Lucky Bastard
Wells, PeterHow do you make sense of the past when it suddenly explodes into the present? In post-war Japan, Eric Keeling must investigate an alleged war crime, but do his actions constitute a further crime? In New Zealand, half a century later, this is the question that confronts his two children. They have grown up with a difficult father who was traumatised by his past as a prisoner of war. Was he a war hero, or guilty of an unscrupulous act of revenge? As their father loses his hold on reality, they must sift through the facts and fictions of what really happened and in the process they discover a new sense of family. [Taken from book blurb.] NZ Interest.
Comments from Groups
Enjoyed it. We liked the complexity and multiple characters. Auckland 267 [We all] enjoyed Lucky Bastard and [were] interested in WW2 Japan excerpts in the book. Masterton 007 This book was enjoyed by all. It was well written..... A thought provoking book. Upper Hutt 007 Not our favourite read Havelock 012 A good discussion - varied responses, viewpoints and comments on life in NZ, especially interested in the Pacific war and immediate post war situation. Invercargill 017
Pages
478
478
Year
2007
2007
Reviews
18-05-2023
Generally felt it wasn't well-written or clear about what the purpose was.
18-05-2023
We enjoyed this much more than we expected - there were so many aspects that warranted lots of discussion. He wove the threads together brilliantly. A book of many parts.
18-05-2023
Two didn't like this, but everyone else did. General discussion about how the war affected all those who were involved, wherever.
18-05-2023
Some of the writing was okay. But some members found it quite sordid and sleazy in parts.
18-05-2023
Book not finished by all. Some described it as not an enjoyable read, but compelling. Difficult and confronting themes. We found some characters annoying.
18-05-2023
Enjoyed by everyone in our group. For the writing style, descriptions of scenes and people - and for the complicated story.
18-05-2023
Generally the book was enjoyed, although two didn't read it as themes too dark for them.
18-05-2023
Most of us enjoyed this book and are glad we read it.
21-09-2022
Not a nice read, but made us think. A lot of discussion around current events and how little we learn from past experiences, and the ruining of young men's lives.
22-06-2022
A good read and discussion.
20-12-2017
Very average book. Disjointed story.