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The Unfortunate Lunatic
A story of madness, make-believe and reinvention
Brief Description
Throughout her childhood, Tess Redgrave knew she had a 'mad' grandmother who made repeated visits to a mental asylum. But it wasn't until her thirties, years after her Nanie had died and in the depths of her own crippling depression, that Tess was prompted to find...
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See moreA compulsive read about family and mental illness.
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Description
Throughout her childhood, Tess Redgrave knew she had a 'mad' grandmother who made repeated visits to a mental asylum. But it wasn't until her thirties, years after her Nanie had died and in the depths of her own crippling depression, that Tess was prompted to find out more.
What she unearthed was an explosive family story of madness and secrecy that stretched back to nineteenth-century New Zealand and to a man referred to by the courts as an 'unfortunate lunatic'. While the discovery shocked Tess, it also helped her face the truth not only about her grandmother but about herself.
The Unfortunate Lunatic is a compulsive read that says as much about the history of mental health care in this country as it does about one family and what they have suffered. It also talks to the power of stories to uncover the truth and to heal.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781067096656
Publisher: The Cuba Press
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 01 October 2026
Country: New Zealand
Imprint: The Cuba Press
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 16.0mm
Width: 138.0mm
Height: 219.0mm
Weight: 0g
Pages: 230
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About the Author
Tess Redgrave is a journalist and the author of two books, including her novel Gone to Pegasus. She has worked as an editor, writer and media adviser. She lives in Hawke's Bay, contributing to BayBuzz magazine and teaching writing at the Heretaunga Women's Centre. Tess is an active member of Forest & Bird and walks up Te Mata Peak most days.
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