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Title:	From There to Here
Authors:	Bennett, Joe
Genre:	Non Fiction: New Zealand
Pages:	279
Year:	2023
Language:	English
Description:	From Brighton England, to Lyttelton New Zealand, writer and columnist Joe Bennett articulates the story of his first thirty years that eventually deliver him to antipodean shores. From early family life, academic study at Cambridge and the escapades of a restless wanderer that follow, this is an engaging memoir, bursting with self-deprecating humour and is as honest as it is insightful.
Categories:	Non-fiction NZ, Biography, Gender Issues, Relationships, Larger font, 2025 Titles

Reviews

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By: RICH 010		2025-07-03 09:59:41

The book caused some controversy as some loved it and others didn't. The questions brought about a great deal of reminiscing and we had a very enjoyable discussion, so much so that I (who was not a fan) have borrowed another of his books to give him a second chance.

By: QUEEN 006		2025-06-04 12:35:06

Overall disappointing - the first part tedious with a repetitive style, one dimensional and underwhelming. The second half somewhat more interesting, demonstrating his genuine love of literature, and his ability to relate well to his students.

By: CHCH 058		2025-04-02 09:59:42

Universally enjoyed by all. Two members found it reminded them about their own upbringing in similar urban places. It was noticed that the first 6 chapters ( early life) start with reference to a male adult, other than his older brother. Three members intend to buy a copy for themselves. His evolution as a homosexual entity is dealt with in an almost casual way. Brave and effective, and evoking no opprobrium.

By: RICH 005		2025-03-10 12:51:06

The majority of our group found this book to be a huge disappointment. Having read columns written by Joe Bennett in various publications we were expecting insights, depths, and a great many laughs, but this book fell well short of all of these expectations. One of our group spent their childhood in the south of England and enjoyed the first third of the book as could relate to it.

By: CHCH 527		2025-01-29 21:15:51

Enjoyed Joe’s writing - it did lack flow but was saved by the game of cricket . We all read his Wednesday column in the Press.

By: CHCH 125		2024-12-12 09:59:36

Several of the group members, after reading Joe's newspaper columns, found this memoir disappointing - felt he does not reveal much about himself.

By: PALMN 013		2024-10-07 10:23:48

Joe's writing is a treasure! Easy to read, wonderfully descriptive. We would love to have another installment of his later life. Here's hoping.

By: NELS 062		2024-06-05 12:31:36

All enjoyed his writing style and humour. There were the recurring themes of fishing, cricket and rugby. The group could relate to his tales of teaching. An enjoyable but light read.