Given the Day, a Topical Book Review!
Published on 4th November 2020
Too Much and Never Enough by Mary Trump
Nobody divides public opinion more than the present occupant of the White House. The latest tome to be published on him was written by his niece Mary. She is a qualified psychologist and in this book she delves deep into the family background of Donald Trump. She explains how specific events and general family patterns have created the damaged man who currently resides in the Oval Office. Donald’s relationship with his father was the most important relationship in his life. Frederick groomed Donald to be his successor and his three other siblings were cast aside.
Mary spent much of her childhood and teenage years in her grandparents’ home in New York. She observed at close quarters the toxic relationships in this dysfunctional family. Her grandfather Frederick ruled the family with an iron grip. Donald spent the whole of his life vying for his father's approval.
Mary dissects the relationship between Donald and his parents. This is the kernel of the book. Mary shows how Donald was totally influenced by Frederick, who instilled in him values like "be tough at all costs and never apologise." Donald both idolised and at the same time was also afraid of him. Donald's mother is described as weak and ineffectual and failed to provide him with any emotional reassurance.
This is not a delightful book to read. Mary wrote it to try and ensure that her uncle does not get re-elected in 2020. Mary obviously had some scores to settle with the Trump dynasty but this is the only memoir written by a member of the Trump family. She has insights that no biographer could match and for that reason it is worth reading. I thoroughly enjoyed the book because it gives us a fascinating insight into the personality and the mindset of the 44th American President.
Available on Borrowbox
Me by Elton John
In this no- holds -barred autobiography, Elton John tells us how a shy boy growing up in the suburbs of 1950's London becomes one of the most iconic figures in rock ‘n roll. He takes us on a roller- coaster ride of sold out concerts, world tours, song writing collaborations and shopping sprees. He spares no detail as he recounts his alcohol and cocaine abuse, temper tantrums and one or two suicide attempts. Elton didn't just burn the candle at both ends, he set it on fire.
This book is written in a gossipy tabloid style, it is littered with famous names and celebrities who Elton partied with. He is on first name terms with the Royal family. There are numerous enormously entertaining tales most of which have never appeared in print before.
After 40 years of a crazy lifestyle he manages to conquer his demons, embrace sobriety, and set up the Elton John Aids Foundation. He has survived his debauched lifestyle and has now found love with his partner David Furnish and they have adopted two boys. It is a fantastic read written with humour, honesty and gusto.
In the words of one of Elton’s songs he really is Still Standing. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would heartily recommend it.
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Submitted by John G, from Inchicore Library.