Chris Davies Curtis

Exits and Entrances Chris Davies Curtis

'Exits and Entrances' is a story within a story. The heroine is the little Chapel of St Stephen the Martyr, in the Whangaparaoa Peninsula just North of Auckland, New Zealand. It was built in 1917 by families living there at that time. Who were those families? How did they survive the rigours of life on this wild, undeveloped area? The author has used her imagination to create a dynasty of hardy pioneers. Amelia Spencer arrives in Arkles Bay, Whangaparaoa as a feisty fifteen year old. She meets Charles and together they are involved with the many people and events throughout the years. They survive two world wars: the 'flu epidemic and the depression. Through the years they become involved with the Church of St Stephen, and the author has carried its story through the eyes of her characters right up to the modern day, as we meet Juliette who has come to research the local families, but is captivated by the wonderful New Zealand scenery and lifestyle.'Exits and Entrances' is an entertaining and interesting way to learn a little history: not only of the Church, but Whangaparaoa and New Zealand itself. The story is enhanced by the author's illustrations and photos.