Jack’s voice: A POW’s diary & letters – Stalag VIIIB 1941-1945, written by John (Jack) Penman Turner and edited and expanded upon by Mary Tallon. Published by Mary Tallon in Auckland, 2020.
This is a record in the form of letters, a diary and commentary about Jack Penman Turner who lived his entire life in Mount Albert apart from his years serving with the New Zealand forces during World War 2.
The book briefly discusses Jack’s early life then focuses on his experiences overseas. The latter includes Egypt, the Holy Land, Greece and Crete. He then survived four years in a notorious prisoner of war camp in Lamsdorf in Upper Silesia (modern day Poland); it was in the camp that the secret diary was written outlining how Jack survived. An account follows of the three month “Long March“ to Western Europe, when survival rates were low.
The book then looks at Jacks post war life as a family man and a leader of Turners and Growers. It is effectively a biography of his life.
It includes an excellent range of photographs and other illustrations of Jack’s life and associations.
This is a fascinating read about how a person survived with stamina and his beliefs keeping him alive, as well as providing insights into the life of a Mt Albert resident.
The editor, Mary Tallon, is Jack’s daughter. The book is beautifully produced, and is a good example of how family stories can be published and shared.
You can purchase a copy for $25 + $5 p&p direct from Mary. Please email her to order your copy – tallon@xtra.co.nz
