A Fortunate Life
A Fortunate Life is an autobiography by Albert Facey published in 1981, nine months before his death. It chronicles his early life in Western Australia, his experiences as a private during the Gallipoli campaign of World War I and his return to civilian life after the war. It also documents his extraordinary life of hardship, loss, friendship and love.
| Author | A.B. Facey |
|---|---|
| Cover artist | Robert Juniper |
| Country | Australia |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Autobiographical, Drama |
| Published | 1981 (Puffin, Hardcover Viking, Penguin Books Australia, Ltd.) |
| Media type | Print (Hardback & Paperback) |
| ISBN | 0670807060 |
During the initial days of its publication, Albert Facey became a nationwide celebrity. Notwithstanding the interest in it, Facey considered his life to be simple and "had no idea what all the fuss was about". When asked in an interview, where the name of the book originated, he replied, "I called it 'A Fortunate Life' because I truly believe that is what I had".
It has become a classic piece of Australian literature and is one of Australia's most beloved books. As of 2020 it has, since its publication in 1981, sold over one million copies, becoming a primary account of the Australian experience during World War I. It is also featured in many Australian primary and secondary schools as a recommended book for young adults.