The following commissions provide some insight into the diverse projects we undertake for an equally diverse range of clients. In addition to writing and compiling a raft of books from start to finish we ghost-write life stories and edit existing manuscripts.

 

Say Sorry

- a powerful story uncovered

What sets Ann's story apart from those of other abuse victims is its naive candour, unselfconsciousness, simplicity of style and humour.

When we received Ann's original writings about her past they were fragmented and incomplete but the essence of a powerful story was apparent from the outset as was the fact her uncluttered, child-like perceptions and prose represented the perfect vehicle to convey such a weighty plot.

Having spent many months devising a framework for Ann's story, editing and filling in the gaps of her raw material, we can state with some confidence that Say Sorry has emerged a minor classic. Penguin publishers thought so too.

 

Bigger Than Life

- a mother's tribute

James Parenga was killed in a car crash at the age of twenty-two. Interviewing his friends and whanau about his life was intense. Far from mawkish, however, the book about Jim is frank and upbeat.

What transpires between the covers is merely hinted at in the brief intro …

Jim knew all the tricks. His cousins revered him for it, his friends flung up their hands in frustration and then forgave him for it. Jimmy could get away with murder and still appear crisp 'n' cool and funny.
According to some of his mates, Jimmy never conceded to mucking up. Nor did he harbour regret or guilt. He was too busy pushing on and buoying up others to dwell on the negative.
Jimmy's indomitable spirit and apparent lack of emotional baggage were outstanding aspects of his character. There's no accounting for these things. He was imbued with special qualities. End of story.
Well no actually - that's just the beginning ...

 

A Life Three Quarters

- a portfolio

Cover and sample pages recording the first 65 years of the life of a Hamilton entrepreneur and artist.

This biography is 245 pages and includes over 300 photos. The client commisioned two separate bindings, both top of the range and done by hand. The first, hard covered with dust jacket and the second, copper wire bound with a transparent polypropylene protective cover.

 

It Was An Upside Down World

- Raglan and Districts RSA commemorative edition

Marking 75 years of Raglan and Districts RSA, this publication is a social history first and foremost. It includes interviews with local men and women who provided information - of national significiance - as well as rare photos and personal insight which may not otherwise have been recorded.

This document is 146 pages and includes many historic black and white photos.

 

A Good Man to Have on Your Side

Cover and sample pages from the memoirs of a WWII veteran, former King Country farmer and family man.