Book Review: “From This Moment On” by Shania Twain

I really enjoyed Shania’s memoir. I knew she went through a lot growing up (the poverty and the untimely death of both her parents), but I had no idea until reading this book that she experienced such a dysfunctional childhood. Watching her parents verbally and physically abuse each other was beyond brutal and I emotionally cheered the young Eilleen on with each chapter. Of course, we all know that she’s made it to happily ever after (or close enough, since that’s all anyone can ask for.)

The first half of the book (which focuses on her youth) was the most interesting and probably the better written part. And yes, I agree with other reader’s reviews when they comment that she took a lot of time painting the landscape of her childhood but spent little time on her years of fame, success, and financial independence. However, when you think about it she’s not trying to bolster her ego by writing this book. She’s trying to remind readers of everything a person can go through in life, and that just because you start out lacking much doesn’t mean you can’t end up with what you need and deserve.I felt horrible that any child would have to endure some of the things Eilleen Twain did; I wouldn’t wish her childhood on my greatest enemy. She portrays her life up to the current with poise and yes she’s human so she does whine a little bit about things that have really impacted her on an emotional level. Usually “venting” is a negative term, but I got the feeling that she was “expressing” since she’s found it hard to surrender emotionally in the past.

To be honest, I didn’t care too much about Shania Twain, country music’s superstar. I wanted to hear more about how she’s just your average woman with every day insecurities and flaws she (quite readily) owns up to. It’s always great when famous people show a humble side and when she started talking about cellulite at the end of the book I did appreciate her as a fellow imperfect human.

The writing is clear, precise, and I had absolutely no trouble following the autobiographical information. The book did not appear “spotty” or unorganized as some readers have claimed. I think the progression of her life events was rendered smoothly and professionally. Although I don’t consider this book a favorite (autobiography/biography rarely fall into my favorites category), I do recommend it for anyone who desires reflection on the past and how it can propel motivation to achieve something awesome in the future.

She’s just like us, folks. Except for the riches and notoriety. Which I am sure are no picnic even on a good day. The book put me in touch with a “superstar” who can relate on a very modest level with others. The three stars take into consideration three important components I enjoyed in this book: 1) honesty, 2) compassion, and 3) relevance. Her honesty is at times over-the-top, yet laudable. Her compassion for the circle of people who are truly “good for” her is amazing, given all the times she’s been let down or hurt by others. And if you can’t relate to the humanistic story line beneath all the biographical data, then you’re missing the bigger picture here.

I may never get to enjoy another Shania Twain-authored book, but I believe she has achieved her main goal in writing this one: her son should definitely know who his mother is when he reads it someday. Mission accomplished, Eilleen (Shania) Twain!