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Wilf
When young farmer, Wilf Fritsch and his mates leave Australia in 1914, to study in Germany, they have no idea of the catastrophe ahead. Their plans are thwarted when World War 1 erupts. Stranded, arrested and imprisoned, they wonder if they will survive the war and ever make it home again. In a treacherous and unpredictable world, friendships form in surprising places, while culture, hope and purpose survive in desolate environments. Their story reveals astonishing aspects of the times, overlooked by history. However, it is the development of the lads into men of character and integrity, and the beguiling array of people they meet, that will enchant all readers. Bound together in brotherly bonds, their remarkable journey of joy and sorrow, horror and humour, spans 6 years and 5 countries, illuminating the power of perseverance and faith. This dramatic true story from 100 years ago that resonates today, showcasing Hope and Heart in times of Hardship, for readers of every age, time and place.
324 pages, Paperback
Published March 15, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
August 14, 2024
This is one of the most interesting and enjoyable books of the life of young Australian Christian Lutherans life in early Australia. Their sudden transformation as alien internees in Germany during World War 1. Their eventual move to studies in USA before returning to Australia in 1920 and their ordination as Pastors in rural Australia. The author had the excellent skill to turn their life experience diaries into a heart-warming, page turning, warmly entertaining, engrossing novel. HIGHLY recommended and 5 star rating in all aspects.
October 2, 2024
Highly recommended reading; a thoroughly enjoyable and interesting WW1 story. It has been capably researched & very well written. 4-4.5*
Wilf is easy reading as it’s so compelling; a real page turner that captures the reader from the opening pages.
The reality of what happened to Wilf and his friends turned their lives upside down. With their Lutheran studies and future unknown, they did the best they could in an unprecedented wartime situation.
But what holds them together like glue is their unfailing faith. Their great sense of ethical and moral responsibility is true to their Christian beliefs.
It is such an engaging perspective from the viewpoint of these young Christian men who, in an accidental moment in history, arrive in Germany as civilians, to pursue a theological course just as WW1 erupts.
One man is Wilf, the author’s great grandfather. A credit to Heidi McLeod for bringing Wilf and his experiences to life with such a personal commitment.
A wonderful true story and an absolute delight to read. Possibly worthy of being added to a high school history curriculum unit.
Wilf is easy reading as it’s so compelling; a real page turner that captures the reader from the opening pages.
The reality of what happened to Wilf and his friends turned their lives upside down. With their Lutheran studies and future unknown, they did the best they could in an unprecedented wartime situation.
But what holds them together like glue is their unfailing faith. Their great sense of ethical and moral responsibility is true to their Christian beliefs.
It is such an engaging perspective from the viewpoint of these young Christian men who, in an accidental moment in history, arrive in Germany as civilians, to pursue a theological course just as WW1 erupts.
One man is Wilf, the author’s great grandfather. A credit to Heidi McLeod for bringing Wilf and his experiences to life with such a personal commitment.
A wonderful true story and an absolute delight to read. Possibly worthy of being added to a high school history curriculum unit.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews