John Hickman
After retirement in September, 2003, John Hickman has time to ‘smell the flowers’ - only to realise that most of them smell the same. Unable to play golf - he discovers a passion for writing.
'RELUCTANT HERO' is an incredible, controversial true story about his Dad, Bill, a Lancaster bomber pilot from the Second World War. Dedicated to the 55,000 British aircrew who perished it is a book not afraid to be honest about war, but immensely readable and entertaining as well.
'TRIPPING OVER' is a comic foil about John's life growing up in the shadow of his Dad, a returned war hero. John is not coping well, beleaguered and confused, poor judgement and clumsiness dog his every move. When his parents visit the annual Motor Show to buy a new car but return with a boat instead - turmoil follows.
'SEX, LIES & CRAZY PEOPLE' is the bittersweet story about John's family's involvement in the Harewood Hotel, Royal Tunbridge Wells, England in the 1960s. Interspersed with self-deprecating reminisces it is best described as a true life 'Fawlty Towers' - but without Basil. When John is assigned to the kitchens will he be able to cook any better than his dysfunctional family? He's in good company with chefs and waiters who don't speak English. A multitude of international guest include a millionaire addicted to pornography; a con man and his beautiful ex-prostitute wife; a cash strapped film company; a strange little man who reads tea leaves and Scientologists seeking spiritual fulfilment.
'LIVING UPSIDE DOWN' inspired by a True Story is John's debut novel to feature the adventures of Sue and Roger, after writing three true stories. This novel was inspired, in part by the author's thirty-five years of experience in the global pest control industry, life in the Archipelago, and migrating as ten pound poms. Sue and Roger attempt to resolve family conflicts and improve their living standards by migrating with their two small children from England to the warmer Great Southern Land to become 'fair dinkum Aussies.' Set from the 1970s, buckle up for a bitter sweet roller coast ride.
