by Marilyn Waring. Published by Bridget Williams Books, 2019. Reviewed by Diana Atkinson

Marilyn Waring acknowledges that this is an older woman’s story of a younger woman. She bypasses the problems of memory by using over 400 boxes of archival records along with her personal data. This is a fact-filled book of records and realities rather than reminiscences or reflections. She succinctly bookends this part of her life with the whys and hows. In-between she takes us in considerable depth through her parliamentary years 1975–1984.

The Political Years is many-layered and will be of interest to a wide range of readers. It revisits the big issues of the 70s and 80s: decriminalisation of homosexuality, abortion rights, nuclear-free New Zealand, visits of American ships and significantly, a South African rugby team. Older readers will value Warning’s perspective; younger readers will find it a valuable history.

Waring’s is a principled account: her focus is on her electorate, her active feminism, her relish of opportunities to be part of a bigger, international scene, her immersion into a largely toxic masculine environment and its toll on her health, as well as wonderful support and friendships. All are part of her unrelenting energetic and discerning work ethic. Waring’s story flows easily abetted by her humour, pithy insights and some wonderful photos.

I recommend this book even if a densely-packed account of New Zealand politics is not your preferred reading. It is part of where we have come from and points to what might be.

Tui Motu Magazine. Issue 241 September 2019: 28