His Forefathers and Mick 2nd Edition

by Michael G. Kramer

"His forefathers and Mick", traces the riveting saga of the Kramer family across three tumultuous generations. Friedrich Kramer, an intrepid German engineer, revolutionises railway and communication technologies in early 20th century China and Namibia, unknowingly setting the stage for international espionage and warfare. His son, grappling with the shadows of World War Two, seeks redemption and a new start in Australia, only for his son, Michael to confront his own battlefield in Vietnam. Each generation wrestles with the legacies of the past, forging their paths in a world that refuses to forget. This is a gripping tale of ambition, identity, and the relentless pull of heritage.

Genres: Drama, Book Club, Novels, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Contemporary, Historical

334 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 5, 2024

About the author

Served Australian army, including war service in the Vietnam War in 1968 - 1969. Came home to public shunning of Vietnam Veterans and discrimination against Vietnam Veterans by potential employers. This resulted in the setting up of the first business, (contract fencing) because I could not get a job. In due course, I studied for Advanced Diploma of Egineering Technology, Associate Degree of Civil Engineering and I am now doing my Arts degree. It was during the study of the arts degree that I became interested in the history of Northern Europe and Germania during the times of Julius and Augustus Ceasar. This led to researching and writing of the second book entitled 'For the Love of Armin'. Currently studying Bachelor of Construction Management.

Reviews

[Danelle✍🏽 Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Forefathers and Mick: 2nd Edition by Michael Kramer is the intriguing autobiography of war veteran, Mick Kramer. Mick decided to choose writing as a means to combat his PTSD and has been a successful writer ever since, having published 6 books thus far. I enjoyed Mick’s relatable writing style; I felt as though Mick were an old friend I could trust in the most dangerous of situations. His character speaks volumes and one can’t help but admire his resilient nature and positive outlook on life despite his horrific experiences; it is truly astounding! I thoroughly enjoyed His Forefathers and Mick: 2nd Edition and highly recommend it to likewise veterans of war and those intrigued by what went on in the Vietnam War.

[Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

March 2025 update: The second version of this book is more refined and better than the first. The content is mostly the same, but it just reads a lot better. Definitely recommend this edition.

Reading 'His Forefathers and Mick' by Michael G. Kramer left me feeling reflective and deeply connected to the idea of legacy. This isn’t just a story about a family—it’s about the weight of the past and how it shapes who we are. I found myself thinking about my own family history, the choices my ancestors made, and how their lives ripple into my own. What struck me most was the emotional depth. The characters’ struggles felt so real, and their triumphs and failures reminded me of how messy and beautiful life can be. It made me appreciate the resilience it takes to carry forward, especially when history feels like both a burden and a gift. By the end, I felt both moved and inspired, like I had been given a lens to view my own journey a little differently. This book really stays with you.

[Swati Tanu · Rating 4 out of 5]

His Forefathers and Mick by Michael G. Kramer takes readers on an emotional journey through history, family stories, and the struggles of war veteran Mick Kramer. From the very beginning, it’s clear this book isn’t just about events, it’s about how the past influences who we are today.

The story beautifully combines Mick’s battle with PTSD, his healing process through writing, and the powerful legacy of his ancestors. Characters like Friedrich Kramer, a gifted engineer who worked in early 20th-century Namibia and China, bring history to life. Friedrich’s innovations in railways and communication add an exciting historical layer to Mick’s story of courage and recovery.

What makes this book special is how real and honest it feels. It’s not just about challenges but also about strength and resilience in the face of them.

You might like to check out more similar books here.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the book His Fore Fathers And Mick by Michael G Kramer The author is a writer who has a great grasp on war and is comfortable writing about battles in the heroes of such battles in this book the subject is much more personal as it starts with Frederick Fritz Kramer and then stationed in Africa during the colonization of that country a theme that will run through generations of his family. The story goes from the late 1800s until Mick himself joins the Australian army and find himself in south Vietnam I do think the part about Mick was my favorite part. It was interesting learning the jobs Mr. Kraimer Had in the things he learned while stationed in South Vietnam. I don’t like to read about battle scenes but do love the behind the scenes in political Zykeist during wars and before and after I think Mr. Kramer does a great job and has a talent for telling a complex story with a simple and classy tone. I also like the one about the second Fritz Kramer Bing in Vietnam long before Nick was even around. There were some really great parts in this book but be forewarned they have discussions about war in people using fire throwers which is one of my biggest fears and it made me cringe to read about those poor American soldiers. To level out the readers emotions we also get to see the loving side to his ancestors, I felt so bad for his greatgrandma Anna who lived in Africa pregnant with no air condition but I’m sure that was the least of her problems still my heart went out to her. This is a great book and a great testimony to the man in the authors family including himself who has fought for things they did it did not believe in but served proudly and kept the oath they gave just to make sure others were safe. This is a great book as I said in one I highly recommend I really enjoyed it and definitely recommend it I love all of those authors books and if I haven’t read all of them I am close to doing just that. Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.

[RedHouseBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like the title suggests, His Forefathers and Mick tells the journey of three generations of Kramer men, beginning in Germany. Partly fictionalized for commercial reasons, the triggering biography offers an intriguing and in-depth look into the brave and compassionate Friedrich Fritz Kramer’s life and background, and that of his two generations of offspring, Friedrich his son of the same name, and grandson, Mick Kramer, who is also the author of this story.

I was impressed with Mick's narrative style; it is perfect for a book of this kind. Usually a walk through history could mean a tedious and boring experience. However, His Forefathers and Mick is the complete opposite. Mick's engaging manner and entertaining dialogue guarantee readers an enjoyable trip back in time. If you're a fan of inspirational stories of brave and heroic men then His Forefathers and Mick is definitely the book for you.

[Mathering · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found His Forefathers and Mick to be an interesting historical fiction novel that spans three generations of the Kramer family. It starts with Friedrich Kramer, a German engineer who makes groundbreaking advancements in railway and communication technologies in early 20th-century China and Namibia. The advancements set the stage for international espionage and warfare.
Kramer's portrayal of historical events and the lives of his characters made this something of a page-turner for me. The book intertwines personal struggles with larger historical events and gets into the familial and technological developments of the time.
What I thought sets this novel apart is its ability to balance the intricacies of engineering advancements, which on their own wouldn’t’t be too much of a crowd pleaser, but with the human element of the Kramers' journey it all somehow came together. Each character is developed along with Friedrich's pursuit of progress, against the backdrop of global conflict and espionage.
I think fans of historical fiction will be into this book. Michael Kramer’s storytelling ensures that His Forefathers and Mick is not only informative but also pretty moving. Five stars from me.

[Theo · Rating 4 out of 5]

His Forefathers and Mick by Michael G. Kramer takes the reader through three generations of a family trying to navigate the consequences of war, ambition, and heritage. Whether it’s Friedrich’s technological achievements or Mick’s post-Vietnam war experiences, they both come back to being haunted by the past.
Certain sections of the story did feel slightly rushed, especially when transitioning between historical periods, so a bit more breathing room could have made those moments more impactful. Even so, this was still a great read. The author manages to capture the emotional depth of each character, whilst still keeping accurate historical detail. I enjoyed how normal and humanised the author managed to make big historical moments, as I got to experience them through the eyes of one family and how it affected them.
This story has a strong emotional core and a really gripping plot. It made me reflect on how much of ourselves is shaped by the people that came before us.

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

A significant man’s family heritage and an extraordinary volume of history!

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, in an edited 2nd Edition, adding further information about Friedrich (Fritz) Kramer – 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 great 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 through 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

[Soochi Sandhiya · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is the second edition of the same title. This book by Michael G. Kramer offers a sentimental installment involving a balanced blend of history, family legacy, and the personal struggles of a war veteran "Mick Kramer". Right from the starting, the storyline goes beyond recounting events, delving into how the past shapes our charcaters today.
The narrative weaves Mick’s journey of coping with PTSD and seeking healing through writing remarkable stories of his ancestors as an escape. Another poignant character, Friedrich Kramer, a talented engineer working in early 20th-century Namibia and China, adds a rich historical dimension to this storyline. The book highlight challenges and celebrates the strength and perseverance needed to overcome them, making it a truly inspiring read. The read is slow at the begining but takes up it pace to engage with the readers. Although the read is different from a common soft read but its diversity and story building makes it more popular among readers. I am looking forward to read more like this.

[Pegboard · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Forefathers and Mick, 2nd Edition, by Michael G. Kramer, is an extraordinary exploration of war that captivates and informs. The best authors are those who draw from their own experiences and passions. Michael, though he didn’t enjoy the Vietnam War, offers invaluable insights from living it, complemented by his extensive historical enthusiasm.

In this book, Michael masterfully shares his life story and the legacies of his ancestors, engaging readers with both authenticity and fascination. His meticulous attention to detail creates a striking portrayal of wartime experiences, revealing the full spectrum of human nature—the good, the bad, and the ugly—while keeping the narrative genuine.

As a history lover, I find this book particularly compelling. It's refreshing to read about wars from the perspective of someone who served in a different country. Michael’s view on the Vietnam War challenges and expands my understanding beyond the lessons I learned about my nation's role.

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting historical fiction, based on true events. It can be a bit dry, and reads more like a family biography than anything else. Spanning over a century, various continents, countries, and multiple generations, this follows the Kramer family and their adventures. Kramer does an excellent job of weaving his family’s actual historical journey in with some fictional elements, without losing the integrity of the real historical events. I felt like I truly got to know those who appeared in this volume, and I learned quite a bit that wasn’t covered much in my own history classes. I applaud Kramer for taking the time to compile his family history and share it with the world, in a way that is much more interesting than your standard history book. If you enjoy historical fiction that gives factual events a more personal touch, then you need to grab this one!

[Winibrop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alright, so picking up His Forefathers and Mick was like sitting down for a drink with someone’s wry uncle—half the time I was laughing, the other half I was weirdly emotional over people I’ve never met.
I liked that Kramer doesn’t polish the stories of his family into something neat. Enjoyed a lot of the themes around how we carry pieces of our parents and grandparents even when we swear we won’t. It’s messy, it’s loyal, it’s occasionally a little brutal—felt that in my chest more than once.
What surprised me most was how often I caught myself nodding, even though my own family looks nothing like his Bronx clan. I guess hard-earned affection and generational weirdness hit universal buttons.
Closed the last page feeling like I’d been handed someone else’s heirloom, a little battered, kind of shining. Glad I spent time with it.

[Grymm Gevierre · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Kramer's books and have read the first edition of this. The content is similar, so the review is the same, but I wanted to ensure his new version got the attention it deserves. This is a great author who cares deeply about his work, and a ton of research goes into his books. He's updated this book and gave it a great facelift from the first edition. Give his book a look!

From the first edition:

Kramer has been outstanding with his work in historical fiction. His seamless weaving of fact into storytelling really puts the reader in the period he’s writing about. This book is unique in the Kramer section of the bookshelf in that it contains pieces of struggle and self through generations in ways that stand out. He really poured himself into these pages.


The fact that Kramers (all the generations here) are written honestly without shying away from difficult elements gives the book a level of authenticity that other authors struggle to match. It was like a snapshot into another time; the conversations were a fantastic added element. I have said this a lot when reading a Kramer book, but if you love historical fiction, you need to check this out!

[Julie Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Forefathers and Mick 2nd Edition – Michael Kramer
What I appreciate in this version is reading more about the elder generation and the things they had to go through and the locations of where.
He was determined to be a real star and advance quickly. He knew what it took and did it.
The parts I liked best wehre the strategies and meneuvers of the skirmishes over the years.
Great book, entertaining and interesting, keeps you cativated through the generations of the family fighting the wars for our country.
Very descriptive details, this would make a great movie.

[Carrieax · Rating 5 out of 5]

Right from the beginning of reading His Forefathers and Mick I was hooked. Michael G. Kramer does a fantastic job of blending history with his family connections. The storyline delves into the past and how Mick coped on his journey after the war, with issues such as PTSD and healing. He goes on the
journey across centuries, multiple generations, and the events these entail to shape today. Kramer put in facts and he took his time to ensure it was an
interesting historical read. It made me appreciate what our ancestors went
through. Definitely worth the read.

[Libertyread · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve always been a fan of historical fiction books so once I got wind of the author Kramer, I felt I had to give His Forefathers and Mick a go. And I’m very glad that I did. I could tell the author put in a lot of thought and effort doing research to make sure everything was correctly written. He goes through a few generations of life and tells the story of what they went through and how they coped. His character is well presented, relatable, and positive no matter what he’s been through his outlook on life is what gave me a better look on life. For me I highly recommend this book.

[Zacharri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Right from the beginning of reading His Forefathers and Mick I was hooked. Michael G. Kramer does a fantastic job of blending history with his family connections. The storyline delves into the past and how Mick coped on his journey after the war, with issues such as PTSD and healing. He goes on the
journey across centuries, multiple generations and the events these entail to shape today. Kramer put in facts and he took his time to ensure it was an interesting historical read. It made me appreciate what our ancestors went through. Definitely worth the read.

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Second Edition of His Forefathers and Mick is a moving book. His way of writing brings to life the family's legacy. A lovely sentimental addition added in this edition. Both books of the same name are great reads. This historical generational book is a little slow at first but rightfully so to bring the journey just as needed. Great book.

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[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Family heritage impact and an extraordinary volume of history!

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

[Rajnish Kumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

"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 compative 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.

[Swati Tanu · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

You might like to check out more similar books here.

[Pegboard · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.  

[Soochi Sandhiya · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book "His Forefathers and Mick" has been a chain-breaker 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.

[Snowboyz · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Forefathers and Mick by Michael G. Kramer spans three generations of a family, each man struggling with his own sense of identity. Friedrich felt like a man trying to build something meaningful in a world that tore things apart, his son brings a sense of redemption to the story, but it was Mick (the youngest) who grapples with the physical and emotional scars of Vietnam, that resonated with me the most.
I liked how the book didn’t just focus on war and historical events, but also explored the emotional consequences of these moments, and how those traumas can be passed down if not dealt with in a healthy way. I also appreciated the portrayal of the mental toll that war takes on these characters, an issue that’s often overlooked in similar stories.
If you enjoy historical fiction that delves into personal and political legacies, this is a book that will make you think long after you’ve finished it. The family dynamics, particularly between fathers and sons, left me feeling contemplative about my own familial relationships. I look forward to reading more of this author’s writing.

[GrantedBooks Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished reading Michael G. Kramer's "His Forefathers and Mick: 2nd Edition,"
and safe to say I was moved by the story. It’s about the Kramer family, so to start
with Friedrich Kramer, his son, also named Friedrich, he’s looking to start a fresh
in Australia after the World War II, only for his own son, Michael, to face the
harrowing realities of the Vietnam War.
The way Kramer writes this tale, was brilliant he brought it to life the words, detail,
descriptions of his life and struggles, it made me feel so connected and had me
turning those pages. It’s so relatable and shows that everyone has struggles and
he was telling us about his struggle with PTSD, and how he overcame it. It made
me reflect on my own life and what people went through for our life now.
I definitely say to read this book you won’t regret it!

[Grymm Gevierre · Rating 5 out of 5]

    Kramer has been outstanding with his work in historical fiction. His seamless weaving of fact into storytelling really puts the reader in the period he’s writing about. This book is unique in the Kramer section of the bookshelf in that it contains pieces of struggle and self through generations in ways that stand out. He really poured himself into these pages.


The fact that Kramers (all the generations here) are written honestly without shying away from difficult elements gives the book a level of authenticity that other authors struggle to match. It was like a snapshot into another time; the conversations were a fantastic added element. I have said this a lot when reading a Kramer book, but if you love historical fiction, you need to check this out!

[Julie Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Forefathers and Mick by Michael Kramer
Enjoyed this book about a family of sons who went to war over generations.
I had never heard the stories located in Africa and other countries. The strategy moves were interesting, just wait and have them come to us and how they actually worked.
The perspective was a bit different than other war books I've read. Different angle and openness of when first arriving at the country. Vietnam was an eye opener, only read about foxhole rats who scurried along the underground trails to get to other locations, all the while watching for booby traps.
Wasn't bloody and gory but more about the feelings and why things happened the way they did.
Received this review copy from the publisher and this is my honest opinion.

[JaniceJo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading 'His Forefathers and Mick' by Michael G. Kramer left me feeling reflective and deeply connected to the idea of legacy. This isn’t just a story about a family—it’s about the weight of the past and how it shapes who we are. I found myself thinking about my own family history, the choices my ancestors made, and how their lives ripple into my own. What struck me most was the emotional depth. The characters’ struggles felt so real, and their triumphs and failures reminded me of how messy and beautiful life can be. It made me appreciate the resilience it takes to carry forward, especially when history feels like both a burden and a gift. By the end, I felt both moved and inspired, like I had been given a lens to view my own journey a little differently. This book really stays with you.

[Doug Langmead · Rating 2 out of 5]

An interesting story spoiled by far too many exclamation marks, wooden, plus repetitious and contrived conversations purporting to be transcripts.

"See to it that your men are ready and have sufficient water, rations, ammunition and everything that they may need !" pops up prior to nearly every military engagement.

The book is riddled with grammatical and spelling errors ("anchours", "Malcomb Fraser") that could easily have been eliminated with a simple spell-check.

A good editor would have been a huge benefit.