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This was a fabulous memoir that reminded me of both “Educated“ by Tara Westover and “The Voyage of the Northern Magic“ by Diane Stuemer, It is a story of adventure and lots of interesting places, but also of parental neglect, indifference and misogyny. Sue's determination to get an education in spite of her circumstances led to many confrontations. I realize this is her story and obviously one sided, but it made for a riveting read. 4.5/5!

I love a good life at sea story, and this memoir of a childhood circumnavigating the globe was very compelling. Heywood‘s childhood on the ocean is full of interesting stories about people and exotic locations, about the challenges and chaos of the ocean, and most interestingly about the complex dynamic of her family. It‘s told without excessive sentiment and with a healthy critical lens. A great memoir.