April Fool’s Day

Summary

The article recounts how reading "April Fool’s Day" by Bryce Courtney inspired the author to prioritize family time through regular camping trips.

Abstract

The author shares a personal transformation sparked by the book "April Fool’s Day," a memoir by Bryce Courtney honoring his haemophiliac son who died from HIV/AIDS contracted through a blood transfusion. The story, which underscores the importance of seizing the day, resonated deeply with the author, prompting them to take their children camping despite their own inexperience. After purchasing camping essentials, the family began exploring the bush, eventually upgrading to a camper-trailer for more frequent weekend outings. The children gained valuable life skills through these experiences, emphasizing the profound impact a single book can have on one's life choices.

Opinions

The author holds Bryce Courtney in high regard, considering him a favorite writer.
The author believes in the power of literature to inspire real-life changes, as evidenced by their decision to start camping with their family.
There is a sense of regret and urgency in the author's narrative, recognizing the importance of not postponing meaningful activities with loved ones.
The author values the educational and character-building aspects of outdoor experiences for children.

The book that changed my life.

I read April Fool’s Day in 1993. It’s written by one of my favourite authors, Bryce Courtney.

April Fool’s Day is a true story written as a tribute to his son, a haemophiliac who contracted HIV/AIDS through an infected blood transfusion and died, aged 24. Bryce had a demanding career in advertising and was always telling his son they’d go camping “next weekend”. But that next weekend never came.

I decided right then we’d start taking our kids camping. I’d never been camping, but I was determined. I bought a dome tent, and a blow-up mattress, and some other basics.

Our kids loved camping in the bush. Later that year, we bought a second-hand camper-trailer and went camping every weekend. Our kids learned skills they never could at home.

What book changed your life?