It was interesting to read the story of Clara Hughes since I remember watching her compete when I was a kid. It's great to read a story about someone who overcame a troubled childhood, addiction, and mental health issues to become a Canadian icon. It was a great read which has given me a new appreciation for all athletes. ( )

Clara Hughes is, or should be, an inspiration to many people. She is an Olympic champion, as well a generous volunteer in support of mental health and child well-being (Right to Play). She has written the memoir with honesty and bravery. I had no idea she'd struggled with addiction issues as a young adult. I learned a lot about training for (and being coached by strong personalities) for elite athletics. I also gained perspective into relationships -- supportive or not so supportive -- and how we have to deal with the various kinds of people we encounter. Well worth reading. ( )

In Open Heart, Open Mind, Clara Hughes details her significant accomplishments on the bicycle and speed skates training and competing in multiple Olympics. Yet despite her collection of medals, nothing could quiet the voice inside her that was telling her she was not good enough. Hughes reveals that the physical pain of training and competing at an elite level was a distraction from the emotional pain she felt from growing up with an abusive alcoholic father. With a supportive husband by her side she has faced her mental health issues head on and in the process helped reduce the stigma for others who suffer in silence. ( )

I borrowed this as a e-book from my provincial electronic website. I enjoyed this bio book about Clara Hughes. She had a rough life growing up but turned out good in the end as she did good as a athelete in the Olympics. ( )

The Good Stuff
Even though her life has been tough at times, there is no self pity or blame
Fascinating background in the day to day training involved in a competitive athletes life
Likeable, honest writing. Feels like you are listening to a friend tell a story
Admire her for what she has accomplished with her life, especially her work with Right to Play and Bell Canada Lets Talks
Found it interesting what goes on during the Olympics
Speaks very openly about addiction and mental illness
Loved her Dad even though he was a very troubled man. She makes you feel the good in him, despite his demons
Honestly I was fascinated by the training and the ins and outs of competitive sports. The incredible drive and determination is awe inspiring (ok, also remember I am a Librarian and a nerd, so sports is sooo not my thing)
Interesting to learn about the pressure to dope and all about the different methods
I have always been less than understanding about the importance of sport and she really made me how much sport can inspire and help someone (Ok most of my negativity comes from being shit at sports and made fun of by jocks, I still remember being insulted in high school by a girl named Christine about my lack of athleticism - I'm 45 and I still remember that moment)
I really enjoyed the stories about her experiences while working on Right to Play. Truly inspiring, fun and so raw and beautiful
Loved her colourful dialogue (Yup I also believe that people who swear are more honest and trustful)
Amazed by the amount of eating disorders within competitive sports, Liked that she talked so openly about her own struggles. Hey we have something in common - who knew - no one is safe from that inner demon
Impressed with the connection in regards to her Father at the beginning and the end of the story. Nicely done

The Not So Good Stuff
Jumps around a bit

Favorite Quotes

"As a kid, you just try to survive. You grind whatever awful things you are experiencing into dust as they're happening.'

"My Dad used to say to me, "Clara, never put anyone below you, and never put anyone above you. There are good an bad people - you can't deceive yourself into thinking otherwise - but it has nothing to do with race or income."

"This lesson in a taxicab on a cold winter's day showed me the potential of human beings to transcend hatred, greed, and genocide. Even now I marvel that someone could come to this kind of peace after losing so much."

4 Dewey's

I received this from Simon and Schuster in exchange for an honest review ( )