Official Review: Redemption by Barbara McVeigh

Kelebogile Mbangi · Post by **Kelebogile Mbangi** » 31 Oct 2017, 17:48

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Redemption" by Barbara McVeigh.]

4 out of 4 stars

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Redemption, a gripping memoir by Barbara McVeigh, is the best non-fiction book I have read in a while! Which is impressive, considering the sombre topics it deals with. Themes include our acidifying oceans, materialism, relationships, and gender inequality.

Barbara's life is in shambles. She has always dreamed of living simply, travelling the world, and giving back. Those dreams seem so distant as her husband, Ricci, clings to an extravagant house they simply cannot afford to maintain. She cannot recognize him anymore. Who is he? No, more importantly, who is she? What happened to her voice? Unsatisfied with her life, Barbara makes hard decisions to reclaim her childhood dreams. Dreams she lost when Ronald Reagan fired 11 500 air traffic controllers, including her father, back in 1981. She pours her heart and soul into making a short film about the ocean. She needs to do this, no matter the cost.

The author digs down deep and writes from her very core! She allows readers to see her from all angles. She does not conceal her faults and weaknesses. She spews out her darkest moments fervently for her readers to see, to understand her fully. This genuineness made it easy for me to connect with the author. As a result, I could see things from her eyes and understand her message better.

The format of the book was refreshingly different. The author begins with "the end", which takes up most of the book. The book closes with "the beginning". This served to emphasize the author's openness to life and created a sense of optimism for the future. The end of the book does not symbolize the end of her life, it only marks the beginning of a new chapter in her life.

I enjoyed exploring the theme of materialism most. The author argues that the rich amass so much for themselves, with no concern over the consequences. They leave so little for everyone else and harm our planet in the process. And yet, they are revered by society. We value people according to what they have and not who they are. This book convinced me that happiness does not result from material things. I was inspired as the author found happiness in simplicity, like in having her hair encrusted with salt whilst sailing.

I learned the importance of self-respect. I was appalled by the treatment Barbara accepted from others. I was even more frustrated by her referring to herself as "dumb". Going after her dreams forces her to realize her worth and she gains self-respect. Even though at times it felt like she would take one step forward and two steps back!

The only thing I felt was missing was perspective from the other characters. I felt like I was inside Barbara's head throughout the book. I wonder if this was deliberate. This is a memoir after all, a very personal one at that.

I feel everyone needs to hear the messages contained in this book. Not only did I learn from it, but I enjoyed every page of it! I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars.

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Redemption
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Mercelle · Post by **Mercelle** » 01 Nov 2017, 05:13

I once read a book with the caption, "Let me begin at the end." This writing style is difficult to do well and can leave the reader feeling disoriented. I commend the author for a job well done.

Kelebogile Mbangi · Post by **Kelebogile Mbangi** » 01 Nov 2017, 05:41

So true Mercy.

Post by **kandscreeley** » 01 Nov 2017, 07:42

Wow! This sounds quite gripping. I'm glad you enjoyed it so much especially since it had such serious topics. Thanks so much for the review.

Quinto · Post by **Quinto** » 01 Nov 2017, 13:04

Feels like a memoir that is based on a selfless spirit. It's about leaving the world much better than you found, less is more, etc. Thanks for a wonderful and insightful review Kalebogile.

Reet Aulakh · Post by **Reet Aulakh** » 01 Nov 2017, 15:19

The review is well written. I liked it and the story of the book is very interesting. Thanks for the review.

Al Chakauya · Post by **Al Chakauya** » 02 Nov 2017, 02:14

What an interesting style of writing a book. It's not easy to connect with the author especially if the book is a memoir. I am happy you liked the book. Great review.

Gingerbo0ks · Post by **Gingerbo0ks** » 02 Nov 2017, 03:15

A very personal book, and looks like it's been done well. Thanks for the review

Kelebogile Mbangi · Post by **Kelebogile Mbangi** » 02 Nov 2017, 03:46

Quinto wrote:Feels like a memoir that is based on a selfless spirit. It's about leaving the world much better than you found, less is more, etc. Thanks for a wonderful and insightful review Kalebogile.

I couldn't agree more! Barbara has such a selfless spirit and cares so deeply about our planet.

Kat Berg · Post by **Kat Berg** » 02 Nov 2017, 21:25

Whenever I read "This is one of the best..." by someone who reads a lot of books, it always grabs my attention. When you read a lot, it becomes clear the books that don't quite work (and they are the majority, it sometimes seems) and you really appreciate the ones that draw you in. Thanks for the review.

Kalin Adi · Post by **Kalin Adi** » 02 Nov 2017, 22:20

Wow! I can sense your enthusiasm when talking about this book. Themes about the environment, materialism and awakening our positive spirit are very important in our lives. Thanks for sharing your ideas in this review!

BookEater213 · Post by **BookEater213** » 03 Nov 2017, 08:39

Redemption, a gripping memoir by Barbara McVeigh is nice book and i am enjoying it and by the way thanks for the review

Kelebogile Mbangi · Post by **Kelebogile Mbangi** » 04 Nov 2017, 03:52

BookEater213 wrote:Redemption, a gripping memoir by Barbara McVeigh is nice book and i am enjoying it and by the way thanks for the review

I hope you enjoy it!

Izesicle · Post by **Izesicle** » 05 Nov 2017, 19:19

This is a good guide on how to review a memoir. Maybe I'll be less intimidated to pick one to review next time.
Very refreshing format to start from the end. I like it.

Thanks for stopping by my review.