Bill Bush has a life story unlike any other All Black. A kina diver at primary school, a labourer at the Marsden Point refinery at 14, it took a promise of a Fanta and a pie to get him to play rugby, a sport he initially reckoned was too rough for him.

The reluctant warrior became a fearsome, revered All Black prop, and captained and coached the Māori All Blacks. His insights on rugby, and its place in New Zealand life, are unique.

The journey Bill takes readers on is not all about playing rugby but explains his whakapapa (lineage), his upbringing, his beliefs, and hopefully demonstrates that there are other ways to get on in life and to be successful. Bill offers some simple life lessons: don't get trapped into seeing the grass as being greener on the other side of the fence. Stand tall and proud alongside others; enjoy the simple things in life along with your successes, however small they may be. Embrace the things you enjoy as a valued New Zealander by focusing on simple goals with honesty, hard work, and determination.