Our guest blog today is courtesy of Janet Land, a Toronto actor and author of a fascinating new book sure to entice history buffs.

By Janet Land

My father, William “Bill” Land, served in WWII and kept a journal, which I fortuitously discovered some years ago. I wanted to share his unique experiences with a larger audience to contribute to WWII awareness. From the culturally diverse places Bill was stationed in, to the people he met, to his surprising observations along the way, I was compelled to document and share these findings as examples of humanity during a time of such global conflict.

Bill Land at Officer Training School

17a Recruits on Fieldcraft, Lucknow, India

The final product became a three-part book titled LANDED: The WWII Journal and Family History of William Douglas Land. Part I is William’s (Bill’s) War Journal, a rare, first-hand account of a British Army officer’s WWII service in India, Ceylon and Italy. Part II is the story of William’s upbringing in Scotland and England, and his adult life in Canada, leading to his untimely, tragic death. Part III traces William’s maternal and paternal family histories, which include his relatives’ military achievements in both world wars, as well as the lauded accomplishments of prominent horticulturists, botanists and an actress in the family, in Ireland and Australia.

I used Bill’s war photos, his journal entries, maps of his war journeys, a timeline and family tree to shape this book into what it is now.

Learn more at www.facebook.com/landedthebook

I believe LANDED not only reminds us of the courage and sacrifice our veterans made to shape the world we live in today, but it can also be a point of inspiration for others to gather their own family history; to become their own storytellers. How many of us have boxes of old photos, letters, and journals tucked away and gathering dust? Why not bring them back into the world and discover the stories that are hidden within them? What mysteries, insights, and lessons can be gained by spending some time with them, engaging others about them, and researching details to fill in the blanks?

It’s so important to share the experiences of older generations with younger ones. By using storytelling, the impact can be much more relatable, emotional and therefore impactful. More than anything any history book could ever tell.

Note from Anne: This memoir author agrees! 

If you are interested in receiving a copy of LANDED email Janet at landedthebook@gmail.com before November 1st, 2017 to have your copy delivered before the holidays. The cost is $65 + tax and includes 240 colour pages bound beautifully in hard cover.