I haven’t exactly “finished” consuming this… it is really a reference book that has been invaluable to during the first few months of my baby’s life. I will probably continue to use it on and off until my baby is at least 12 months old.

In this story Schapelle Corby takes us through her journey from the time of her arrest for possession of Marijuana in Bali, to the present day (October 2006), as well as providing some glimpses into her life before her arrest.

It is emotionally difficult to read this book, especially with the knowledge that Schapelle remains incarcerated in the terrible conditions of Kerobokan Prison, Bali and that there is no happy ending in sight as yet. It is impossible for anyone, who has an ounce of humanity, not to feel for Schapelle. Her story is horrendous – at times, I found myself wanting to treat the story as a work of fiction, just to be able to cope with the emotions raised whilst reading it.

Despite all the media coverage over the past two years, we have never really heard Schapelle’s voice. This book provides the opportunity to really hear from Schapelle (something that Schapelle comments on). I gained a different perspective on the whole ordeal, including a better understanding of how the legal proceedings unfolded… and went so dreadfully wrong, primarily due to the incompetence of Schapelle’s first legal team and the laissez faire attitude of the local police and prosecuting lawyers towards collection of evidence.

However, putting the sadness of Schapelle’s story aside, it has to be said that this is not a well-crafted book. There is frequent repetition of comments about the squalid state of the prison accommodation and Schapelle’s comments about state of mind and feelings. But this is easily forgiven as it serves to recreate what Schapelle must be feeling: the endlessness of time in prison, the frustration with feeling such anger at her helplessness.

It is a distressing book to read, as we know we can do so little to help Schapelle cope with her situation and that we are powerless to influence the Indonesian justice system to release her. It occurs to me that this may be why rumours circulate from time to time that Schapelle and her family had prior links to drugs and crime. Maybe it is easier for some to cope with the thought of Schapelle locked up in those terrible conditions if they have even the smallest hint that she may be guilty. However, any person with a modicum of intelligence could not possibly believe Schapelle is guilty. And even if she were, she (and her fellow inmates) does not deserve the treatment she has experienced thus far.

Overall, I would say that it is worth a read, but don’t expect a great work of literature.