Speaking in Tongues

Tom Tilley: ABC Books, $33

Journalist Tilley was host of Triple J’s current affairs program Hack for a decade and it is fascinating to delve into his upbringing in the strict Pentecostal faith. One of four boys raised by loving parents, Tilley, a talented bass player, became disillusioned with aspects of his church, and rigidly enforced rules around sex, drugs, alcohol and rock’n’roll. Worse was the looming ultimatum, speak in tongues or be banished. Hearing of his parents’ life before they found their faith, Tilley yearned for the freedom to make his own “mistakes” but was it worth going to hell and being separated from his family for eternity? Tilley is honest, vulnerable and funny in this powerful, insightful memoir about breaking free to discover yourself and follow your own path. LEANNE EDMISTONE