THE BOOK OF IRIS : A LIFE OF ROBIN HYDE

by Derek Challis & Gloria Rawlinson

Brilliant, beautiful, difficult and doomed, Iris Wilkinson (known as the writer Robin Hyde} led a short, tumultuous and incredibly productive life. Here her story is told for the first time in a dramatic and deeply moving narrative. Researched by both authors from 1965-1971, it was written in a first draft by iris Wilkinson's friend Gloria Rawlinson, since Rawlinson's death in 1905 it has been revised and completed by Derek Challis, Wilkinson's son. It includes appalling accounts of hidden pregnancies, harsh experience as a solo mother, dependence on drugs, intimate acquaintance with sexism and poverty, menial breakdown, and a perilous trip to China in wartime. There are deep friendships and hurtful betrayals. Always there is dedicated and determined commitment to writing.

Published by the Auckland University Press in 2002

Larger format hardback (778 pages)

Withdrawn sticker from NZ Parliamentary Library on inside front cover (partially under flap). Also closed tear at top right hand corner

NOTE: This is a registered charity auction with proceeds being donated to worthy causes in the community