Discover 'Come Back to Mona Vale', a captivating memoir by Alexander McKinnon that intricately unveils the enigmatic history of a prominent Christchurch business family from the early 20th century. This beautifully crafted paperback, measuring 148 x 210 mm and featuring 288 pages, invites readers into a world where wealth and class shield truths that are often too painful to articulate. As the author embarks on his personal journey of discovery, he reveals shocking family secrets that intertwine with the broader narrative of Canterbury's social history. With a masterful storytelling approach, McKinnon paints a vivid picture that contrasts Christchurch's public allure with its shadowy private realities, making this a must-read for those interested in family histories, social dynamics, and the subtle machinations that shape human relationships.

The book reads like a detective story, rich in detail and laden with vibrant imagery that brings the past to life. Exploring themes of obsession, social class, and the consequences of familial silence, 'Come Back to Mona Vale' resonates deeply with readers seeking a profound understanding of heritage and identity. Whether you are a history buff or simply captivated by personal narratives that reflect broader societal truths, this memoir is a poignant exploration of the complexities that define us.

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CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 148 x 210 mm
Pages: 288
Bind: paperback
Author: Alexander McKinnon Publisher: Otago University Press
Publication Date: 03-09-2021

Come Back to Mona Vale is a beautifully written, compelling narrative/memoir that sets about unravelling the mysteries and anomalies behind the public history of a wealthy Christchurch business family in the first half of the 20th century. The author-as narrator gradually becomes aware that his family heritage isn’t necessarily the norm, nor what he expected. That family members can’t bear to speak to each other about the most private and family-influenced events, facts and atmospheres. That he grew up shielded from aspects of contemporary reality by money and class. The story unfolds like a crime or detective tale, and also delves into the history of the Canterbury colony, contrasting Christchurch’s public values, aspirations and beauty with its murkier private behaviour. And yet the story is told with a graceful touch and an eye for the vivid, comic and telling detail. Alexander McKinnon’s explorations of his family’s past is the record of a beautiful and grand (yet gradually crumbling) manor interwoven with social history – with a sense of the Gothic, of obsession, and of a tight-knit circle where secrets wreak a terrible climax leading to a form of inter-generational haunting.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.