Massey author’s The Naturalist tops bestseller list
Massey University author Dr Thom Conroy’s novel The Naturalist is the current bestseller in New Zealand fiction.
Dr Conroy’s novel is a historical tale based on a true story set in 19th century New Zealand, Germany and London. Its
central character is German naturalist, botanist and explorer Dr Ernst Dieffenbach, who championed equality between
races, was fluent in Mäori and was known for his rebellious stand as a young student supporter of democracy in Germany.
On topping the Neilsen Weekly Bestseller list at one notch above Man Booker prize-winner The Luminaries, by Eleanor
Catton, Dr Conroy says it’s been “satisfying and deeply humbling to know so many people are interested”.
The Naturalist, published earlier this month by Random House New Zealand under its Vintage label, is the result of six
years’ research and writing. One of Dr Conroy’s main sources was Dieffenbach’s two-volume Travels in New Zealand, an
account of his 18-month exploration of New Zealand’s land, people, following his voyage from London aboard the Tory.
The creative writing senior lecturer in the School of English and Media Studies at the Manawatü campus says he was
struck by what he read about Dieffenbach while researching natural history for another project. He felt the German
deserved more attention in light of his colourful personality and experiences
at the onset of New Zealand’s colonisation.
Among the milestones of Dieffenbach’s time in pre-settler New Zealand were; being the first European to reach the summit
of Mt Egmont (Taranaki), and writing the first Māori dictionary and grammar.
Since launching in early August, the book has been well-reviewed and had wide media coverage, including an interview
with National Radio’s Kim Hill.
American-born Pennsylvanian Dr Conroy, who has lived in New Zealand for nine years, drew on extensive historical records
and research, inventing some scenes and additional minor characters to bring the German’s remarkable personality ad
story to life. He hopes hisf ictional rendition of Dieffenbach’s story will have wide appeal – especially to those
intrigued by influential yet marginalised historical figures who provide fresh clues to the tangents and nuances of New
Zealand’s colonial history.
Listen to Dr Thom Conroy’s interview with Kim Hill here.
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