Official Review: Blind Pony by Samantha Hart

Post by **Kibet Hillary** » 21 May 2021, 10:32

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Blind Pony" by Samantha Hart.]

4 out of 4 stars

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A series of events leads Samantha, her mother, and four sisters to move in with their grandparents. Unfortunately, her grandfather, a pedophile, molests her. When her mother walks in only to find her daughter being raped and does nothing, Samantha runs away from home. She is forced to lead an adult life, working and making tough decisions at an age when most children are under the protective watch of their parents. After faking to be Angie, she decides being someone else was easier than coming to terms with her authentic self. There would be several masks to be worn over time. Additionally, she devised ways to survive on the streets. How far can one attempt to run away from one’s own shadow?

Blind Pony: As True A Story As I Can Tell is a memoir authored by Samantha Hart and published in 2021. It comprises 28 chapters in 342 pages. The decision to pen down her account resulted after stumbling upon a journal entry she wrote when she was twelve. It is her story. Living like a sheep among wolves was overwhelmingly daunting. Unfortunately, some wolves were chameleons, as they came dressed in sheepskin and had mastered the art of behaving like sheep. She had to devise survival tactics. For example, she would masterfully steer the conversation away to other topics when it threatened to reveal personal information. It appears lessons from Wild Bill, her father, and some events from her childhood had been preparing her for these hardships. One follows Samantha from Pennsylvania to Phoenix, Los Angeles, and eventually England and other countries.

Every aspect of the book was likable. The narration was excellent, and the author captured my attention from the first page. Whether it was in her childhood, adolescent years, or as a young adult, the perspective perfectly fit every stage. Like any child, Samantha hoped that her mother would defend her when she discovered what was happening. I comprehended the dilemma she faced when confronted with a desire to tell her grandmother about this harrowing abuse. The vivid description of such heartfelt longings led me to feel a glimpse of the resulting impact as all these walls came crumbling down.

I sincerely admired the author’s firm resolve to regain and maintain her independence and selflessness in helping and protecting others. Whereas the story was perturbing right from its genesis, the fact that the author triumphed and shared her story was exhilarating. There were moments when I wished the events did not happen, but similar to attempting to get rid of unpleasant memories, it was impossible. It was a glaring reminder that things may not always be as we want them to be. Every so often, accepting this reality and moving on becomes the only way out. As a result, this was more than just another story. It is hope amidst despair. It is a light shining in the dark.

I rate the book four out of four stars. I encountered a few grammatical errors, which did not detract from the enjoyment of this remarkable memoir. The book is equally exceptional as it is moving. I heartily recommend it to all ardent readers of memoirs. Because of the inclusion of child abuse, rape, and swearwords, it is unsuitable for anyone disinclined to these issues.

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Blind Pony
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Kavita Shah · Post by **Kavita Shah** » 25 May 2021, 00:58

The memoir shares the story of the Author's life. It's really brave of her. Samantha's disappointment when her mother didn't do anything to save her is visible and I can't help wonder why she did nothing? You've written a fluid and engaging review. Thank you!

George Zikeh · Post by **George Zikeh** » 25 May 2021, 03:15

Samantha's was a brave and strong person. Being abuse, rape, and by her grandfather and her mother said nothing about it, it's unbelievable.

markodim721 · Post by **markodim721** » 25 May 2021, 13:27

It took a lot of courage to scratch the painful past and offer it to the readers. Thanks for the good review.

El_limitless · Post by **El_limitless** » 25 May 2021, 13:51

It's sad Samantha had to go through all of those horrible situations. I feel really sorry for her. I'd love to know what became of her at the end of the day. Great review.

Jyoti_S · Post by **Jyoti_S** » 26 May 2021, 07:52

It took so much courage to share truth in front of world. Samantha was sooo brave can't explain in word.

Assumani David · Post by **Assumani David** » 27 May 2021, 02:08

I just want to encourage Samantha to be wise and brave ... your story touches my life

Mtibza eM · Post by **Mtibza eM** » 30 May 2021, 10:07

Oh wow. Samantha is so brave. Thank you for sharing such an honest review.

Becca Olsson · Post by **Becca Olsson** » 08 Jun 2021, 15:13

Once I realized it was a memoir, it went from a sad book to truly disturbing and heartbreaking for Samantha. It sounds like it’s well-written and I’d be very interested to know how she pushed through these experiences. Thanks for the insightful review

MsH2k · Post by **MsH2k** » 23 Jul 2021, 01:56

Such tragic circumstances for a child—or anyone—to endure. I applaud the author’s courage to move forward and also to share her experiences so honestly. Thank you for your thoughtful review.

Black Jewel · Post by **Black Jewel** » 23 Jul 2021, 21:01

It is so unimaginable that her own mother would walk in on the event and do absolutely nothing. I cannot understand people like that. Thank you for the engaging review.