Don't Go, Gordon
Description
Gordon left England for China at the age of twenty. In mid-1900, he arrived in Shanxi where the Boxers were relentlessly persecuting foreigners and the provincial governor had just given the order to behead missionaries. His lucky escape from the mayhem there should have made him more cautious about his own safety, but in late 1917 he was walking into danger again. This time it was in Russia where the war, the abdication and political upheaval were having devastating consequences on many lives. His was one of them.
Gordon has left few traces of his short life. The author, one of his seventeen great-nephews and great-nieces, has filled in some gaps with this madcap adventure.
More details
Person
Peter is a septuagenarian. This is his first book.
He was born in Yorkshire, educated at Leeds Grammar School and spent his entire working life in the financial services industry in the UK and abroad. In 1977, he settled in French speaking Switzerland where he and his Swiss wife raised their two children.
Peter studied art and creative writing at The Open University, graduating at the age of 70.
The author has travelled widely for both business and pleasure. Research for his novel in China, Russia, Japan and Scotland were highlights.
Peter is indebted to the many people who helped him solve the mystery surrounding the life of his great-uncle, Gordon Dickson. Notably, Richard Davies of the Leeds Russian Archive at the University of Leeds, Michael Welch and Errol Chandler. Errol's father, Leslie Chandler, features prominently in the book. He was a spy.
