Stan Walker (1)

Stan Walker is a New Zealander who, while living in Australia, won Australian Idol in 2009. He is widely known here as a top guy, and an amazing singer and actor. This book is his story, and it is a doozey.
He grew up on the marae in NZ, but left for his family to try a new start in Australia. His family were kind of trying to escape themselves though (they struggled with intergenerational violence and poverty). Stan's story is really about airing his tough upbringing, physical and sexual show more abuse, and his coming to terms with his Maori self, his demons, and his religion. He is in a place now where he not only forgives his father for the, what can only be described as ruthless and cruel, beatings, but they speak out together publicly about domestic violence, getting help, hope, and how things can (and should) change. The book is accessible and powerful. show less

Stan Walker rose to fame after winning Australian idol in 2009. In this very honest memoir he reveals his journey to that point and into the present day.
He came from a background of physical and sexual abuse, but despite this he professes a deep love for his family and the wider community who failed to intervene. Since winning he has battled alcohol and drugs and stomach cancer, with many surgical complications. He has found strength in his Christian beliefs and now considers it his mission show more to reach out and help others to battle their demons.
At times this was a very harrowing read, as he suffered one of the most abusive childhoods I have ever read about but he manages to instill a message of hope about the changes that are happening in society. The book is well written, demonstrating a strong personal narrative voice with the guidance of Margie Thomson. show less

Adding this book to my list, because I saw it on a UFC 269 Embedded Vlog (episode 5), and it was on Kai Kara France's bedside table.

Love finding gems like this where I least expect them!