Month: November 2018

Summary: A journalist’s insight into how the leadership style of Abbott and Credlin resulted in Abbott’s downfall.

Thoughts: I have absolutely no interest in, or understanding of, politics, but I am curious about certain individuals, and Peta Credlin is one. Unfortunately, this book didn’t give me the insights I expected into her personality, background, or her relationship with Abbott, but it was a good example of the results of hubris – when overconfidence and abuse of power are not appreciated by those around you. A good summary of Abbott’s not even two years in office – and rather welcome, after his maligning of poor Julia Gillard, to know he lasted a year less than she did in the top job.

Summary: The true story of Sandra Pankhurst (born Peter). Peter was adopted, abused dreadfully as a child, married young, and fathered two children before transitioning to a female. She then became a sex worker, did drugs, was violently raped, moved from home to home, married, and currently runs a business cleaning homes where a violent crime has occurred, the tenant has died, or has hoarded to the extent they are unable to manage their own cleanliness.

Thoughts: Oh. My. Gosh. Could one person have gone through more in their life! If you think you’ve had a tough life, read this and your life is paradise by comparison. The book alternates between the past and present, detailing Peter’s and Sandra’s experiences. After all she went through, Sandra’s attitude is remarkable. She is insightful, generous, understanding, and inspirational, although very few would want to take on her way of life. Gritty and detailed, the story is not for the squeamish. Her gender transition is made all the more remarkable given it happened before changes to the law allowed gays to live openly, and before transgender surgery was a thing.

Summary: An autobiography of Sami’s dating history. She is still single in her late 40’s, and if anyone wonders why, just read a few of her anecdotes from a long list of losers, tragics, weirdos and idiots.

Thoughts: An amusing, witty, depressing look at the dating world. If someone like Sami – famous, gorgeous, well-traveled, outgoing – has such appalling experiences, then what hope for the rest of us? Makes me glad I prefer to sit home with a good book.