I Put a Spell on You (book)

I Put a Spell on You is a biographical book written by actor Nichelle Nichols, best known for her role as Lieutenant Uhura on Star Trek: The Original Series. Published in 1994 by Grosset/Putnam, the book chronicles Nichols' life, including her early career in show business as a singer and dancer, her experiences breaking racial and gender barriers in Hollywood, her involvement with NASA, and her personal relationships.

The autobiography details the challenges Nichols faced as an African American woman pursuing a career in entertainment during the Civil Rights era. It discusses her interactions with prominent figures like Martin Luther King Jr., who encouraged her to remain on Star Trek despite her initial desire to leave the show, recognizing its significance in representing Black people in a positive and futuristic light.

I Put a Spell on You also delves into Nichols' groundbreaking work with NASA, where she played a key role in recruiting women and minorities to the space program. The book provides insights into her personal struggles, including her experiences with sexism, racism, and the complexities of her personal relationships. It aims to offer a candid and inspiring account of her journey, highlighting her resilience, determination, and the impact she made both on and off the screen. The book's title, "I Put a Spell on You," refers to her captivating presence and the impact she aimed to have through her work.