Local legend Michael Fowler has recently published his 15th book, Stories of Historic Hawke’s Bay, a beautiful coffee table tome with plenty of well-researched true tales and fascinating photographs. From the history of the floral clock on Marine Parade, to Hastings’ air raid shelters and the residents of Havelock North struggling to negotiate their new roundabout, there’s a story to engage every reader. Louise Ward from Wardini Books caught up with Michael to find out more.
How long have you been an historian?
I started part-time during 2004 until going full-time in April 2018, when I found I was struggling to find time to get projects done.
You’re the author of an impressive 15 books. What’s your favourite part of the writing process?
To produce good material as an historian, I believe there are a number of factors: firstly, people have to trust you with their stories or material; secondly, you have to be an excellent researcher; thirdly, you have to be a creative and interesting writer in the way you present the information. And lastly - have a brilliant editor! My favourite part is hearing interesting stories about people’s lives, and then writing them in an equally interesting and respectful way.
