“A moving and intimate portrait of two brothers at war.” – Michael McKernan
Under the same Moon intricately weaves together the lives of a family, their sons, and the men of the battalion they join, all set against the backdrop of a bygone Australia during World War II. This compelling historical narrative breathes life into the people and places of the era, immersing readers in a vivid sense of immediacy and intimacy.
Drawing extensively from unpublished and previously unseen written accounts, oral histories, letters, and archival materials, Under the same Moon offers a deeply personal exploration of the lesser-known Australian campaign in the Middle East. It captures the dramatic separation of a group of men from their Australia-bound convoy and their arrival in Java, teetering on the brink of collapse. The narrative also illuminates the fears and anxieties of families left in the dark.
This unforgettable story of love, camaraderie, bravery, and courage is laced with humour, suffering, and beauty. Through its rich narrative, Under the same Moon invites readers to experience the profound human connections forged in times of turmoil.
Praise for the Book
“A vivid portrait of the most desperate chapter in our nation’s history.” Michael Veitch
“Touching and horrifying, galvanizing and tragic.” – Don Watson
“A compelling, highly engaging and thrilling history.” – Professor Joy Damousi
“A story of war and peace – of love and separation, combat and capture, anxiety and hope.” – Professor Alistair Thomson
Review –
A beautifully written social history.
Review –
Under the Same Moon is the first of two books in this series to be written by the author. The first book, although self-contained, masterfully prepares the reader for the Battalion’s later fight with the Japanese. The second book I’ll Walk With You, is still being written and will provide further information on the lives, military service and future dreams of the extended Mitchell family.
Reveiw –
Peter Mitchell’s book Under the Same Moon is a beautifully written social history. The book focuses on Mr Mitchell’s father, Clarence, aka ‘Cal’, and Cal’s younger brother Alan during the period 1930 until 1942.
Review –
The book provides inviting, easy-to-read details of the lives and loves of the two brothers and their extended Melbourne-based family’s interactions with friends, fellow comrades and officers of the Pioneer Battalion prior to and during the Second World War. The author has clear mastery of a large amount of family-based information, including, but not limited to, frequent discussion with his family members – especially Cal and his Uncle Alan, extensive taped interviews and a near complete collection of the large number of letters written by various family members, friends and military buddies.
Review –
The author skilfully incorporates these family interactions with his extensive knowledge of the war as it is being fought in the various theatres of conflict.