New Zealand is nuclear-free – for now. But what might happen if the hydro lakes are dried by Climate Change? Peter and Jenny Fairbrother own a drought-stricken sheep farm in Gollans Valley. Their land is coveted by the US Company, Hammer-Burton US, who offer to buy it. Deceived that it is to become a beautiful park only, they sell, and live happily in the up-market apartment provided in Hutt City. However, when the couple learn that a nuclear power station is to be built on the farm as well, their lives begin to fall apart. Peter is given work at the park and station involving horse-riding surveillance but is inveigled by a visiting Arab to become an accomplice in his act of revenge against a US installation on New Zealand soil. After the deplorable deed is done, all residents of Wellington and Hutt have to vacate the areas and Jenny flees to find a safe haven for herself and their son while a remorseful Peter follows. But will he be in time?
Barbara Ker-Mann's first novel, Death of a Sparrow, was published in 1991 by Hazard Press and Leafgreen. She originally created the story back in the 1980's as a reaction to the "accident" at Three Mile Island. She was, with some of her family, living in London, Ontario, and was alarmed by the calm voice on the radio suggesting that there was nothing to be concerned about. Once returned to New Zealand, Ker-Mann researched nuclear technology and the probability of harm to all life within proximity to the damaged nuclear reactor.
'This is what I call a "given" book to be taken seriously. I felt compelled to write it.' -- Barbara Ker-Mann