Featherston Author Keeps it Short and to the Grunt

Featherston Author Keeps it Short and to the Grunt

Featherston man Mike Ledingham’s CV is more varied than many: Farmhand, soldier, real estate salesman, small business operator, armed security guard, caregiver. Now he’s adding author to the list.

Mike’s first book, Once A Grunt, will be launched at the Messines Bar and Restaurant (RSA) at Featherston on May 10.

The offbeat collection of 10 short stories is loosely based on his experiences in the army (Infantry and SAS) and beyond. There’s humour galore, but also some serious life-and-death stuff.

“I’ve always enjoyed finding the humour in most situations, and I guess you could say that disrespect for certain superiors was a feature of my military career,” says Mike. “And particularly as the father of a Down Syndrome boy, I learnt a lot about the good side and the bad side of human nature. I try to capture all of this in my stories.”

Now in his 60s, Mike has been writing stories for a decade. “Naturally, the army is a rich source of good, funny yarns. But I’ve also found it helpful to write stories based on some of the difficulties and tragedies that have cropped up, both during and after military service. I’ve got a great respect for life’s battlers and underdogs.”

Mike is publishing Once A Grunt himself. “It’s a bit of a toe in the water and I’ve had great support from friends and family. If this one goes well, there’s plenty of other stories waiting in the wings.”

Originally from Onehunga, Auckland, Mike is one of eight siblings and the father of five children, one of whom died in infancy. He has lived and worked throughout New Zealand and Australia, and moved to Featherston four years ago. He works as a caregiver.

Publicity material for the book says Mike’s stories will have the reader doubled up with laughter one minute, seething with indignation the next. “Whether you’re an ex-soldier, a parent, or just one of life’s battlers, you’ll recognise the truths he’s captured.”

Once A Grunt is available at Featherson Lotto and Post at $25 a copy, or online at http://www.publishme.co.nz/shop/onceagrunt-p-752.html

ENDS

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