Reforging public perceptions

James Belich’s history of C20th NZ, Paradise Reforged, applauded in lengthy TLS article. Reviewer Jane Samson: “It is refreshing to have a personal vision of the country’s history from an astounding scholar who writes with lucidity and wit. Speaking of ‘islands of difference’ rather than a unified people, Belich is at his best when dealing with the implications of diversity for [NZ’s] national identity.”