"Dear Chrissie, I just had to write to say what a powerful, remarkable book. It took me far out of my comfort zone. You opened your heart and and took me on an emotional rollercoaster.I travelled with you and found myself relecting on moments of sadness,tears,smiles and even chuckles.
So many tender thoughts followed by anger made it such a page turner. I am sure your honesty can give people help when they plunge into depression as their loved ones struggle with addiction to drugs and alcohol.
On a lighter note your descritions of places transported me to various locations. The chapter about Pat Maccabe and her inspirational work with homeless people is a lovely tribute to her. Congratulations on such an achievement!"

 

Oh,Chrissie,what you've been through! I had five books on the go but read yours straight through in a weekend. I just couldn't put it down.You write so beautifully, the descriptions of the places you've been to and your honesty are amazing. Its brilliant." Diana

 

Dear Chrissie, after reading your book I had to write you a note of how affecting I found it. As well as being beautifully written, it reallly expressed a rawness in terms of such parallel meaning between the extreme emotions and how apparent it made the underlying grief. Other parts cracked me up - the bit where you examine why certain people cannot use swear words when the occassion warrants them was so relatable, honest and FUNNY. Congratulations on keeping it consistently YOU! It's an inspirational account of friendship too. Cassie Aged19 

 

"Hi Chrissie,I've bought the book and I was moved by your situation. I send you love and peace. I can certainly relate to some aspects of your experiences of both bereavement and gig attendence. I think you are very brave to be so open about two subjects that remain taboo in modern society - grief and celebrity worship.
Russell, is clearly, lovely and seeing him live can be amazingly exciting and often highly emotional. Your descriptions of the gigs brought back alot of memories for me.
In the earlier days of his career Russell was unusual for a celebrity in that he was seemingly so open with his fans and so willing to interact with them at every level. He has certainly helped me through some very difficult times - I still listen to the old radio shows regularly. They were a fascinating glimpse into his world and (for me) remain one of the funniest things he's ever done. I think many people relate to his persoanl battles with addiction and find him inspirational in this regard - at one stage it was very easy to feel he was like a friend.
Now he's pursuing Hollywood and clearly wishes to have a private life he has closed certain doors. I respect this (and cheer him on in his clear desire to publicly control his womanising) but I also miss him and the openess he once displayed on the radio show. I am concerned that his unique personality will be consumed by a need to project an acceptable image. Ponderlady -The Russell Brand Forum.

 

Your book was wonderful and I thoroughly enjoyed it! "Love and humour run side by side and travels with you throughout this inspiring and touching journey! Chrissie Smith writes with vision and courage that gives hope to the many who live on the margins of a blind society that shuts out  the most vulnerable. Maybe This book will open their eyes, unlock the door and allow them a voice!" A good read and a real page turner. Well done! Loretta

  
Chrissie and David at Portmellion   David's Memorial
     
 
Chrissie with husband, Geoff   David with Malc, left, and Chang, right, at Chapel Point,Portmellon.
     
 
Chrissie with Russell Brand   Russell Brand with Cheryl Pug-Simmonds