No Ordinary Man

Media Publishers (2001) Ltd, New Zealand, 297 pages. Good secondhand condition.

Mick Thompson's secretive double-life as a cross-dressing Anzac soldier during WWII continued after returning home to New Zealand in 1945. This seductive and intriguing true story explores his identity crisis and his courageous fight to keep his desire to be a woman, secret from prying eyes.He transforms himself into the sophisticated and elegant identity of Moira, allowing him to escape memories of childhood ridicule and humiliation and the horrifying memories of war.The writer skillfully delves into Mick's struggle with sexual identity, focusing on his secretive alter ego. This real-life account intrigues and challenges conventional thinking about bravery, male and female roles, love, lust and forgiveness. His courage, during the war and on his return, is defined by the extraordinary effort he makes to hide his secret obsession.The coming of age, family saga exposes Mick's struggle with memories of war, love and betrayal, with insight making this real-life story a captivating read.