“This book has reminded me of how much we have lost in the last 60 years in terms of self reliance, intuition, adventure and their consequences - all great life lessons. The author has recounted vividly many stories of his youth in an honest and charming way. These stories from school days to farming in NZ to sailing the pacific are recalled in a manner that makes it easy for the reader to see how each event assembles and builds the character of John Burgess through his early life. I'm sure these times will be lost forever and that's a great shame. I'm looking forward to the next installment.” - Stephen King