Weary the Life of Sir Edward Dunlop

by Sue Ebury

A biography about Sir Edward Dunlop, whose war diaries were published in 1986. This book should be of interest to anyone wishing to read about World war II and the conditions and events in the Japanese prisoner of war camps.

Genres: Biography, World War II, Nonfiction, Australia, History, War

709 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[zed · Rating 2 out of 5]

A very disappointing bio. After 150 pages I was overwhelmed with the miniature, there was lack of economy of the author's writing and there seemed an inability of the editor’s to cut some far too long sentences and paragraphs back. As the read reached the times I was specifically interested in, it did not get any better, it took a lot of energy to complete this read. Having to reread areas that were of much interest to me such as Weary Dunlop’s courageous work on the Thai Burma railways during World War 2 was dissatisfying.

The main text is 640 pages long. Major historical figures have biographies half this length, such was the depth of the research. There are very good Maps and Line Drawings throughout, and the plates sections are excellent. Endnotes states that “All unsourced quotes in this book are taken from many hours of tape-recorded interviews…..” that the author had with Weary Dunlop. In my opinion, this is a mistake for obvious reasons. The Select Bibliography is very useful. The author states in the acknowledgements Weary Dunlop was the main source of information, and unfortunately this leads to what is almost hagiography.

[Robyn Leam · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an inspiring Australian. A work horse not likely to be seen again

[Anita · Rating 2 out of 5]

Far too long. They should make an abridged edition. There are quotes without reference to who is being quoted. The lack of editing for length was highlighted for me when the pharmacy that Weary worked in was described as 'now a health food shop, with a nice sideline in tea, coffee and home made cakes' - the book is more than 700 pages, this description is unnecessary. Alas, I didn't have the patience to get to the important part of the story, which is about the conditions as a prisoner of war of the Japanese, and Weary's heroic struggle to save lives.

[Don Prentis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant. Weary was a wonderful unassuming man, who cared deeply for his mates. This is a MUST READ for every Australian! Everyone else feel welcome to read this and see why should all aspire to his morals and drive!

[Jen Roe · Rating 5 out of 5]

a wonderful man