Wellington author L P Hansen shares something of the inspiration and back story to her most recent book, Hidden Stories of Heroism for a Peaceful Planet.
Research for this YA nonfiction book, published March 2025, was the most absorbing – and most demanding – I’ve ever done.
Bringing together the stories of many long-lost heroes who argued for a world of justice, peace and sustainable development, while keeping the way open for New Zealand’s opposition to nuclear testing in the Pacific and nuclear weapons, took me almost six years and led to the book I’m most proud of.
I was in my forties before I discovered Kiwi hero, Archie Baxter, and wrote my first novel, An Unexpected Hero, so young people could learn about him sooner.
An unfortunate experience with a small publisher, reluctant to pay the royalties mentioned in my contract, led me to self-publish later books and I’ve never regretted the decision. However, I always get professional help before going to print.
Authors considering self-publishing need to consider their own willingness and ability to market their books, taking advice from the many writer support groups throughout the country. But my key recommendation for books-in-print is to obtain back-cover reviews to support your back-cover blurb and send review copies to all appropriate outlets. Then cherish those reviews, as I do.
On Hidden Stories of Heroism, Becks Popham wrote for The Sapling :‘I ended up spending an evening, completely absorbed, learning all about conscientious objectors, peaceful protesters, selfless actions and those who chose social justice over cruelty and violence’.
Read the full review on The Sapling.
And click on the book cover to find out more about Hidden Stories of Heroism for a Peaceful Planet.
