South-west of Eden - C. K. Stead

From hisbirth in 1932 to his first departure fromNew Zealand in 1956, this "autobiopsy" chronicles C. K. Stead's first 23 years,castinga critical eye and a novelist's voice overthe author'sown life. From running wild as a boy in Cornwall Parkand joining the Labour Partyat age seven tofalling in love with Diane Henderson, a wide range of adventures and experiences are revealed with honesty and the clarity only time can bring. An Auckland native,Stead herepaints his hometownas a land of myth and symbol, laying claim to his own land and its history.Using his wonderful flair for language, he brings alive elements of legendary New Zealand literary history, such as his early friendships with celebrated writers Frank Sargeson and Janet Frame. Speaking out directly for the first time about his life?after once promising to never write an autobiography?Stead has here composed a truly inspired memoir, wonderfully illuminating the early beginnings of his own time and place in New Zealand history.