COMP CLOSED | Book Giveaway | Bits of String Too Short to Use

A memoir of collecting, writing and the highs and lows of life.

Jennifer Beck looks at her life as a series of ‘bits’, memorable episodes which, when joined together form a pattern both fascinating and thought- provoking.

From early life in an unusual rural community, she describes growing up in a large family with money troubles, limited educational opportunities, a lovable but somewhat eccentric father and a determination to follow dreams. These led to early experiences as a teacher and extensive overseas travel.

As budget travel meant hitchhiking, risks were taken which led to being stranded north of the Arctic Circle, avoiding sunstroke on a lonely roadside in Greece, and later, travelling overland on an unreliable old bus from London to Sri Lanka. So many adventures, followed by new experiences back home.

These include romance, weddings, a surprise pregnancy and establishing a successful transport business from a phone in the kitchen. Not easy while breastfeeding a baby and trying to watch out for another young child while trucks reversed around the house.

Being housebound in the 1960s led to extramural study towards completing a university degree, and a lifetime interest in collecting antiques and restoring furniture. Restoration was also an interest of husband Peter, who dismantled a historic vintage plane and stored it in bits under the house before eventually restoring it.

After giving birth to another two children in the 1980s, a new career as a writer for children and adults began, with many years of involvement in New Zealand’s literary scene. The memoir includes behind-the-scenes encounters with writers such as Margaret Mahy, Fiona Kidman and Dorothy Butler. Despite the traumatic loss of several loved family members and the challenges of ageing, this love of writing has continued, culminating in this memoir.

About the Author

Zealand. Remember that November won a national Peace Story competition in 2009 which led to Jennifer and Lindy representing Aotearoa New Zealand at the International Children’s Book Festival in South Korea the following year. In 2015 Jennifer spent time in Dunedin at the University of Otago College of Education as Children’s Writer in Residence. Jennifer’s most recent book, My Mum is Queen of the Road, illustrated by Lisa Allen and published in 2022, has received a Notable Books Award.

A feature of many of Jennifer’s books is that adults contribute to the magic and fun of childhood. Those which deal with difficult topics such as war tend to include underlying themes of love, humour and hope.

Read an article Jennifer has written for GrownUps here

Terms and conditions

1. 1. You must be a GrownUps member and receive our newsletter to be eligible to win.
   2. Competition closes on the 29th August 2023, winners will be notified via email by 31st August 2023.
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   8. Prize is non transferrable.
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