A journey of words, war, and unwavering will.
Philippa Werry’s remarkable verse novel, “Iris and Me,” offers a poignant and powerful narrative for young adults, chronicling the extraordinary life of one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most significant early 20th-century writers, Iris Wilkinson, better known by her pen name, Robin Hyde. Through the unique and intimate perspective of a mysterious, unnamed narrator—Iris’s steadfast companion—the reader is taken on a journey from New Zealand to the front lines of the 1938 Sino-Japanese War. The sparse, lyrical prose beautifully captures the essence of a fiercely determined woman who defied the conventions of her time as a journalist, a poet, a war correspondent, and an unmarried mother, all while battling chronic pain and mental health challenges. This is a compelling introduction to a historical figure whose story of courage and resilience is as relevant today as it was in her own lifetime.
The narrative vividly contrasts the social landscape of 1930s New Zealand with the stark realities of war-torn China. Werry masterfully weaves in details of the era, exploring themes of family, honour, and the relentless pursuit of an independent identity in a world that sought to confine women to the domestic sphere. The story delves into the immense personal sacrifices Iris made, driven by a profound sense of justice and a desire to give voice to the voiceless, whether they were the unemployed in Auckland or the civilians caught in the crossfire of an international conflict. For readers curious about the world, this book offers an authentic window into a pivotal moment in history through a non-Eurocentric lens. It also serves as a powerful mirror for young people navigating their own identities, particularly those who may feel like outsiders, showcasing how one individual’s passion and determination can challenge societal norms and create a lasting legacy.
Philippa Werry, a celebrated New Zealand author known for her meticulously researched historical fiction, brings an authentic and empathetic voice to Iris Wilkinson’s life. Her background in crafting stories that illuminate her country’s past lends profound credibility to this deeply moving account. “Iris and Me,” which won the Young Adult Fiction Award at the 2023 New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults, is a testament to the enduring power of the written word. This book belongs in every school library, offering a vital curriculum connection to studies of world history, women’s history, and journalism.
