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| "Mary is a whole lot more than Erin on The Waltons. This book shows how she's handled all the highs and lows with grace." George Clooney |
Her accounts stirred my heart, bringing to life the young acress' experiences, both delightful and heartbreaking. Through dispelling myths, sharing insecurities and recounting all the good times and gags (mostly by John Boy--my favorite was the foaming mouth scene in the middle of church) from the Walton's set, McDonough's memoirs are touching in true-to-life fashion. She offers the reader a real treat, an inside look into these fond memories, leaving us understanding a little more about the characters and crew that made up The Waltons.
As her endearing innocence faded into insecurities and struggles with self-worth, Mary searched to find herself. Her days were filled with sets and wardrobes, stylists and media scrutiny, bullies and blunders. Lost in an imaginary world where time stood still, she was always seen as the cute kid with freckles through the world's television screen and though the show must always go on, she secretly struggled behind her character's persona. This book shines a bright light on the realities that Mary faced as a child actor and surprisingly, her experiences were often times heartbreaking.
As those around her helped her carve out a new and victorious path, she began to find herself among the not-so glitz and glam of the Hollywood she knew. Yet even as an adult, Mary's struggle with fitting in haunted her and a decision to improve her appearance nearly cost the actress her life. Lessons From The Mountain shares her intense climb out of her sorrows and fears and into a world where she realized her voice was powerful--not just as an actress--but as a women's rights advocate, mother and friend. What's so special about this book is the way Mary recounts all her memories and experiences, whether good or bad, with the utmost class--a true testament to her character, making Lessons From The Mountain an excellent read.
Lessons From the Mountain on Amazon
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5 comments:
I'm so sorry that Mary felt she had to "improve her appearance" -- I always thought she was beautiful just the way God made her! And I still DO!
Your wonderful review reinforced my intention to read this memoir by this lovely and amazing women whom I have loved since watching her grow up on The Waltons.
Anonymous 1: I agree. It was a heartwrenching part of her story and I'm so glad that she was able to rise out of it victorious! She has become such an advocate for spreading the word and turned her experience into an opportunity to bless and encourage others :)
Anonymous 2: I'm so glad! It really was an inspiring and eye opening story.
A warm and well-written review that "whets" my appetite for reading the book, can't wait to get my copy! I admired Mary as a child on "The Waltons" and enjoyed watching her grow up into the beautiful, inspiring woman that she is! I am a writer as well, although I haven't had anything published yet, I hope to soon. Feel free to follow my blog as well! It is always good to meet another writer!
A great review, for a great lady with a heart of gold, and a personality to match! For so many of the child stars that have grown up on TV, and not been able to handle the pressure, afterwards, well, here's a lady that has, evidently, or she wouldn't be where she is today! In my opinion, for what it's worth, Mary has endured and has come through the tunnel of life, where so many get lost! She is one of a kind! My wife and I are so looking forward to reading her book!
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