Story of overcoming trials and tribulations

Book review by Nicole Watson

The Currency of Grit by Dr Kesha Christie is a poignant and unapologetically honest memoir that delves into the trials, sacrifices, and grit required to transform pain into purpose. Through candid storytelling and powerful life lessons, she invites readers into a personal journey — from hunger and hardship on the harsh streets to becoming a global businesswoman.

Christie’s story is one of fierce determination. Born into circumstances many would consider impossible, her youth was marked by economic struggle and abandonment. As she puts it, “The path I walked was riddled with dangers that swallowed girls whole … I have all the physical battle scars of my childhood, and I consider them badges of honour ...”

Raw, vulnerable, and triumphant — these quotes set the tone for a memoir that doesn’t soften hardship but arms you with the conviction that you can rise above it. Christie makes it clear that grit — more than money, status, or opportunity — is the most valuable currency one can possess.

Her writing style is direct, introspective, and emotionally resonant. Readers will find themselves immersed in both the pain and progress of her journey. At times, the narrative edges close to being motivational in tone, almost sermon-like, as Christie weaves spiritual reflections with personal anecdotes. While this can occasionally disrupt the pacing of the memoir — making it feel more like a self-help book in parts than a straightforward autobiography— it ultimately adds a unique layer of inspiration and empowerment to her story.

There is an authenticity in Christie’s reflections that lends credibility to her triumphs. She doesn’t shy away from exposing the vulnerabilities of single motherhood, the sting of rejection, or the invisible weight of gender-based expectations. Still, her memoir is not one of complaint — it is a manifesto of perseverance. Much like the title suggests, The Currency of Grit is built around the idea that “armour forged by hardship”, when faced with courage and vision, can become a form of capital more powerful than anything material.

Overall, Christie’s story is one of transformation. Every setback, every detour, every sleepless night has been deposited into the account of a woman who now spends her life motivating others to rise. The book’s title is not just a metaphor. It is the foundational truth of her life: grit is what pays for your future when all else has been stripped away. In The Currency of Grit, Christie proves that true wealth lies not in what we own but in what we overcome.

Title: The Currency of Grit

Author: Dr Kesha Christie

Published by: SEMS Writing and Publishing Services

ISBN: 9798282217292

Nicole Watson is a communicator, content creator, and a blogger. Follow her on Instagram @nicolesbookishbits