05/15/2025
Our author, Dr. Kivela, holds a Doctor of Philosophy in English as a Second Language and Applied Linguistics, has spent a lifetime dedicated to education, working across primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions. Beyond her academic contributions, she writes poetry and draws on rich experiences from living abroad in Hong Kong during a time of profound political change.
Her memoir, Lessons Worth Learning sets itself apart by offering a candid, compassionate look at a child’s resilience amidst institutional hardship. Set in a 1950s Catholic convent school in Melbourne, it follows Maggie, a spirited girl shaped by strict discipline and religious fervor. This is not a tale of bitterness, but one of growth, forgiveness, and empowerment. Ruth’s voice captures both past wounds and the hope that education, when paired with humanity, can uplift.
The memoir imparts powerful lessons: how early experiences shape us, how resilience is forged in adversity, and how perspective transforms hardship into wisdom. Written in a vivid first-person style, Ruth’s story is both moving and triumphant — a reflection on childhood, identity, and the lasting impact of those who teach us.
