JAAK

(Paperback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

JAAK is a telling of the memories of a young boy, Jack Vander Waal,
who lived through the World War II German conquest and occupation of Holland.
The book reflects upon a country under duress yet speaks well to experiences one
might expect of an adventurous lad and his friends living in a small Dutch village.
Through Nazi German soldiers were everywhere, including occupying his
home, Jack and his friends went undeterred in their quest to observe the war
activities, search for war souvenirs and just being boys.
Jacks story is one of the hardships of war but also an understanding that his
experiences were on a far different level than the horror faced by those who lived in
the cities. The author not only relates of his memories of war but of Dutch life in
general. He also tells of Dutch foods, customs, family life, school days and history.
Finally, and vividly recalled, is the aftermath of war and the need to for his
family to ultimately migrate to America. JAAK could tear at your heart in some
areas but is also found to be heart warming as might be one's own childhood
memories.
This book is printed in large 8.5 x 11 format and contains 175 photos with many in
color, giving life to the narrative.

Author Bio

Jack Vander Waal, at 86 years old, is a novice writer who is a world traveler
with many life experiences to share. As owner of an aircraft parts
manufacturing plant, since retired, Jack wrote numerous business related
materials yet always had the desire to write about something personal. He
started with a journal titled 'The Flying Dutchman'. So named because Jack is
Dutch and after retiring he built himself a jet helicopter, followed with a
purchase of a light seaplane for which he trained to secure a sport pilot license.
That first book was published in limited quantity for his family and large circle
of friends. The Flying Dutchman was met with such enthusiasm it became the
impetus to go forward.
The first edition of JAAK provided insight into life under the German
occupation of Holland during WW II. This updated version has been revised
to add more attention to Dutch life in general and history.
Mr. Vander Waal is now engaged in writing two other books. He is following
up on JAAK with 'Coming to America', a compelling tale of a hard tackle
immigrant family that worked their way to become successful US citizens.
Being an avid yachtsman Jack is telling in 'Four Boats' about four men who
built large yachts in their backyards. The first segment being about a 50' power
cruiser Jack built. The other three are of friends who likewise built some
magnificent boats, one of which spent years sailing the South Pacific.
Most certainly. Mr. Vander Waal demonstrates the quality of life to had after
retirement.