A Long Way from No Go

by Tjanara Goreng Goreng, Julie Szego (With)

This is a memoir of an Aboriginal woman, Tjanara Goreng Goreng, who began life without any of the advantages of her fellow non-Indigenous Australians except for grit, humour and diverse talent in spades. Through one woman’s story, this book shines a light on the shameful treatment and betrayal of first Australians by individuals and social institutions since European take over. This is a story of resilience, courage and Tjanara’s remarkable capacity to overcome unending barriers. She is an inspiration to all fellow Australians and more specifically to the disenfranchised, marginalised and voiceless Indigenous communities.

Hear Tjanara discuss A Long Way from No Go on ABC Radio National with Fran Kelly

'If you’re not faint hearted, and your mind, spirit and soul are open to hearing some hideous home truths about a particularly dark chapter in Australia’s history, you need to read this incredible tale of survival...a tale of reckoning that deserves every acclaim.' — Independent Australia

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 1, 2019

Reviews

[JL Wolfe · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was interested in TGG’s story because I wanted to explore the life of how a fellow Aussie (of a different culture/race) in my generation experienced their life. I often had to put it down.

TGG has come under scrutiny for accusing priests who were already deceased (and therefore could not defend themselves against allegations). Her haters have set up a website in her name and use some incredibly infantile language to attack her with. When I was reading the book I have to admit I thought certain scenarios were a bit unbelievable. But on reading outside of the book - especially the above mentioned website- I’ve come to firmly believe in TGG’s account of events. Her haters have not helped their own cause. Also, I strongly recommend TGG’s Ted talk on YouTube. In addition to reading her book.

[Kevin Williams]

This is a book of lies, fantasy and make believe by a woman who suffers from serious mental health issues (dissociative identity disorder).

What she has alleged about her father and two priests in the book has been proven beyond doubt to be lies.

The ghost writer of the book Julie Szego did not investigate any of the outrageous allegations because if she did this supposed memoir would not have seen the light of day.

The truth behind the lies of this book are listed on the website www.tjanaragorenggoreng.com

[Barb Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tjanara Goreng Goreng writes candidly about being a survivor of child sex abuse in the Catholic Church and racism in Australia. Her story is an inspiring one.