Australian author Michael Kramer earned degrees in architecture and engineering, and is a Veteran of the Vietnam War, having served with the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) in the Vietnam War during 1968 and 1969, and has published nine books - FULL CIRCLE FOR MICK, FOR THE LOVE OF ARMIN, NOW WHAT?!! (and the version, ANGLO-SAXON INVASION), ARMINIUS AND THUSNELDA VERSUS ROME, A GRACIOUS ENEMY & AFTER THE WAR (2 volumes), A CASTLE OF DOOMSDAY, ISABELLA WARRIOR QUEEN, and now HIS FOREFATHERS AND MICK – historical fiction and historical realism closely based on fact and obvious sophisticated research.

Having read and enjoyed all of Michael Kramer’s books, it is with some assurance that this reader underlines the importance of his contribution to our understanding, appreciation, and respect for history. In this immensely successful book, he utilizes his illuminating scriptive gifts in tracing his family history thru three generations, intermingling biographical information with significant and pertinent world historical data that ranges from 19th century Germany to the spectrum of Chinese, African and Australian history all the way to current time. An example of how he enmeshes his research, enfolding global influences follows: ‘As the date moved ever closer to 1900, an alliance was formed between Britain, France, Germany, the United States of America, and others to help to control things in China because of the outbreak of the ‘Boxer Rebellion’ was causing much concern in London, Paris, Berlin, and Washington.’ The impact of World Wars I and II and the Vietnam War brings continuity to the family Kramer in a manner that makes history accessible while providing a dramatic example of the connective lines of heritage.

Always evident is Kramer’s humanism, carefully sharing the plights of indigenous people and Jews in a manner that few other historians achieve. The book shares photographs, both black and white and color that enhance credibility as well as providing entertainment. Once again Michael Kramer demonstrates his prowess for underscoring the impact of history. Very highly recommended. ( )

"His Forefathers and Mick" chronicles the suspenseful tale of the Kramer family spanning three turbulent generations. In the early 1900s, an adventurous German engineer named Friedrich Kramer transformed the railway and communication systems in Namibia and China, which unintentionally laid the groundwork for global espionage and conflict. This brings conflict to his personal life as well. Affected by the shadows and consequences of World War Two, his son Michael sets off for Australia in search of forgiveness and a fresh start, only to find himself facing his own Vietnam battlefield. While establishing their own paths in a world that never forgets, each generation struggles with their past.

This is a well-drafted, compelling story about finding out about self, aspirations, and the details of family history. The plots and characters will keep you engaged till the end. Although the start is moderately slow, but moving with the story, as more characters get introduced, the story finds its pace. This is my first read of the author, and I am captivated with the way of creating a competitive world. The readers will get a well-versed story with the lives of three generations in different situations. Get ready to get entertained in the world of real emotions. I liked this read and definitely recommend it. ( )

The book "His Forefathers and Mick" has been a chainbreaker for me. I have been engaged in sci-fi and thrillers for a very long time. But this book brought me back to reality. This book engages the readers in the story of three turbulent generations in the Kramer family. Laying the groundwork for global espionage and warfare, Friedrich Kramer, a German engineer, led a courageous revolution in railway and communication technology in China and Namibia during the early 1990s. Feeling the aftereffects of World War Two, his son, Michael, travels to Australia in search of solace in the form of forgiveness and a new start. But he finds himself engaged on the Vietnam battlefield. While establishing their own paths in a world that never forgets, each generation struggles with the remnants of the past. This is an engaging story about identity, ambition, and the impact of history and actions.

The author has successfully created a "close to reality" world with relatable events and impacts to create a stronger connection with the readers. The pace of the read is moderate and the series of events will keep you hooked till the end. The author has used the ability to draft a close comparison of different worlds with respect to different generations. The approach of writing is creative and engaging. I was engrossed in the version of thoughts of different generations. This brings the story close to real life and attracts reader's attention. ( )

I just finished reading "His Forefathers and Mick", a mesmerizing novel that spans three generations of the Kramer family. This book is a masterclass in storytelling, weaving a complex tapestry of ambition, identity, and the unyielding power of heritage.

The story begins with Friedrich Kramer, a brilliant German engineer who leaves an indelible mark on early 20th century China and Namibia through his innovative work in railway and communication technologies. Unbeknownst to him, his achievements set the stage for international espionage and warfare, casting a long shadow over his family's future.

Throughout the book, the author skillfully explores the intricate relationships between the Kramer men, each struggling to forge their own path in a world that refuses to forget. The writing is evocative, the characters are richly drawn, and the historical context is meticulously researched. ( )

His Forefathers and Mick by Michael G. Kramer is another incredible book centered around war. The best authors are those take write about what they know and have a passion for. Michael didn’t enjoy the Vietnam War, but living it and being a historical fanatic serves to his advantage.

Michael delicately opens his life and the lives of his ancestors up to his readers. He keeps it real and fascinating at the same time. His detail of facts and events paints a vivid picture of what it was like during the wars. Michael reveals the good, bad, and ugly of people, keeping this authentic.

I love reading about history. This book is classified as fiction since the conversations can’t all be verified, but the facts remain the same. It is always interesting to read about wars from someone who served in a different country. The author's view of the Vietnam War is slightly different than what I was taught about my country's involvement. Overall, I always enjoy reading books from Michael Kramer. ( )