“The Only Pirate at the Party” is an autobiographical book
by American violinist, singer, songwriter, and dancer Lindsey Stirling. Lindsey
is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and shares both
her experiences growing up, her experiences developing into a musician, and her
faith as she navigates a very unique world.
She titles the book based on a story about her childhood. She was diagnosed with cross-dominance in second grade, which meant she had to wear an eye patch. Once she decided to pretend she was a pirate the treatment wasn't as challenging.
Lindsey grew up in Arizona and started getting noticed nationally
when she auditioned for “America’s Got Talent” in 2010. She made it to the quarterfinals,
and shared how she was crushed by the criticism but determined she would try
harder to become a success.
She served a full time mission in New York City, and shared
some of her experiences there that changed her outlook and helped her grow. Her
personal account of the difficulty of missionary work as well as the hard work
and effort that goes into sharing her testimony of Christ, is an uplifting
thread that weaves throughout the book.
One of the powerful issues she shares in the book is her
battle with anorexia. She not only describes how anorexia affected her, but
also reveals how it affected her family and close friends. She is honest about
her own behavior, but has a happy attitude, despite revealing the challenges of
a very personal struggle.
Lindsey discusses everything from her upbringing in a humble
home, her family and their sacrifices to support her, to challenges while
touring. She has some great stories about everything from meeting celebrities,
to her relationship with close friends. It is an uplifting and fun,
entertaining and interesting read and those in our group all enjoyed it. And we
had cereal as part of our refreshments-because it was Lindsey’s favorite food.
"Pirates don't take orders or ask permission,... They do what they want. Allow me to clarify. If your mom asks you to do the dishes, do not pull out your pirate attitude. But if someone tells you you're not good enough, says your dreams are too lofty, or claims there is no room in showbiz for a dancing violinist — well then, by all means, pull out your eye patch, my friend, and take to the high seas."
-- "The Only Pirate at the Party" by Lindsey Stirling
