Straight Arrows and Fast Bullets
A Hunter’s Tales Peter Hill
Bateman Books RRP $40
Reviewed by Daryl Crimp
This book fits the genre of classic New Zealand hunting book in the mould of the likes of Holden, Harker, and Severinson. Authentic tales of hunting the way it used to be through to contemporary times, with a good dose of adventure spiced with hardship, hard yards and backbone, and laced with the evolution of good ethics. A touch of old hunter wisdom and bushman philosophy rounds out this biographical ‘good Kiwi yarn’.
Peter Hill fits the image of archetypal Kiwi hunter bushman and, fitting of his era, lends a deft hand to his pen. His writing style is relaxed yet polished; his stories unfold naturally, spun in an engaging manner with clarity, honesty and humour.
He is a natural storyteller who spins a good yarn, and he has got a lot to yarn about. Spanning decades of hunting, Peter chronicles his life in the hills with bow and rifle, covering formative years, working for the Forest Service, possuming, recreational hunting and more.
Predominantly a North Island hunting book, it will appeal to all hunters who enjoy an evocative and engaging read. Despite the somewhat ‘messy’ front cover, the writing is tight and well supported with ‘snaps’ befitting the era. Highly recommended for the hunter’s library.
