Book Review: Poster Girl - Beccy Cole

When it comes to Beccy Cole I would firmly put myself into the column of casual fan, I've enjoyed some of her music, went to a gig of hers at Rooty Hill RSL with my Mum and had a great time. And my highlight, I got to interview her when I was a radio announcer on Penrith radio. Like she claimed in her "Poster Girl" song, "I'm the girl who sings the crazy songs". But as the years have gone on, I've become more aware of her and respected her greatly. Then she came out and she had my full attention - how great that a major country star announced she was gay. I was very keen to read her autobiography, and now that I have, this casual Beccy Cole fan has become a major fan.

First things first, Beccy is a great writer. It should be no surprise, her lyrics are great and if you've ever seen her perform live, you know she's a great storyteller. "Poster Girl" is such an easy read, I knocked over most of the book on two plane rides. What is apparent from the start is that Beccy Cole is a truly genuine and warm personality. The book made me cry on a tram, and laugh loudly on a train. The best books make you emote, and this is one autobiography full of emotions.

There is a lot of history in the book, Australian music history. Clearly Beccy loves her genre, and that is obvious when reading her stories about Smokey Dawson, Slim Dusty and Dolly Parton. Also her own family history is fascinating. She's also unafraid to pull punches, if someone has annoyed, we find out in great detail. We feel the great community amongst the country scene, and relish in her great friendships - including a lifelong friendship with the brilliant Kasey Chambers.

There's so many great emotive chapters as well. First the story that made her pen her biggest hit and the title of the book, "Poster Girl". Beccy went to the war to entertain the troops, a life changing experience for her. It is riveting to read her words about her stay, and the amazing people she met. When she was written a letter from a fan saying he was taking down her poster cause she supported the troops, she wrote her beautiful song. It was fascinating to read what happened next. She was happy to have the song embraced, but when the American right tried to hijack the song she was not happy. Then when invited to sing for then President Bush, she said no, this was a song about Australians. She was not trying to praise or condone war, she just wanted to support our troops who went there. Brilliant reading.

Then there was the story I was most keen on, her coming out. With great candour, Beccy told of her marriage breakdown and her awakening sexuality. Unexpectedly, she also told the story of a mentally abusive relationship. It is amazing to see such a big personality, a big country music star fall into the same trap so many have - trying to hold on to a lover that is clearly wrong for you. The sections on her sexuality show her great strength and beautiful poise. She is a great mother, celebrity and truly inspirational figure.

If like me, you enjoy reading autobiographies, then you are in for a big treat with this one. I've had quite the successful run recently, also just finishing Anjelica Huston's book, which was also brilliant. While some biographies are enjoyable, but mostly pulp, "Poster Girl" has depth, humour, drama and a helluva lot of heart.  Highly recommended reading!