life."

The photo insert can be found in the audiobook companion PDF download.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2024 Wilmer Valderrama (P)2024 Harper Select
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What listeners say about An American Story

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Wilmer's transparency, his hope, & refusal to give up on any of his dreams.

I loved this book, as a whole!! Easy to follow, well written, & read by the author. This is truly a life story of trails that come, & overcoming them. All while keeping hope & faith fully alive.

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Inspired by your origin story

I couldn’t stop listening. I laughed, cried, felt inspired and left feeling revived. You wrote brilliantly.

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the dream of a little boy achieving his dreams in the usa

I recommend this book to anyone it's a great adventure. long live fez that 70s show

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Truly he is such an inspiration!! Incredible human.

I loved everything about this/him. Such a determined person his whole life and his attitude behind it was truly astounding.

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Too close to home…

This book touched my heart in ways I never thought possible. As an immigrant, Wilmer Parents experiences mirrored my own in countless ways, evoking laughter, tears, and a surge of determination. I'm inspired to take action, praying for guidance to uplift myself, my family, and my community, knowing that everything is possible, you just need to believe and work for it! Your courage and honesty are truly uplifting. 10 out 10 .

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Well done

Very touching and well articulated story. I learned a lot about the struggles of a family. That is loving and very close.

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Wonderful Story

I love the fact that the book was written and read by Wilmer. I listened from beginning to end in one day. Could not click pause.

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Great listen

I really enjoyed learning about his life and family history, as well as the message of hope.

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Love- Sincerity and determination

I am so glad I read this book. The author gave a vivid account of what I am sure most immigrants go through.
Wilmer is a wonderful person, I am so grateful that I listened to his story.
Thank you for sharing 😊

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Excellent Story of the Journey of Immigration

Wilmer does an excellent job of conveying the journey of an immigrant, and the dedication to not only bettering themselves, but also the members of their family. This is so true of nearly every immigrant that comes to the United States. Excellent book, allowing the reader to peer into one man’s immigration journey.

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