The story of a mission doctor and his family living in inland China during a very disturbed period is told in a series of letters sent home by both husband and wife.

Edited by their daughter, who was born in Japanese-occupied China, there are passages interposed to explain the historical and political background of the time.

In a homely fashion one learns of the challenges of living in a very different culture; learning the language, obtaining supplies, and bringing up children in poor hygienic and dietary conditions, especially when latterly interned by the Japanese. Extended separation from family and home church, in their case for ten years, emphasises the blessing and difficulties of communication and the joy of receiving practical gifts en when sometimes they were inappropriate. There are details of medical and surgical problems, many of which were war-related. We are told of the long tradition of Chinese medicine but that hospital care only arrived with the Christian missions. As a historical down to earth document of practical living for Christ in difficult circumstances it is fascinating, and should be of great interest to anyone with a concern for, or preparing to work in, outback Asia or similar situations.