Taking on the World

This autobiography proves to have been more than worth the wait. The insights we are granted here into just what MacArthur went through genuinely tug at the heart--and never in any sentimental or manipulative way. Her very air of "ordinariness" (no film-star looks, no breast-beating egomania as in all too many sports personalities) was refreshing, but it's that monumental endurance and skill she demonstrated on her epic voyage that commands our admiration. The earlier sections of the book, detailing her childhood in Derbyshire (quite some distance from the sea) may have us impatient for her great ocean adventure, but they're skilfully and affectingly written. And when she begins her preparations for the Vendee Globe, we take a deep breath, knowing that we'll experience all the arduous adventure and danger that is facing her.

Some may argue that autobiographies are being written by younger and younger authors, with their lives still ahead of them. But surely (in this case) the timing is perfect. --Barry Forshaw

This book is truely sensationl and inspiring. It is a must read and i guarantee anyone who reads this book will feel the same.


Great Girl...........Brilliant Book   October 18, 2005
 3 out of 3 found this review helpful

As a sailor myself, I can understand the emotional rollercoaster Ellen experienced during her time at sea. The book not only gives an insight into what inspired her to sail but also how tough going the days at sea were. I could not put the book down from the minute i started to read it to the end.

This book is truely sensationl and inspiring. It is a must read and i guarantee anyone who reads this book will feel the same.


An emotional adventure   December 30, 2004
 1 out of 1 found this review helpful

This is a well structured and entertaining story. I got enough insight into Ellen as a person, to really be gripped by the ups and downs of the great voyage - even though I knew the ending.

I listened to Ellen reading her story as I painted the outside of the house, balanced on a ladder. It certainly put the little heart stopping moments when my ladder wobbled, into perspective!

Although Ellen is not an actress she still puts enough personal feeling into the reading to more than makes up for that.

Read it, or listen to it, and it will put British winter weather into perspective!


An inspiration to me!   November 1, 2004
 3 out of 6 found this review helpful

This book was totally awesome and I didn't want to put it down! I loved reading every page, hearing of Ellen's adventures and also the emotions which we're very real and which I could relate too!I wish her the best in everything she does, she's been an inspiration to me!