The Silver Moon

The Silver Moon: Reflections on Life, Death and Writing by Bryce Courtenay

The Silver Moon, as indicated on the book cover, provides "reflections on (Bryce Courtenay’s) life, death, and writing." It captivated me, holding my attention and remaining in my thoughts long after I finished reading it.

Courtenay takes us through his lifetime, offering glimpses into his dysfunctional family life and cruel childhood, contrasted with acts of kindness he experienced along the way. The author of the world-renowned The Power of One, Courtenay recalls his harsh childhood in South Africa as an English boy in a South African boarding school. He was frequently bullied and often whipped, yet he also encountered kindness. At the age of 11, his teacher, Miss Bornstein, taught him to read and later wrote to him monthly, sending him three books and an exam on them.

The Silver Moon touches on various aspects of Courtenay’s life, including his move to Australia and his love for the bush and animals. His descriptions of his menagerie are unique, including the story of rescuing "Timmy," a dog that was about to be killed by its owner, a cattleman.

He also reflects on earning a living as an advertising copywriter and his earlier work in the Central African copper mines to fund his university education in England. He shares his love of classical music, acquired in that unlikely environment, while working alongside thugs, including former Nazi SS members who had escaped Germany.

Courtenay also touches on his gardening, passion for sunflowers, and care for the environment. Additionally, he offers insights into what makes a good writer.

The Silver Moon is beautifully written, filled with reflections and insights, including interviews spanning Courtenay’s life. It provides a glimpse into the world of a very popular and successful author. If you are searching for something to read, you might not look under this classification and could miss out on a truly wonderful experience.

Find The Silver Moon by Bryce Courtenay

Rozanne