Looking For Answers : A Life of Elsie Locke

Discover the remarkable life of Elsie Locke in 'Looking For Answers: A Life of Elsie Locke,' an insightful biography by Maureen Birchfield. This compelling narrative explores the impactful contributions of Elsie Locke, a pioneering writer and activist who championed causes such as women's rights, social justice, and nuclear disarmament in Aotearoa New Zealand. Despite her significant efforts, her legacy remained largely unrecognized during her lifetime. Birchfield's work meticulously reveals the layers of this extraordinary woman who raised four children while advocating tirelessly for societal change. At 560 pages, this biography not only chronicles Elsie's activism but also sheds light on her personal struggles, drawing from recently declassified security files that documented her involvement with the Communist Party of New Zealand. 'Looking For Answers' is essential reading for anyone interested in New Zealand history, women's rights, and the evolution of social activism. Ideal for scholars, students, and those inspired by the stories of strong women, this biography captures the essence of a life dedicated to making the world a better place. Join us in celebrating Elsie Locke's enduring legacy and discover how one woman's voice can influence generations to come.

Author: Maureen Birchfield Publisher: Canterbury University Press

Dimensions: 210 x 200 mm
Pages: 560
Publication Date: 01-08-2009

Writer and activist Elsie Locke was a remarkable woman whose contribution to Aotearoa New Zealand went largely unrecognised during her lifetime. In a long and eventful life she campaigned for birth control, women's rights, nuclear disarmament, social justice and the environment before such causes were popular. She wrote almost 40 books, numerous articles and School Journal stories, and was a published poet. Forthright she might have been, but the diminutive Elsie Locke was a very private and modest person. In this insightful and compelling biography, Maureen Birchfield peels back the layers of the public firebrand to find an ordinary woman who negotiated enormous personal obstacles to raise four children while striving tirelessly to improve the world around her. Recently declassified security files confirm that the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (and its antecedents) had Elsie firmly in their sights, particularly while she was a member of the the Communist Party of New Zealand (1933-56). Incorporating information from these files, Maureen Birchfield delivers a fascinating portrait of a woman ahead of her time.