Growing Up, Patty, by Patty Beecham, is one of the most candid and heartfelt memoirs I’ve encountered in a long time, and I found myself captivated by every page. From her earliest school days, Patty felt out of place—longing to fit in yet always sensing she was different. Her twenties were a turbulent time, marked by a troubled marriage, unemployment, and no stable home. Despite these challenges, Patty’s resilience shines through as she gradually pieces together the life she wanted, proving her unwavering dedication to creating her own path.

Throughout the memoir, readers are taken on a vivid journey through her friendships, romantic relationships, family struggles, career transitions, and a deep passion for adventure. Her experiences with failed relationships are laid bare, and one revelation—that she had once been stalked—left me genuinely surprised. Eventually, she meets Chris, the love of her life, and together they build a family. The challenges of motherhood were not easy for Patty, but with Chris’s steadfast support, she overcame the hardships. Her career, which began in advertising, later evolved into a successful role as a radio presenter. I admired her boldness in starting fresh, never hesitating to reinvent herself. Her courage and determination left a lasting impression.

One of the qualities that stood out most about Patty is her incredible resourcefulness. I recall her initiative in setting up one of the first school websites on the Internet, a moment that filled me with pride for her accomplishments. The way she navigated the joys and pains of motherhood, including heartbreaking miscarriages, was deeply moving. The strain her marriage endured due to her husband’s demanding job underscores the broader theme of how work can ripple through every part of a person’s life, affecting health, relationships, and emotional well-being.

Amid life’s toughest challenges, Patty’s humour became her shield, allowing her to find light even in dark moments. Her stories brim with wit and wisdom, and I found myself relating to many of her experiences—whether it was the quest for purpose, the restless ambitions of young adulthood, or the bravery it takes to pivot careers when life demands it. Growing Up, Patty is not just a memoir; it’s an honest reflection on the highs and lows of life, filled with moments of vulnerability, strength, and humour. It’s a deeply personal narrative, and I loved every moment of it.

Literary Titan

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This is a very readable and enjoyable account of the life of a woman who careers from one bloke to another, one town to the next, one job to something better. Patty takes risks and opens her arms to every opportunity that pops up.

When you open a memoir, you expect to find out about the writer. What you don’t expect is to find out about yourself. Halfway through Growing up, Patty I wondered if author Patty Beecham could hear me screaming at her through the cover. ‘Don’t do it Patty!’ Who would give Bear a second chance when he’d done the unspeakable? ‘Don’t do it!’ I screamed. ‘Just . . . don’t.’

But Patty did. She’s a risk-taker in a way that highlights my own need to take the safe path. And her openness doesn’t shine a light on the goings on at her place so much as it does on my own need for privacy.

The great thing about reading a memoir is you get to experience what it might be like to be someone else without actually having to live their life.

Lots of short chapters make this a compelling read. And I love the way Patty opens every chapter with a hook and closes every one with a valuable life lesson.

Patty Beecham, the chrome gleams more brightly because you are nearby.

 

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Review: Reading Growing Up, Patty by Patty Beecham has been a deeply relatable and inspiring experience. Her resilience and fortitude, especially in holding her own amongst the men folk, truly stand out. There’s a quiet strength in the way she navigates her life, balancing family and the challenges of marriage.

I admire her take on married life.

This is a book for all mature women facing life’s challenges and wanting a career to boot, providing a sense of solidarity and resilience in the face of life’s unpredictable turns.

 

**

It literally is the BEST book I’ve EVER read. I can’t help but read it too quickly so I’m going to have to read it again and take notes. There are so many inspiring messages, experiences and lessons I am treasuring as I read. I’m sure all women can relate to Patty’s Story.  I certainly am.