From Heathrow, a plane of English tourists leaves for Hawaii. On the plane is Bernard Walsh, a theology teacher who has a fear of women, and his garrulous father. They are travelling to meet Bernard's aunt, who is dying of cancer. Although Bernard is genuinely concerned about the suffering that his long-ignored aunt must be going through, the rest of the Washes seem more concerned about the money that she is likely to leave behind.
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Bernard meets the other English travellers often during his stay in Hawaii. The English travellers include a cynical professor interested in exploring the ways vacationing is replacing religion, young girls looking to meet “Mr. Nice”, second honeymooners, a middle-class family grimly determined to enjoy their vacation, and a young honeymoon couple who already is quarrelling. Each traveller seems to find surprises and the unexpected in Hawaii.
Bernard also himself finds himself surprised by Hawaii. Early on during his stay, his father is in an accident. This makes it hard for Bernard to reconcile his father and his aunt and it also creates more work, as he rushes from hospital bed to hospital bed. The accident, however, allows him to meet a young woman who seems to be able to help him. Almost despite himself, Bernard finds that he may find love – and family peace –through this strange new relationship.
The review of this Book prepared by A. A.