Interview with Pattie Mallette: ‘Nowhere But Up’
Markos Papadatos had the unique pleasure to chat via telephone with Pattie Mallette, the mother of pop superstar Justin Bieber, about her newest memoir “Nowhere But Up.” “The main reason I wanted to write the book was to share my story and to help other people that have been through similar situations,” she said. “I’ve been through a lot of healing already, but just writing it down and editing it was definitely cathartic.”
Pattie noted that she was able to get through all of the hardships that she discussed in her book thanks to her Christian faith, as well as the counseling she received and her friendships. “My faith played a big role in it (just to be able get through the hopelessness of it all), and counseling was also a huge aspect of it,” she said.
Her book’s theme involves healing and she added that the hardest part of her book to write about was the sexual abuse. “I wanted to be really sensitive and careful about finding a balance between being truthful and not blaming anyone. I’ve been through the forgiveness process and that was huge for me,” Pattie said.
“Nowhere But Up” has received so much positive feedback from her fans and readers and it has garnered rave reviews from critics. “I am really excited about the response from people. I want as many people to read this as possible. I think that so many people can relate to some aspect of something in the book. I am just hoping to inspire people,” she said.
When asked what motivates her from day-to-day, she responded, “I like the idea of being able to make a difference in people’s lives. I like to be able to help other people.”
For other young women that have been through the same things that Pattie experienced in her life she underscored the need for them to reach out. “You do not have to do it alone. Do not give up,” she said.
Pattie shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. She noted that she is working on a teen edition of her book which will be coming out on July 1. “Some of the proceeds from the book are going to my foundation, which is just getting started. I am also doing some producing on a few movies and I am just exploring other aspects of my career,” she said.
Pattie stays in touch with her fans and readers via her social networks, especially Twitter. “I have almost two million Twitter followers that call me ‘mom,’” she said with a sweet laugh. “I do a lot through Twitter. When people ask for advice I’ll send them some encouraging thoughts, quotes or even scriptures.”
Pattie revealed that her definition of the word success involves making a difference. “Some people get awarded for their accomplishments at certain award shows, but I get excited when it’s meaningful and when I am giving something to make a difference,” she said.
She concluded by saying “thank you” to all of her dedicated fans and readers that supported her throughout this journey. “Stay strong and do not give up on your own dreams,” she concluded.
According to Christine Nagy, veteran radio personality from New York’s 106.7 Lite FM, she remarked, “Pattie Mallette’s honesty and openness in sharing her life, even through the dark periods, serves as an inspiration for all of us. Hers is a true story of overcoming life’s biggest challenges to find success and love in her own life and with her son, Justin Bieber.”
Photo Credit: Cathryn Farnsworth
