Ruth Shaw skillfully weaves together sketches from her bookstores in a picturesque corner of New Zealand, reflections on her favorite books, and touching stories from her rich and diverse life. She served in the navy, worked as a cook, nurse, housekeeper, entrepreneur, and captain of a tourist vessel... Resilient, active, emotional, and able to withstand the blows of fate, Ruth sailed across the Pacific Ocean, fell into the hands of pirates, worked in the criminal area of Kings Cross in Sydney, became a nature defender, and along with her husband Lance sailed on the 'Brassy Girl', a sailing ship capable of transporting passengers to subantarctic islands. Throughout it all, Ruth's first love has always been books — one of humanity's best inventions, books that hold the warmth of the hands of previous generations, provide food for the mind, make you laugh and cry, allow you to distract from worries or, conversely, immerse yourself in the fates of others, reflect, and empathize. The cozy stores she opened in Manapouri have become a true gathering place for children and adults, men and women, locals and tourists. After reading this genuine book, you will surely want to learn more about Ruth and her amazing homeland.
