In the tradition of John Mulgan’s 'Man Alone' or the brusque tongue in cheek humour of Barry Crump's 'A Good Keen Man', Bruce Bryant is a yarn teller among the very best of them. While weaving a personal narrative of life, interwoven within this framework is a wonderful social commentary of Aotearoa New Zealand, its people, its thinking, with all its cringe-making ideas amidst those not afraid to speak against the dominant cultural narrative of the time. Stunning.
The Silver Lining of the Long White Cloud by Bruce Silver Bryant made for a very interesting read; a book that was hard to put down. Complex in many ways and gives an insight into the author’s very fascinating and diverse life. It is apparent that Bryant has never being scared to tackle tough issues or personalities in his quest for what he believes is right, and clearly, he hasn't time for people that he deems to be foolish. He boldly verses well his downfalls and was not frightened to portray his weaknesses. Also, a very interesting insight into his connections with Māori. The Silver Lining left one wanting more. A very fine read.
Whow, what a great read, I couldn't put it down, and I am not a great reader so that’s saying something. What a remarkable journey, absolutely gobsmacking in parts. Your story telling is next level mate. I loved it!
I recently had the pleasure of reading The Silver Lining of the Long White Cloud. I found it to be a beautifully layered narrative, more than just a memoir, it felt like a living, breathing account of Aotearoa New Zealand's evolving identity. For anyone interested in Aotearoa New Zealand’s recent past as lived by a thoughtful insider-outsider, Bryant’s book offers both entertainment and substance. It’s a love letter to memory, to imperfection, and to the endless search for silver linings in a world often clouded by complexity.
Profoundly honest BSB. A great memory you have, and what a great story teller. I am going to read it again now.
Your narrative voice is as honest as it is engaging, carrying readers through the many layers of life in Aotearoa New Zealand. I found myself especially moved by the way you juxtapose humour with deeply personal reflections examining identity, race, and class without ever losing the human warmth that makes your story relatable. The characters you meet are real, flawed, vivid and offer a rare, grounded portrait of Kiwi life that lingers long after the final page. It felt like listening to an old friend tell the kind of yarn that’s both raw and refined.