We're Going to Need More Wine

Stories That Are Funny, Complicated, and True

by Gabrielle Union

4.6(7,508 ratings)

12 min read

Brief overview

This book is a candid reflection on life’s messy truths, from grappling with colorism and sexual trauma to navigating career and family demands. It offers bold insights into overcoming adversity and finding authentic acceptance in a world of conflicting expectations.

Introduction

This story starts as a fearless confession of the author’s life, revealing both her laughter and her scars. She confronts taboo subjects—rape, colorism, and the complexities of fame—while urging readers to find humor in the chaos.

From suburban neighborhoods judging her family by their home, to red carpets filled with silent rivalries, she learned self-reliance early. Each chapter is a window into fears, flaws, and moments of triumph.

We meet a voice that is tired of pleasing others at the expense of her own truth. By candidly sharing mistakes and lessons, she invites us to see beyond glossy Hollywood images into real-life grit.

Most importantly, this introduction sets the stage for a journey: of learning to speak up, love one’s own skin, and band with others who have walked a similar road.

Even the most glamorous life can hide deep-seated wounds—and finding strength often means revealing those wounds first.

Balancing Two Worlds

Growing up in Pleasanton, California, the author felt like a lonely outlier. She hid entire parts of herself to fit into a predominantly white community obsessed with status and appearances.

Summers spent in Omaha brought a stark contrast. There, she encountered kids immersed in gang culture, and the line between fun and danger blurred, revealing how environment shapes behavior as much as personal character.

Her teenage years became a tug-of-war: code-switching in Pleasanton to avoid being labeled “too Black,” then navigating the gritty streets of Omaha, where survival sometimes outweighed correctness.

This split identity planted seeds of resilience. It taught her to read rooms quickly, adapt to different worlds, and sharpen her awareness of how easily one’s worth can be judged by skin tone and address.

I learned to watch my back at all times—even if that meant sacrificing pieces of myself.

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What is We're Going to Need More Wine about?

“We’re Going to Need More Wine” explores Gabrielle Union’s life through honest reflections on colorism, sexual trauma, and the complexities of modern relationships. Union shares her experiences growing up in contrasting environments, revealing how these formative years shaped her identity and self-worth. By tackling sensitive topics with courage and wit, she highlights the power of authenticity and acceptance in a society that often demands conformity.

Throughout this intimate memoir, Union invites readers to see beyond the glamour of Hollywood. She shows how adversity can become an unexpected source of strength, championing vulnerability as a means of real personal growth. From hard-earned career lessons to navigating family ties, this book offers powerful insights for anyone seeking to honor their past while molding a hopeful future.

Review of We're Going to Need More Wine

In “We’re Going to Need More Wine,” Gabrielle Union's candor stands out as a key strength. By weaving personal anecdotes with social commentary, she offers practical insights on confronting racism, overcoming trauma, and building a fulfilling career while staying grounded. Readers will find accessible writing that balances serious truths with a conversational style, making heavy subjects more approachable.

Union’s focus on self-acceptance and candid storytelling makes the book both relatable and timely. She speaks openly about everything from marriage and prenups to healing from past wounds, creating a safe space for honest reflection. For anyone looking to broaden their understanding of race, gender, and modern relationships, this memoir is a thought-provoking read. It comes with a strong recommendation for those seeking both empowerment and genuine life lessons.

Who should read We're Going to Need More Wine?

Young professionals looking for guidance on authenticity and self-worth
Readers interested in racial identity and breaking societal beauty standards
Survivors of trauma seeking stories of resilience and healing
Fans of celebrity memoirs who appreciate heartfelt, relatable storytelling

About the author

Gabrielle Union is an American actress, activist, and author. She has been active in the entertainment industry since the 1990s, with notable roles in films like "Bring It On," "Bad Boys II," and "Think Like a Man," as well as starring in the BET drama series "Being Mary Jane" from 2013 to 2019. Union has written four books, including two memoirs and two children's books, and has received several awards for her acting and humanitarian efforts, including the President's Award from the NAACP Image Awards. Her memoir "We're Going to Need More Wine" was published in 2017 and features personal stories and reflections on various topics.