"A fascinating series of insights into a remarkable life. There is something for everyone, be they interested in medicine, music, military affairs, archaeology or simply human nature making the most of every opportunity while overcoming difficulties and d

"This delightful book opens the door on the life of a remarkably talented and versatile man who has developed, embellished and shared these talents with many in Hong Kong and elsewhere." --Robin Hutcheon, former editor of South China Morning Post

"This book makes most enjoyable reading. Dr Bard's life is indeed uncommon--full of adventure and rich in experience and humanity. He is a gifted narrator descriptions of early years in Russia and Shanghai are fascinating; the fall of Hong Kong and the pri

Dr Solomon Matthew Bard was born in Russia, but lived most of his working life in Hong Kong. He studied music but, setting it aside as a career, graduated in medicine from the University of Hong Kong in 1939. During the Second World War he served in the Hong Kong Volunteers Field Ambulance Unit and when Hong Kong fell was imprisoned by the Japanese. After the war he was director of the Student Health Service at HKU, then from 1976 to 1983 executive officer of the Antiquities and Monuments Office. He occasionally conducted the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra and was the full-time assistant music director of the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra from 1983 to 1987.