AustLit

'Traumatised by horrific experiences in Vietnam, Michael Johnston is repatriated to Australia and placed in a psychiatric ward. Eventually discharged into an uncaring world, the disenchanted soldier descends into acute depression.To escape city pressures, Michael finds work on a cattle property. There he is coerced into partnering local girl Sarah to the Annual Ball, but an alcoholic binge causes him to be re-committed. Released and attempting to put his life in order, he elects to spend time with a Wiradjuri group where an aboriginal [sic] elder becomes his mentor. A remorseful Michael is resolved to make amends and re-kindles his relationship with Sarah. The couple marry and move to Sydney. However, terrifying memories continue to haunt him. In war combatants can suffer physically crippling injuries. Less obvious is the mental and emotional damage inflicted, not only on the warriors but also on those who love them.

'Mending Michael tells the tale of two such people.'

(Publication Summary)