From four-time world squash champion and mother of four boys to Race Relations Commissioner and Celebrity Treasure Island participant, Dame Susan Devoy is not one for sitting around twiddling her thumbs.
Honest and forthright, this is the upfront, 'take me as you find me' story of a resolute New Zealander bringing her full self to every challenge life throws her way.
Comments from BDS Reviewers
"A delightfully honest memoir."
"Fascinating insight on subjects some of us don't have much insight into."
"I really enjoyed this book. I liked her honesty, directness and breadth of life experience."
"The author included very few other people in her memoir - giving enough privacy to her siblings, husband, sons and others who influenced her. I admired that."
"This is not your usual sports book. I particularly liked the chapter on her time as Race Relations Commissioner."
"She's quite blunt. You could be challenged if you don't agree with her philosophy of life."
Pages
256
Year
2024
Reviews
CHCH 155
13-06-2025
We all enjoyed this insight into Susan's life. She certainly has been busy and achieved a lot. It was an easy read.
LOWER 026
26-05-2025
The group quite enjoyed this book and found Susan's story interesting. Some of the themes in the book encouraged good discussion.
AUCK 360
09-05-2025
A very pedestrian read. No real reflection or insights into her life or times. Amazing that someone sees the world as polarised to win or lose. There were such anger issues, self absorption, too much self aggrandisement and those parenting comments, that at times, one of us threw the book down.WE would sum it up as a book about a self centred personality dealing with a life of chaos. She did have some achievements, but no reflection on how/why or the long term impact. Did have some interest when covering some of N.Z's social history. Diary like, so many sentences start with "I" needed editing.
CHCH 545
08-04-2025
We all thoroughly enjoyed the book - easy read, and we were all very interested to read about Susan Devoy's early years. Busy, hard working woman.
KATIK 002
21-01-2025
A good read, blunt and to the point, action packed, an amazing varied career and experiences. We really enjoyed it.
INVER 001
16-10-2024
Our group all enjoyed this book and were amazed/interested/surprised to learn a lot more about Dame Susan Devoy's life. Loved her honesty and found it inspirational that she has used and is still using her skills to help different communities in multiple ways.
