I love non-fiction books, especially those that immediately attract me to take them from the library, the bookshop shelf or someone else’s home. Even more so if they are supported by photographs, maps, and graphics.
Facts beat fiction in my literary world. When I read the promotional media release tucked into the front of this book I had the feeling I was on to a winner. And I was right!!
Now I realise the title should have been “a sailor & soldier”( in that order ) plus a few more &’s, as Kelvin’s story goes way beyond those two early spheres of influence by later becoming a “diver & entrepreneur” as well as “husband and father”.
His perceptive and humble and caring attitude, always wanting the best for every situation for all those around him.
As a young medic in the NZ Navy with a trip to Antarctica included , then into the midst of the Vietnam War as a medic at 23 years of age , we watch the boy become the man.
A large portion of the book gives detailed insights into the horrors of the Vietnam period much of which has long remained unknown by the wider world. Dramatic reading.
Fantail Publications have made an excellent job of producing this man’s life story – well spaced print layout on each page, several coloured photographs and a fitting, emotional Epilogue titled “I Have One Regret” that has been with him for the past 40 years.
Once you get your hands on your copy get yourself offto bed early and prepare for a great read where you won’t be able to put this book down.
Well done Kelvin and Fantail Communications.
