Rere Takitahi/Flying Solo Anthology

by Jcl Purchase (Editor), AJ Woolf (Editor)

Families that differ from the traditional model are becoming increasingly more common.
In Aotearoa New Zealand a large percentage of the population belong to single-parented or differently-structured families. Rere Takitahi/Flying Solo creatively explores the lived experience of these alternative families in a comprehensive anthology that showcases the writing of 50 new, emerging, established, and veteran writers, across multiple genres.
“Rere Takitahi/Flying Solo is personal and political, accessible and heartfelt. The pieces in this wide-ranging collection provide insight into what it means to be family, to belong. Here in fiction, memoir, essay, poetry, and reportage, diverse writers explore the experiences of those who parent in ways beyond the conventional. Through JCL Purchase and AJ Woolf’s tender editing, a truly beautiful book and indispensable read results.”
Siobhan Harvey – Academic, Author, and Editor
“Rere Takitahi/Flying Solo embodies the diversity of values and practices when it comes to family — and the presence of differently-structured families in Aotearoa New Zealand. I particularly value the insights provided into the parenting journey.”
Professor Paul Spoonley – Academic, Author, and Researcher
(Fellow - Royal Society/Te Apārangi of NZ)
“This anthology is a valuable contribution to our collective understanding of the current social and cultural environment. It is vitally important that we see and hear ourselves and our communities reflected in the arts.” JCL Purchase - Educator, Writer & Editor

346 pages, Paperback

Published July 1, 2024

Reviews

[Katherine Horrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic book to dip into and see the world through different eyes. Refreshing, insightful and highly enjoyable. Families are the bedrock of our society - and to parent well alone is something to be celebrated, but often it is not. These stories explore the realities of parenting solo - funny, sad, confronting and inspiring in turn. Before I started reading, I wondered if the stories would be of interest given that I am not a parent, let alone a single parent - but they are universal in their truth and appeal. Even the fiction stories ring with the truth of lived experience. A great book for all adults.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know, I am still reading this one, and I think it's going to take me a while. The material is evocative; it is emotional, I mean. It hasn't brought me to tears yet, but it's been close a few times, so I read a little and put it down again. The words visceral and raw come to mind. The authors have lived through some very challenging times and situations. One theme that resonates with me is of the often traumatic experiences solo parents are subjected to when accessing government agencies for support. They are often asked to reveal intimate details of their lives on an open floor, where complete strangers can overhear their discussions with case workers. I feel violated for them, and it is an experience I share as a person who receives government support. People's privacy really is not respected here.

If I had to pick one line from the book to take away, it would be "For now, I will bleed into carefully folded facecloths" from Jess Young's 'The DPB'. I felt myself gasp when I heard her read it at the book launch in Timaru. It just hits me in the pit of my stomach. So raw, so real, so revealing. She broke my heart a little, but it will mend. There are many other moments, but this one has burned itself into my consciousness, and I often find myself recalling it.

I think this is a significant book, and that the material it brings to light, needs to become a part of our collective awareness. I think this book is of the highest social importance.

[Stacey Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stunning collection of stories fact and fiction, from Aotearoa, New Zealand, through the lenses of the authors various life experiences.
I am loving this book and display it proudly in my studio.
Thank you all for the incredible work you have obviously done to make this happen.
Arohanui
Stacey Austin