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This book starts off in the year 1940 when an Englishwoman meets a Polish serviceman. A romance blossoms, and a loving relationship forms. However, happiness ends and tragedy unfolds as the couple's family grows. Readers take an intimate journey with the author through the times and circumstances that were woven together to form a lifetime. From detailing the experiences of having an early morning paper route to working as a part-time delivery boy, the book's author offers an intriguing portrait of his life prior to an RAF career. The narrative then provides the author's depiction of death as an unwanted friend who constantly reminds humans of its presence. Throughout the book, readers find insights about overcoming difficulties and tragedies that threaten to break a person. The book also explores a child's response to witnessing domestic abuse as the author details his mother's experiences at the hands of an alcoholic, abusive husband.
The book's overall message is one of survival. However, as readers progress through it, the book opens many doors to socially relevant discussions, including homelessness, the value of hard work, and the importance of positive, supportive family members. It is also an emotional depiction of gone-by eras. Readers encounter some of the most heart-wrenching passages as they accompany the author through his late wife's cancer battle. Those needing a positive message about overcoming adversity will find resilience and encouragement in this book. Others interested in a unique, personal history of daily and military life in England will find this work an engaging read.