Books

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cover
4.5 

Title: Dame Suzy D
Authors: Devoy, Susan
Genre: Non Fiction: New Zealand
Pages: 256
Year: 2024
Language: English
Description: 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.

Categories: Non-fiction NZ, Non-fiction, Biography, Culture/Ethnic/Racial, Social commentary/perspectives, New Zealand Interest, 2025 Titles

Reviews

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By: CAMB 007 2026-03-24 16:59:17
4 
It was generally agreed that it was an easy read about would have benefited from firmer editing. Suzy's down-to-earth personality shone through, she was "staunch" and stuck to her values. Fortunate to have had such a supportive husband!

By: TIMAR 022 2026-03-11 10:32:49
4 
All members enjoyed the easy style of writing.

By: DOUBT 001 2026-03-01 11:52:38
3.5 
An easy read, many of our group were surprised by this book, impressed with what Susan has achieved. Earning respect from some members for her strength of character, the laugh out loud moments, and the pride she shows in her family. Much discussion had, discussing equity, and whether celebrity sportspeople are suitable for government appointed positions.

By: NGON 002 2025-11-02 15:55:51
3 
Some either didn't read this or gave up a few chapters in. Those of us who did read the book discovered a lot about this sometimes controversial woman, and the variety of amazing roles she has undertaken throughout her life to date.Not afraid to stand up for herself or others. Writing wasn't brilliant.

By: KATIK 003 2025-10-15 12:00:03
4.5 
Fabulous book... Those who read it enjoyed it, and loved the style of writing.

By: DUNED 080 2025-10-08 10:14:24
4 
This was an easy to read book on Dame Suzy's interesting life.

By: WAIKA 001 2025-07-16 10:28:20
5 
We all enjoyed reading this book and will recommend it to everyone. The writing is straightforward, easy to read. She is honest and makes no pretences.

By: CHCH 155 2025-06-13 08:10:33
4.5 
We all enjoyed this insight into Susan's life. She certainly has been busy and achieved a lot. It was an easy read.

By: LOWER 026 2025-05-26 09:42:02
3.5 
The group quite enjoyed this book and found Susan's story interesting. Some of the themes in the book encouraged good discussion.

By: AUCK 360 2025-05-08 17:25:58
1.5 
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.

By: CHCH 545 2025-04-08 12:07:12
4 
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.

By: KATIK 002 2025-01-21 13:09:03
3.5 
A good read, blunt and to the point, action packed, an amazing varied career and experiences. We really enjoyed it.

By: INVER 001 2024-10-16 13:52:29
4.5 
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.

 
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