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Classic Rock

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

The Real Sinéad O'Connor by Ariane Sherine is a compelling and profoundly moving exploration of the life and legacy of one of music's most enigmatic and courageous figures. Sinéad O'Connor, known for her hauntingly beautiful voice and unmistakable shaved head, was far more than just a pop star; she was a fierce activist and a survivor who used her platform to fight for justice and give voice to the voiceless.

The book delves into the early years of O'Connor's life, painting a vivid picture of a troubled childhood marked by violence and loss. By the age of 18, she had already endured more than most people do in a lifetime—living in a Magdalene Laundry, struggling with truancy, and grappling with the tragic death of her mother. These experiences, filled with pain and anger, profoundly shaped O'Connor's music and activism, fueling her passion to become one of the world's most potent protest singers.

Sherine meticulously chronicles O'Connor's rise to fame, including releasing her iconic second album, "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got," which catapulted her to global stardom. The album's success brought her fame and wealth, half of which she generously donated to charity—a testament to her deep compassion and commitment to social causes. Throughout her 36-year music career, O'Connor released ten studio albums, each reflecting her unyielding spirit and determination to speak out against injustice.

One of the most defining moments of O'Connor's career—and indeed her life—was her decision to tear up a picture of Pope John Paul II on Saturday Night Live in 1992. This bold act of protest against child sex abuse within the Catholic Church shocked the world and effectively derailed her career. Yet, it also solidified her status as a fearless advocate for the oppressed, willing to sacrifice her success to expose the truth.

Sherine's biography goes beyond just recounting these well-known events; it also provides new insights through six exclusive interviews with friends and peers who knew O'Connor personally. These interviews add depth to the narrative, offering a more intimate look at the woman behind the public persona—a woman of immense courage, vulnerability, and unwavering conviction.

The Real Sinéad O'Connor is not just a biography but a tribute to an artist who lived unapologetically and left an indelible mark on the world. Sherine's writing is empathetic and unflinching, capturing the complexity of O'Connor's character and her profound impact on music and activism. For anyone interested in the life of Sinéad O'Connor, this book is an essential read, providing a comprehensive and heartfelt account of her extraordinary journey.

NetGalley, Anneliese Place

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

This was a great opportunity to learn more about Sinead O Connor, it was beautifully written overall.

NetGalley, A D

Author interview on Dublin City FM - listen to it here!

Dublin City FM

A fascinating read, I had no idea of how much Sinead was involved in. A truly remarkable person, her story will stay with ne for a long time to come.

NetGalley, Emma Gardner

Author interview on Lights, Camera, Author - watch the episode here!

Lights, Camera, Author