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The Woman I Was Born to Be: My Story
In April 2009, a modest middle-aged woman from a village in Scotland was catapulted to global fame when the YouTube video of her audition for Britain’s Got Talent touched the hearts of millions all over the world. From singing karaoke in local pubs to a live performance with an eighty-piece orchestra in Japan’s legendary Budokan Arena and a record-breaking debut album, Susan Boyle has become an international superstar. This astonishing transformation has not always been easy for her, faced with all the trappings of celebrity, but in the whirlwind of attention and expectation, she has always found calm and clarity in music. Susan was born to sing. Now, for the first time, she tells the story of her life and the challenges she has struggled to overcome with faith, fortitude, and an unfailing sense of humor.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2010
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462 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
June 23, 2021
Susan Boyle was an unknown woman from a small village in West Lothian, Scotland, when she auditioned for "Britain's Got Talent." The television viewers were impressed with her gorgeous voice, and she achieved overnight fame.
Susan had some slight brain damage due to lack of oxygen at birth. Her years at school were not happy because her classmates bullied her and she had trouble learning. Her large family of eight brothers and sisters were very supportive. Her father was protective, and her mother was encouraging and loving. Her Catholic faith sustained Susan during difficult times.
Susan had a high level of anxiety, and the hounding from the press was almost unbearable. It was often hard for her to step on the stage, but the music took over when she started singing with her sweet powerful voice.
Susan hoped that her accomplishments would make it a little easier for other people with a disability. She wrote, "You should always focus on what you can do, not on what you can't do--and remember, there's no rush." Those are inspirational words for people of all abilities. (Although it's not in the book, Susan later received an Asperger's Syndrome diagnosis.) 3.5 stars.
Susan had some slight brain damage due to lack of oxygen at birth. Her years at school were not happy because her classmates bullied her and she had trouble learning. Her large family of eight brothers and sisters were very supportive. Her father was protective, and her mother was encouraging and loving. Her Catholic faith sustained Susan during difficult times.
Susan had a high level of anxiety, and the hounding from the press was almost unbearable. It was often hard for her to step on the stage, but the music took over when she started singing with her sweet powerful voice.
Susan hoped that her accomplishments would make it a little easier for other people with a disability. She wrote, "You should always focus on what you can do, not on what you can't do--and remember, there's no rush." Those are inspirational words for people of all abilities. (Although it's not in the book, Susan later received an Asperger's Syndrome diagnosis.) 3.5 stars.
January 24, 2023
My Mom loved Susan Boyle’s music and both my parents marvelled over her story: a Scottish woman who took care of her parents, pursued a dream, and made it big in 2009. I got an unauthorized biography for Mom second-hand. She did not live past 2020 to read it. I put it aside for myself and recently, saw a hardcover of Susan’s own co-authored story in 2010. This is what I read to acquaint this sweet, gifted, hilarious lady instead.
“The Woman I Was Born To Be: My Story” drew me into a large, loving cat family and small town life in Scotland from the 1960s to 1980s, one decade earlier than my childhood in Canada. She made great points about perception, for example, how people presumed doctors knew everything and still do but we question them more now. It was believed that they needed to mollycoddle Susan but her passions and ambitions grew, until she was taking courses and jobs that suited her.
This excellent book also clearly teaches about the drive and work exerted by artists, who only seem to come out of nowhere according to us suddenly hearing about them. Susan regaled neighbours with her extraordinarily lovely voice at pubs, took lessons, and won TV contests. It brings to mind Phyllis A. Whitney’s writing tutorial: “The train of opportunity will come. Be ready to get aboard”.
I was unsurprised by a daylong wait to audition but stunned that a peer shared a sandwich, instead of the wealthy AGT providing hydration and nourishment. She left at midnight! Susan was rightfully jarred by the press and public’s aggressive chasing. Lets act civilized around artists and not scare them, please! Using her faith to conquer stage fright and any worries is inspiring. Her beautiful song repertoire is colourfully, well varied.
“The Woman I Was Born To Be: My Story” drew me into a large, loving cat family and small town life in Scotland from the 1960s to 1980s, one decade earlier than my childhood in Canada. She made great points about perception, for example, how people presumed doctors knew everything and still do but we question them more now. It was believed that they needed to mollycoddle Susan but her passions and ambitions grew, until she was taking courses and jobs that suited her.
This excellent book also clearly teaches about the drive and work exerted by artists, who only seem to come out of nowhere according to us suddenly hearing about them. Susan regaled neighbours with her extraordinarily lovely voice at pubs, took lessons, and won TV contests. It brings to mind Phyllis A. Whitney’s writing tutorial: “The train of opportunity will come. Be ready to get aboard”.
I was unsurprised by a daylong wait to audition but stunned that a peer shared a sandwich, instead of the wealthy AGT providing hydration and nourishment. She left at midnight! Susan was rightfully jarred by the press and public’s aggressive chasing. Lets act civilized around artists and not scare them, please! Using her faith to conquer stage fright and any worries is inspiring. Her beautiful song repertoire is colourfully, well varied.
November 6, 2010
On April 1st, 2009 Susan Boyle spent a lonely birthday in her West Lothian home in Scotland. There were no cards, no presents, no parties, no phone calls with people singing happy birthday. Nope, for Susan, it really wasn't a "birthday" but just any other ordinary day.
On April 1, 2010 Susan Boyle was known around the world!! She had become an overnight sensation singing with the voice of an angel. The range, the pitch and notes this woman can hit literally leave you quaking in your boots. You are literally awed, stuptified, your mouth won't move and all you can do is cry tears that come from the very innermost, deepest parts of your soul. Wow! What a difference a year can make!!!!
Susan's autobiography is HER story and she tells it well. People are so quick to judge others who are not like themselves but I'm here to tell you, this woman is one smart cookie, a heck of a lot smarter than many folks would have given her credit for. Her story is touching, happy, sad and will make you laugh, shake your head, cry, want to jump up and down and might even propel you to try the 'Susan wiggle', it worked for me! LOL
The quilt pictured in the book..."I" was one of those quilters and my "Angel" square is in the top LEFT corner looking at the photo and I couldn't be prouder as I like to consider myself Susan's number one fan in Canada!!!
Susan, congratulations on your book and a story well told. You deserve all the riches and blessings this world has to give you.
On April 1, 2010 Susan Boyle was known around the world!! She had become an overnight sensation singing with the voice of an angel. The range, the pitch and notes this woman can hit literally leave you quaking in your boots. You are literally awed, stuptified, your mouth won't move and all you can do is cry tears that come from the very innermost, deepest parts of your soul. Wow! What a difference a year can make!!!!
Susan's autobiography is HER story and she tells it well. People are so quick to judge others who are not like themselves but I'm here to tell you, this woman is one smart cookie, a heck of a lot smarter than many folks would have given her credit for. Her story is touching, happy, sad and will make you laugh, shake your head, cry, want to jump up and down and might even propel you to try the 'Susan wiggle', it worked for me! LOL
The quilt pictured in the book..."I" was one of those quilters and my "Angel" square is in the top LEFT corner looking at the photo and I couldn't be prouder as I like to consider myself Susan's number one fan in Canada!!!
Susan, congratulations on your book and a story well told. You deserve all the riches and blessings this world has to give you.
January 17, 2011
I'm probably one of the 10 people in the world who didn't pay much attention to Susan Boyle. I don't even watch the American talent shows so I don't think I'm the target audience for this book. But I will be talking about nonfiction this week on "Great Day St. Louis," and this was one of three titles the producers wanted me to yak about. Surprisingly, I really enjoyed it. It's very well written (kudos to Susan Boyle's ghostwriter for getting her story down so clearly and poignantly). Since I didn't know that much about Ms. Boyle except that she became a YouTube sensation after her appearance on a British talent show, it was interesting finding out about her life and her roots. The ninth child of middle-aged parents, she was deprived of oxygen briefly at birth and was considered slightly "brain damaged." She loved music from early on and it was the one thing she truly responded to. Socially, she was a bit of a misfit and was often teased or bullied in school. Thank goodness for her devoted family and her devotion to her Catholic faith. If anything this book reinforces the idea that every human being is born with a gift for something, but often it just takes time to figure out what that is. Susan Boyle truly worked hard at her singing and even at her stage presence. I had no idea she was so interested in the theater, enough to enroll in courses, and that she sang in pubs as a young woman. So she's hardly an "overnight sensation." All in all, a lovely read about a woman who's beat the odds in so many ways. Definitely a book you can give to a teenager. Susan Boyle's story is all about judging people for who they are on the inside and not for what they look like. This one gets a thumbs up from me.
November 14, 2010
I recently saw Susan Boyle on the Oprah Winfrey show and was really inspired by her story. This prompted me to buy the book. I am about 1/4 of the way into it and can say that I look forward to learning more about her. She has a beautiful voice and a very powerful story to tell.
Susan Boyle's memoir was not a typical celebrity tale. Susan spoke lovingly about her faith and her family and how both helped her to navigate through the world where people are not always accepting. I found her school experiences particularly interesting to read about. It is good that Susan found her passion in music and found something to shine in. She also talked about significant people in her life who helped her along the way to get to where she is today. Susan has a loyal and protective circle of friends that she credits in her story. While her friends and family are protective, they also respected that Susan had a lot of spirit and independence. She faced her fears of traveling alone and seized an opportunity that certainly changed her life.
Her experiences with Britain's Got Talent and her subsequent celebrity are all in this book. I get the sense that Susan has remained true to herself even with all of the pressures and opportunities that come with stardom. It was a pleasure to read about someone who has struggled with being different go from being bullied to being celebrated for her unique gift and spirit.
Susan Boyle's memoir was not a typical celebrity tale. Susan spoke lovingly about her faith and her family and how both helped her to navigate through the world where people are not always accepting. I found her school experiences particularly interesting to read about. It is good that Susan found her passion in music and found something to shine in. She also talked about significant people in her life who helped her along the way to get to where she is today. Susan has a loyal and protective circle of friends that she credits in her story. While her friends and family are protective, they also respected that Susan had a lot of spirit and independence. She faced her fears of traveling alone and seized an opportunity that certainly changed her life.
Her experiences with Britain's Got Talent and her subsequent celebrity are all in this book. I get the sense that Susan has remained true to herself even with all of the pressures and opportunities that come with stardom. It was a pleasure to read about someone who has struggled with being different go from being bullied to being celebrated for her unique gift and spirit.
September 3, 2011
I've always wondered what I would respond if ever asked whom I would like to meet. I can now say it would be an honor to meet Susan Boyle. This book was so inspiring, so touching, so real. What an incredibly beautiful person.
April 22, 2011
Delightful biography of Susan Boyle and her catapult into fame.
November 26, 2010
‘So I opened my mouth and showed them what I could do..’
Susan Magdalane Boyle was born on 1 April 1961, the ninth child in her family. On 1 April 2009, she observed her 48th birthday quietly. On the 11th of April, her audition (recorded in August 2008) for ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ was shown on British television. Video of her audition, singing ‘I dreamed a Dream’, was posted on YouTube, and Susan Boyle became known around the world. On 1 April 2010, she was singing with an eighty-piece orchestra at Japan’s Budokan Arena.
This is Susan Boyle’s story. The story of how a woman, blessed to be part of a loving family but bullied at school because she was different, found her own successful path in life. Susan’s story is a very personal recounting of her life before, and after, April 2009. Susan Boyle has changed: fame has bought new challenges, and a new confidence. She has the most amazing and beautiful voice and I think it wonderful that she is sharing her voice with the world.
This is an interesting autobiography: Susan Boyle’s career is still young and the balance of her life experience is in many ways quite unremarkable. Or is it? Susan struggled to find a place in a world where difference (especially if the label disability is applied) is a disadvantage.
If you’ve heard Susan Boyle sing, if you’ve wondered about where she came from and wanted to know more about the woman behind the voice from the woman who owns the voice, then you will enjoy this account. Susan herself said, about writing this book: ‘My story demonstrates that you shouldn’t just look at the label, you should look at the whole person, emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually, and I hope that telling it will show that dreams are not impossible, if you’ve got courage and a willingness to go on no matter what the circumstances.’
I agree.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Susan Magdalane Boyle was born on 1 April 1961, the ninth child in her family. On 1 April 2009, she observed her 48th birthday quietly. On the 11th of April, her audition (recorded in August 2008) for ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ was shown on British television. Video of her audition, singing ‘I dreamed a Dream’, was posted on YouTube, and Susan Boyle became known around the world. On 1 April 2010, she was singing with an eighty-piece orchestra at Japan’s Budokan Arena.
This is Susan Boyle’s story. The story of how a woman, blessed to be part of a loving family but bullied at school because she was different, found her own successful path in life. Susan’s story is a very personal recounting of her life before, and after, April 2009. Susan Boyle has changed: fame has bought new challenges, and a new confidence. She has the most amazing and beautiful voice and I think it wonderful that she is sharing her voice with the world.
This is an interesting autobiography: Susan Boyle’s career is still young and the balance of her life experience is in many ways quite unremarkable. Or is it? Susan struggled to find a place in a world where difference (especially if the label disability is applied) is a disadvantage.
If you’ve heard Susan Boyle sing, if you’ve wondered about where she came from and wanted to know more about the woman behind the voice from the woman who owns the voice, then you will enjoy this account. Susan herself said, about writing this book: ‘My story demonstrates that you shouldn’t just look at the label, you should look at the whole person, emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually, and I hope that telling it will show that dreams are not impossible, if you’ve got courage and a willingness to go on no matter what the circumstances.’
I agree.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
September 3, 2011
I remember seeing Susan Boyle's first audition on Britain's Got Talent, then showing it to my son when he got home from school. When she opened her mouth, he said, "That's not her singing, is it?" He thought it was a trick. No one expected that voice to come from that visual. But God truly uses the humble things of this world to shame the proud, and He gave Susan a beautiful talent.
Susan tells her own story in The Woman I Was Born to Be. After a brief prologue, she begins with the story of her birth in Bangour Hospital, Scotland. It's ironic that she was born on April 1st, considering how everyone was fooled by first appearances. God's sense of humour, perhaps, knowing what was to come? Doctors told Susan's parents from the start that since she'd been deprived of oxygen, they wouldn't be able to expect much of her, and this early determination coloured much of her life afterwards. School was a struggle, though Susan persisted; relationships were challenging. She was somewhat spoiled by her mother and one sister, but the love of her family was a blessing, and Susan enjoyed a very special connection with both of them.
Raised in the Catholic faith, Susan draws much strength and comfort from her religion, and gives thanks to God and "Our Lady" for all good things that have come her way. She is down-to-earth despite her new-found fame, and seems like she would be great fun to have as a dinner guest (you might just want to save the beans for another meal).
This is a non-traditional celebrity bio - you won't find any drinking, drugs, or wild sex here. Susan has lived a life of few regrets, but her story is fascinating nonetheless.
Susan tells her own story in The Woman I Was Born to Be. After a brief prologue, she begins with the story of her birth in Bangour Hospital, Scotland. It's ironic that she was born on April 1st, considering how everyone was fooled by first appearances. God's sense of humour, perhaps, knowing what was to come? Doctors told Susan's parents from the start that since she'd been deprived of oxygen, they wouldn't be able to expect much of her, and this early determination coloured much of her life afterwards. School was a struggle, though Susan persisted; relationships were challenging. She was somewhat spoiled by her mother and one sister, but the love of her family was a blessing, and Susan enjoyed a very special connection with both of them.
Raised in the Catholic faith, Susan draws much strength and comfort from her religion, and gives thanks to God and "Our Lady" for all good things that have come her way. She is down-to-earth despite her new-found fame, and seems like she would be great fun to have as a dinner guest (you might just want to save the beans for another meal).
This is a non-traditional celebrity bio - you won't find any drinking, drugs, or wild sex here. Susan has lived a life of few regrets, but her story is fascinating nonetheless.
January 15, 2011
I am so glad I decided to read this book. This is a very candid, very honest story of Susan Boyle's life until her mid-40s when she literally became an overnight international superstar by appearing on Great Britain's Got Talent. If you have followed her career at all, you've read the tabloids, the rumors of tantrums and depression and all sorts of things. This book tells it all, from what it's like to go, literally overnight, from a bullied, somewhat mentally challenged woman living on her own for the first time in her life (following her mother's death) to being the most famous woman in the world, with paparazzi camped out in front of her house and following her every move. You understand the times when there were problems, you see how kind everyone was to her, and you'll cheer her success. It also talks about the process of making her first album (which has sold more copies than any other album in history). It's really a very good book and, as I said, I'm very glad that I read it.
July 27, 2011
What an interesting life. Just goes to show you can't judge a book by it's cover. A person with a disability may be disabled on one way, but shine in another.
February 12, 2011
I don't follow many people in the music or acting scene anymore but I've made an exception for Susan Boyle. Like millions of other people I first saw her on her audition for Britain's Got Talent when she shocked all three judges, wiping the smug smirks off the faces of Piers Morgan and Simon Cowell. I had watched a season or two of the American version and enjoy the parts after the auditions but mostly don't follow the winners after they finish the show.
For Susan I've become a real fan. I have both her albums, I watched the TV special, I look for a lot of her interviews. So, it was a no-brainer that I was going to read this book. Boy, and I glad I did.
Even though Susan didn't "write" this biography it is more than evident that she told the story and it came across in her words. It is both a heartbreaking story and a heart lifting one. From the "poor baby" who doctors said would always be slow, the young child who was bullied and beaten by other children, the unsure adult who never left home because as the youngest of eight she was expected to "take care" of the parents, to the confident singer who has WOW'd the world it is more than evident that Susan told her story.
Many things she said hurt, they hurt as only something that resonates because of shared experiences. I was also bullied (never physically) by other children in school. It leaves scars and takes a toll.
To anyone who has ever been bullied and wants to read about triumph over adversity, this is the biography for you.
For Susan I've become a real fan. I have both her albums, I watched the TV special, I look for a lot of her interviews. So, it was a no-brainer that I was going to read this book. Boy, and I glad I did.
Even though Susan didn't "write" this biography it is more than evident that she told the story and it came across in her words. It is both a heartbreaking story and a heart lifting one. From the "poor baby" who doctors said would always be slow, the young child who was bullied and beaten by other children, the unsure adult who never left home because as the youngest of eight she was expected to "take care" of the parents, to the confident singer who has WOW'd the world it is more than evident that Susan told her story.
Many things she said hurt, they hurt as only something that resonates because of shared experiences. I was also bullied (never physically) by other children in school. It leaves scars and takes a toll.
To anyone who has ever been bullied and wants to read about triumph over adversity, this is the biography for you.
July 4, 2016
Did you ever think that it would be fun being a famous person, well think again. Reading Susan Boyle’s book about her rise to fame as its share of struggles along with the way.
Susan was a simple, quiet and often lonely woman from Scotland. She was the youngest of 9 children and growing up was not easy for her. She was always different than those of her classmates and siblings. Making friends and learning was a challenge for her and I believe that her parents sheltered her too much. She was and still is a very venerable person and sees the world a bit different than most.
The book goes into her life growing up in the 60’s, trying to find her places in society and her mother always wanting her to be the person that she was born to be. Susan was very close with her mother and when her mother passed away in 07, it was a real shock to Susan. The book goes on to talk about 3 other people in Susan’s life who will pass away and leave her.
The book though might sound to be depressing, Susan has an upbeat and humorous way of telling the hard parts of her story. Even at the lowest points, she still managed to find some good out of it.
A wonderful and uplifting story about someone who had a dream and went for it even when no one believed in her dream. The book will make you laugh, cry, empathize and really discover the woman who took Britain’s Got Talent by storm.
Susan was a simple, quiet and often lonely woman from Scotland. She was the youngest of 9 children and growing up was not easy for her. She was always different than those of her classmates and siblings. Making friends and learning was a challenge for her and I believe that her parents sheltered her too much. She was and still is a very venerable person and sees the world a bit different than most.
The book goes into her life growing up in the 60’s, trying to find her places in society and her mother always wanting her to be the person that she was born to be. Susan was very close with her mother and when her mother passed away in 07, it was a real shock to Susan. The book goes on to talk about 3 other people in Susan’s life who will pass away and leave her.
The book though might sound to be depressing, Susan has an upbeat and humorous way of telling the hard parts of her story. Even at the lowest points, she still managed to find some good out of it.
A wonderful and uplifting story about someone who had a dream and went for it even when no one believed in her dream. The book will make you laugh, cry, empathize and really discover the woman who took Britain’s Got Talent by storm.
February 21, 2018
Not a typical read for me I was handed a copy because 'you like books'! But I remember watching Susan's first appearance so was interested enough for a good skim read.
Got to admit cynicism over the whole reality show machine. I firmly believe there's staging, certainly no mention here of the pre-auditions necessary for televised auditions...
But there's a naivety and goodwill about the book, the voice and accent of Susan Boyle coming through it. A humble woman with a quirky sense of humour, mild disability, big talent and bigger heart, out of her depth in the big bad world but holding true and inspiring. Far more than the box people would fit her into. Somewhat twee book but there's an honesty about the woman.
Dare to dream, can't rate down that moral. Cynicism be damned, I may have even sniffled a little.
Got to admit cynicism over the whole reality show machine. I firmly believe there's staging, certainly no mention here of the pre-auditions necessary for televised auditions...
But there's a naivety and goodwill about the book, the voice and accent of Susan Boyle coming through it. A humble woman with a quirky sense of humour, mild disability, big talent and bigger heart, out of her depth in the big bad world but holding true and inspiring. Far more than the box people would fit her into. Somewhat twee book but there's an honesty about the woman.
Dare to dream, can't rate down that moral. Cynicism be damned, I may have even sniffled a little.
December 19, 2011
I found a copy of this while perusing my grandmother's shelves and picked it up merely to see if it mentioned Ant and Dec. (I flipped to the section entitled "Britain's Got Talent" and sure enough, it mentioned them several times! Only briefly... but I was happy. Pathetic? Perhaps.) But then, as I held the book, I thought: "Why not actually read it and not just for any passing mentions of my newest infatuation?" While I do remember when the video of her BGT audition went viraI, I wasn't particularly interested in her, though I did and do appreciate her talent. I am glad I did end up reading this, though; I was swept away by her story. And what a story it is! I don't know as I'd say this book made a Susan Boyle fan of me, but reading it was an excellent way to spend an afternoon.
January 19, 2011
OK! I didn't think I would like this book - I have not followed the famedom of Susan Boyle, but I was a reading teacher who dealt with lots of students who struggled. I loved this book. She, fortunately, was a reader. But she had other learning difficulties and just didn't fit the picture of the norm! Not only has she survived but she is an outstanding person who said disability - "The first 3 letters imply that you're limited, that a fence has been built around you - not by you but by what people think of you" AND, more importantly, "As a society we seem to have very tight restrictions on what is considered normal." Enough said!
July 28, 2011
I iked the book. It gave me food for thought. It was heart-breaking to hear of her early struggles, and her lack of preparation for "life". When her parents died, she had no friends, no support, and no ability to take care of basic financial tasks. Even at 48, she said the teens on the corner would make fun to her (the very ones that wanted her autograph after her fame). How sad to think someone's life could be so hard - and that people were so cruel. It was nice to hear her happy ending.
December 30, 2010
I am really enjoying this book. I love to read biographies and this is a good one. I do remember seeing Susan for the first time at the music competition when the whole world was surprised by her voice.
February 10, 2011
I so ENJOyED this book! Her Scottish banter comes through clearly, and Susan is very candid about her life and experiences.
February 27, 2011
Susan is a very simple woman with some learning disabilities which makes it clearer why she has had so much trouble dealing with fame. I wish her the best.
May 28, 2019
its much more then a book about someone who won a talent show.
April 18, 2022
Heartwarming and deeply honest account of hopes and dreams fulfilled. Susan Boyle's story demonstrates that you shouldn't just look at the label, you should always look at the whole person, emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually. The book succeeds on every level as she relates her life story and it gives such hope to all who struggle with life. Can't wait for the next instalment to see how the next 12 years have unfolded.
June 4, 2025
Interesting book. It was enlightening to learn about Ms. Boyle's life and experiences. I've never been a huge fan and was just interested in her life after seeing some recent news about her. But I certainly respect what she has accomplished and she comes across as a very nice person. It was fun to read the behind-the-scenes stuff and what was not aired on "Britain's Got Talent."
December 13, 2011
Before I write my review on this book, I want to let everyone know what I first thought about Susan and how I got to know about her.
It all started about 2 years ago, maybe last year. My mum was on the computer one day and she was playing a video over and over again of this lady called Susan boyle. I thought she looked interesting, but the song did nothing for me and I was irritated. I admit I thought she seemed weird and didn't seem like an interesting person (why was I so cruel?:(). I did like the song, but I wasn't going to buy it. I joined her forums for some reason and never came back. Now in 2011 Susan suddenly became an interest to me. My mum I thank for this. Mum wanted her new album and I had heard about her being bullied. I also saw videos of her new album "someone to watch over me" on YouTube and I thought "Wow!" just like my mum. Mum was the one who prompted me to listen to it, I just ignored the ad. That was when i wanted susan's album and wanted to learn more about her. I got her album and liked what I heard, I hadn't liked many of her original album songs at all (not my taste). Her Christmas album I had just heard of, but I'm not into Christmas music. I got one of her biographies and mum thought it was odd I was suddenly interested in her. This was the biography by John mcshane. I had a read of it and hated it (don't recommend this one). I then decided on getting the book she had apparently made herself with help which is this one. I was excited to get it as I was Interested to learn her story. Mum understood I wanted to get it because I was badly verbally bullied at school and wanted something to relate to. I had also seen her doco on YouTube called 'an unlikely superstar' which made me cry because of how much I liked her character. This made me want the book even more! I got the book and couldn't wait to get stuck into it. And boy oh boy, I sure was! I kept reading and reading for a long time. I was touched by her completely. She is so fascinating and interesting. I love her character! I was also laughing and even feeling very angry at people who were horrid to her and related to that (even though I've never being treated the way Susan did, mine was more verbal things and stares and looks etc). Then it got to the parts where she talked about her mum, dad and sister dying I couldn't stop the tears and kept bawling and crying till I couldn't see the words. I had a huge amount of empathy for her. I was also deeply moved by the fact she respects her fans and loved them, even included a pic of a quilt some fans made her. She seems like a wonderful human being! I was a little puzzled why with all the nice things she said about her fans, then on the second to last page calls them "daft". What is up with that? I was surprised she has so much going on in the inside, as she displays such a humorous, bubbly and crazy nature on the outside. It seems like it almost can't be true that this is what she feels inside. It almost can't believe it. I deeply respect her now and now support her ENTIRELY. I feel awful dismissing her because I didn't Really like her singing and maybe even by her appearance. She is an amazing person. I understand why she is super popular now. But still feel it is wo odd she is outselling artists, she is a great singer but outselling greats? Even my loud and criminal neighbors listened to her! It's fascinating as she is not the glamourous star, she is quite ordinary (I mean this nicely and it is a good thing), she isn't exactly a stunner (I'm not trying to be mean) and Its weird her sort of music is selling when it isn't sexualized with swearing. Completely fascinating, but amazing none the less. I don't think she is ugly, I think she is ok and I think she has a beautiful heart inside, it shines when you see her meet her fans and also when she sings and laughs.
I don't why people have to try and make her look so glamourous now though. I saw a new photo of her the other day and she was so heavily made up I couldn't really believe it was her! I don't why people in the reviews are complaining about how she says wee; too much. She hardly says it! And then they say she complained too much. I didn't think she was complaining too much about fame, she was just saying how it felt scary and strange to live so differently. It's part of her story! Heck, I would complain if I couldn't Even walk up the street anymore!! Some of the time I couldn't understand her Scottish terms for things, but still liked the book. I was completely touched by this book and will add it to my favourites and give it 5 stars. Susan completely touched my heart. Thanks mum for making me be a fan! I now like her music!
It all started about 2 years ago, maybe last year. My mum was on the computer one day and she was playing a video over and over again of this lady called Susan boyle. I thought she looked interesting, but the song did nothing for me and I was irritated. I admit I thought she seemed weird and didn't seem like an interesting person (why was I so cruel?:(). I did like the song, but I wasn't going to buy it. I joined her forums for some reason and never came back. Now in 2011 Susan suddenly became an interest to me. My mum I thank for this. Mum wanted her new album and I had heard about her being bullied. I also saw videos of her new album "someone to watch over me" on YouTube and I thought "Wow!" just like my mum. Mum was the one who prompted me to listen to it, I just ignored the ad. That was when i wanted susan's album and wanted to learn more about her. I got her album and liked what I heard, I hadn't liked many of her original album songs at all (not my taste). Her Christmas album I had just heard of, but I'm not into Christmas music. I got one of her biographies and mum thought it was odd I was suddenly interested in her. This was the biography by John mcshane. I had a read of it and hated it (don't recommend this one). I then decided on getting the book she had apparently made herself with help which is this one. I was excited to get it as I was Interested to learn her story. Mum understood I wanted to get it because I was badly verbally bullied at school and wanted something to relate to. I had also seen her doco on YouTube called 'an unlikely superstar' which made me cry because of how much I liked her character. This made me want the book even more! I got the book and couldn't wait to get stuck into it. And boy oh boy, I sure was! I kept reading and reading for a long time. I was touched by her completely. She is so fascinating and interesting. I love her character! I was also laughing and even feeling very angry at people who were horrid to her and related to that (even though I've never being treated the way Susan did, mine was more verbal things and stares and looks etc). Then it got to the parts where she talked about her mum, dad and sister dying I couldn't stop the tears and kept bawling and crying till I couldn't see the words. I had a huge amount of empathy for her. I was also deeply moved by the fact she respects her fans and loved them, even included a pic of a quilt some fans made her. She seems like a wonderful human being! I was a little puzzled why with all the nice things she said about her fans, then on the second to last page calls them "daft". What is up with that? I was surprised she has so much going on in the inside, as she displays such a humorous, bubbly and crazy nature on the outside. It seems like it almost can't be true that this is what she feels inside. It almost can't believe it. I deeply respect her now and now support her ENTIRELY. I feel awful dismissing her because I didn't Really like her singing and maybe even by her appearance. She is an amazing person. I understand why she is super popular now. But still feel it is wo odd she is outselling artists, she is a great singer but outselling greats? Even my loud and criminal neighbors listened to her! It's fascinating as she is not the glamourous star, she is quite ordinary (I mean this nicely and it is a good thing), she isn't exactly a stunner (I'm not trying to be mean) and Its weird her sort of music is selling when it isn't sexualized with swearing. Completely fascinating, but amazing none the less. I don't think she is ugly, I think she is ok and I think she has a beautiful heart inside, it shines when you see her meet her fans and also when she sings and laughs.
I don't why people have to try and make her look so glamourous now though. I saw a new photo of her the other day and she was so heavily made up I couldn't really believe it was her! I don't why people in the reviews are complaining about how she says wee; too much. She hardly says it! And then they say she complained too much. I didn't think she was complaining too much about fame, she was just saying how it felt scary and strange to live so differently. It's part of her story! Heck, I would complain if I couldn't Even walk up the street anymore!! Some of the time I couldn't understand her Scottish terms for things, but still liked the book. I was completely touched by this book and will add it to my favourites and give it 5 stars. Susan completely touched my heart. Thanks mum for making me be a fan! I now like her music!
February 4, 2019
I wanted to read a biography for a change- and not only that but I wanted to read a biography about someone normal. And by normal I mean someone who grew up like the rest of us- with common/humble roots and who wasn't born into the lives of the rich and famous but instead worked her way there.
My husband asked me did I find out anything surprising or shocking about Susan in this book - like a secret drug habit for example - and I laughed and said nothing like that. The things were 'new to me' were actually quite commonplace in her era - like sharing a single bedroom (and single bed!) with three sisters growing up, having a father who took the bus to his job at the mines every day, and facing challenges in terms of proper education regarding the stigma of someone with a 'disability.' A disability that may even have been questionable to begin with/ a self fulfilling prophecy rather than something even concrete!
I found the book a bit refreshing in that it was very down to Earth. It's not like she just suddenly went and sang at the audition with no prior signing experience and became a superstar from there. She worked and practiced hard to develop the voice she has now. Moreover we also get a glimpse into the utter anxiety and nerves she feels before each and every performance - to an extreme I didn't even realize such big level performers could have! Her relationships with her family and the importance of religion to her also play a big theme in the book which was interesting to find out about.
Overall it was alright!
My husband asked me did I find out anything surprising or shocking about Susan in this book - like a secret drug habit for example - and I laughed and said nothing like that. The things were 'new to me' were actually quite commonplace in her era - like sharing a single bedroom (and single bed!) with three sisters growing up, having a father who took the bus to his job at the mines every day, and facing challenges in terms of proper education regarding the stigma of someone with a 'disability.' A disability that may even have been questionable to begin with/ a self fulfilling prophecy rather than something even concrete!
I found the book a bit refreshing in that it was very down to Earth. It's not like she just suddenly went and sang at the audition with no prior signing experience and became a superstar from there. She worked and practiced hard to develop the voice she has now. Moreover we also get a glimpse into the utter anxiety and nerves she feels before each and every performance - to an extreme I didn't even realize such big level performers could have! Her relationships with her family and the importance of religion to her also play a big theme in the book which was interesting to find out about.
Overall it was alright!
February 16, 2019
Legend🤗
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2013
I have been a Susan Boyle fan ever since my friend sent me the YouTube video of Boyle's triumphant performance on AMERICA'S GOT TALENT. I was overcome by her supposed fledgling talent and her unassuming persona. Later I asked for her first CD for Christmas which was met with decided derision by the husband of a friend of mine when he stopped over while I was listening to it. But, love her I did, despite her unusual choices of clothing for her performances and that funny, naive little wiggle. When I got this memoir as a gift I thought it would be a real light-weight, silly book which it kind of is, but Boyle comes across as the genuine article. (not funny NOR lightweight) The book, written with Imogen Parker, encompasses Boyle's life from start to 2009 or so. (there have been others since, which I find overdone, but I haven't read them.) I found the revelations about her apparent "slowness", her singing in pubs around her town and the voice training that she has had for much of her life to explain the kind of person she is. The brouge of her Scottish heritage is emphasized with "wee" this and "wee" that and village turns-of-phrase, which I found charming. Her family and her religion are very important to her, and I also find that charming. She has grown wiser about her career with the apparent help of Simon Cowell, and has had the assistance of many fashion experts to shape her image and current clothing choices. That has made a huge difference in her confidence and her appearance. I am glad for her success and glad to have read this silly book. I still love her.
August 11, 2017
Two Britain's Got Talent auditions have had an impact on me. One was Phil Potts opera rendition and the other was Susan Boyle's, I Dreamed A Dream. What I didn't know was that the Youtube of her performance changed her life forever the very next day -- some of it in bad ways, some of it a dream come true. As she mentions in one of the last chapters, "celebrity is paradoxical; it brings pleasures as well as pressures, ...freedom as well as restrictions."
I stopped reading biographies once I realized that many people I admired from afar did not hold up well upon closer scrutiny. Susan Boyle falls into that later category only a bit. I would say her parents' early protectiveness greatly contributed to Susan's lifelong fear of the unknown. But if her father had allowed her first romance to blossom, she might have been a quiet housewife in Scotland rather than a singing legend. Not easy to say which she would have preferred.
It's an inspiring story, although how her handlers deal with her chronic panic attacks defies imagination. I can only assume that Susan's singing gift coupled with her personality when she is not on the verge of giving a performance or flying on a plane compensates for the hand-holding and soothing required to keep Susan going on stage. Hopefully, with time, Susan will gain enough confidence to leave those episodes behind her.
She certainly is to be admired for taking risks despite all her fears and trepidation. And she does have a magnificent voice. A pleasant read.
I stopped reading biographies once I realized that many people I admired from afar did not hold up well upon closer scrutiny. Susan Boyle falls into that later category only a bit. I would say her parents' early protectiveness greatly contributed to Susan's lifelong fear of the unknown. But if her father had allowed her first romance to blossom, she might have been a quiet housewife in Scotland rather than a singing legend. Not easy to say which she would have preferred.
It's an inspiring story, although how her handlers deal with her chronic panic attacks defies imagination. I can only assume that Susan's singing gift coupled with her personality when she is not on the verge of giving a performance or flying on a plane compensates for the hand-holding and soothing required to keep Susan going on stage. Hopefully, with time, Susan will gain enough confidence to leave those episodes behind her.
She certainly is to be admired for taking risks despite all her fears and trepidation. And she does have a magnificent voice. A pleasant read.
January 19, 2012
1/18/12
Susan Boyle's book is like Susan is in your room talking with you. It is personal, funny,and honest. Taken first into her childhood world... the world of a large Catholic family in a small poor Scottish village but you end up on a huge stage with an 80 piece orchestra! In front of 10,000 people in Tokyo, Japan.In the book Susan is at times both open and funny, honest and determined, humble and reflective, about the crazy series of events that brought her and her beautiful voice to worldwide fame.From her difficult, late-in-life birth to a courageous and faith-filled mother, through her traumatic school years of being bullied and misunderstood, on to her own amazing, but slow, discovery that she possessed a truly remarkable voice! Then on through the spring of 2009 when the world discovered it too. Faith, determination, courage, humor: these are the words I would use to describe Susan Boyle both in following her dream to be a "professional singer" and in writing this awesome book. I considered it enjoyable and at times sad. I would highly recommend it to any fan of Susan Boyle. Reading Susan's story, we can finally understand how her world was turned so upside down. She suddenly grasped worldwide fame. Anyone can't help but suffer with her as the press turns on her at the most challenging time in her life. In the end all is well and Susan Boyle gains more respect than would have been thought. Read the book!!!
Susan Boyle's book is like Susan is in your room talking with you. It is personal, funny,and honest. Taken first into her childhood world... the world of a large Catholic family in a small poor Scottish village but you end up on a huge stage with an 80 piece orchestra! In front of 10,000 people in Tokyo, Japan.In the book Susan is at times both open and funny, honest and determined, humble and reflective, about the crazy series of events that brought her and her beautiful voice to worldwide fame.From her difficult, late-in-life birth to a courageous and faith-filled mother, through her traumatic school years of being bullied and misunderstood, on to her own amazing, but slow, discovery that she possessed a truly remarkable voice! Then on through the spring of 2009 when the world discovered it too. Faith, determination, courage, humor: these are the words I would use to describe Susan Boyle both in following her dream to be a "professional singer" and in writing this awesome book. I considered it enjoyable and at times sad. I would highly recommend it to any fan of Susan Boyle. Reading Susan's story, we can finally understand how her world was turned so upside down. She suddenly grasped worldwide fame. Anyone can't help but suffer with her as the press turns on her at the most challenging time in her life. In the end all is well and Susan Boyle gains more respect than would have been thought. Read the book!!!
December 26, 2012
From the book, Susan Boyle (page 265) "Amazing Grace is another very powerful hymn for me because it expresses so beautifully how God is always there, especially when I am scared. 'I once was lost but now am found, Was blind but now I see'. It is a hymn that was to take on a special meaning for me later on in my journey. 'Who I was Born to Be' is a song that was written specially for me and the lyrics encapsulate so much about my life" And , from page 315, about the song, "Who I was Born to Be" --"There are still many questions I constantly ask myself, Am I doing things right? Am I becoming a better person? And some of the words of the song, "And though I may not know the answers I can finally say I'm free And if the questions lead me here, then I am who I was born to be".
The book? Read it. It is, perhaps, "Happy Feet" in real life, in the words of a human being who kept on dancing while all everyone else might have been looking on thinking, "hey, she sure doesn't dress like nor act like your typical Hollywood star", and to that I say, "Thank God! Thank God that there are some in this world, just some, who come to the world and say, "Here I am, whether you like it or not, my message is pure, truth, and joy that usually hides deep down within the human spirit" .
Yes, I really liked this book!
ISBN 978-1-4516-095-27 Atria Books (Simon and Schuster, Inc.
The book? Read it. It is, perhaps, "Happy Feet" in real life, in the words of a human being who kept on dancing while all everyone else might have been looking on thinking, "hey, she sure doesn't dress like nor act like your typical Hollywood star", and to that I say, "Thank God! Thank God that there are some in this world, just some, who come to the world and say, "Here I am, whether you like it or not, my message is pure, truth, and joy that usually hides deep down within the human spirit" .
Yes, I really liked this book!
ISBN 978-1-4516-095-27 Atria Books (Simon and Schuster, Inc.
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