Gerroa author David Kerr is going ahead with the launch of his book, Wall of Tears: The Human Face of the Israel-Palestine Conflict, this Saturday at Kiama Library after COVID delayed the book’s original planned launch date last year.

Wall of Tears is David’s second book, and first novel.

Writer and former Illawarra Mercury editor, Nick Hartgerink, describes Wall of Tears as an extraordinary book.

“David has successfully straddled that most bitter of divides, the Israel-Palestine imbroglio, to create a novel of both warmth and wisdom,” he says.

“Told through the eyes of Uri, the son of a Holocaust survivor, Wall of Tears explores the creation of modern Israel at a human level, through the experiences of a Jewish family and their Arab neighbours.

"There is conflict, love, betrayal, loss and a shattering conclusion – essential elements of a compelling read.

"And through it all there is a sense that the author has a deep understanding of and respect for the history and complex issues that continue to rob Israelis and Palestinians of peaceful co-existence.”

Nick will interview David at the launch, which will also feature editor and publisher Tahlia Newland, and a visual presentation of people and places of the book.

The novel is based around a true story told to David by a friend when he visited the Western Wall in the Old City of Jerusalem - often referred to in the West as The Wailing Wall - in 2013.

“My friend gave me permission to use whatever information I chose to shape the novel, that blends the events in the lives of his countrymen and Palestinians,” says David.

“I was also privileged to meet many Palestinians who gave me their perspective on the situation."

David's first book, Out of Latvia, told the story of Peter Jirgens, the son of a Latvian immigrant searching for his roots.

Saturday, 17 July, Kiama Library, 2.30pm

Due to COVID restrictions, numbers are for the launch are limited so it is essential to register attendance through David – [email protected] or 0422 837 287