Straying from the Flock: Travels in New Zealand

By Alexander Elder

An illuminating road trip through the history, life, and attractions of one of the most beautiful countries in the southern hemisphere
The beauty and grandeur of New Zealand has captured the imagination of movie-goers over the past couple of years, and the country is a dream destination for many around the world. Straying from the Flock is an intimate and personal account of one passionate traveler's visit to this incredible country, its mountains and beaches, fjords, rainforests, vineyards, and hidden eateries. Each of the fifty chapters describes one day in his travels-fishing, flying, cattle herding, befriending locals at every turn. Filled with colorful stories and memorable personalities, the book not only describes the trip of a lifetime, but captures a life-altering experience for its writer. From mountains and rainforests to cities and beaches, Straying from the Flock is both a moving memoir and personal travel guide to this amazing country.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Wiley
• Release date: May 20, 2005
• ISBN: 9780471730927

Reviews for Straying from the Flock

[pointedpundit · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A Poignant Portrait of a Tourist, a Country and its PeopleI have to admit; this book is not what I expected.Dr. Alexander Elder contacted me earlier this month and asked if I might be interested in reading his newest book, the story of a two-month long trip to New Zealand.Dr Elder, a professional trader, experienced technical analyst and practicing psychiatrist, penned two previous books, both best sellers which have achieved a measure of acclaim in trading circles. Straying from the Flock, however, breaks new ground for the author. It weaves New Zealand’s geography, history, business, culture and above all, its people into a readable, love story. Spend only a few minutes with this book and it will be apparent, Dr. Elder loves New Zealand; he discovered it in the mid-1990s. Tucked away on the other side of the world from his professional life, New Zealand is a country the size of England or Italy, yet it is populated by only three million unique souls and 6 million sheep.Each chapter recounts another day in his two month visit. He eloquently describes the country’s beaches, mountains, fjords and rainforests. He recounts colorful tales that cause many of the island’s personable people to spring to life. Yet also what emerges is a colorful portrait of a newly divorced, professionally secure, with grown children individual with a deep thirst to experience the world around himBorn in Russia, Dr. Elder has a superb command of the English language. All-too-often while reading this, I found myself wishing I had the eloquence with my native tongue that Dr. Elder has with his adopted language.This is more than a guide book. Dr. Elder has penned a beautiful, intimate portrait of a unique land, its people and one of its favorite fans – Dr. Elder.