This book has been written as a sequence of 'scenes' rather than a formal autobiography. Personal anecdotes and cultural experiences combine to give snapshots of everyday life in the mid-20th century, and insights into the struggles of adapting to life and work in the Middle East. Dr Bold, now 85, has been diagnosed with three unpleasant and life-threatening medical conditions in the past few years. Yet, overall, he considers himself to be a very lucky man. He lives life to the full, spending as much time as possible with family and friends, and indulging his passions for music, gardening and wine.