While attending the commemoration of the 90th anniversary of the Battle of Passchendaele, Gay and I travelled to Poland. I had already begun writing an early draft and this visit gave me an excellent opportunity to absorb more of what I eventually brought into this story.
This is a New Zealand/Polish story. Members of the Auckland Polish Association recently invited me to introduce the book to them. Three of the original Pahiatua Polish children were present for what was a wonderful experience and opportunity to meet with those who just might have met the real Juliana Witzke in 1944 – 45.
Much of this story is based in Palmerston North and an article and review will be written by Tina White in the Manawatu Standard for 16 August.
A live interview with Lynn Freeman took place on the afternoon of Sunday 31 August on Radio NZ National.