David Day has written a biography of one of Australia's best remembered leaders. He explores not only the political persona but also the man in this intriguing book. He looks at the demons and weaknesses that drove and shaped the man, that also through Curtin, shaped modern Australia. John Curtin was the Labor Prime Minister from 1941 - 45. It was during these turbulent times of history that Curtin decided to look no longer to Britain for assistance but to turn instead to America. It was decisions like this that has shaped Australian policy and even reflects current foreign policy. It makes this biography relevant, even in the modern political climate.