Book SummaryKicking & Dreaming, by Ann Wilson and Nancy Wilson

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of Kicking & Dreaming

The early life, musical inspirations, and the beginning of the Wilson siblings' career journey.

The opening section of "Kicking & Dreaming" explores the development of the Wilson sisters' musical fervor, influenced by their familial heritage and personal experiences. The narrative progresses, illustrating their initial sources of inspiration, especially their deep fascination with the compositions of The Beatles. The chapter concludes by detailing how their initial musical group, The Viewpoints, came into existence.

Their upbringing was influenced by a strong military heritage and a dedication to artistic pursuits.

The chapter section delves into how the upbringing within a military family nurtured the creative drives of Ann and Nancy Wilson, solidified their commitment to diligence, and deepened their bond as siblings. The frequent moves they made as children created a sense of impermanence that influenced their later touring life, while artistic expression became a constant in their lives.

The frequent relocations that came with being part of a military family instilled a robust adaptability and resilience in the Wilson sisters.

Ann and Nancy Wilson, along with their sister Lynn, grew up in a household that was steeped in the traditions of the Marine Corps, guided by their grandfather, Brigadier General John Bushrod Wilson Sr., and their father, Major John Bushrod Wilson Jr. Their ancestry is notable for a number of prominent figures, one of whom gained notoriety for taking the lives and collecting the scalps of the Native Americans who had kidnapped her. The authors amusingly observe the similarities between their ancestor's story and the traditional perceptions of female rock musicians.

The Wilsons moved frequently, living in over twenty cities and thirty houses, due to the demands of their father's military career. They forged profound bonds that transformed them into a cohesive, independent entity. The necessity to frequently forge new friendships and adapt to new environments cultivated a strong resilience and flexibility within them. The authors highlight how the constant moves complicated the development of friendships, which resulted in their dependence on their close relatives as an essential source of support for their welfare. Each time the family moved, they adhered to the ritual of polishing their shoes for good luck, a custom that would shape the motifs related to journeys in Nancy Wilson's compositions.

Practical Tips

• Start a 'new beginnings' journal to foster resilience. Document each time you start something new or experience a change, focusing on the positive aspects and what you've learned. This could be as simple as trying a new type of cuisine, starting a new book, or changing your exercise routine. Reflecting on these experiences will help you see change as an opportunity for growth.
• Consider volunteering for a military support organization to gain a deeper appreciation for the military family lifestyle. Through this, you can interact with families who have similar backgrounds to Ann and Nancy Wilson, which can provide insights into the strengths and challenges of a military upbringing.
• Consider writing a fictional short story inspired by the notable figures in your family history to creatively engage with your heritage. Use the traits or achievements of these ancestors as a basis for characters or plot points, allowing you to explore the historical context and potential motivations behind their actions. This exercise can provide a personal connection to history and enhance your storytelling skills.
• You can create a mobile family history by starting a digital scrapbook that documents each place you've lived. Use a free online photo album or a digital scrapbooking app to compile photos, anecdotes, and memories from each location. This not only preserves your family's history but also helps you reflect on the diverse experiences and environments you've encountered.
• Develop your independence by setting personal challenges that require self-reliance, such as traveling solo to a new place or learning a new skill without any external help. This mimics the self-sufficiency developed through frequent relocations, as you'll need to navigate new environments or problems on your own.
• You can enhance your adaptability by practicing social improvisation with strangers. Start by striking up conversations with people you encounter in your daily routine, like baristas or fellow commuters, and focus on flowing with the conversation rather than steering it. This mimics the unpredictability of new social environments and helps you become more comfortable with the unknown.
• Host virtual reunions using video conferencing platforms. Schedule regular video calls with groups of friends from past locations. Plan activities for these calls, like virtual games or themed discussions, to create new shared experiences that strengthen your bonds despite the physical distance.
• Start a shared digital journal with close relatives to document and communicate the challenges and experiences of frequent moves. This can foster a sense of community and shared understanding among family members, even when you're not physically together. Use a platform like Google Docs or a private blog where everyone can contribute stories, advice, and words of encouragement.
• Develop a family motto that encapsulates the spirit of resilience and optimism, and recite it together during times of change. This could be a simple phrase or saying that holds significance to your family. Repeat it during family gatherings, before a big move, or when facing challenges to reinforce unity and a positive mindset.
• Integrate personal rituals into your creative process to foster inspiration. Just as the act of polishing shoes was a precursor to movement and transition, establish a small, symbolic ritual before you begin your creative work. This could be as simple as...