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The first book penned by retired journalist Frances Hall of Orewa may have come out at just the right time.
Frances says it will give readers a good laugh.
“We’ve been through a hard time over the last two months and I hope the book reflects the gutsy determination of New Zealanders,” she says. “Our Kiwi sense of humour is a wonderful thing and has pulled us through many challenges.”
The 72-year-old had been thinking about writing a book for around seven years. Her memoir, Scatterlogical Wisdom, which she self-published in association with Wild Side Publishing, was released this week.
She came up with the term ‘scatterlogical’ (the comparison with scatalogical – the study of poo – is all part of the fun) to describe all her disparate careers and roles – from bun running and lollipop making, to sales, writing, financial management, tour leading and parenting.
“I’ve had a crack at anything that came my way,” she says.
Writing the book was an opportunity for Frances to reflect on her life. She was born in the Wairarapa and raised in Northland. She has a love of all things South American and has travelled widely as well as living in the USA.
Frances says it took several years for her to be able to process difficult experiences and “re-story” them into positives in the book.
“The stories stalked me, often in the middle of the night,” she says. “Sometimes the process was joyous, at other times it came with tears.”
It seems this may not be Frances’ last book. “I have another idea in my head, so watch this space,” she says.
Book giveaway
Hibiscus Matters has two copies of Frances Hall’s memoir Scatterlogical Wisdom to give away. To be in to win, ‘like’ Hibiscus Matters’ Facebook page and message us with your name and contact phone number. Alternatively, write your name, address and daytime phone number on the back of an envelope and post to Scatterlogical Wisdom Giveaway, Hibiscus Matters, 21 Florence Ave, Orewa. Entries close Friday, July 3. Scatterlogical Wisdom is available from www.franceshall.co.nz and Paper Plus Orewa. If you would like to meet the author, Frances will be signing her book on June 23 at Sierra Café in Silverdale Mall at 11am.
