E.A. Hanks Reveals Troubled Childhood in New Memoir

In her memoir, "The 10: A Memoir of Family and the Open Road," Elizabeth Anne Hanks, daughter of Tom Hanks, reveals the traumatic experiences of her childhood, marked by emotional and physical abuse from her late mother, Susan Dillingham. E.A. describes her mother's possible undiagnosed bipolar disorder and the chaotic home life that left her feeling neglected and fearful. After her parents divorced in the 1980s, she and her brother, Colin Hanks, faced instability, often lacking food and proper care. Both Tom and Colin were supportive during the writing process, with Tom affirming that E.A. accurately portrayed their mother. The memoir also highlights E.A.'s journey of understanding her past, including a six-month road trip along Interstate 10 to reflect on her upbringing. Despite the painful revelations, E.A. emphasizes the strong bond she shares with her father and stepmother, Rita Wilson.