The author and main figure of the memoir, Rhimes conveys both her strengths and her flaws throughout the book. In one respect, Rhimes lives a life that is unfamiliar to her readers due to her career: She interacts with well-known actors, writers, and other figures within the media daily. She is privileged to attend elegant events and engagement and interacts with world-renowned figures such as President Barack Obama and media mogul Oprah Winfrey. On the exterior, Rhimes comes across as a confident and powerful person, due in large part to the success her television shows and media company have achieved. Educated, intelligent, and well-liked, the memoir provides a deeper version of Rhimes’s complex inner life than what is often viewable from the outside.

Rhimes paints herself as a natural introvert—most comfortable when she is alone writing and fearful of many aspects of public and social interaction. Some of her insecurities stem from her feeling awkward and unattractive as a child. Yet, Rhimes, through the nurturing of loving parents and the privilege of a rich education, grew to a capable and skilled writer. Honing her craft was a natural pursuit for her, as her family has always valued ambition and success.