Together, the pieces in this book make a kind of informal autobiography, covering Peter's family stories and myths, his childhood and adolescence through the 1950s and experiences from his adulthood.Being born into a family where his only other sibling was also homosexual, there were many difficult issues that had to be faced and many others that were ignored. Peter re-examines those times and his own coming out when few were brave enough to do so. In addition, there are insightful pieces written about New Zealand as a place to live in. Also included are such diverse topics as the arrival of television, the intricacies of flower arranging, the depth of friendship and an exploration of a murder. Overriding them all is the powerful and touching love for a brother who was to die of AIDS and for a mother who has always been the most important person in his life. - from Amzon