Beyond Me: Finding Your Way to Life's Next Level [Hardcover]

Melinda Doolittle (Author), Ken Abraham (Contributor)

Book Description

Release date: April 27, 2010

Through poignant, often humorous stories, you will discover the secrets to Melinda's success, finding practical help to overcome your own obstacles to achieve the next level in any area of life. Because she was tone deaf as a child, Doolittle's choir director would plead with her to just move her mouth and not let any sound come out. Undaunted, her love of singing drove her to enter a contest in the 7th grade and, miraculously, she won. Melinda began to realize that success in life was something bigger than her---or, as she puts it, 'It's beyond me!' She began setting and systematically reaching her goals, such as singing background vocals for her many of her favorite music artists. Then by an amazing turn of events, she burst onto the music scene with her flawless vocal performances on American Idol -- becoming the clear favorite of the show's most difficult judge, Simon Cowell. Beyond Me also provides you a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse of one of America's biggest pop culture phenomenon, American Idol, and how she turned that stress-filled environment into a springboard from which she could soar.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Melinda Doolittle is an acclaimed recording artist who had a meteoric rise to fame on American Idol. She performs regularly on television and in concerts internationally and is a spokesperson for Malaria No More and The Boys and Girls Club of America.

Ken Abraham, who has 12 New York Times bestsellers to his credit, also collaborated on Lisa Beamer's Let's Roll and Joel Osteen's Your Best Life Now.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 192 pages
• Publisher: Zondervan; First Edition edition (April 27, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 031032744X
• ISBN-13: 978-0310327448
• Product Dimensions: 5.6 x 0.7 x 8.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #567,323 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Melinda Doolittle is an acclaimed recording artist who had a meteoric rise to fame on American Idol. She performs regularly on television and in concerts internationally and is a spokesperson for Malaria No More and The Boys & Girls Club of America.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars The light does indeed shine through Melinda, her deeds, and words. April 24, 2010

By Elcondado

Format:Hardcover|Amazon Verified Purchase

Such a joy to read this inspirational account of Melinda's roots, her connection to God, and her rise to fame that so many of us were riveted to on a weekly basis on American Idol. She describes some key insights on how to live a happy and successful life, many of which were imparted to her by her wise and beautiful Mommy. In many ways this is a love story. A story of the love between a daughter and her Mother, between a little girl and God who answers her prayers for a voice, and between America and the most amazing singer who ever graced the stage of American Idol. The story is told with such a delightful humility and genuineness that it leaves the reader with a peaceful resolve to heed her kind and loving wisdom. It is also a story told with a sense of humor that will bring a smile to one's heart, and at times a belly laugh that reaches the soul. Thanks so much to Melinda for this special book that offers encouragement, and reminds us that we are not alone, as she paints the comforting image that God does indeed have a little house inside each of us. Way to "pay it forward" Melinda...Bravo!

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Melinda is an amzing writer and you wont wanna put this book down..... April 25, 2010

By Holly Clark

Format:Hardcover|Amazon Verified Purchase

Beyond Me: Finding Your Way to Life's Next Level

This book is such a blessing. So many times we lookover the simple tidbits in life that really matter the most. Melinda teaches and shows us how to treat people, how to overcome difficult situations, overcome all the negativity in this world.. She simply shows us how to live right. Get your highlighter ready... Used it several times. Excellent!!!! A perfect Mothers Day gift, Graduation gift, Birthday gift...or just an anytime gift...:-) Soooooo proud of Melinda... She's the best

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Melinda Continues To Inspire May 5, 2010

By Megan Carolin

Format:Hardcover|Amazon Verified Purchase

Melinda Doolittle is known as being the soulful, sweet singer from Season 6 of American Idol. Her genuine personality and incredible vocals captured America. Since American Idol, Melinda has continued to touch the hearts of millions through her voice and her humanitarian work. In addition to releasing a critically acclaimed album in 2009, Melinda has traveled to Africa with former first lady Mrs. Bush, raised money and awareness for Malaria No More, and teamed up with dozens of other organizations. As of May 4, Melinda can add "published author" to her long list of accomplishments.

Melinda's book, "Beyond Me", gives readers an inside look at her life. Idol fans will enjoy the behind the scenes info on the show, and those who watched Melinda during Season 6 will begin to understand the emotions she felt on that roller coaster ride. Melinda also opens her heart to share her stories of overcoming obstacles, specifically with self confidence, learning how to trust in God, and dealing with negativity. Melinda shares the importance of giving back, and what working with different organizations has meant to her. Throughout the entire book, Melinda shares wisdom that has been passed down from her mom. I was touched by their mother/daughter relationship, it was evident how important they have been to one another.

Melinda has always been known as someone who can inspire others, whether it is through her voice or her actions. In this book, she continues to find ways to motivate and reach out to others. I found myself nodding along when she talked about some of the issues in her life she has dealt with, and smiling when she shared how she overcame those issues. I can guarantee that anyone who reads this book will find encouragement, hope, and love splashed across each page. You will learn from Melinda's experiences, laugh at her witty humor, and feel for her when times were tough. The book was an absolute delight, and I feel personally grateful for being able to read it.