Voices of World War II

In this collection of memories sent in by families across New Zealand, you will find a rare insight into wartime life across generations and vocations. Fascinating and genuine, it is both a tribute to the resilience and bravery of those who served in WWII, and a historical account which will teach younger generations about the lives of their ancestors.

Descriptions are given by a soldier lying in his tent, hearing bombs land close by; young school children explain what it was like to have bomb shelter practices at school; a Land Girl meets the farmer she would work with for the first time.

This book is a visually captivating compendium of photographs and written accounts, it provides a snapshot of what life was like during WWII, from the point of view of those who lived through it.

About the author:

Renée Hollis is an author, photographer and organiser of collaborative projects for creative artists. Prior to her career as an author, Renée was a primary school teacher in New Zealand, the Cook Islands and Botswana.

Renée feels deeply that it is an honour to record oral history to reflect on the past and to teach the younger generation about our experiences. Her previous work documenting New Zealanders’ history includes Keepers of History: New Zealand Centenarians Tell Their Stories (2019).