I really enjoyed this book [Lofty: My Life in Short].

It is the story of a man who has had to struggle for much of his life against his own physical difficulties, bullies, family dramas and mental demons. But while he might not have been born a big man, he was born with a big voice, a big heart, a mountain of courage and in the end an indomitable spirit and love of life.

Polly – review from Goodreads.com

Loved [Heart of a Lioness]. What an incredible legacy. Stirring, inspirational, a challenge and a call to sacrifice for others. This book was a page-turner, beautifully re-creating the life and ministry of Irene Gleeson in northern Uganda. Nicole Partridge has captured the heart of a woman whose love for God and the children who suffered through a brutal civil war surpassed all obstacles. Motivated me to give, to follow, and to pray. Highly recommended!

Tania Harris

I have just finished reading Lofty – My Life In Short by Ian (Lofty) Fulton and Nicole Partridge.

Lofty – My Life In Short is a great read. Ian Fulton’s life story is one that all of Australia needs to read. I believe that many Australians will be able to relate to this book.

Many Australians, myself included, are probably not aware of how familiar Ian Fulton’s voice is. Ian Fulton is known to have one of the best voices in radio and TV. He has built an incredible career in radio and most recently as a voice over artist.

Ian Fulton has an incredible story to tell. A story that is packed with so much courage, grit and determination to succeed, despite so many obstacles, including the negativity of his own inner voice.

David – review from Goodreads.com

Heart of a Lioness is a beautifully written, faithfully researched, and accurate recount of the inspiring life of an Australian woman who turned her own tragedy into a story of triumph. The book is packed with descriptive stories that make you feel as though you are right there with Irene.

Ruth Athanasio

A powerful memoir about Lofty’s vulnerability and growth [Lofty: My Life in Short].
Due to the heavy subject matter, I liked how Lofty broke up the seriousness with touches of humour.

It was eye-opening seeing how different times were back then in terms of acceptance of difference. It was also quite sad seeing the relentless bullying Lofty went through and how it was deemed acceptable. The world has come a long way, but it still has a long way to go.
It took a while for me to read the book as I needed time to process the tough subject matter. I particularly found the anxiety aspect and many of the challenges Lofty faced for being short very relatable. I loved being able to see a bit of myself on the page and the sense of being understood, and I loved reading Lofty’s encouragement.

It was interesting learning about how Lofty got a career in radio, the behind the scenes information, and the challenges he faced trying to maintain his dream job in an ever-changing industry.
I admire Lofty’s vulnerability and his courage and determination.

I recommend this book for anyone who’s 16 years and older. It’s an inspirational story for short-statured and non-short statured people alike.
Content warning: bullying, gambling, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.

Julie – review from Goodreads.com

This [Heart of a Lioness] is a MUST READ – for anyone who cares about children anywhere – but especially in Uganda where Joseph Kony and the LRA terrorized and destroyed the lives of the Acholi in Northern Uganda. Irene passed away in 2013, but her efforts live on in this beautiful country – incredibly well written and emotionally draining. This is a MUST READ.

Arthur T Jones