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The Gifted Ones
Lisa was conservatively raised in a Catholic family in no-where middle America, where excitement is scarce and dreams are for sleeping. Little did she know, at age thirteen, she would suddenly find herself on a totally different path. Through an unlikely chance meeting of a fellow classmate, she's surprisingly mesmerized, almost consumed, to befriend a girl who is obviously from the other side of the tracks...the cool side. Lisa does whatever she has to just to be accepted into this small club of coolness. Little did she realize, she was signing up for a lot more than social status. The two best friends find themselves innocently taking their relationship to a foreign level neither had experienced or saw coming. A rollercoaster ride littered with choices and challenges Lisa never fathomed facing, especially in no-where middle America. She will find out what she is made of as she faces the consequences and struggles that come along with going against the grain. Throughout their six year relationship, you will witness a touching story of human nature at it's best...and at it's worst. Showing just how far the human spirit can be challenged and pushed to a point where your “fight or flight” instincts naturally kick in. Struggling just to survive in a world where you are not like everyone else, but at the same time you really are. The daily struggles- both internal and external- are exhausting, yet necessary in their quest for one simple human need....love. Finally breaking through all constraints that hold them back, reaching levels of one-ness that few actually obtain in a lifetime with their partner...only to find once they've reached that special place, it's not quite the right fit...for one of them, at least. This contemporary story, told by the teen that lived it, will lead the reader through highs and lows, giving insight to the every day challenges of the socially unaccepted, which will no doubt leave them rooting for the underdog. A true story of human resilience and the power of love...plain and simple. *Please be advised, this memoir is real, honest, and raw. If you're looking for your typical 'sterilized' read, I'm not your girl - but if you're looking for a read that is written from the heart, certain to impact you on a human level, follow me! Have I got a story for you!
282 pages, Paperback
First published April 19, 2011
3 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Vaughn
437 books88 followersI'm a self-proclaimed hippie chick that enjoys living easy with a beach in my background. An artist practically from birth, I am always looking for a creative outlet to express myself... 'The Gifted Ones' just happens to be my latest creation in self expression. "I'm just a chick with a story...everyone has one, this just happens to be mine."
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 21, 2011
This book was such a refreshing read for me. I rarely read memoirs or works of non-fiction, so the poignant honestly of this novel was such a nice break from the norm. Lisa Vaughn definitely lived a life worth writing about, and her insight into the experiences she had are so revealing. I had never looked at love the way it happened with her. The idea that you could be a straight woman, and spend years loving another woman and being with her, was never something that I would have thought possible. I looked at things as black and white; either you’re gay, bi, or straight. I had never thought of the grey areas, or of possibly falling in love with the person inside, rather than limiting yourself by only allowing yourself to fall in love with the person’s sex that you prefer. The love that this story deals with goes beyond the normal “love story” that we see all the time.
I also enjoyed reading about the struggles between Lisa and her mother. I think many young women go through a struggle of wills with their mothers, especially when they are alike in so many ways. I know that I went through a phase where I thought my mother was purposefully out to get me, and to ruin my life. Now, looking back at it, I realize how similar we were, and how often our arguments turned into a battle of wills between us…almost a battle for “power” in some ways.
I would definitely recommend this memoir. It makes you think of and view love in a new way. I think that it would appeal more to female readers, but some men would certainly enjoy it as well.
This novel was definitely a 5 star read for me.
I also enjoyed reading about the struggles between Lisa and her mother. I think many young women go through a struggle of wills with their mothers, especially when they are alike in so many ways. I know that I went through a phase where I thought my mother was purposefully out to get me, and to ruin my life. Now, looking back at it, I realize how similar we were, and how often our arguments turned into a battle of wills between us…almost a battle for “power” in some ways.
I would definitely recommend this memoir. It makes you think of and view love in a new way. I think that it would appeal more to female readers, but some men would certainly enjoy it as well.
This novel was definitely a 5 star read for me.
June 30, 2011
Lisa's story starts at age 13, when she finds herself falling in love with Selina, a 'cool' girl from the wrong side of the tracks. More soul-mates than lovers, their relationship starts out as that of two friends, with a closeness bordering on obsession, before escalating after a chance kiss. They make a wonderful couple (not in an after-school-special kind of way, but a real, warm, human kind of way), so much so that their struggles against parents, teachers, and society somewhat blinds us to the lack of intimacy between them. At first, their age explains a lot, but Lisa herself admits later that she was a selfish lover, never doing much to explore or please her girlfriend.
The bulk of the book covers about six years in their relationship, a tumultuous time filled with curfews, betrayals, parental discovery, alcohol, drugs, first jobs, first jealousies, and first tastes of freedom. Although we know enough about the girls to realise that Selina has the harder home life, it's Lisa's struggles with which we identify the strongest. It often seems as if everyone and everything is against her, until her commitment to Selina becomes as much a statement of defiance as it does an expression of love. You want to hold her and protect her, even as you want to stand back and cheer her on.
With the story written in the first-person, narrated by Lisa herself, there's a lot of foreshadowing of darker times ahead. As a result, by the time Lisa and Selina reach their two crisis points (one a matter of perceived cheating, the other a matter of real cheating), we're almost resigned to the inevitable. Their break-up is sad, and it's difficult, and it's a chapter we wish we could skip . . . but the way in which Lisa deals with it has a lot to say about what truly matters in life.
Lisa writes with a no nonsense, honest style, but she also knows how to tell a story. The words truly flow off the page, pulling you into the centre of the drama, and holding your hand the whole way through. If the book falters a bit in the last few chapters, it's only because she has stepped outside of reliving the romance, and is instead summarizing the last few decades of her life. It's interesting to see where that life took her after Selina, and even if her second soul-mate isn't quite what we'd expect, you cannot begrudge her the chance at a more mature kind of happiness.
A tale of adolescent love and discovery that just happens to focus on two girls, this is a memoir that's definitely worth a read.
The bulk of the book covers about six years in their relationship, a tumultuous time filled with curfews, betrayals, parental discovery, alcohol, drugs, first jobs, first jealousies, and first tastes of freedom. Although we know enough about the girls to realise that Selina has the harder home life, it's Lisa's struggles with which we identify the strongest. It often seems as if everyone and everything is against her, until her commitment to Selina becomes as much a statement of defiance as it does an expression of love. You want to hold her and protect her, even as you want to stand back and cheer her on.
With the story written in the first-person, narrated by Lisa herself, there's a lot of foreshadowing of darker times ahead. As a result, by the time Lisa and Selina reach their two crisis points (one a matter of perceived cheating, the other a matter of real cheating), we're almost resigned to the inevitable. Their break-up is sad, and it's difficult, and it's a chapter we wish we could skip . . . but the way in which Lisa deals with it has a lot to say about what truly matters in life.
Lisa writes with a no nonsense, honest style, but she also knows how to tell a story. The words truly flow off the page, pulling you into the centre of the drama, and holding your hand the whole way through. If the book falters a bit in the last few chapters, it's only because she has stepped outside of reliving the romance, and is instead summarizing the last few decades of her life. It's interesting to see where that life took her after Selina, and even if her second soul-mate isn't quite what we'd expect, you cannot begrudge her the chance at a more mature kind of happiness.
A tale of adolescent love and discovery that just happens to focus on two girls, this is a memoir that's definitely worth a read.
June 13, 2011
Thirteen-year-old Lisa learned early in her life the disturbing, gut-wrenching pain betrayal brings when it first hits you. After being summoned to the kitchen one day and told to take a seat by her parents, Peggy and Larry, Lisa saw the betrayal fly past her and slam down on the table in front of her, sitting there like a beacon with flashing lights calling all parental misery to stand before her. “What in the HELL is this?!”, her mother screamed. Lisa knew she was in deep, deep trouble – it was her diary! Thinking quickly, Lisa began to laugh and tell her parents that the contents of the diary were not true, it was just a play she was writing for school. But, her mother knew it was a lie as there it sat, penned in Lisa’s own hand-writing, tattling on her like a small child she couldn’t defend herself from. Her parents thought the writings were vile and disgusting, just filthy words to them that didn’t belong coming out of their daughter’s mind and actions.
To Lisa, these mere words were her comfort, like being enveloped in the safety and warmth of a favourite blanket. Words that had meaning and exuded feelings she couldn’t deal with on her own. This private diary was the “person” she didn’t have to talk too. Her parents would never understand and Lisa knew she was on her way to hell. She felt that everything she had ever trusted in, in her life suddenly became a lie, and had always been a lie and that she just happened to be a fool that didn’t catch on soon enough. Lisa felt “abandoned...stupid, and so alone – surrounded by her so-called family.” Where was the concerned, helpful, loving and understanding voice of her parents? Weren’t all parents supposed to have these feelings for their children? Being raised in a Catholic-based family, Lisa supposed, made her parents exempt from possessing those skills. After all, what would the Priest think?
Besides, early on Lisa felt a sense of “ridicule” from her mother and had quickly learned that undesirable behaviour brought a “quick spanking, a quick pop to the mouth, and back-handing.” Unfortunately, Lisa suffered through a lot of this type of physical punishment as she, admittedly, “...had quite the smart mouth.” However, Peggy did let up on this type of punishment when Lisa got braces as she was attempting to save on her own financial expenditure. Now, the largest thumb her parents had on Lisa and her younger sister, Sue, was “fear.”
Lisa’s family wasn’t the huggie-kissie type, as kids, you just assumed you were loved because you had a roof over your head, cleaning clothing, and food on the table.
In 1976, two major events happened in Lisa’s life: the first being the birth of her new baby brother who Lisa felt was an intrusion into their already settled family of four; and the second, a new girl in town named Selina to whom Lisa navigated toward like a magnet. This girl exuded respect, was tall, blonde, and had a flawless complexion. Lisa was immediately awestruck and wanted desperately to be a part of her life. After offering to help Selina in sewing class, Selina began to notice Lisa and called her name from the school bus when it passed by. Lisa wasn’t exactly in the “in-crowd” at school so she was elated when her friendship with Selina took off like a pair of winged wild geese soaring high together. Lisa finally felt included, noticed, wanted, needed and these were feelings she had waited a long time to feel. Acceptance was finally hers! It was this relationship with Selina and the things they found to do together that were the basis of the “evil diary” her parents were so up in arms about. Lisa had recorded everything they did together and everywhere they went together.
This was a beautiful coming-of-age memoir that shows one lonely girls need to be loved and accepted multiplied in ways the reader would never have thought possible. I was mesmerized by the unique writing style of Ms. Vaughn and how she could evoke in me emotions of pain, fear, sorrow, joy, happiness and everything Lisa felt. I will remember Lisa’s story for a long time to come! By the end of the memoir, you will completely understand why the title: “The Gifted Ones” is so appropriate for this special memoir.
Thank you Lisa for asking me to review your memoir, it was utterly lovely.
To Lisa, these mere words were her comfort, like being enveloped in the safety and warmth of a favourite blanket. Words that had meaning and exuded feelings she couldn’t deal with on her own. This private diary was the “person” she didn’t have to talk too. Her parents would never understand and Lisa knew she was on her way to hell. She felt that everything she had ever trusted in, in her life suddenly became a lie, and had always been a lie and that she just happened to be a fool that didn’t catch on soon enough. Lisa felt “abandoned...stupid, and so alone – surrounded by her so-called family.” Where was the concerned, helpful, loving and understanding voice of her parents? Weren’t all parents supposed to have these feelings for their children? Being raised in a Catholic-based family, Lisa supposed, made her parents exempt from possessing those skills. After all, what would the Priest think?
Besides, early on Lisa felt a sense of “ridicule” from her mother and had quickly learned that undesirable behaviour brought a “quick spanking, a quick pop to the mouth, and back-handing.” Unfortunately, Lisa suffered through a lot of this type of physical punishment as she, admittedly, “...had quite the smart mouth.” However, Peggy did let up on this type of punishment when Lisa got braces as she was attempting to save on her own financial expenditure. Now, the largest thumb her parents had on Lisa and her younger sister, Sue, was “fear.”
Lisa’s family wasn’t the huggie-kissie type, as kids, you just assumed you were loved because you had a roof over your head, cleaning clothing, and food on the table.
In 1976, two major events happened in Lisa’s life: the first being the birth of her new baby brother who Lisa felt was an intrusion into their already settled family of four; and the second, a new girl in town named Selina to whom Lisa navigated toward like a magnet. This girl exuded respect, was tall, blonde, and had a flawless complexion. Lisa was immediately awestruck and wanted desperately to be a part of her life. After offering to help Selina in sewing class, Selina began to notice Lisa and called her name from the school bus when it passed by. Lisa wasn’t exactly in the “in-crowd” at school so she was elated when her friendship with Selina took off like a pair of winged wild geese soaring high together. Lisa finally felt included, noticed, wanted, needed and these were feelings she had waited a long time to feel. Acceptance was finally hers! It was this relationship with Selina and the things they found to do together that were the basis of the “evil diary” her parents were so up in arms about. Lisa had recorded everything they did together and everywhere they went together.
This was a beautiful coming-of-age memoir that shows one lonely girls need to be loved and accepted multiplied in ways the reader would never have thought possible. I was mesmerized by the unique writing style of Ms. Vaughn and how she could evoke in me emotions of pain, fear, sorrow, joy, happiness and everything Lisa felt. I will remember Lisa’s story for a long time to come! By the end of the memoir, you will completely understand why the title: “The Gifted Ones” is so appropriate for this special memoir.
Thank you Lisa for asking me to review your memoir, it was utterly lovely.
June 12, 2011
I have issues with reviewing memoirs. So much so that I almost turned this book away at first. I think there is a lot of pressure to try and enjoy a memoir because it is actually the story of someone's life. If you don't like the book...was their life not good enough? Were thier hardships not entertaining enough to keep you interested? Was their story not heartfelt enough to make you tear up? These are the thoughts that go through my mind when I read a book about someone else's life. I can't stand the pressure of feeling so obligated to like a book, that I am not even thinking about the story as I read. It's a total turn-off. Luckily, Lisa had me so immersed in her story that I didn't even have a chance to think about that pressure. I was completely into the story and aware of nothing else (my poor children were forced into video games all day to keep them quiet while I read. Such good little monkeys they are). Lisa is a fantastic storyteller and I love the way she writes. Not only from the heart, but like a REAL person. She writes the way most of us think...except it makes sense. Love it!!
During a time when being gay meant being shunned by the world, a young Lisa met her soul mate and hung on to her principles throughout the hardships of hiding her relationship from the world; her parents, her friends, and later...her co-workers. Her life was forged before she even finished high school when she didn't see what others saw..."How could loving someone be wrong?".
From her parents not understanding her (and practically imprisoning her), to a little more understanding, to eventually moving out of home and beginning her life with her true love Lisa's view on her life never wavered. She had it all planned out, and it was to be great. Like most teenage dreams, however, life became a living nightmare. We see her through her rise to freedom and her party scene, to her undeniable confusion with her own identity and sexuality and her eventual fall from high to the depressing low. This is life. No pretty pictures. No hiding what's real. This is what I loved about this book. She tells it how it is. Nothing is as important as that.
One things that got me about Lisa's story was how she names herself and her partner, Selina, Special, Gifted, Prophets...living in The Place. I loved it. She took her relationship with another female, when they were young and living in a world where this was soo not the norm, and she put such a terrific spin on it. Like this was their time to shine, their special secret, their right above all others. This showed me so much into Lisa's personality and views on homosexuality. If only everyone thought that way then (and now, come to think of it), what a Place it would be.
You have to give it to Lisa Vaughn. She threw her entire adolescent experience, from the naive pre-teen to the fall-from-grace as a young adult, into this tell-all book. It is the perfect coming-of-age story for any confused youth because it takes us into the mind of a teenage girl in the midst of an identity crisis. It shows us what we can overcome if we stick with our beliefs. It tells us that life may not be what it seems from the outside looking in. What story is there that is more powerful than that? None that I can think of.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely without a doubt. I would read it again and when my daughter comes to an age where the language is appropriate (although let's face it...kids grow up too quick and know all about sex and drugs WAY too early for my taste as it is) this would definitely be considered a staple for her reading list. What teenager doesn't have the same thoughts and feelings Lisa had in this book? None that I know of. That's what makes it so special.
If you are looking for a read that is quick, easy and speaks volumes...The Gifted Ones if defintely a must-read. I have not read a more powerful and inspiring book yet this year, or last...maybe even ever. This is for sure a new favorite on my list...where will it place on yours?
During a time when being gay meant being shunned by the world, a young Lisa met her soul mate and hung on to her principles throughout the hardships of hiding her relationship from the world; her parents, her friends, and later...her co-workers. Her life was forged before she even finished high school when she didn't see what others saw..."How could loving someone be wrong?".
From her parents not understanding her (and practically imprisoning her), to a little more understanding, to eventually moving out of home and beginning her life with her true love Lisa's view on her life never wavered. She had it all planned out, and it was to be great. Like most teenage dreams, however, life became a living nightmare. We see her through her rise to freedom and her party scene, to her undeniable confusion with her own identity and sexuality and her eventual fall from high to the depressing low. This is life. No pretty pictures. No hiding what's real. This is what I loved about this book. She tells it how it is. Nothing is as important as that.
One things that got me about Lisa's story was how she names herself and her partner, Selina, Special, Gifted, Prophets...living in The Place. I loved it. She took her relationship with another female, when they were young and living in a world where this was soo not the norm, and she put such a terrific spin on it. Like this was their time to shine, their special secret, their right above all others. This showed me so much into Lisa's personality and views on homosexuality. If only everyone thought that way then (and now, come to think of it), what a Place it would be.
You have to give it to Lisa Vaughn. She threw her entire adolescent experience, from the naive pre-teen to the fall-from-grace as a young adult, into this tell-all book. It is the perfect coming-of-age story for any confused youth because it takes us into the mind of a teenage girl in the midst of an identity crisis. It shows us what we can overcome if we stick with our beliefs. It tells us that life may not be what it seems from the outside looking in. What story is there that is more powerful than that? None that I can think of.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely without a doubt. I would read it again and when my daughter comes to an age where the language is appropriate (although let's face it...kids grow up too quick and know all about sex and drugs WAY too early for my taste as it is) this would definitely be considered a staple for her reading list. What teenager doesn't have the same thoughts and feelings Lisa had in this book? None that I know of. That's what makes it so special.
If you are looking for a read that is quick, easy and speaks volumes...The Gifted Ones if defintely a must-read. I have not read a more powerful and inspiring book yet this year, or last...maybe even ever. This is for sure a new favorite on my list...where will it place on yours?
August 4, 2011
I can tell you straight off, I was nervous about reviewing a memoir. I have never been interested in reading them or any other forms of non-fiction. So after reading the summary and other reviews of this particular story I was intrigued.
Lisa Vaughn has penned a wonderful account of a special time of her life. The Gifted Ones centers on her experience with life’s greatest gift – our first true love. She took me on a journey I didn’t expect, but enjoyed immensely.
The story begins for Ms. Vaughn at the tender age of thirteen. Oh, the wonderful blossoming teenage years – NOT! If anyone thought their teenage years were tough, especially in regards to first love, please pick up this book. I too found my first love at the age of 13, and I can honestly say my experience was completely different from hers. I felt her joy, her excitement, and even her pain. I smiled, chuckled, got pissed off and even gasped during my reading of the book.
Lisa’s story begins and ends in her teenage years. Not too many of us are lucky enough to find the kind of love that Lisa was blessed with, I sure didn’t. Lisa fell in love with her best friend Selina. Yes, you did read right, I did type Selina and Selina is a girl. This is not a lesbian love story. This is a love story in the truest form, the falling in love with the individual inside.
Too often we put labels on everything. Ideas and expectations all put in their specific well used little cubby holes. In this story we have a beautiful young lady who loved her best friend because of the amazing person she was and not for her gender. Lisa saw no colors, sexes, or boundaries. She loved Selina because it was the only thing she could do and that was what was important to her. Wiser then her years, Lisa asked a question that we can all ponder; young and old, male or female, straight or gay – “How could loving someone be wrong?”
Lisa Vaughn’s writing style had me from the first page. I felt like I was her shadow. She never alienated me or made me feel unwelcome. I was transported right into her teenage world. I fell in love with Selina right alongside Lisa. I felt Lisa’s pain and angst when she lost Selina too. The Gifted Ones is an exceptional read. The tale is very smoothly written and it never felt unnatural. I extremely enjoyed my first crossing into the world of memoirs. Will I read another? Maybe not, but I will definitely not instantly turn away from them in the future.
I am a better person for reading The Gifted Ones. We both share similar views of the validity of love as a whole and not the misconstrued expectations of society. The individual is what is important, for friends and lovers. Please read The Gifted Ones for a truly inspiring and refreshing love story.
Lisa Vaughn has penned a wonderful account of a special time of her life. The Gifted Ones centers on her experience with life’s greatest gift – our first true love. She took me on a journey I didn’t expect, but enjoyed immensely.
The story begins for Ms. Vaughn at the tender age of thirteen. Oh, the wonderful blossoming teenage years – NOT! If anyone thought their teenage years were tough, especially in regards to first love, please pick up this book. I too found my first love at the age of 13, and I can honestly say my experience was completely different from hers. I felt her joy, her excitement, and even her pain. I smiled, chuckled, got pissed off and even gasped during my reading of the book.
Lisa’s story begins and ends in her teenage years. Not too many of us are lucky enough to find the kind of love that Lisa was blessed with, I sure didn’t. Lisa fell in love with her best friend Selina. Yes, you did read right, I did type Selina and Selina is a girl. This is not a lesbian love story. This is a love story in the truest form, the falling in love with the individual inside.
Too often we put labels on everything. Ideas and expectations all put in their specific well used little cubby holes. In this story we have a beautiful young lady who loved her best friend because of the amazing person she was and not for her gender. Lisa saw no colors, sexes, or boundaries. She loved Selina because it was the only thing she could do and that was what was important to her. Wiser then her years, Lisa asked a question that we can all ponder; young and old, male or female, straight or gay – “How could loving someone be wrong?”
Lisa Vaughn’s writing style had me from the first page. I felt like I was her shadow. She never alienated me or made me feel unwelcome. I was transported right into her teenage world. I fell in love with Selina right alongside Lisa. I felt Lisa’s pain and angst when she lost Selina too. The Gifted Ones is an exceptional read. The tale is very smoothly written and it never felt unnatural. I extremely enjoyed my first crossing into the world of memoirs. Will I read another? Maybe not, but I will definitely not instantly turn away from them in the future.
I am a better person for reading The Gifted Ones. We both share similar views of the validity of love as a whole and not the misconstrued expectations of society. The individual is what is important, for friends and lovers. Please read The Gifted Ones for a truly inspiring and refreshing love story.
August 5, 2011
Having never read a memoir in my life, I was skeptical when I saw that The Gifted Ones was just that. I felt that way until about the first page! Lisa Vaughn is witty, funny, quick, happy, sad, and every other emotion under the sun.
As I followed along Lisa's life journey, I was able to relate to so much of her story. At least as far as the things us kids did and went through back in the 60's, 70's, even some in the 80's; it pleasantly took me back. I've read hundreds of books that made me laugh, cry, root for this character or that character, but in this book - being real and all - I was totally rooting for LISA THE GREAT! (You'll have to read the book to see why that is sooo funny!)
If you have any memories at all of things such as; no cell phones and having to wait at home by the landline phone; you had to pass notes in class because without the all-important-cell phones, you couldn't text message anyone; Mommy and Daddy never gave you a car so you either hoofed it or caught a ride with someone else; you were bullied and picked on in school and it was the worst place in the world to go; you got spanked and nobody called child services; you listened to vinyl records and couldn't have your tunes with you everywhere you went; what the parents said was law, period; then you'll enjoy this book. Those are the great things that make us appreciate so much in the world nowadays, even if we do still grumble about everything, anyway.
My tears, both happy and sad, cried over books in the past were real, but when I cried and laughed over this book, it was infinitely different. Better. Just real. Lisa is one hell of a great story teller, and while putting her trials into print, she still has a wicked-awesome sense of humor that made me ask myself; "Self, how can she make jokes when things were such a mess and so difficult in her life?" Well, I suppose when you were born with a great sense of humor, it saves you when you need it most.
You'll laugh and cry, too, as you take a ride through her childhood to her present day life. You'll wonder how? Why? WTF? And plenty of other things throughout this memoir. It is, without a doubt, one of the best pieces I have ever read in my life. Lisa's words touched me so profoundly, such as I've never felt from anything before. She brought back good and bad memories, alike, but hey, if she survived what she did, then anyone can survive anything! She is, after all, LISA THE GREAT!
I purposely didn't put any spoilers in this review simply because it is THAT good, and I didn't want to give anything away. I hope you'll all get a copy for yourself immediately, and read it as soon as you have it! You won't regret it!
Looking forward to more works by Lisa Vaughn!
As I followed along Lisa's life journey, I was able to relate to so much of her story. At least as far as the things us kids did and went through back in the 60's, 70's, even some in the 80's; it pleasantly took me back. I've read hundreds of books that made me laugh, cry, root for this character or that character, but in this book - being real and all - I was totally rooting for LISA THE GREAT! (You'll have to read the book to see why that is sooo funny!)
If you have any memories at all of things such as; no cell phones and having to wait at home by the landline phone; you had to pass notes in class because without the all-important-cell phones, you couldn't text message anyone; Mommy and Daddy never gave you a car so you either hoofed it or caught a ride with someone else; you were bullied and picked on in school and it was the worst place in the world to go; you got spanked and nobody called child services; you listened to vinyl records and couldn't have your tunes with you everywhere you went; what the parents said was law, period; then you'll enjoy this book. Those are the great things that make us appreciate so much in the world nowadays, even if we do still grumble about everything, anyway.
My tears, both happy and sad, cried over books in the past were real, but when I cried and laughed over this book, it was infinitely different. Better. Just real. Lisa is one hell of a great story teller, and while putting her trials into print, she still has a wicked-awesome sense of humor that made me ask myself; "Self, how can she make jokes when things were such a mess and so difficult in her life?" Well, I suppose when you were born with a great sense of humor, it saves you when you need it most.
You'll laugh and cry, too, as you take a ride through her childhood to her present day life. You'll wonder how? Why? WTF? And plenty of other things throughout this memoir. It is, without a doubt, one of the best pieces I have ever read in my life. Lisa's words touched me so profoundly, such as I've never felt from anything before. She brought back good and bad memories, alike, but hey, if she survived what she did, then anyone can survive anything! She is, after all, LISA THE GREAT!
I purposely didn't put any spoilers in this review simply because it is THAT good, and I didn't want to give anything away. I hope you'll all get a copy for yourself immediately, and read it as soon as you have it! You won't regret it!
Looking forward to more works by Lisa Vaughn!
September 20, 2011
Back Cover:
Have you ever been so in love that your daily breath depended upon one another?
Have you ever been pushed to unfathomable limits just to defend your beliefs?
Have you ever been made to feel like the underbelly of society?
Have you ever been thirteen?
Well I have, and this is my story.
Inside Look:
Lisa was a 13 year old girl, living in a stern Catholic home. Lisa met Selina in class and they became instantly drawn to together. They were to embark on a journey that would alter their lives forever. They were falling in love.
This book covers six years of their relationship. You watch them struggle with life, acceptance and each other.
Orchid’s Favorite Excerpt:
Slowly she moved down the bridge of my nose, her lips touching me in small even increments. A lifetime seemed to have passed before I felt her lips touch mine. A dizziness swept over me as my world fell even more silent.
Sandrine’s Favorite Excerpt:
I sat there at the kitchen table stunned. Truly immobile, feeling like my insides had been sucked out my ass, leaving me vulnerable - unable to move. Paralyzed with fear...for myself, for us. My head spinning as I heard words being thrashed at me, like a leather strap to my raw skin, as my fresh wounds grew deeper and bloodier.
I was ugly, I was shameful, I was not welcomed. I remember exclaiming to them, “How could loving someone be wrong?” Their only response was to make bible references and scream lame absurdities, “Because two females don't fit together!” What the f*%# did that mean? Is that how they measured love? Based on your ability to make a baby or not? How insane were they? Had they truly lost their minds? Would they rather I'd been knocked up? Isn't THAT every parent's worst nightmare? Apparently not my parents. How did I end up with the homophobes? Just my luck, I guess.
What we thought:
Orchid-
This book has touched me in so many ways. A myriad of emotions came flowing from my soul. I laughed, I cried and cried some more. Lisa’s story is beautiful, special and touching. She has a wonderful writing style and her chapters are short and easy to read.
Sandrine-
I fell in love with Lisa’s story; it’s tender and innocent and will certainly pull at your heart strings. I identified with Lisa, because my parents were also strictly religious and put me through hell after they read my diary. They had no idea who I was, until they read of the girl I’ve been secretly dating.
Even if you don’t have a “forbidden” love, Lisa is easy to identify with. Her quest for acceptance and love is something everyone can relate to.
Have you ever been so in love that your daily breath depended upon one another?
Have you ever been pushed to unfathomable limits just to defend your beliefs?
Have you ever been made to feel like the underbelly of society?
Have you ever been thirteen?
Well I have, and this is my story.
Inside Look:
Lisa was a 13 year old girl, living in a stern Catholic home. Lisa met Selina in class and they became instantly drawn to together. They were to embark on a journey that would alter their lives forever. They were falling in love.
This book covers six years of their relationship. You watch them struggle with life, acceptance and each other.
Orchid’s Favorite Excerpt:
Slowly she moved down the bridge of my nose, her lips touching me in small even increments. A lifetime seemed to have passed before I felt her lips touch mine. A dizziness swept over me as my world fell even more silent.
Sandrine’s Favorite Excerpt:
I sat there at the kitchen table stunned. Truly immobile, feeling like my insides had been sucked out my ass, leaving me vulnerable - unable to move. Paralyzed with fear...for myself, for us. My head spinning as I heard words being thrashed at me, like a leather strap to my raw skin, as my fresh wounds grew deeper and bloodier.
I was ugly, I was shameful, I was not welcomed. I remember exclaiming to them, “How could loving someone be wrong?” Their only response was to make bible references and scream lame absurdities, “Because two females don't fit together!” What the f*%# did that mean? Is that how they measured love? Based on your ability to make a baby or not? How insane were they? Had they truly lost their minds? Would they rather I'd been knocked up? Isn't THAT every parent's worst nightmare? Apparently not my parents. How did I end up with the homophobes? Just my luck, I guess.
What we thought:
Orchid-
This book has touched me in so many ways. A myriad of emotions came flowing from my soul. I laughed, I cried and cried some more. Lisa’s story is beautiful, special and touching. She has a wonderful writing style and her chapters are short and easy to read.
Sandrine-
I fell in love with Lisa’s story; it’s tender and innocent and will certainly pull at your heart strings. I identified with Lisa, because my parents were also strictly religious and put me through hell after they read my diary. They had no idea who I was, until they read of the girl I’ve been secretly dating.
Even if you don’t have a “forbidden” love, Lisa is easy to identify with. Her quest for acceptance and love is something everyone can relate to.
July 19, 2011
My Thoughts:
I haven' t had the opprutunity yet to read a memoirs, let alone review it, I wasn't really sure what to expect, and really how do you rate someones life experiences. So again I went outside my comfort zone and started to read this book. Again I was truly surprised, as this book captivated me from page one. Lisa being born the eldest child to a old fashion, strict, Catholic set of parents if that wasn't enough, lets add growing up in the 70's and 80's where lots of people kept certain topics hidden in the closet. Lisa a 13-year-old meets Selina, and starts to have feeling for her she didnt even understand at first. Falling in love with Selina is not going to be an easy task to explain to her parents espicially with her Mother Peggy, who she does not get along with on a good day.
For the next six or so years, the book follows Lisa and Selina on their journey together, as they develop their relationship, fight for the right to be together, and to be accepted by all. After being accepted, Lisa and Selina finally get a home and a life of their own, something they have always dreamed of, but with any relationship comes anger, jealousy, understanding and forgiveness. My heart goes out to them both as they struggle with their releationship, trying to keep it the same but growing as people, and growing apart is never easy to accept. Lisa's writing has made you feel every emotion she went through as if you were right there with them. It is a very heart felt, heart warming story that I think everyone in some part of the book will be able to relate to. I know I did.
The story was very beautiful written, I encourage everyone to read this book, it is a nice quick easy read, its encouraging, inspiring, heart warming and I am glad I went outside of my comfort zone to read this. I am happy Lisa has found happiness and I really enjoyed at the end where we get to hear how her life has turned out today, most times you don't get to hear the part of where they are today, so I am glad she included that part. I would like to thank Lisa for giving me this chance to read her beautiful memoirs. This is a MUST READ and I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did. Thank you Lisa.
I haven' t had the opprutunity yet to read a memoirs, let alone review it, I wasn't really sure what to expect, and really how do you rate someones life experiences. So again I went outside my comfort zone and started to read this book. Again I was truly surprised, as this book captivated me from page one. Lisa being born the eldest child to a old fashion, strict, Catholic set of parents if that wasn't enough, lets add growing up in the 70's and 80's where lots of people kept certain topics hidden in the closet. Lisa a 13-year-old meets Selina, and starts to have feeling for her she didnt even understand at first. Falling in love with Selina is not going to be an easy task to explain to her parents espicially with her Mother Peggy, who she does not get along with on a good day.
For the next six or so years, the book follows Lisa and Selina on their journey together, as they develop their relationship, fight for the right to be together, and to be accepted by all. After being accepted, Lisa and Selina finally get a home and a life of their own, something they have always dreamed of, but with any relationship comes anger, jealousy, understanding and forgiveness. My heart goes out to them both as they struggle with their releationship, trying to keep it the same but growing as people, and growing apart is never easy to accept. Lisa's writing has made you feel every emotion she went through as if you were right there with them. It is a very heart felt, heart warming story that I think everyone in some part of the book will be able to relate to. I know I did.
The story was very beautiful written, I encourage everyone to read this book, it is a nice quick easy read, its encouraging, inspiring, heart warming and I am glad I went outside of my comfort zone to read this. I am happy Lisa has found happiness and I really enjoyed at the end where we get to hear how her life has turned out today, most times you don't get to hear the part of where they are today, so I am glad she included that part. I would like to thank Lisa for giving me this chance to read her beautiful memoirs. This is a MUST READ and I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did. Thank you Lisa.
August 9, 2011
Hi y'all Anne here and I've just finished reading The Gifted Ones by Lisa Vaughn. First off I wanna say I've never read a memoir before and now I wonder why I haven't because it was awe inspiring. To get a peek into someones private life is truly a gift.I loved this book, I felt a sense of truth in it that must have been not only scary but painful to write. Sharing a part of your life is hard enough but sharing those kinds of secrets even in today's society can make people talk. Lisa has weaved a story of true and pure love, when you truly love someone you don't get to pick the form it comes in you just take the love and run and that's exactly what Lisa did. In the generation she grew up in she was treated harshly and poorly for her open mindedness. This open mindedness I find truly great, I felt connected to this theory as I've always thought you love who you love no questions asked. Her story is one for future generations to read and learn from. It doesn't matter who you are or how you were raised you are who you are to the core.
The "unicorn" only comes around for the purest of hearts I feel like I've seen that unicorn and now I know someone else who has as well. Lisa has turned me to a genre of writing I only hope that other memoirs I will read are as eloquently written as hers, four letter words and all. That's what made me love this book, she let it all out the words, drugs, feelings, hurt, loss, and eventual growth. Everyone has a story but it takes a truly special person to share hers with the world and I thank her for letting me into that world.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who has doubts about their feelings. Look at this piece of Lisa and tell me you'll question loves intentions. If you love a good read and a heartfelt story of love, honor, loyalty, and fun this is a book for you. 5 out of 5 stars for Lisa Vaughn and her moving book The Gifted Ones....
August 10, 2011
Warning: This Memoir had me laughing at times and in tears at times. This is a must read about love, loss and everything in between.
My Rating: 5 of 5
My Cover Thoughts: I love the broken chain links. To me it showed me a sign that if a strong link chain can be broken anything can.
My Thoughts/Review: I had no idea what this book was going to mean to me. I have never read a memoir on my own but for school I have. This is a story about true love and loss. This is a journey through Lisa’s eyes, as she shares her inner most secrets and fears you get to see her life first hand.
Growing up in a rural town Lisa always knew she wanted to get of that poodunk town. Her life changed when she meet Selina. Selina was the most beautiful person she had ever seen and she wanted to be friends with her. They shared a home economics class and soon became fast friends. After a while they became best friends and started sharing everything together. As their friendship grew so did their love for one another until one day the skipped school and hung out at an abandoned building and kissed. After that day their lives were turned upside down.
This is a heartfelt story shared with raw emotion about a girl’s first love that happened to be a girl and the struggles they faced as a lesbian couple. This is also a story of true love that could not stand the test of time. We find out certain things about the lesbian community in the early seventies and we learn that loving someone and losing them is never easy and a broken heart takes time to heal.
If any of you know what it is like to love someone who you are not supposed to love this book will give you hope of the life ever after. It does not matter whether you are gay, straight, or bi love is love and when you love someone hard and things don’t go as planned the heart breaks the same way.
Advice: I absolutely loved this memoir and I would recommend it to anyone and everyone that wants to learn what true love is.
My Rating: 5 of 5
My Cover Thoughts: I love the broken chain links. To me it showed me a sign that if a strong link chain can be broken anything can.
My Thoughts/Review: I had no idea what this book was going to mean to me. I have never read a memoir on my own but for school I have. This is a story about true love and loss. This is a journey through Lisa’s eyes, as she shares her inner most secrets and fears you get to see her life first hand.
Growing up in a rural town Lisa always knew she wanted to get of that poodunk town. Her life changed when she meet Selina. Selina was the most beautiful person she had ever seen and she wanted to be friends with her. They shared a home economics class and soon became fast friends. After a while they became best friends and started sharing everything together. As their friendship grew so did their love for one another until one day the skipped school and hung out at an abandoned building and kissed. After that day their lives were turned upside down.
This is a heartfelt story shared with raw emotion about a girl’s first love that happened to be a girl and the struggles they faced as a lesbian couple. This is also a story of true love that could not stand the test of time. We find out certain things about the lesbian community in the early seventies and we learn that loving someone and losing them is never easy and a broken heart takes time to heal.
If any of you know what it is like to love someone who you are not supposed to love this book will give you hope of the life ever after. It does not matter whether you are gay, straight, or bi love is love and when you love someone hard and things don’t go as planned the heart breaks the same way.
Advice: I absolutely loved this memoir and I would recommend it to anyone and everyone that wants to learn what true love is.
May 12, 2011
The interesting thing here is the bare premise of this story being a universal experience. I imagine there is not one person who would not identify with what it feels like falling in love for the very first time; what makes this account (in its own right) uniquely appealing and a real page-turner.
Lisa's voice is distinct...her recall growing up in a rural town, hailing from the average middle-class Catholic American family, and falling in love with her best friend during a time when same gender intimate relationships weren't the social lure of conversation.
Things begin with her parents finding her diary...oh No!... making for a great take-off from there. Pacing is smooth, the writing crisp...nice, short sentences, and very organized and engaging as Lisa explores how the attraction begin...and developed...and catapulted from infatuation, to `true' love, to heartbreak. I reflected deeply on the sole thing most kids want from their parents; related very well to the `era' detailed; and still ringing in my ears is that, "LEEESSSAAA!" Really enjoyed that part. My only hiccup was despite Lisa and Selina relegated to having to hide their relationship, I saw little difference between their experiences being in love, from that which other young couples face. And not that this makes the story any less absorbing, when in fact it is anything other, but there were times...particularly towards the end, when I hoped Lisa had delved deeper into the meaning of `the gift'. I'm thinking in the Searching chapter would have been a perfect spot. What, from her perspective, made her different from Sherry...or Selina for that matter? I'm thinking I know... but I wanted to hear it from her.
And still, The Gifted Ones from page one is all around tasteful, insightful, and engaging. Great Job!
Lisa's voice is distinct...her recall growing up in a rural town, hailing from the average middle-class Catholic American family, and falling in love with her best friend during a time when same gender intimate relationships weren't the social lure of conversation.
Things begin with her parents finding her diary...oh No!... making for a great take-off from there. Pacing is smooth, the writing crisp...nice, short sentences, and very organized and engaging as Lisa explores how the attraction begin...and developed...and catapulted from infatuation, to `true' love, to heartbreak. I reflected deeply on the sole thing most kids want from their parents; related very well to the `era' detailed; and still ringing in my ears is that, "LEEESSSAAA!" Really enjoyed that part. My only hiccup was despite Lisa and Selina relegated to having to hide their relationship, I saw little difference between their experiences being in love, from that which other young couples face. And not that this makes the story any less absorbing, when in fact it is anything other, but there were times...particularly towards the end, when I hoped Lisa had delved deeper into the meaning of `the gift'. I'm thinking in the Searching chapter would have been a perfect spot. What, from her perspective, made her different from Sherry...or Selina for that matter? I'm thinking I know... but I wanted to hear it from her.
And still, The Gifted Ones from page one is all around tasteful, insightful, and engaging. Great Job!
July 22, 2011
I have never read a memoir before, let alone review it, so I didn't know what to expect...
Lisa was a 13 year old girl from a small town in Indiana, raised by strict catholic parents, a mundane and predictable life, and was about to emabark on a journey that would alter her life completely and forever. She was falling in love........ with Selina, her best friend.
Selina had a tough exterior, cool style, was charming and confident capturing Lisa's attention from the start, surprised by her reaction to Selina, she just accepted it as real love.
Lisa and Selina stayed together struggling, trying to make it on their own, wanting to leave Indiana and never look back.
A tender, innocent, and touching story of a beautiful love between two friends, reaching realms of joy and happiness that neither knew existed, only to have it come to an end, hurting one so badly that she could not grasp it as reality, until she learns how to accept it for what it really was.
I fell in love with this story. Lisa goes way deep sharing her first love. An innocent, tender, and beautiful love, while telling a story of acceptance at the same time. She has a crisp writing style, and short chapters making for an easy read.
I highly recommend this book to anyone that has ever been in love.
5 out of 5 hearts ~ Lovetiggi Book Reviews
Lisa was a 13 year old girl from a small town in Indiana, raised by strict catholic parents, a mundane and predictable life, and was about to emabark on a journey that would alter her life completely and forever. She was falling in love........ with Selina, her best friend.
Selina had a tough exterior, cool style, was charming and confident capturing Lisa's attention from the start, surprised by her reaction to Selina, she just accepted it as real love.
Lisa and Selina stayed together struggling, trying to make it on their own, wanting to leave Indiana and never look back.
A tender, innocent, and touching story of a beautiful love between two friends, reaching realms of joy and happiness that neither knew existed, only to have it come to an end, hurting one so badly that she could not grasp it as reality, until she learns how to accept it for what it really was.
I fell in love with this story. Lisa goes way deep sharing her first love. An innocent, tender, and beautiful love, while telling a story of acceptance at the same time. She has a crisp writing style, and short chapters making for an easy read.
I highly recommend this book to anyone that has ever been in love.
5 out of 5 hearts ~ Lovetiggi Book Reviews
July 15, 2011
This is my first autobiographical book I've read. Honestly, I loved it. I'm one of those people who like to watch what's going around, and wanting to know more about everything. How many times have I stared at someone and wonder how his/her life has been so far?
It's interesting to hear, or read, the story of someone. Not only because it's exciting to know how things went at different times that we live, but also the situation they been through, and how they handled it. Let you see mistakes made, you learn a different perspective from yours and most importantly, what the person has learned through experience. In my 20 years I still have so much to learn, and I consider myself a sponge, because I try to absorb everything I can and accept what i owe. It's true, our life is a book, written day by day, and Lisa, I really admire her, lived no matter what, even in our days, being gay is still immoral and against nature, but how come love be wrong? I'm glad she finally found herself, and lives now with her true love. So, if you are into BIO books, this is perfect for you. And i want to thank Lisa, for giving me the opportunity to read this, her life. It's excellent for share and learn. You truly are Lisa The Great!!
It's interesting to hear, or read, the story of someone. Not only because it's exciting to know how things went at different times that we live, but also the situation they been through, and how they handled it. Let you see mistakes made, you learn a different perspective from yours and most importantly, what the person has learned through experience. In my 20 years I still have so much to learn, and I consider myself a sponge, because I try to absorb everything I can and accept what i owe. It's true, our life is a book, written day by day, and Lisa, I really admire her, lived no matter what, even in our days, being gay is still immoral and against nature, but how come love be wrong? I'm glad she finally found herself, and lives now with her true love. So, if you are into BIO books, this is perfect for you. And i want to thank Lisa, for giving me the opportunity to read this, her life. It's excellent for share and learn. You truly are Lisa The Great!!
September 28, 2011
I really didn't know what to make of this book. After I was finished reading it, I had to step back for a few weeks and ruminate on it. It's kind of like letting spaghetti sauce simmer all day so the flavors can all blend together. I've decided I liked it!
I didn't have trouble reading about homosexual love so much as I did that it started so young. Thirteen is such a tender age to be engaged in any kind of sexual relationship that my brain has a hard time dealing with it. But, this is Lisa's story, and that's how it went - for better or for worse.
Lisa Vaughn's writing style is free and easy, making it quite enjoyable to read. She's brutally honest about every aspect of her life, from her family, to her friends, to her love. She has a self-deprecating humor that drew me to her. I felt like she would be a great friend to have.
The Gifted Ones is one woman's story, from childhood to adult. The ending is probably not what you would expect, but fully satisfying for the reader and the writer. It all comes down to love, in all its forms. And as for loving books, I think you will this one.
*Disclaimer: I was given this book free to review from the author. I was not required to write a positive review.
I didn't have trouble reading about homosexual love so much as I did that it started so young. Thirteen is such a tender age to be engaged in any kind of sexual relationship that my brain has a hard time dealing with it. But, this is Lisa's story, and that's how it went - for better or for worse.
Lisa Vaughn's writing style is free and easy, making it quite enjoyable to read. She's brutally honest about every aspect of her life, from her family, to her friends, to her love. She has a self-deprecating humor that drew me to her. I felt like she would be a great friend to have.
The Gifted Ones is one woman's story, from childhood to adult. The ending is probably not what you would expect, but fully satisfying for the reader and the writer. It all comes down to love, in all its forms. And as for loving books, I think you will this one.
*Disclaimer: I was given this book free to review from the author. I was not required to write a positive review.
July 9, 2012
This book is a solid 3 stars and I would never originally have thought to give it more, but something about this book keeps me pondering. Maybe it should get a 4th star for that.
On the surface it is a personal memoir of young love and bitter-sweet reminiscence. It showcases all the classic issues that disrupt relationships; parental issues, lack of personal and financial stability in society, the self absorption of youth, jealousy, but in the end we discover that we alone are responsible for the success or failure of our special relationships and this takes a certain level of maturity. Once mature though, do we dare to expose ourselves to the heartbreak of being consumed in love, or do we settle for something comfortable and safe instead? Can something be just fulfilling enough? My personal feelings are expressed in the words of Dylan Thomas when he said, "Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light.", granted that was in reference to death, but the sentiment is similar.
On the surface it is a personal memoir of young love and bitter-sweet reminiscence. It showcases all the classic issues that disrupt relationships; parental issues, lack of personal and financial stability in society, the self absorption of youth, jealousy, but in the end we discover that we alone are responsible for the success or failure of our special relationships and this takes a certain level of maturity. Once mature though, do we dare to expose ourselves to the heartbreak of being consumed in love, or do we settle for something comfortable and safe instead? Can something be just fulfilling enough? My personal feelings are expressed in the words of Dylan Thomas when he said, "Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light.", granted that was in reference to death, but the sentiment is similar.
March 12, 2012
I loved this book. It was written from the heart and very enjoyable. I was able to relate to the author and many of the things that she went through with her parents. In many ways I could have sworn she was talking about my parents and I could almost hear my own mother saying many of the the things that her mother said in the book!
Although my life was nothing at all like the authors life, it was a wonderful, heart warming and heart wrenching read. The people in the book came alive and it almost felt like I was reading about a classmate or someone I knew. Through all of the ups and downs, you feel the pain and sorrows, and share the laughs and triumphs. It was incredibly personal and made me think about my own life and my own methods of coping.
I'd highly recommend this book to anyone. Whether you feel the odd person out, or not, it's a wonderful read.
Although my life was nothing at all like the authors life, it was a wonderful, heart warming and heart wrenching read. The people in the book came alive and it almost felt like I was reading about a classmate or someone I knew. Through all of the ups and downs, you feel the pain and sorrows, and share the laughs and triumphs. It was incredibly personal and made me think about my own life and my own methods of coping.
I'd highly recommend this book to anyone. Whether you feel the odd person out, or not, it's a wonderful read.
September 29, 2012
I read this a while ago, but what i remember most about it is heartbreak. probably why i never wrote a true review for it. It is clearly a well written novel and places you firmly into the hearts and souls of these girl as they become women. But in that journey, you also witness the struggles they have endured to be true to themselves and follow their love with ferocity. It's a coming of age story, as well as a story of the struggles that one faces with love and relationships in general. I remember them being women when the story left me off on the side of the road, and despite the heartache that i remember, the fact that i remember as much about this story as i do translates into it getting at least 4 stars from me a year later.
May 18, 2011
Read a review and interview with the fabulous author: http://abookishaffair.blogspot.com/20...
August 31, 2011
I so related to this story. I could not stop reading.
March 8, 2014
The Gifted Ones is a memoir of love and self discovery, of loss and deeper self discovery. The author grew up in Catholic family in the 1970s in--as she describes it--`no-where middle America.' At 13 years old, she becomes enamored with a classmate and we see the highs and lows of their six-year relationship, including sex, drugs, partying, and all imaginable risky behavior. The writing is fast paced, detailed and blunt. The author was not afraid to tell it all and I applaud her bravery.
The most memorable moment in the book for me was when the author experiences her first kiss. The moment is tender and heartfelt. I would have liked more such experiences, but the author's style is to tell the reader what happened rather than to let the reader experience it along with her. As a result, though I could see the main characters clearly and grew to like many of them quite a lot, I never felt particularly close to them. I was left wanting to know more about the author's mother, who we see as one-dimensional, and father, who is nonexistent.
The prose is marred by inaccurate word usage in enough places to make it worth mentioning. These caused me to stumble as I read and broke the story spell. As an English major, this bothered me more than it may other readers.
In spite of these downsides, the story carries important messages of love and acceptance, told in a strong, honest voice. The Gifted Ones is worth reading, therefore I give it 3 stars.
The most memorable moment in the book for me was when the author experiences her first kiss. The moment is tender and heartfelt. I would have liked more such experiences, but the author's style is to tell the reader what happened rather than to let the reader experience it along with her. As a result, though I could see the main characters clearly and grew to like many of them quite a lot, I never felt particularly close to them. I was left wanting to know more about the author's mother, who we see as one-dimensional, and father, who is nonexistent.
The prose is marred by inaccurate word usage in enough places to make it worth mentioning. These caused me to stumble as I read and broke the story spell. As an English major, this bothered me more than it may other readers.
In spite of these downsides, the story carries important messages of love and acceptance, told in a strong, honest voice. The Gifted Ones is worth reading, therefore I give it 3 stars.
January 19, 2012
Review of “The Gifted Ones” by Lisa Vaughn
I do not review books. I write them. I sometimes share them with my fellow writers. Last fall, Lisa and I swapped books. From the moment she proclaimed herself “Lisa The Great” I was hooked. By the time I finished the book, I felt compelled to share my experience with Lisa Vaughn. Lisas’ story is a coming of age memoir of a young girl growing up in middle America. Her relationship with her stern and usually religious parents unfolds before us. The trials of school, finding a friend – then finding quite unexpectedly a special friend are subjects nearly all of us can relate to, at least on some level. The story on its own merits was wonderful. Add to it, Lisa’s expertise in crafting that story and you have a “feel good” memoir that will put a smile on your face. Lisa Vaughn is Raw sometimes. But it is real language that elevate the story. Her frank discussion of a young girl’s discoveries is equally raw and revealing AND essential, as that language is precisely what draws you into her world and connects you. Lisa Vaughn is a special writer with the ability not only to tell an interesting story, but put magic in her words to draw you in as if you are there, watching from the sidelines. “The Gifted Ones” by Lisa Vaughn is a MUST READ for all lovers of true stories.
I do not review books. I write them. I sometimes share them with my fellow writers. Last fall, Lisa and I swapped books. From the moment she proclaimed herself “Lisa The Great” I was hooked. By the time I finished the book, I felt compelled to share my experience with Lisa Vaughn. Lisas’ story is a coming of age memoir of a young girl growing up in middle America. Her relationship with her stern and usually religious parents unfolds before us. The trials of school, finding a friend – then finding quite unexpectedly a special friend are subjects nearly all of us can relate to, at least on some level. The story on its own merits was wonderful. Add to it, Lisa’s expertise in crafting that story and you have a “feel good” memoir that will put a smile on your face. Lisa Vaughn is Raw sometimes. But it is real language that elevate the story. Her frank discussion of a young girl’s discoveries is equally raw and revealing AND essential, as that language is precisely what draws you into her world and connects you. Lisa Vaughn is a special writer with the ability not only to tell an interesting story, but put magic in her words to draw you in as if you are there, watching from the sidelines. “The Gifted Ones” by Lisa Vaughn is a MUST READ for all lovers of true stories.
February 12, 2012
The Gifted Ones by Lisa Vaughn was a beautiful memoir of a girl's journey to find love and who she truly is.
Lisa lived in a typical small town in the Midwest while she was growing up. She was raised Catholic. Lisa found herself in a constant power struggle with her mother, but she and her younger sister were overall well behaved children with two typical parents. Dad working outside the home, mom raising the children and keeping up the house.
When Lisa was in Junior High she met Selena and so began their amazing journey together. They started out as friends but soon found that they were so much more. Together they would face many challenges that would test their love. Discovery in a world that did not yet accept their feelings was one major issues. They learned to hide their relationship. Together they found jobs, dealt with family problems, made their way through school, and discovered their independence.
This was the first memoir I have ever read, so I was unsure if I would enjoy it or not. That was never an issue. It is a truly captivating story that had me wondering what would happen next.
Lisa lived in a typical small town in the Midwest while she was growing up. She was raised Catholic. Lisa found herself in a constant power struggle with her mother, but she and her younger sister were overall well behaved children with two typical parents. Dad working outside the home, mom raising the children and keeping up the house.
When Lisa was in Junior High she met Selena and so began their amazing journey together. They started out as friends but soon found that they were so much more. Together they would face many challenges that would test their love. Discovery in a world that did not yet accept their feelings was one major issues. They learned to hide their relationship. Together they found jobs, dealt with family problems, made their way through school, and discovered their independence.
This was the first memoir I have ever read, so I was unsure if I would enjoy it or not. That was never an issue. It is a truly captivating story that had me wondering what would happen next.
November 7, 2011
The title says it all and I cannot give it away here. Suffice it to say that the story of Lisa's love affair with her best friend and soul mate Selina is tumultuous, gripping and so completely easy to identify with. It reaches far beyond the subject of a same gender love to what makes all of us love another and what makes all of us become different people who we started out to be.
I read this very slowly. Some books I flip pages like crazy, hungry for the ending. Others, like Lisa's, I take into myself and the book will take on it's own life within me. That's what happened with The Gifted Ones. It's a truly wonderful story and the author has been so completely open. I've never, ever read a full memoir. This is the first to take hold of me and not let go. Thanks Lisa.
I read this very slowly. Some books I flip pages like crazy, hungry for the ending. Others, like Lisa's, I take into myself and the book will take on it's own life within me. That's what happened with The Gifted Ones. It's a truly wonderful story and the author has been so completely open. I've never, ever read a full memoir. This is the first to take hold of me and not let go. Thanks Lisa.
July 1, 2012
As a fan of memoir I chose this book thinking it would be a good story of overcoming your past. Lisa Vaughn told a witty story but left some wrapping up in the end. It didn't seem finished.
Also, the numerous grammatical errors made it difficult to read.
Also, the numerous grammatical errors made it difficult to read.
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