Honey is a compelling memoir that captures the incredible journey of Honey Hireme-Smiler, one of Aotearoa’s most enduring athletes. From a ‘town bully’ to a multiple world champion and trailblazing TV commentator, Honey’s story is a remarkable tale of triumph, resilience and overcoming personal hardships.
Honey has one of the most impressive resumes in New Zealand sport - she’s a four-time World Cup winner who wore the silver fern in league, rugby, sevens and nines. She moved freely between codes, was one of the first women to play professional rugby in Aotearoa and was repeatedly named one of the best in the world.
However, Honey is much more than just a sports memoir. The book dives into her personal life, revealing the challenges she faced growing up, the tragedies she’s endured and how she has emerged stronger from it all.
“I’ve ticked a few boxes - Maori, brought up in a low-socioeconomic family with domestic violence, the school bully, kapa haka leader, head girl (but with a criminal record), solo mum, lesbian, professional athlete, TV presenter, board director, ambassador, carer, wife… the list goes on. Ultimately, none of these individual labels or titles truly encompass the real me,” says Honey.
“My intention with this book was to share an insight into the life I have lived so far; the good, the bad, the ugly, but most importantly to educate, inspire and empower others. My journey has wound through many twists and turns - with likely a few more to come. But all good, I’m here for it, surviving and thriving at times, and struggling and buckling at others.”
In this candid and captivating autobiography, Honey shares details from her sports career, spanning rugby, league, sevens and nines. Her unique ability to excel in multiple codes showcases her versatility and dedication to the silver fern.
Honey’s voice is unflinchingly honest, often blending humour and sorrow. Her journey is relatable and her powerful story of strength, loss and perseverance is inspiring.
Refreshingly, Honey is dedicated “to anyone who doesn’t have it all together, but keeps putting one foot in front of the other: I walk with you. Keep going! Iti nei; iti nei. Take small steps; little by little it can be done.”
For fans of sport or human resilience, Honey is a must-read that leaves you with both admiration and a deeper understanding of the person behind the athlete.
Reviewer: Andrea Molloy
Bateman Books
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