God's Sonrise on Japan's Samurais: Memoirs of a NZ Missionary Family (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9798287059033)

Spanning nearly 90 years, this is the remarkable life story of Richard Goodall - from his early days on a farm in Hamilton, New Zealand, to his lifelong work as a Christian missionary in Japan. Told in a voice that is unmistakably his own, Goodall weaves his narrative with unique idioms, offering readers a deeply personal and vibrant account.

What inspired a Kiwi farm boy from Hamilton, New Zealand (known as 'God's Own') to dedicate his life to serve others in a land of former enemies? How did he and his infant family "escape" NZ's paradise with neither passports nor salary ("try doing that yourself")? Richard takes readers on a life filled with supporters, co-labourers, family, and no small miracles he has witnessed since his baptism at age 17, with wit, humour and a measure of cheekiness of a man-on-a-mission away from his comfort zone in a foreign land.

While giving full credit and glory to his Creator for the many adventures and blessings he experienced in the Land of the Rising Sun, Goodall also shines a light on those who deeply influenced his decisions. Often challenging and encouraging readers on faith, his stories become a reflection on a bygone New Zealand way of life, a foreigner's perspective on post-war Japan's cultural and economic transformation, and a series of divine life lessons from a man who wore many hats: Husband, father, missionary, laity-linguist, and storyteller with a sharp sense of humour.

This book will resonate with anyone drawn to Japanese culture, intricacies of church-planting, testimonies of faith, quirky humour and that grand and ancient matter: Our purpose in life. And beyond.