I got this ex-library softcover from Better World Books for another release copy.

I enjoyed the book, although I did have issues with the author's main premise - she was in search of the "traditional New Zealand male", by which she meant some kind of brutish he-man with, apparently, no gentle side at all. At least, whenever she encountered yet another big, tough, scarily competent fellow somewhere but noticed that he was good with kids or nice to cats, she'd cross him off her list; crazy woman! {wry grin}

I was also rather concerned about her threats to life and property; she set out to tour the country on motorcycle after just getting her license, and having NEVER practiced on a bike the size and weight of the one she rented. While she may have overemphasized her wobbles and mistakes for comedic effect, I'd still hate to have been one of the drivers stuck behind her while she fiddled with her new toy. [She didn't care for Christchurch much, and as I've met several wonderful BCers from there I took that amiss. Ahem.]

But, those things aside, her rather breezy writing style and the undoubted wonders of the country she was traveling in were very enjoyable, and I'd still love to visit - though I would NOT be riding a motorcycle that I couldn't even lift!

I left this book, bagged against the elements, on a bench in Depot Square; hope someone enjoys it!

[See other recent releases in MA here.]

*** Released for the 2020 Waitangi Day challenge. ***

*** Released for the 2020 Great Backyard Bird Count challenge; GBBC info here. ***