The Woman I Was Born to Be

Boyle made headlines when she opened her mouth on Britain's Got Talent to reveal a remarkable voice hidden in an unassuming package. The world fell in love with her humble and effusive personality, but turned on her just as quickly; forget the real Boyle, it's the "difficult" Boyle who sells tabloids. Sticking strictly to the formula, Boyle tells her tale, from childhood hardships to difficult school years to, finally, success on the international stage. She has a refreshing sense of humor, but the lightness can create disquiet when actual difficulties are skimmed over. This is the softest of accounts, simplistically written, high on faith and low on substance. It might pacify some readers, but those expecting something substantial will feel coddled. Photos. (Oct.)