Author launches moving war story at Caloundra

A box of his father's sepia-toned photographs and night-time war tales were the inspiration behind the new book from author Darryl Hill, "Seppuki by Proxy", to be launched at Caloundra Library on Tuesday 8 December.

Hill's fascination with his father's World War Two service began at an early age when he would help shine his medals for Anzac Day and Milne Bay Battle parade marches.

Listening to his father's tales of malaria and tropical infections in the jungles of Papua New Guinea, he was inspired to combine has passion for writing and interest in Korean and Japanese pottery to weave a war tale rich in history and culture that is dedicated to his father.

"Seppuki by Proxy is not your typical war story," Hill says. "It follows the life-changing circumstances of a meeting of two men on the battlefields and is filled with romance, tension and drama that will appeal equally to women as to men."

The book follows the story of Kenji, born into the traditional life of Japanese potters. The strict social framework that governed his early years is in stark contrast to the time he spends working in Sydney, before being expelled at the outbreak of the Pacific War. In active military service as a fanatically-inculcated Bushido warrior, Kenji is captured as prisoner of war by the "Sergeant", a man who continues to haunt him into his old age, with his dreams and fears satiated only with their reconciliation many years later.

Hill will launch his new book at Caloundra Library on Tuesday 8 December at 10am. It is a free event provided by Sunshine Coast Libraries. Morning tea will be provided. Bookings are essential, contact Caloundra Library on 5491 1255.