A fascinating look at what it's like to grow up in front of and beyond the cameras. --Eve Plumb
For nine seasons, Mary McDonough was part of one of the most beloved families in television history. Just ten years-old when she was cast as the pretty, wholesome middle child Erin, Mary grew up on the set of "The Waltons, " alternately embracing and rebelling against her good-girl onscreen persona. Now, as the first cast member to write about her experiences on the classic series, she candidly recounts the joys and challenges of growing up Walton--from her overnight transformation from a normal kid in a working class, Irish Catholic family, to a Hollywood child star, to the personal challenges that led her to take on a new role as an activist for women's body image issues.
Touching, funny, sometimes heartbreaking, and always illuminating, "Lessons from the Mountain " is the story of everything Mary McDonough learned on her journey over--and beyond--that famous mountain.
"For someone who started out as a sweet little girl afraid to speak up, it certainly is a pleasure to hear her shout from the top of the mountain now --Alison Arngrim, "New York Times" bestselling author of "Confessions of a Prairie Bitch"
"She's a radiant woman whose truth comes from within. . .if I had to pick one word that described Mary Beth, it would be resilience." --Earl Hamner, Creator of "The Waltons"
"Mary is a whole lot more than Erin on The Waltons. This book shows how she's handled all the highs and lows with grace." George Clooney
Includes Never Before Published Bonus Chapter "