Blair Underwood Likes to Read About Real People. See His 6 Favorite Books

**Blair Underwood Reveals Literary Preferences and a Heartfelt Tribute to His Mother**

Hollywood actor Blair Underwood, widely recognised for his roles in productions like “L.A. Law” and “Sex and the City,” recently opened up about his literary tastes in an interview with Page Six. The 61-year-old star emphasised a strong preference for non-fiction as a means to connect with authentic histories and diverse cultures, exclusively distancing himself from the imagined worlds often portrayed in his acting career.

Underwood highlighted the importance of real-life stories while discussing his reading habits. “As an actor, I spend a lot of time stepping into imagined worlds. So when I’m on my own, I like to read about real history, real people, and different cultures,” he stated during the interview on April 21, shedding light on how his profession influences his personal interests.

Among his notable recommendations is “Acres of Diamonds,” an inspirational piece by Russell H. Conwell published in the 1890s. Underwood noted, “It reminds me that opportunity is usually right where I am. I just have to recognise it.” The book, originally a speech delivered by the founder of Temple University, aims to encourage readers to see potential opportunities in their everyday surroundings.

Another notable mention is Lionel Richie’s memoir, “Truly,” which follows the musician’s fascinating journey through the world of music. Underwood expressed admiration for the personal anecdotes linked to the creation of Richie’s famous songs, describing them as the soundtrack of many lives. “I love this book because we follow the extraordinary life of Lionel Richie,” he commented, a sentiment likely shared by many fans of the legendary artist.

Shifting gears from non-fiction, Underwood also shared his love for Tananarive Due’s 1997 horror novel, “My Soul to Keep.” This narrative features a woman who discovers her husband’s surprising immortality, prompting profound questions about love, legacy, and the implications of eternal life. Underwood reflected on the book’s deeper themes, stating, “It forces you to grapple with immortality. Would that, could that be a blessing or a curse?” His admiration for the story is significant enough that he once held the adaptation rights, although the proposed film never materialised.

Underwood’s literary journey extends beyond mere reading; it encompasses his heartfelt dedication to his mother. He co-authored a biography titled *A Soldier’s Wife: My Mother, the Marvelous Mrs. Marilyn A. Underwood,* celebrating the life of his late mother, a trailblazing fashion executive who passed away in 2020 after a long battle with multiple sclerosis. He said, “It’s a story about my Mama. What’s not to love? This book is for anyone who loves their mother and/or is looking for a roadmap to be loved, respected, and honoured by their own children.”

Infusing a personal touch, Underwood shared that the book’s title pays homage to his mother’s fondness for the television series *The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,* further exemplifying the close bond he shared with her throughout her life.

He also referenced Richard Bach’s beloved novella, “Jonathan Livingston Seagull.” The story of a seagull’s quest for individuality and mastery of flight resonated with Underwood, who appreciated its themes of perseverance and self-discovery. “What I love about Jonathan is that he’s willing to be cast out just to chase something deeper in himself,” he remarked, drawing parallels between the seagull’s journey and his own experiences.

Lastly, Underwood conveyed his intrigue for Neal Gabler’s “An Empire of Their Own,” which chronicles the journey of Jewish immigrants who shaped the film industry in Los Angeles. He appreciates the exploration of identity and belonging that the book offers, stating, “They weren’t just making movies. They were shaping what the idea of America and the nuclear family even looked like.”

Overall, Blair Underwood’s candid perspectives on his literary preferences reveal a desire for connection to the real world, through both personal tributes and engaging narratives. His biography, *A Soldier’s Wife: My Mother, the Marvelous Mrs. Marilyn A. Underwood,* now available, seeks to echo this very sentiment through the touching story of his mother’s life and legacy.