Everybody Matters: My Life Giving Voice
Format: Hardcover
4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars (252)
One of the most inspiring women of our age, Mary Robinson has spent her life in pursuit of a fairer world, becoming a powerful and influential voice for human rights around the globe. Displaying a gift for storytelling and remembrance, Robinson reveals, in Everybody Matters, what lies behind the vision, strength, and determination that made her path to prominence as compelling as any of her achievements.
Born in 1944 into a deeply Catholic family-the only girl among five childrenshe was poised to become a nun before finding her own true voice.Ever since, she has challenged convention in pursuit of fairness-whether in the Church, in government and politics, or in her own family.
As an activist lawyer, she won landmark cases advancing the causes of women and marginalized people against the prejudices of the day, and in her twenty years in the Irish Senate she promoted progressive legislation, including the legalizing of contraception. She shocked the political system by winning election as Irelands first woman president in l990, redefining the role and putting Ireland firmly on the international stage. Her role as UN high commissioner for human rights, beginning in 1997, was to prove an even bigger challenge; she won acclaim for bringing attention to victims worldwide but was often frustrated both by the bureaucracy and by the willingness to compromise on principle, which reveal the deep and inherent barriers to changing the status quo. Now back in Ireland and heading her Mary Robinson Foundation-Climate Justice, she has found the independence she needs to work effectively on behalf of the millions of poor around the world most affected by climate change.
Told with the same calm conviction and modest pride that has guided her life, Everybody Matters will inspire anyone who reads it with the belief that each of us can, in our own way, help to change the world for the better.
===
From other countries
Jackie Brittany
5.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring
Reviewed in France on 22 November 2013
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
This book is wonderful. Mary Robinson is a true inspiration for all women and her book is full of good sense, warmth and humility.
Report
Helen r. DuBois
5.0 out of 5 stars Suggested read for neighborhood book group...
Reviewed in the United States on 21 October 2024
Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase
Amazing woman, amazing family! My entire neighborhood book group have enjoyed this look at an exceptional woman and her journey through some of the most intense times our world has been through. Some excellent lessons on what to watch out for as we progress through these strange times..
Report
Ann H
5.0 out of 5 stars Compulsory reading for anyone interested in Ireland
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 13 January 2013
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I loved this book. i couldn't put it down especially the early part of the book when she talked about her experiences in Ireland. thankfully an Ireland that is long gone and it's thanks to the efforts of Mrs Robinson and others like her that moved the law and the country away from a narrow view of morality to system that enshrines the rights of many.
I was less interested in her time at the UN although the fact that a woman from Mayo on the extreme western fringe of Europe could make it to the UN is amazing and an inspiration.
Report
Daffy
4.0 out of 5 stars Daffy
Reviewed in the United States on 29 October 2012
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
It was an interesting, incisive, informative and challenging book.
The author writes in a clear, open, honest and compassionate way
and was equally critical of her own mistakes as well as the
mistakes made by others.
She is a public figure to be admired as an advocate for human rights,
who was prepared to take on issues that many political leaders
sought to avoid.
She has made a difference.
Report
Jenny Reviewer
4.0 out of 5 stars Insights into the life of an outstanding woman
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 13 May 2014
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I seem to be having a 'feminine political autobiography season' right now. I read and reviewed Shirley Williams' 'Climbing the Bookshelves' last week here on Amazon. Indeed, there are parallels between the two women. Both were from a privileged background; both were committed feminists, with a vision of social justice and fairer society. Mary's willingness to take on her country's very constitution where it's enshrined Catholic stance compromised those goals is quite remarkable, as was her work as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. Any autobiography, by it's very nature, has it's objective limitations compared to an authorised biography, but this is definitely one of the best, most honest political memoirs and well worth a read.
Report
Boolagh
5.0 out of 5 stars Mary of Ireland
Reviewed in the United States on 21 October 2012
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I could not put the kindle down. Having grown up in Ireland in the seventies, the book made sense for me of a lot of political and social events of the time. Mary is an inspiration to women of Irish origin. I loved the story of her life from childhood and the gradual awakening of her social consciousness. The affect of her family, the church and her education on her development was very interesting. The balancing act of family and politics was very real and her progression from Irish politics into European politics and into the work of the UN and social justice was amazing. I would recommend this book to others and particularly people of Irish origin.
Report
Mrs. A. H. Mullender
5.0 out of 5 stars Exceptional
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 23 January 2013
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I so admire Mary Robinson and what she stands for.
Reading her book I feel I can actually hear her voice.
Her style of story telling is sensitive to her subject and I love her humourous approach.
I can well understand her pain and hurt at the stance her parents took regarding her marriage to Nick Robinson.
This is a book about a very strong, caring woman, who is not afraid to stand up for her less fortunate fellow human beings.
A very poweful, passionate account of someone who felt born to serve.
Report
Mr. William Glover
5.0 out of 5 stars Mary Robinson, a gift to all women.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 December 2013
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
The folksy beginning was not what I wanted to read but it did place her life in a context that was, later, shown to be relevant. The rest of her life was captivating revealing a bright mind, a tremendous work ethic, a real concern for the people and special causes.
Irish women need this role model, we need some more.
Report
Thomas
3.0 out of 5 stars Not bad in some sections
Reviewed in the United States on 25 May 2013
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Really enjoyed reading about early years and growing up. Would have liked to have learned more about the cases particularly the case with a women entitled to the dole while separated from husband. Having read Geldof and Bono books I feel quite bad but found the section on Africa quite boring. Also, for those Irish descendants abroad more clarification of some of the political structures were needed.
Report
Suzanna Byrne
5.0 out of 5 stars A Woman for All Seasons.
Reviewed in the United States on 24 January 2016
Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase
I love Mary Robinson and I loved her even more after I read and re-read her memoir. Hers is a life blessed with opportunity and the fact that she grabbed every opportunity that came her way makes her even more wonderful because she used her opportunities for the good of people who needed her voice in the public place. As the first woman to be president of the Republic of Ireland, she exercised her compassion and used her influence to further the good of all people. She keeps a light burning in her window for the diaspora; she herself is a light burning for the good of the world.
Report
Wotever
5.0 out of 5 stars What a woman
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 2 December 2012
Verified Purchase
Everyone should read this book. It tells of an inspirational women who fought for the rights of others not getting a fair shout whoever they are all over the world. Read on holiday expecting it to be a bit heavy but on the contrary a most interesting uplifting book.
Report
Bookwoman
4.0 out of 5 stars An amazing woman.
Reviewed in the United States on 22 April 2014
Verified Purchase
I read this book with my book group. We were all impressed with Robinson, and couldn't believe that we hadn't heard of her before. We could only blame US media for that lack, as we're all politically active, and aware. She is now right up there with women I most admire. Her work on climate justice is so important. You go, Mary Robinson!
Report
jim
4.0 out of 5 stars Thoughts on an irish president
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 3 July 2015
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
A thought book by a person who cares very deeply about people, particularly women. She has great concern about universal rights which is commendable, but I would have liked some reference to corresponding responsibilities..however, I enjoyed reading her book I will commend to others.
Report
Lucy Abbott
3.0 out of 5 stars Amazing woman ... boring book
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 16 May 2013
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I've been so disappointed reading this book at how utterly unengaging it is.
She has had such a remarkable life and achieved so much in Ireland and internationally. A profound contribution to human rights globally and particularly for women. And yet I'm struggling to get through it, I'm skipping large chunks. It's so tedious.
Report
C. Walshe
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful woman
Reviewed in the United States on 11 October 2012
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Whewwww!EVERYBODY MATTERS exceeded all expectations.In its own way, it reads like a thriller as it moves from country to country, crisis to crisis in the humanitarian arena. And the depth of Mary Robinson's refusal to be intimidated by the powerful global forces antagonistic to her and her mission,is truly heartwarming. The book covers a very broad area: wife and mother; Law professor; First female President of Ireland; UN Commissioner on Human Rights and her continuing work in the field of human rights and ecology as president of The Mary Robinson Foundation. Dedication of a visionery.And yes! she convinced me that everybody matters and educated me.
Report
Barbara Clark
4.0 out of 5 stars An amazing brave woman
Reviewed in the United States on 11 June 2013
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I found Mary Robinson's live amazing. To be brought up in such a strict catholic home and achieve what she did and with good humour she certainly deserves the accolade she has won.
It was well written and very readable.
Report
Mathilda
5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant, inspirational reading. Definitely a worthwhile read.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 4 September 2013
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
After hearing Mary Robinson's Desert Island Discs, I wanted to know more so bought the book.
It is exactly as I had hoped. Full of warm, inspirational tales which makes you revise opinions of those who stand for high office.
A thoroughly good read.
Report
JImmyMacDuart
1.0 out of 5 stars Awful book
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 21 January 2013
Verified Purchase
A truly awful self-serving and self-congratulatory book. Autobiographies should be avoided as a general rule of thumb and this book illustrates my point. Mrs Robinson says "I like teaching" after delivering a few lectures over the years at various seminars, symposia etc. You don't prepare your material on the morning of the talk Mrs Robinson, as you state in this book! Try teaching a class of 11 year olds at 3.30 pm on a Friday afternoon, say on the topic of electrostatics or heat transfer. If you can do it, and enjoy it, (and more importantly get the pupils to enjoy it) THEN you are a teacher!
I cannot see anything fruitful come out of her political work either. She talks up various events such as the Good Friday Agreement which has brought a degree of peace to Northern Ireland; however I seem to remember that the hard work was done by people such as Mo Mowlam while others such as Peter Robinson, Martin McGuiness etc compromised their long held beliefs for the advancement of peace in that troubled part of the world. These are the people who should take the credit. Mrs Robinson changed her political colours too often to be taken seriously - maybe for the advancement of her own career?
I'd never heard of the Elders either. Yet another wheeze of Richard Branson? What work have they done that has brought lasting benefits anywhere.
No, please wait for the objective biography - a rule of thumb I would apply to any autobiography. I did so much look forward to this book and want to enjoy it, (as someone of Irish descent), but was sadly disappointed to say the least. It's very easy to put a light in a window Mrs Robinson - it costs nothing! But it didn't switch me on at all, I'm afraid.
Report
Dr. T. J. Hannan
5.0 out of 5 stars A true "Woman who Runs with Wloves"
Reviewed in the United States on 1 November 2012
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Dr. T. J. Hannan says:
Mary Robinson is a true Clarissa Pinkola Estes "Woman who runs with wolves". Her lair minder Nick has also allowed the wonderful woman be a true example that "Everybody matters".
He literary "almost destruction" of UN internal politics confirms the dysfunctional nature of this organisation and its lack of "unitedness" and where NOT everybody matters.
I particularly enjoyed the application of her core principals in "Everybody Matters" as this was very relevant to work I was involved in that was to manage the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa. In fact I thought she may have even "touched" these programs in Kenya (AMPATH) and other African locations (OpenMRS).
A core aim of these programs id the "Everybody Matters" and to inculcate hope and self sustaining sufficiency and reduce the brain drain.
Nick, Mary's husband needs acknowledgement for his role of allowing Mary to be herself.
This book gives me and I other HOPE.
Report
Stella Clery-ackland
4.0 out of 5 stars Great Story from a Fascinating Women
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 13 May 2014
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Mary Robinson's early story as an Irish politician then President was interesting enough, but what she really reveals in this book is the endemic bureaucracy and corruption at the United Nations. It was scary to understand how the old guard united to destroy this women because she dared to try to make changes.
Report
Sharon
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful!
Reviewed in the United States on 10 July 2013
Verified Purchase
I like to read about her years as President of Ireland best. The later years weren't as interesting to me, maybe it hits home to much - to much tension still in the world and we live in the US where so much of the world is in chaos due to our involvement. But she tell it like it is. It is a very good book and her perpective is a very good one to read from the UN point of view as well. A great read and a very good memoir for those who enjoy memoirs!
Report
Julie
5.0 out of 5 stars A great story of how women can "have it all"
Reviewed in the United States on 16 April 2013
Verified Purchase
This book was a wonderful look at how Mary Robinson worked hard to be successful in her career, and then defied the odds to become the first woman president of Ireland.Her ability to balance her professional career and family responsibilities provided a good view into how important it is to have a spouse who supports one's aspirations and provide unconditional love while allowing her to pursue her goals. Her passion for human rights is evident in the groups she continues to work with and fight for. I found it inspirational.
Report
Yug
4.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring
Reviewed in the United States on 13 November 2013
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I found this book inspiring. Mary Robinson describes her journey from quite ordinary beginnings to become the president of Ireland and when that came to its natural conclusion she was able to go on to more inspiring humanitarian work. She also managed to steer a sensible path through the religious conflict in the north. As I have said inspiring!
Report
Wyken Seagrave
5.0 out of 5 stars An honest account of an extraordinary life
Reviewed in the United States on 20 December 2012
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Mary Robinson wants to make a difference in the world, to make it a better place, and she has dedicated her life and her talents to helping others to achieve social justice. She tells her story, as she has lived her life, with honesty and courage. This woman is an inspiration, able to deal with the large picture as well as the minutiae, treating each person as somebody of value, prepared to take a stand on things she believes in. I strongly recommend this book.
Report
Melody A. De Mar
5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant Woman; Charming Hostess
Reviewed in the United States on 7 June 2014
Verified Purchase
Once then President Mary Robinson invited our Il. State Bar Assoc. to her home to meet "Nick and the kids." The family welcomed us all to Ireland and threw a lovely cocktail party for us. The family was warm, very intelligent, charming and gracious. As wonderful as Ireland itself. So far, the book is fantastic, and helps me understand why my Grandpa had to leave in the 1800's, never to return or to see his cherished mother again.
Report
pathurgood
5.0 out of 5 stars A compelling read
Reviewed in the United States on 7 October 2012
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I have long admired the achievements of Mary Robinson and many years ago was fortunate to attend a speaking engagement at which she spoke. It was inspiring to listen to her discuss her inclusive approach to her role as President of Ireland. Her much-awaited autobiography does not disappoint. I have to discipline myself not to read it all in one sitting, not that you really could as it is charged with detailed analysis and discourse. A truly compelling read.
Report
Jannol
4.0 out of 5 stars interesting read
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 5 December 2012
Verified Purchase
The book was delivered quickly and was in excellent condition. Interesting summary of a powerful womans life.Mary Robinson's work has made and will make a vast difference to the freedom of an idividual to choose their destiny.
Report
Mary
5.0 out of 5 stars Once a leader, always a leader ...
Reviewed in the United States on 22 May 2013
Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase
Mary Robinson leads by example and the captains of industry have but to follow
as she stands out to show us how we come up short, and, there's no shame in that, unless we
fail to correct the done deeds and show concern for the future of the planet. Her frankness shows
such determination, this book is an example of a life well lived and an example for us all.
Report
LoveToRead
2.0 out of 5 stars OK and not much more...
Reviewed in the United States on 4 June 2014
Verified Purchase
Mrs. Robinson has done amazing things and I got bored with the book. There was lots of head stuff - facts about what she did, when, etc. and not much heart. It was like reading an old school history book with dates but no richness. In the book, she says that she learned so much about how to work with people to accomplish things and yet is so surprised at times that people might take offense to her direct style. Isn't part of successfully working with others recognizing how to say things in a way that others can hear the message?
Report
Maureen Cary
5.0 out of 5 stars The Message Is Hope
Reviewed in the United States on 3 April 2013
Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase
Mary Robinson's life has been inspirational on so many levels. She writes a candid autobiography in which she describes successes and occasional failures. Generously, she credits so many of her family and friends with what she has been able to accomplish. Any young person considering a life of public service would do well to read this book. It underscores the idea that we can each make a difference.
Report
Ralph Sealey
4.0 out of 5 stars Well written, easy read
Reviewed in the United States on 26 July 2013
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
This book is about Mary Robinson, her upbringing, her husband and family and an insight into the way she thinks. I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in her story rather than Irish or foreign politics.
Report
Niamh Ann O'Dwyer
4.0 out of 5 stars good book
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 21 July 2013
Verified Purchase
I enjoyed the read, however toward the end of the book it became a little, dare I say, boring. Mrs. Robinson is an amazing women, but it was a bit self-indulgent.
Report
Ken L. Shelley
4.0 out of 5 stars and I'm glad I did
Reviewed in the United States on 4 March 2015
Verified Purchase
I found the title of this book a little off-putting but decided to give it a try, and I'm glad I did. It's a wonderful story of a seemingly wonderful woman.
Report
Maureen Dean
4.0 out of 5 stars A strong woman can do anything !
Reviewed in the United States on 17 October 2013
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Am excellent autobiography of an amazing woman. It demonstrates how a supporting family can help a friend, daughter,wife and mother achieve the ultimate -to become President of Ireland,
Report
Diana
4.0 out of 5 stars An amazing lady
Reviewed in the United States on 22 March 2013
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
A lady of remarkable insight, compassion and energy. The early stories about her childhood and early law career are particularly interesting. The later chapters for me were less engaging. Well worth a read.
Report
pcmodonnell
5.0 out of 5 stars mcl ball
Reviewed in the United States on 12 October 2012
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Mary Robinson achieved a lot for Ireland. This book is a must read for anyone trying to achieve against the odds.A small girl from Ballina(population 6000) in Ireland becomes President of Ireland,goes to the UN as High Commissioner of Human Rights, then to USA, is an elder in Africa and that's only a quarter of the story. I can't leave it down!
Report
Mrs Heather M Willis
4.0 out of 5 stars A remarkable woman who did perhaps than anyone else for ...
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 7 November 2014
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
A remarkable woman who did perhaps than anyone else for Ireland in the 20th century. I learnt so much from this book.
Report
Victoria Mauriello
4.0 out of 5 stars Politics In Ireland
Reviewed in the United States on 1 December 2013
Verified Purchase
Former president of Ireland is an Interesting woman reflecting on an interesting life! The issues of church vs. state in 1969 and beyond in Ireland are
fascinating.
Report
Sister Sews
4.0 out of 5 stars Inspirational biography
Reviewed in the United States on 1 June 2013
Verified Purchase
Not exactly a page-turner, but very informative about Ireland and it's government. Recommend to read if you are every discouraged about politics, inspires one to keep on keeping on.
Report
Christine
4.0 out of 5 stars EVerybody matters
Reviewed in the United States on 23 February 2013
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I saw her interview on t.v. The book is well written about a woman who has achieved a lot in her life. it was my first ebook download.
Report
Show 10 more reviews
===
===
===
No comments:
Post a Comment