Book review

Loving all of it

My eyesight is fine. I chose this book from the Library’s online catalogue without realising that it was large print. However  I am very pleased that I did, this book is far too interesting to be considered to be only for the poor sighted.

Loving all of it  is a series of essays by New Zealand senior citizens edited by Gordon MacLauchlan who also included one of his as well. There are twenty essays in all, some are quite short while others are longer and detailed. All are interesting.

Gordon has put together a really eclectic selection, probably having a few of the names contributing may give an idea of the width of reminiscences and opinions: Elizabeth Smither,  Hamish Keith,  Bob Harvey, Kate Harcourt, Brian Edwards, Ranganui Walker,  Marilyn Duckworth  Wilson Whineray, Fiona Kidman, Max Cryer and Ray Columbus. 

The contributors have approached their  subjects from a variety of angles ranging from childhood memories or mini biographies to later life experiences, comparing generations – ‘now and then’ or straight opinion pieces on life. As the book’s title indicates the writers are very positive people, even although some of who have faced considerable adversity  

Sometimes an essay surprises. As an instance All Black Captain Wilson Whineray doesn’t talk about rugby. In others the reader gets  exactly what is expected, Max Cryer writes a fascinating essay on language.  Bob Harvey tells a great tale on how he got into local body politics. Ray Columbus laments the state of contemporary popular music.  He recalls how the producer of a popular 1950s radio show pulled the plug on the series as he had become concerned at some the lyrics appearing in new songs. Columbus wonders what the producer would think of some of today’s top hits – or the accompanying videos. 

There is not a lot more to say about this book except that it’s a really interesting one. In reading some of us of a ‘certain age’ will nod in agreement however younger readers will also get a lot of insight on how the life evolves and how things have changed.

So do have a look at it, but be prepared for solicitous enquires about you eyesight.

Mike Beckett