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South Pacific Shenanigans #1
The Coconut Wireless: A Travel Adventure in Search of the Queen of Tonga
When Simon and Fiona embark on a quest to track down the Queen of Tonga, they have no idea they’ll end up marooned on a desert island.
No idea they’ll encounter an undiscovered tribe, rescue a drowning actress, learn jungle survival from a commando, and attend cultural ceremonies few Westerners have seen.
As they find out who hooks up, who breaks up, who cracks up, and who throws up, will they fulfil Simon’s ambition to see the queen, or will they be distracted by insomniac chickens, grunting wild piglets, and the easy-going Tongan lifestyle?
No idea they’ll encounter an undiscovered tribe, rescue a drowning actress, learn jungle survival from a commando, and attend cultural ceremonies few Westerners have seen.
As they find out who hooks up, who breaks up, who cracks up, and who throws up, will they fulfil Simon’s ambition to see the queen, or will they be distracted by insomniac chickens, grunting wild piglets, and the easy-going Tongan lifestyle?
- GenresTravelMemoirNonfiction
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2021
116 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
Simon Michael Prior
14 books35 followersSimon Michael Prior experiences constant adventures, hazards and exciting situations as a marine rescue skipper and a commander of rescue operations.
Although Simon is absolutely nothing like Murph, Redcliff Marine Rescue’s burly, grumpy coxswain, many of the scenes in his stories are inspired by events he encounters during his duties.
Simon has also lived on two boats and sunk one of them; sold houses, street signs, Indian food and paper bags for a living; visited almost fifty countries and lived in three; qualified as a scuba diving instructor; nearly killed himself learning to wakeboard and built his own house without the benefit of an instruction manual.
He now lives in it by the sea with his wife and twin daughters, where he spends his time regurgitating his experiences on paper before he has so many more that he forgets them.
Although Simon is absolutely nothing like Murph, Redcliff Marine Rescue’s burly, grumpy coxswain, many of the scenes in his stories are inspired by events he encounters during his duties.
Simon has also lived on two boats and sunk one of them; sold houses, street signs, Indian food and paper bags for a living; visited almost fifty countries and lived in three; qualified as a scuba diving instructor; nearly killed himself learning to wakeboard and built his own house without the benefit of an instruction manual.
He now lives in it by the sea with his wife and twin daughters, where he spends his time regurgitating his experiences on paper before he has so many more that he forgets them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
February 26, 2021
I was lucky enough to be asked to ARC read this new travel memoir from Simon Michael Prior, the first in, I hope, a long series.
What a fun read Coconut Wireless was. The book begins in London and the discovery that Fiona’s visa has run out. From there begins the adventure of a lifetime as Simon decides to leave his job and follow his girlfriend back to her native New Zealand – via Hawaii and Tonga.
This is a travel book with a bit of everything: thriller, romance, adventure and fantasy. There are desert islands and tropical feasts, James Bond style adventures and undersea rescues, and a quest – to see the Queen of Tonga.
Simon’s father (a traveller himself, whose letters are so fascinatingly transcribed in An Englishman in New York) saw the previous Tongan queen, Sãlote, at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. Simon wants to follow in his father’s footsteps. He wants to see the Queen of Tonga too. Did Simon and girlfriend Fiona succeed in their quest? You’ll have to read this book to find out, but you won’t be disappointed you did.
What a fun read Coconut Wireless was. The book begins in London and the discovery that Fiona’s visa has run out. From there begins the adventure of a lifetime as Simon decides to leave his job and follow his girlfriend back to her native New Zealand – via Hawaii and Tonga.
This is a travel book with a bit of everything: thriller, romance, adventure and fantasy. There are desert islands and tropical feasts, James Bond style adventures and undersea rescues, and a quest – to see the Queen of Tonga.
Simon’s father (a traveller himself, whose letters are so fascinatingly transcribed in An Englishman in New York) saw the previous Tongan queen, Sãlote, at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. Simon wants to follow in his father’s footsteps. He wants to see the Queen of Tonga too. Did Simon and girlfriend Fiona succeed in their quest? You’ll have to read this book to find out, but you won’t be disappointed you did.
September 25, 2021
This charming and light-hearted memoir of a travel adventure from his youth is Simon Michael Prior’s first personal memoir and is also the first in what will be a series of travel stories.
In this book, he and his girlfriend, Fiona, spend six weeks in Tonga on their way to a new life in New Zealand. Why Tonga? Well, it all comes down to Simon’s long-held memory of hearing about his father’s visual encounter in London with Queen Salote of Tonga when Simon was just a boy. The tale catches Simon’s imagination, and he is determined to see the Queen himself, albeit not the same one. So when the opportunity arises to go to Tonga on route to New Zealand, he jumps at it.
Whether he sees the queen or not is something readers will have to discover for themselves, but suffice to say the young couple have a wonderful time in this desert island paradise. I enjoyed the delightful local characters, the laid-back approach to living and the evocative descriptions of island scenery and weather. I also liked Simon’s ‘aside’ thoughts, which pepper the book. It’s a story of romance, youthful travel, and the joys of experiencing pacific islands and all they have to offer. Recommended feelgood reading!
In this book, he and his girlfriend, Fiona, spend six weeks in Tonga on their way to a new life in New Zealand. Why Tonga? Well, it all comes down to Simon’s long-held memory of hearing about his father’s visual encounter in London with Queen Salote of Tonga when Simon was just a boy. The tale catches Simon’s imagination, and he is determined to see the Queen himself, albeit not the same one. So when the opportunity arises to go to Tonga on route to New Zealand, he jumps at it.
Whether he sees the queen or not is something readers will have to discover for themselves, but suffice to say the young couple have a wonderful time in this desert island paradise. I enjoyed the delightful local characters, the laid-back approach to living and the evocative descriptions of island scenery and weather. I also liked Simon’s ‘aside’ thoughts, which pepper the book. It’s a story of romance, youthful travel, and the joys of experiencing pacific islands and all they have to offer. Recommended feelgood reading!
August 7, 2021
What a terrific read!
The author has a life ambition to see the Queen of Tonga. Sounds unusual? Well, there are special reasons for this. Living in London with his Kiwi girlfriend, he uses her expired visa as an excuse to spend time in Tonga en route back to New Zealand. And what a grand trip they have.
Related with charming humour, Simon Michael Prior describes their adventures through lickety-split dialogue and superb descriptions. I enjoyed learning about the Tongan islands. I was fascinated by the culture and loved every moment of his deep-sea dives. And, as with all talented writers, each chapter ended with a cliff-hanger that teased me to read on.
This highly entertaining book will take you on an unforgettable Pacific island escapade. You’ll be roasted by the sun, cooled by the sea, wowed by the jungle and woken early by raucous animals. And does the author achieve his dream to see the queen? You’ll have to find out for yourself. Happily, I believe there will be a sequel to this memoir, which I look forward to reading.
The author has a life ambition to see the Queen of Tonga. Sounds unusual? Well, there are special reasons for this. Living in London with his Kiwi girlfriend, he uses her expired visa as an excuse to spend time in Tonga en route back to New Zealand. And what a grand trip they have.
Related with charming humour, Simon Michael Prior describes their adventures through lickety-split dialogue and superb descriptions. I enjoyed learning about the Tongan islands. I was fascinated by the culture and loved every moment of his deep-sea dives. And, as with all talented writers, each chapter ended with a cliff-hanger that teased me to read on.
This highly entertaining book will take you on an unforgettable Pacific island escapade. You’ll be roasted by the sun, cooled by the sea, wowed by the jungle and woken early by raucous animals. And does the author achieve his dream to see the queen? You’ll have to find out for yourself. Happily, I believe there will be a sequel to this memoir, which I look forward to reading.
June 12, 2021
An absolute 5 star rating from me, I loved it. What I enjoyed was Simon's writing style which get's the reader hooked straight away. He has struck the perfect balance between giving great descriptions and information about the places visited, but not letting that overtake the story, it flows seamlessly. It doesn't matter if the reader is interested in Tonga or stunning Pacific Island escapes, as this book offers so much more, a great adventure and interplay with people met along the way. I am definitely recommending this book.
February 20, 2022
Moving to another country would be a dream come true for me. When Simon decides to quit his job and move to his girlfriend’s country of New Zealand so they can remain together he’s nervous. But when they decide to spend six weeks traveling first, the adventure begins. Simon vividly describes Tonga so beautifully that I’m dying to visit. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat as if you are there sharing Simon’s experiences.
June 22, 2021
What a wonderfully entertaining memoir this is. Simon and his girlfriend Fiona, a New Zealander, have only recently moved in together. Unfortunately, her Visa is about to expire. Undeterred, Simon decides to give up his job and travel back to New Zealand with her via Hawaii and Tonga. During their time there he had one goal, which was to see the Queen of Tonga. Simon’s writing is so descriptive he has the reader travelling with him. What an action-packed adventure they have. They go snorkelling among coral reefs, spend time on a remote almost uninhabited island and experience the simple life in Tonga. Dodgy showers, Church services and a Tongan Feast feature and that visit to the cinema is a highlight! I loved his descriptions of the places they visited and the people they met. He has an easy writing style that kept me hooked from the start. I liked his sense of humour and the little asides to himself that often had me laughing out loud! I loved this book and even discovered what a coconut wireless was and whether Simon met his goal. I’m so glad this is the first of a series and look forward to the next one.
March 12, 2021
A fun and unpredictable travel memoir. Something different.
I love this book’s vibrant cover. That’s what pulled me in at first…..I wasn’t even sure where Tonga is...... do you have to know, or would we be going to be told? I had never heard of this Queen of Tonga before either. And what’s the coconut wireless? Intriguing. I also loved the little coconut drawings between chapters, a nice little touch which adds that bit of extra for a reader.
I liked the short, snappy sentences in the initial chapter. It was straight on with the action. Good, concise style, it's all happening right from page 1! Simon’s girlfriend, Fiona, has a problem. It seems her visa has run out. That very day! They were in England, and had just moved in together. But her visa has expired, so she can't stay there! At this time, they were both in their 20s, and planning a future together in London.
This was well-written, and very enjoyable and entertaining throughout. I loved the energy of his writing. He often made me laugh; there were witty remarks, some comical quips....but definitely not overdone. So much to interest. Travels, and to a different destination to the average holiday resort. It was a fun book, unusual, not your typical travel memoir. There is a link to photos to accompany the book.
An excellent production.
I love this book’s vibrant cover. That’s what pulled me in at first…..I wasn’t even sure where Tonga is...... do you have to know, or would we be going to be told? I had never heard of this Queen of Tonga before either. And what’s the coconut wireless? Intriguing. I also loved the little coconut drawings between chapters, a nice little touch which adds that bit of extra for a reader.
I liked the short, snappy sentences in the initial chapter. It was straight on with the action. Good, concise style, it's all happening right from page 1! Simon’s girlfriend, Fiona, has a problem. It seems her visa has run out. That very day! They were in England, and had just moved in together. But her visa has expired, so she can't stay there! At this time, they were both in their 20s, and planning a future together in London.
This was well-written, and very enjoyable and entertaining throughout. I loved the energy of his writing. He often made me laugh; there were witty remarks, some comical quips....but definitely not overdone. So much to interest. Travels, and to a different destination to the average holiday resort. It was a fun book, unusual, not your typical travel memoir. There is a link to photos to accompany the book.
An excellent production.
March 12, 2021
You had me at Coconut.
I was fortunate enough to be in the right place when an ARC reader was needed and was even luckier to recieve this travel memoir from Simon Michael Prior.
I have always been drawn to travels in the South Seas so this book was right up my street. It didn’t disappoint. When the author’s fiance’s visa ran out they decided to leave London and travel back Fiona’s home country, New Zealand, taking in Hawaii and Tonga on the way. Whilst in Tonga Simon was going to go in search of the Queen of Tonga.
From the start I was gripped, it is laugh out loud funny, full of adventure, and wonderfully descriptive – I could almost hear the chickens pok pok pokking outside my window at 3am. I enjoyed travelling with Simon and Fiona to a deserted island, snorkelling the coral reefs, and dogging his footsteps in the search of the Queen. It was a journey much enjoyed.
Did he find the Queen of Tonga? That would be telling. You will have to read the book to find out – and I very much recommend that you do. Exotic travel, tropical feasts, adventure – what’s not to like?
The book ended a bit too abruptly for me but, on reflection it finished in just the right place leaving the reader wanting more. I just hadn’t wanted it to end so I’m very pleased to see that this is Book 1 and I can look forward to the next book in the series.
I was fortunate enough to be in the right place when an ARC reader was needed and was even luckier to recieve this travel memoir from Simon Michael Prior.
I have always been drawn to travels in the South Seas so this book was right up my street. It didn’t disappoint. When the author’s fiance’s visa ran out they decided to leave London and travel back Fiona’s home country, New Zealand, taking in Hawaii and Tonga on the way. Whilst in Tonga Simon was going to go in search of the Queen of Tonga.
From the start I was gripped, it is laugh out loud funny, full of adventure, and wonderfully descriptive – I could almost hear the chickens pok pok pokking outside my window at 3am. I enjoyed travelling with Simon and Fiona to a deserted island, snorkelling the coral reefs, and dogging his footsteps in the search of the Queen. It was a journey much enjoyed.
Did he find the Queen of Tonga? That would be telling. You will have to read the book to find out – and I very much recommend that you do. Exotic travel, tropical feasts, adventure – what’s not to like?
The book ended a bit too abruptly for me but, on reflection it finished in just the right place leaving the reader wanting more. I just hadn’t wanted it to end so I’m very pleased to see that this is Book 1 and I can look forward to the next book in the series.
April 1, 2021
I just left the South Pacific right along with Simon Prior—in his recently-released memoir, The Coconut Wireless: A Travel Memoir in Search of the Queen of Tonga. Luckily, I didn’t weigh much because I went along as unaccompanied baggage.
Several aspects drew me to his book, from the coconut on the cover to a set of islands I had never heard of. I love to travel off the beaten path. It was neat reading about how it all came about—from the planning to the actualization of it.
Simon’s way of describing people and situations mixed with his own thoughts and humor kept me wanting to read on. He has a disarming honesty—but always respectful toward others—that made me laugh out loud several times. These observations are what make it stand out as a travel memoir.
Through his apt descriptions, I felt like I’d met the cast the characters, from those that made this trip a reality to those he and his girlfriend encountered on the trip itself. I also enjoyed how he saw himself in various situations. I liked how he included the various animals that impacted his travels.
The author gave a fun glimpse into unknown cultures and a celebration of the positive, along a non-touristy kind of trek. I highly recommend this book to travelers in general, but most especially to those who are drawn to simple travel.
Several aspects drew me to his book, from the coconut on the cover to a set of islands I had never heard of. I love to travel off the beaten path. It was neat reading about how it all came about—from the planning to the actualization of it.
Simon’s way of describing people and situations mixed with his own thoughts and humor kept me wanting to read on. He has a disarming honesty—but always respectful toward others—that made me laugh out loud several times. These observations are what make it stand out as a travel memoir.
Through his apt descriptions, I felt like I’d met the cast the characters, from those that made this trip a reality to those he and his girlfriend encountered on the trip itself. I also enjoyed how he saw himself in various situations. I liked how he included the various animals that impacted his travels.
The author gave a fun glimpse into unknown cultures and a celebration of the positive, along a non-touristy kind of trek. I highly recommend this book to travelers in general, but most especially to those who are drawn to simple travel.
March 14, 2021
A delightful book of adventure, travel, and island life.
From the sumptuous front cover and into the opening chapter, I was hooked. I love reading memoirs, especially travel memoirs, and this is one of the finest I have read. This is a bright, fresh, engaging read – highly recommended.
Simon has an excellent way of using dialogue, which ensures that his book moves along at a fast and enjoyable pace. He invites you to travel alongside him and his partner, Fiona, as they decide on a crazy plan to visit Tonga in the South Pacific Ocean on their way to New Zealand. His descriptions of the three main islands, and in particular, the near-deserted island they stay on, are wonderful. Simon’s narrative is so evocative you can almost smell the breeze and feel the sand between your toes. They both fall in love with the Tongan way of life, and like Simon, I was sad to reach the end of their adventures, and left longing for more. I do hope he writes more travel books soon.
And did he get to find the Queen of Tonga? You’ll have to read the book to find out!
From the sumptuous front cover and into the opening chapter, I was hooked. I love reading memoirs, especially travel memoirs, and this is one of the finest I have read. This is a bright, fresh, engaging read – highly recommended.
Simon has an excellent way of using dialogue, which ensures that his book moves along at a fast and enjoyable pace. He invites you to travel alongside him and his partner, Fiona, as they decide on a crazy plan to visit Tonga in the South Pacific Ocean on their way to New Zealand. His descriptions of the three main islands, and in particular, the near-deserted island they stay on, are wonderful. Simon’s narrative is so evocative you can almost smell the breeze and feel the sand between your toes. They both fall in love with the Tongan way of life, and like Simon, I was sad to reach the end of their adventures, and left longing for more. I do hope he writes more travel books soon.
And did he get to find the Queen of Tonga? You’ll have to read the book to find out!
March 15, 2021
What a delightful read.
When Simon’s Kiwi girlfriend tells him her British visa is about to expire and she must return home, he decides to go with her. Instead of flying directly to New Zealand, they will stop off en route and explore Tonga.
I loved the slightly bonkers idea of arranging their trip in the hope of seeing the Queen of Tonga, and maybe even exchanging a smile with her, as his father had done with much loved Queen Salote on her visit to the United Kingdom in 1953.
To fund their trip the couple earn the extra money needed by working at a vintage steam fairground in London, physically exhausting but it means they can afford a six week tour of the Tongan islands.
There they find friendly people, beautiful deserted beaches and a relaxed, idyllic lifestyle, but the Queen of Tonga is elusive; will they ever get to see her?
I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
When Simon’s Kiwi girlfriend tells him her British visa is about to expire and she must return home, he decides to go with her. Instead of flying directly to New Zealand, they will stop off en route and explore Tonga.
I loved the slightly bonkers idea of arranging their trip in the hope of seeing the Queen of Tonga, and maybe even exchanging a smile with her, as his father had done with much loved Queen Salote on her visit to the United Kingdom in 1953.
To fund their trip the couple earn the extra money needed by working at a vintage steam fairground in London, physically exhausting but it means they can afford a six week tour of the Tongan islands.
There they find friendly people, beautiful deserted beaches and a relaxed, idyllic lifestyle, but the Queen of Tonga is elusive; will they ever get to see her?
I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
March 26, 2021
I loved this book! With an engaging and funny narrator, his charming sidekick Fiona, an unforgettable assortment of characters met along the way, and a quest worthy of a fairy tale, The Coconut Wireless is the perfect escape from everyday life.
Granted, I'm partial to any story set in the South Pacific, but sometimes that partiality lures me into reading books that disappoint. Not the case with this book! The Coconut Wireless met and exceeded my expectations and left me feeling as satisfied as if I'd just polished off my share of a fine Tongan feast.
Granted, I'm partial to any story set in the South Pacific, but sometimes that partiality lures me into reading books that disappoint. Not the case with this book! The Coconut Wireless met and exceeded my expectations and left me feeling as satisfied as if I'd just polished off my share of a fine Tongan feast.
September 20, 2022
A light, interesting and entertaining Read
I thoroughly enjoyed my vicarious visit to Tonga. I instantly liked Simon’s unpretentious writing style and sense of humour. There was enough extra ordinary incidents to make this travel story stand out and leave me regretting that I never made it there.
I thoroughly enjoyed my vicarious visit to Tonga. I instantly liked Simon’s unpretentious writing style and sense of humour. There was enough extra ordinary incidents to make this travel story stand out and leave me regretting that I never made it there.
July 22, 2021
This was a book read in one sitting. I couldn't abandon the airport manager in charge of scaring pigs, machete wielding locals, the church sermon in Tongan, swimming with sharks, tropical feasts, a veritable series of improbable adventures and of course, the overriding mission to see the Queen of Tonga
June 21, 2021
A Captivating and Compelling read – Highly Recommended
I was hooked the minute I started this wonderful travel memoir and read it in one sitting, I love the title and the cover.
Simon and Fiona, his Kiwi partner, are living in London, realising that her visa has expired they decide to hop on the Eurostar for a weekend to Paris, hoping to extend her visa on their return. Simon decides to pack in his job to follow Fiona to New Zealand and this sparks the initiative for their once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Back home they set about saving as much money as possible, including weekend working at Fletcher's Steam Fair, these extra earnings along with an unexpected windfall enable them to have the much funds to be able to detour via Hawaii and Tonga.
The fun begins when they invite you to travel with them on their crazy trip to visit Tonga on their way to New Zealand. Since his father told him about his encounter with Queen Salote of Tonga in 1953 on her visit to the United Kingdom, it has been Simon's life's ambition to see the current Queen of Tonga. His descriptions of the beautiful South Pacific islands of Nuku'alofa, Ha'apia, Pangai, and the Bounty Resort, all come to life with Simon's easy relaxed style of writing.
From the beginning, this memoir is packed full of adventure and energy and you feel as if you are there with them on the beach, in the sea, or enjoying a feast with the people of Tonga and indulging in the local cultures.
Thank you, Simon, I thoroughly enjoyed this memoir. Hopefully, there is another one in the pipeline.
I was hooked the minute I started this wonderful travel memoir and read it in one sitting, I love the title and the cover.
Simon and Fiona, his Kiwi partner, are living in London, realising that her visa has expired they decide to hop on the Eurostar for a weekend to Paris, hoping to extend her visa on their return. Simon decides to pack in his job to follow Fiona to New Zealand and this sparks the initiative for their once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Back home they set about saving as much money as possible, including weekend working at Fletcher's Steam Fair, these extra earnings along with an unexpected windfall enable them to have the much funds to be able to detour via Hawaii and Tonga.
The fun begins when they invite you to travel with them on their crazy trip to visit Tonga on their way to New Zealand. Since his father told him about his encounter with Queen Salote of Tonga in 1953 on her visit to the United Kingdom, it has been Simon's life's ambition to see the current Queen of Tonga. His descriptions of the beautiful South Pacific islands of Nuku'alofa, Ha'apia, Pangai, and the Bounty Resort, all come to life with Simon's easy relaxed style of writing.
From the beginning, this memoir is packed full of adventure and energy and you feel as if you are there with them on the beach, in the sea, or enjoying a feast with the people of Tonga and indulging in the local cultures.
Thank you, Simon, I thoroughly enjoyed this memoir. Hopefully, there is another one in the pipeline.
March 16, 2021
I was going to read just the first chapter, to get a feel for it, then go back to another book I was in the middle of reading. But, no way could I put this book down. I kept telling myself, just another chapter…and so it went, until, you guessed it, I’d read the whole darned thing! And what fun it was! Definitely 5 stars.
It’s a light, easy, read, that takes you off with the author and his girlfriend to the islands of Tonga, somewhere I’d certainly never visited. His father had seen the previous Queen of Tonga in 1953 at Queen Elizabeth’s coronation. She’d waved and smiled at him. When the author had heard this tale, he was determined that he, too, would see the new Queen of Tonga, and, hopefully, she’d wave and smile at him. This became the main thrust of his travels to Tonga. Around this not-so-simple aim we meet many weird and wonderful characters on the different islands, plus we learn about Tongan culture in general, all of which I found both entertaining and fascinating.
The author writes in a way reminiscent of a theatrical performance, with many an “aside” to let his audience know what he’s really thinking. This took me back to watching Woody Allen’s Annie Hall movie, where you see in the subscript exactly what Woody and Annie are really thinking, aside from the words coming out of their mouths. This ploy of the author’s in Coconut Wireless brought me totally into his mindset; I felt I was really getting to know and understand him.
His use of similes is hilarious, and totally apt. “He recovered, and offered us a wide nicotine-coloured smile like the keys of a honky-tonk piano.” And, “He spoke in a deep voice, his tones like those a cave might have if it could speak.” Then, “I woke up in a pool of sweat bigger and saltier than the Dead Sea.” I found myself chuckling along, page after page.
This armchair traveller finished the book with a big smile on her face, and went to sleep dreaming of desert islands, palm trees, colourful fish, turquoise blue ocean, and, and, and…a truly enjoyable read.
It’s a light, easy, read, that takes you off with the author and his girlfriend to the islands of Tonga, somewhere I’d certainly never visited. His father had seen the previous Queen of Tonga in 1953 at Queen Elizabeth’s coronation. She’d waved and smiled at him. When the author had heard this tale, he was determined that he, too, would see the new Queen of Tonga, and, hopefully, she’d wave and smile at him. This became the main thrust of his travels to Tonga. Around this not-so-simple aim we meet many weird and wonderful characters on the different islands, plus we learn about Tongan culture in general, all of which I found both entertaining and fascinating.
The author writes in a way reminiscent of a theatrical performance, with many an “aside” to let his audience know what he’s really thinking. This took me back to watching Woody Allen’s Annie Hall movie, where you see in the subscript exactly what Woody and Annie are really thinking, aside from the words coming out of their mouths. This ploy of the author’s in Coconut Wireless brought me totally into his mindset; I felt I was really getting to know and understand him.
His use of similes is hilarious, and totally apt. “He recovered, and offered us a wide nicotine-coloured smile like the keys of a honky-tonk piano.” And, “He spoke in a deep voice, his tones like those a cave might have if it could speak.” Then, “I woke up in a pool of sweat bigger and saltier than the Dead Sea.” I found myself chuckling along, page after page.
This armchair traveller finished the book with a big smile on her face, and went to sleep dreaming of desert islands, palm trees, colourful fish, turquoise blue ocean, and, and, and…a truly enjoyable read.
February 28, 2021
I was privileged to beta read this book, one of my better life decisions.
By the end of reading this book, I thought I'd read a whole adventure series, so much is crammed in, yet, it was one book, devoured quickly an easily and left me wanting more. No mean feat by Simon. It's the Tardis of Travel Memoir Books. Afterwards I checked the pages again, scratched my head and wondered, how he'd fitted so much within.
This is both an Odyssey and a Travel Memoir. With the author on several quests. One to meet the Queen of Tonga. I loved this element, and the connection this creates for the author with his dad. An emotional golden thread that runs through this Odyssean tale. The other to explore parts of the world, not seen by many other people and if the Queen of Tonga and his dad provide the soul of the story, then the romance and relationship between the author and his girlfriend, Fiona provides the heart of the story.
The book hooks you in immediately, before catapulting you back in time. Very clever writing by the author and that along with the brisk pace of the writing, had me devouring page after page, wanting to know what happened next, as well as solve the mystery tantalisingly dangled before me at the beginning, as well as the outcome of the quest itself.
Simon's writing is fun, easy to read and sprinkled with generous amounts of wit and humour. I recommend you read this book, and wait patiently or impatiently like me for the next one in the series.
By the end of reading this book, I thought I'd read a whole adventure series, so much is crammed in, yet, it was one book, devoured quickly an easily and left me wanting more. No mean feat by Simon. It's the Tardis of Travel Memoir Books. Afterwards I checked the pages again, scratched my head and wondered, how he'd fitted so much within.
This is both an Odyssey and a Travel Memoir. With the author on several quests. One to meet the Queen of Tonga. I loved this element, and the connection this creates for the author with his dad. An emotional golden thread that runs through this Odyssean tale. The other to explore parts of the world, not seen by many other people and if the Queen of Tonga and his dad provide the soul of the story, then the romance and relationship between the author and his girlfriend, Fiona provides the heart of the story.
The book hooks you in immediately, before catapulting you back in time. Very clever writing by the author and that along with the brisk pace of the writing, had me devouring page after page, wanting to know what happened next, as well as solve the mystery tantalisingly dangled before me at the beginning, as well as the outcome of the quest itself.
Simon's writing is fun, easy to read and sprinkled with generous amounts of wit and humour. I recommend you read this book, and wait patiently or impatiently like me for the next one in the series.
May 23, 2021
A very entertaining memoir.
Simon and his girlfriend Fiona are heading to New Zealand; however, there is a vital stop-over where Simon hopes to glimpse the Queen of Tonga.
This memoir is entertaining, informative and related with a brilliant touch of humour.
I found it to be a pleasure to read, and am eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Simon and Fiona's adventures.
Simon and his girlfriend Fiona are heading to New Zealand; however, there is a vital stop-over where Simon hopes to glimpse the Queen of Tonga.
This memoir is entertaining, informative and related with a brilliant touch of humour.
I found it to be a pleasure to read, and am eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Simon and Fiona's adventures.
September 12, 2021
I was gifted a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Simon!
The Coconut Wireless is a travel memoir which follows Simon and his girlfriend Fiona’s quest to move to New Zealand via Tonga. Fiona is from New Zealand and her visa has run out at the beginning of the book, meaning she has to leave London, so Simon decides to go along with her. They are able to stop off as many times as they like on the way for no extra charge and decide to visit Hawaii and that Tonga will be perfect for an extended vacation. Simon’s father once saw the Queen of Tonga in England and it made a great impression on both him and his young son, so Simon would now like to try and meet the current Queen of Tonga to keep the family tradition alive.
Written with wry humour, this memoir is a joy to read. Simon and Fiona are positive, upbeat people, who embrace every cultural opportunity offered to them and take unexpected circumstances in their stride without too much complaint – only cold showers are available in Tonga and the cooking facilities at their backpacker resort consist of a microwave alone. The noise of the local dogs and chickens keeps them awake and takes a bit more time to get used to, however! They meet some interesting people during their travels, are charmed by the locals and make some friends along the way. They also visit Tonga’s Stonehenge, Pyramids, and other cultural attractions, snorkel and dive amongst the amazing tropical fish on the coral reef.
Simon cleverly ends each chapter on a cliffhanger which makes this book very difficult to put down!
If you enjoy travel memoirs and are dreaming of visiting tropical islands you will love this book!
The Coconut Wireless is a travel memoir which follows Simon and his girlfriend Fiona’s quest to move to New Zealand via Tonga. Fiona is from New Zealand and her visa has run out at the beginning of the book, meaning she has to leave London, so Simon decides to go along with her. They are able to stop off as many times as they like on the way for no extra charge and decide to visit Hawaii and that Tonga will be perfect for an extended vacation. Simon’s father once saw the Queen of Tonga in England and it made a great impression on both him and his young son, so Simon would now like to try and meet the current Queen of Tonga to keep the family tradition alive.
Written with wry humour, this memoir is a joy to read. Simon and Fiona are positive, upbeat people, who embrace every cultural opportunity offered to them and take unexpected circumstances in their stride without too much complaint – only cold showers are available in Tonga and the cooking facilities at their backpacker resort consist of a microwave alone. The noise of the local dogs and chickens keeps them awake and takes a bit more time to get used to, however! They meet some interesting people during their travels, are charmed by the locals and make some friends along the way. They also visit Tonga’s Stonehenge, Pyramids, and other cultural attractions, snorkel and dive amongst the amazing tropical fish on the coral reef.
Simon cleverly ends each chapter on a cliffhanger which makes this book very difficult to put down!
If you enjoy travel memoirs and are dreaming of visiting tropical islands you will love this book!
May 9, 2021
A young couple in their twenties who have only just moved in together face the prospect of imminent separation because of visa problems. The clock is ticking on Fiona’s working visa. What to do?
And so begins The Coconut Wireless, a delightful memoir of two adventurous travelling companions who decide to take the slow route back to Fiona’s home in New Zealand. When putting together their itinerary, their travel agent tells them they can have an extra stopover in the Pacific Islands. The agent reels off a list of small island countries and gets as far as Tonga. Simon has an aha moment as he recalls a childhood memory of a picture book featuring Queen Sālote, the Queen of Tonga, who attended Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, which left a lasting impression on him.
So Tonga it is. As they prepare to set off on their quest to meet Queen Sālote’s successor, Tonga, it seems knows about Simon and Fiona’s impending visit before even they do. You see, news amongst the locals travels fast, via the delightfully named Coconut Wireless, or grapevine, to you and me.
This book is a delight: an affectionate, witty and engaging portrayal of a country and its culture, that perfectly captures its laid-back lifestyle. Highly recommended.
And so begins The Coconut Wireless, a delightful memoir of two adventurous travelling companions who decide to take the slow route back to Fiona’s home in New Zealand. When putting together their itinerary, their travel agent tells them they can have an extra stopover in the Pacific Islands. The agent reels off a list of small island countries and gets as far as Tonga. Simon has an aha moment as he recalls a childhood memory of a picture book featuring Queen Sālote, the Queen of Tonga, who attended Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, which left a lasting impression on him.
So Tonga it is. As they prepare to set off on their quest to meet Queen Sālote’s successor, Tonga, it seems knows about Simon and Fiona’s impending visit before even they do. You see, news amongst the locals travels fast, via the delightfully named Coconut Wireless, or grapevine, to you and me.
This book is a delight: an affectionate, witty and engaging portrayal of a country and its culture, that perfectly captures its laid-back lifestyle. Highly recommended.
September 6, 2021
Simon is happily living in London with his lovely New Zealand girlfriend Fiona, when they realise that her visa will run out before too long and she will need to return home. They come up with a plan to travel there together and choose a flight that allows stopovers, as long as they continue to travel in the same westerly direction. What a great opportunity! They start saving.
They decide to stop in LA, and in Hawaii, but the highlight of their trip is time spent on islands in the Kingdom of Tonga, in Polynesia. They arrive to find that the people are charming, the fruit is delicious and the snorkeling and diving are amazing. We learn a lot about the history, local traditions and way of life, as they explore the islands. Simon's memoir reflects their delightful naivety, and he recounts their adventures with honesty and humour. I could picture them there, dealing with the heat and persistent mosquitoes, whilst pursuing their ultimate quest - to see the Queen of Tonga.
They decide to stop in LA, and in Hawaii, but the highlight of their trip is time spent on islands in the Kingdom of Tonga, in Polynesia. They arrive to find that the people are charming, the fruit is delicious and the snorkeling and diving are amazing. We learn a lot about the history, local traditions and way of life, as they explore the islands. Simon's memoir reflects their delightful naivety, and he recounts their adventures with honesty and humour. I could picture them there, dealing with the heat and persistent mosquitoes, whilst pursuing their ultimate quest - to see the Queen of Tonga.
March 15, 2021
Simon has a very relaxed writing style, with a slice of English wit and an excited traveler's eye for detail. He weaves a personal thread of looking for an encounter with Royalty throughout his time in the South Sea paradise. Nothing much, you may think, happens in paradise; how do you hold the reader's attention outside our busy urban settings? Simon does it very successfully by engaging fully with the locals and their contrasting culture. He puts you on the beach, in the beautiful sea, the remote villages and bays and you feel you are in the moment. The people become well rounded characters that live on the page. He describes the early days of his relationship with Fiona as they set out on their adventure with lovely warmth but also manages to convey the ‘getting to know each other’ tension with great skill. A fine addition to the travel memoir catalogue and refreshing to read about a relatively unexplored area by authors. Highly recommend.
March 3, 2021
The Coconut Wireless is a well-written and engaging travel memoir with a healthy dose of wit. The author communicates with the reader in an informal manner and manages to keep the story flowing with lots of dialogue and powerful descriptions. As a traveler myself, I enjoyed journeying with Simon and Fiona as they prepared for and later set out on their trip of a lifetime to Tonga.
Every spare moment I had, I picked up this book again, eagerly reading to discover what happened next to this young, adventurous couple. The Coconut Wireless is a light and entertaining read that provides insights into the lifestyle, natural beauty, and customs of Tonga, while introducing the reader to multiple memorable characters the author and his girlfriend met on their journey. I especially enjoyed the dry humor and how the author creates a sense of place and atmosphere.
If you like traveling - in person or virtually from your armchair - and/or you are interested in a fun read about an adventurous couples’ explorations in a tiny, tropical South Pacific nation, this book is for you!
Every spare moment I had, I picked up this book again, eagerly reading to discover what happened next to this young, adventurous couple. The Coconut Wireless is a light and entertaining read that provides insights into the lifestyle, natural beauty, and customs of Tonga, while introducing the reader to multiple memorable characters the author and his girlfriend met on their journey. I especially enjoyed the dry humor and how the author creates a sense of place and atmosphere.
If you like traveling - in person or virtually from your armchair - and/or you are interested in a fun read about an adventurous couples’ explorations in a tiny, tropical South Pacific nation, this book is for you!
March 15, 2021
Perfect pandemic reading for those who long to travel but feel the restrictions of self-isolation. Coconut Wireless is a virtual vacation! A moment-by-moment chronicle of the author’s trip to paradise and his search to catch a glimpse of the Queen of Tonga. Witty, conversational writing draws the reader into the story and descriptions such as: “two pairs of hot pants each containing a young blonde European girl;” the “pok pok pok” of the chicken alarm clock; and his girlfriend’s exiting the protection of their mosquito netting wielding cans of Raid à la Rambo make it easy to visualize the highs and lows of said vacation. The book will either inspire you to follow in Simon’s footsteps, or be glad to live his experience vicariously sans mosquito bites. Either way, kudos to Prior for this debut effort.
May 7, 2021
Simon's dad was in the crowd for Queen Elizabeth II's coronation, and never forgot the Queen of Tonga smiling through the rain in her open topped carriage: and she waved and smiled directly at him. Simon grew up with the story, and it gave him a deep seated desire to see the Queen of Tonga himself, and have her wave at him. Fast forward many years, and Simon is living with his Kiwi girlfriend - but her visa is about to expire. What to do? Well maybe travel back to New Zealand with her, and pack in a few adventures along the way. When he finds out they can travel via Tonga, and spend a few weeks there, he resurrects his desire to see the Queen of Tonga, and that simple (or not so simple) quest is the basis for this book. Simon has such an easy writing style that I was hooked from the beginning. Many adventures including living on a desert island, joining in a kava ceremony, and a deep sea diving rescue make this a fun and entertaining read. Did he meet the Queen? Do you really think I'm going to give that away? Apparently this is going to be the first in a series. I can't wait to see where life takes Simon next.
March 15, 2021
Imagine being so captivated by a photo in a book as a child that as an adult you travel halfway across the world to find the subject. This is exactly what Simon Michael Prior did in search of the Queen of Tonga. He takes us with him on a journey from London to the South Pacific, via Paris, capturing the essence of these places with his wit and observation. I was gripped and enchanted, and so glad that I was asked to be an ARC reader for this book that had me pouring over images of Hawaii and Tonga and planning my own fantasy trip. If he had continued, I could have gone around the world with him and certainly hope that there is more where this came from.
March 19, 2021
Hard to put down.
A fun and interesting book. A lot to like about a journey to New Zealand by way of Tonga, sailors know of the beautiful islands , but not to many people go there. learning about the people of Tonga and tradition and culture is intriguing. Nicely written.
A fun and interesting book. A lot to like about a journey to New Zealand by way of Tonga, sailors know of the beautiful islands , but not to many people go there. learning about the people of Tonga and tradition and culture is intriguing. Nicely written.
May 19, 2023
Simple Fun in an Old Time way.
Written before 9/11, this is a pleasant travel journal of peace and love in the Tongan Ilands. Beautiful friendships and experiences made for a very relaxing read!
Written before 9/11, this is a pleasant travel journal of peace and love in the Tongan Ilands. Beautiful friendships and experiences made for a very relaxing read!
January 14, 2023
As soon as I got a few chapters into this entertaining read, I hurried over to Amazon and purchased the rest of the books in the series. Simon’s ability to poke fun of himself and not take himself too seriously had me chuckling throughout the book. I couldn’t help holding my breath at times wondering, “Would Simon really survive this next catastrophe?” Woven into this absorbing adventure is a captivating love story which left me feeling optimistic and cheerful and ready for the next installment.
June 19, 2023
Simon Michael Prior does a masterful job recounting the decision to move from England to New Zealand with his girlfriend. They decide to make an adventure/vacation of the long trip and spend a few weeks in Tonga where they meet locals, experience some Robinson Crusoe style adventures, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of royalty. A delightful read and a wonderful peak into a couple’s burgeoning relationship.
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