As I look back over my life, I see great lessons learnt from revered spiritual teachers, but also from friends, strangers and even the odd junkie prostitute. I remember moments of enlightenment that arrived with a bang, and moments born of the self-reflection only true boredom can provide. I made a few decisions while painting a fence once. Those decisions turned out to be very noisy indeed.’”
The Fence-Painting Fortnight of Destiny leaves no stone unturned, as cutting comedian Meshel Laurie reminds readers why she’s one of Australia’s funniest media personalities.
From the highs and lows of her career, to battles with drug abuse and the untold world of Melbourne’s hidden brothels, nothing is off-limits for the This Week Live star.
Born and bred in the idle suburbs of Toowoomba, Laurie paints the picture of a Catholic school girl driven by bright lights, late nights and hedonistic tendencies, à la ‘Dogs in Space’.
Trading bucket bongs and a drama degree for the draw of Melbourne (and a dream of dating Paul McDermott), the Nova host recounts her rise from the back-room to centre stage with humour and ease.
With plenty of twists and turns along the way, including a chance trip to a national Socialist convention, the kindness of comic superstars and an awkward encounter with Killing Hiedi, The Fence Painting Fortnight of Destiny is guaranteed to have you in fits of laughter.
In a world of bland, controlled publicity, Meshel Laurie lays her cards on the table in this honest, heartfelt and refreshing look at life.
Rating: 4/5 stars