How I Didn’t Become a Rockstar is the gripping and emotional true story of one of the many victims of the Dutch childcare benefits scandal. What begins as a life filled with music, love, and dreams soon spirals into a nightmare when Bridie is wrongly ordered to repay thousands in childcare support.

With no support and a crushing debt, she loses everything and flees the country with her daughters. From Spain to Ireland, she tries to rebuild her life, facing poverty, shame, and isolation—often ending up in dangerous situations.

This is the first book in which a survivor of the scandal tells her own story—raw, honest, and laced with dark humor. Bridie shows how quickly life can unravel, and how hard it is to fight your way back. But it’s also a story of resilience, love, and the healing power of music.

A powerful, moving, and ultimately inspiring memoir of a woman who refused to be silenced.

About the Author

Bridie lives in Ireland with her two daughters and a motley crew of rescue pets. This is her first book, sharing her story in her own words.