The Boy Behind the Curtain

Interesting perspective on this author's life. I found the sections disjointed and now understand why as most of them have previously been published in different books, newpapers and articles, so they don't really hang together. However I am a little better informed on events in Australia in recent times.

A memoir of his life in essay like episodes, revealing acute observations, personal development, thoughts and phobias.
He often used engaging lyrical phrasing, describing the landscape, encapsulating precice meaning, or vividly revealing his thoughts. Eg ‘the littoral field of gooseflesh the pebbles become on the long decline’ p55. ‘Peter is a man of antic impulses and infectious energy . He's a maker of friends, a midwife to the friendships of others.’ P184
It stirred up my childhood memories, of moving to new towns, gun play, rabbit shooting, shyness.
It made me think, ponder, the need to open our eyes to see and the benefit of idle time.
I enjoyed hearing of his strong love of nature and environment. It was interesting learning show more of his fear of hospitals. His experience of Australia’s class boundaries was well related.
An enjoyable read of discovery. show less

Wonderful series of essays about growing up, and living, in Western Australia. It covers the everyday experiences we can at some level relate to including family, school, education, religion, travel, career - and makes the ordinary important. So many moments stay with me, his encounter with the shark, the much hated family car, dipping his feet in the water at the NGV. What will also stay with me are his compassion, and deep reflections on the environment.

A bit of a ragbag of articles but lots of insight into one of my favourite authors.

Loved it... especially the first story.