A story of guts and determination

Sharon Evans Big Sky Publishing – Marketing & Communications

“Brilliant story-telling.” — Bryce Courtenay

New book tells of a childhood of neglect and abuse in Canada to life in the lucky country in a story of guts and determination.

In this inspirational autobiography, Why God Hates Me (Big Sky Publishing $24.99), Sydney woman Patricia Barton tells her story of a childhood of abuse and neglect and her determination as a young 13year old to fight for her happiness. From Canada to Australia, orphan – beauty queen – actress – and finally to motherhood and the permanent home she longed for, this is the story of guts, determination and optimism.

Patricia was only 13years old when she decided to take control of her destiny and fight for her happiness. Growing up poor, fatherless and unwanted in a small Canadian town she ran away from home to find her father and with him a better life. Instead, her dreams broken, she finds herself in an orphanage, alone and abandoned … again.

Growing up in a time when women were fighting for their place in society and overseas travel seemed far-fetched dream – the concept of escaping her small home town should have been something that for teenage Patricia an impossibility – but – it didn’t mean she wouldn’t set out to fight for it. Patricia grew up loving books, songs and movies – her desire to be an actress – something that for many seemed farfetched, would allow her access to a whole new world. Her determination would see her fight for her dreams.

Winning a beauty contest in Canada would open the door to Europe – Egypt and New York, acting and a final move to Australia with her new husband where she becomes a successful model, mother and finally found the permanent home she longed for. Life isn’t without its pitfalls and heartbreak but through it all Patricia’s optimism continues to shine and she never loses sight of her dreams.

Patricia’s journey is told with an honesty and generosity that will resonate with people everywhere – her story is not of the amazing and incredible – but founded in the reality and the successes, large and small, that mean so much and provide assurance that we can all overcome our own personal adversities. Patricia has suffered through the hard knocks in her later life, her first husband Pat and Michael one of her two sons died unexpectedly, she’s currently nursing her second husband Colin as he battles with cancer. She’s came from so little with just guts and determination and with such optimism.

Patricia is a fascinating and wonderful lady who still believes in miracles.