Unpacking E.A. Hanks' 'The 10': A Daughter's Journey Of Family, Trauma, And Self-Discovery
In the literary world, few things capture public attention quite like a deeply personal memoir, especially when it comes from the child of a beloved public figure. Such is the case with E.A. Hanks, the daughter of Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks and his first wife, Susan Dillingham (also known professionally as Samantha Lewes). Her recently released book, The 10: A Memoir of Family and the Open Road, has not only captivated readers but has also prompted a rare public response from her famous father, shedding light on a childhood lived far from the spotlight's assumed glamour.
Released on April 8th, E.A. Hanks' memoir is far more than a tell-all; it's described as a "breathtaking memoir that transforms the classic road trip into a deeply personal journey of self-discovery, reckoning, and healing." It's a testament to the power of narrative, where "E.A. Hanks intertwines geography and memory, drawing readers into her exploration of family secrets and self-discovery."
The Road Less Traveled: A Memoir's Core Journey
At the heart of The 10 is a literal and metaphorical cross-country journey. E.A. Hanks, a writer and journalist, embarks on a solo cross-country road trip along "The Ten" – retracing a historic immigration route across America. This journey serves as the backbone for her exploration, a physical manifestation of her internal quest. As she writes, "I am starting this journey because I am yet another girl trying to make sense of her dead, crazy mother. I want to understand the land that made her, to see if it made me, too."
Retracing Roots and Unearthing Truths
The memoir is wide-ranging, blending personal reflection with observations on America's myths and political landscapes, even detailing her time living in a van during her journey. This unique approach allows her to connect her personal narrative with a broader understanding of identity and place. The "Data Kalimat" emphasizes that the book is "both a quest to understand her mother and a cross-country road trip," showcasing Hanks' masterful blend of personal narrative with a broader cultural and geographical exploration.
A Mother's Legacy and a Daughter's Quest
A central, and perhaps the most challenging, aspect of the memoir is E.A. Hanks' candid account of her childhood, particularly her relationship with her late mother, Susan Dillingham. The book alleges abuse perpetrated by her mother, painting a picture of a "turbulent childhood." This deeply personal revelation forms a significant part of her "quest to understand her mother," and the "haunting family mystery and the questions her troubled mother left behind."
The journey on the open road becomes a vehicle for E.A. Hanks to confront these difficult memories and seek understanding. It's a brave step to share such intimate details, especially given her parents' public profiles. The book is described as a "masterful blend of humor, heartache, and unforgettable" moments, suggesting that despite the difficult subject matter, it offers a nuanced and compelling read.
Growing Up Hanks: Beyond the Hollywood Glamour
While the memoir primarily focuses on E.A. Hanks' relationship with her mother and her journey of self-discovery, it also offers a rare glimpse into what it was like "growing up with two Hollywood icons." The "Data Kalimat" notes that E.A. Hanks "shared what it was like growing up with two Hollywood icons," suggesting that the book touches upon the unique challenges and experiences of a childhood spent in the shadow of immense fame, even if it's not the primary focus.
One snippet even mentions E.A. Hanks recalling "seeing her father afraid for the first time in her new memoir," hinting at moments of vulnerability and human connection that transcend the public persona of her famous parents. This adds another layer of depth to the narrative, showing the personal side of a family often seen through a glamorous lens.
Tom Hanks' Perspective: A Father's Pride and Support
Perhaps one of the most compelling aspects surrounding the book's release has been Tom Hanks' public reaction. The "Forrest Gump" and "You've Got Mail" actor, now 68, "broke his silence" and "opened up publicly about his daughter's book." His statements have been marked by profound pride and support for E.A.'s courage and honesty.
Tom Hanks described his daughter's memoir as "a pride" because she's been "very open" about it. This acknowledgment is significant, especially considering the sensitive nature of the allegations regarding her childhood and the "violence" she detailed. His public backing underscores the importance of E.A. Hanks' narrative and the healing power of sharing one's truth.
The support culminated in a public discussion, with "E.A. Hanks and Tom Hanks Discuss Her New Book 'The 10: A Memoir Of Family And The Open Road' at 92NY on April 8, 2025, in New York City." This event further cemented his endorsement and provided a platform for a candid conversation about the book's themes and the family's journey.
In essence, Tom Hanks' reaction has been one of unwavering paternal support, celebrating his daughter's bravery in confronting her past and sharing her story with the world. He has addressed the "bombshell memoir" not with defensiveness, but with an embrace of his daughter's profound honesty.
Conclusion
E.A. Hanks' The 10: A Memoir of Family and the Open Road stands out as a powerful and poignant exploration of identity, family trauma, and the arduous yet ultimately rewarding path to self-discovery. Through the literal and metaphorical journey of a cross-country road trip, Hanks bravely confronts her turbulent childhood, the legacy of her mother, and the complexities of growing up within a famous family. Her father, Tom Hanks, has publicly expressed immense pride in her openness and courage, highlighting the memoir's profound impact. This book is a testament to the enduring human spirit's capacity for healing and understanding, making it a compelling read for anyone grappling with their past and seeking to make sense of the landscapes, both internal and external, that have shaped them.
The 10 | Book by E.A. Hanks | Official Publisher Page | Simon & Schuster
The 10 | Book by E.A. Hanks | Official Publisher Page | Simon & Schuster
The 10: A Memoir of Family and the Open Road by E.A. Hanks | Goodreads
