A Memior by
Danny McFadden
Danny went from sleeping in parks, a hopeless drunk, to becoming an internationally respected lawyer working for the UN in New York and across borders in Beijing and beyond. He shares his at times surreal odyssey journey through the swinging 60s, a whirlwind of experimental drugs and rock ‘n’ roll.
He recounts his long spiral to the edge of self-destruction until he wakes up in hospital, a trembling wreck fighting for his survival. Wilder Shores is a fiercely honest and sometimes hilarious reflection of the dizzying rollercoaster of emotions which swept him through addiction, recovery and redemption
About
Danny McFadden
Since the events shared in this book Danny has pursued a wide ranging international career. After becoming dually qualified as a lawyer both in Australia and the UK, Danny has acted worldwide as an expert trainer in dispute resolution for CEDR and organizations such as the EU, ADB, CCPIT (Beijing), HKMAAL (Hong Kong). In 2009 he was appointed acting Director of Mediation at the United Nations in New York. He is currently Regional Mediator in Asia for the World Bank Group and IMF. A fluent Mandarin speaker, in 2023 in recognition of his decades of work in China the Chinese Supreme Court appointed him as an Expert in Mediation.
He loves having fun with granddaughters, planting trees and listening to music. Danny spends his time between Hong Kong, Australia and Ireland.
What readers are saying about Wildershores
“Riveting true story of adventure and pursuit of meaning with a rock ‘n' roll spirit"
Brittany Collins Best Selling Author of Strays, a Lost Cat and their Journey across America
McFadden’s journey is an amazing one, from seriously down-and-out, to delivering speeches in fluent Mandarin in China and working at the United Nations. It should give hope to anyone who feels lost or that their life is going nowhere.
Susan Coleman Author of Women, Negotiation and Power USA
“Will inspire others to overcome their personal demons."
Dr James S P Chiu. Specialist in General Surgery. University of Hong Kong.
A candid and uplifting memoir capturing the intimate details of life growing up in a world of addiction and loneliness, of connections between unlikely friends, of triumph, of hope - told with warmth, emotional acuity, compassion and inspiration.
Khurshid Bhimani New York USA
“A roller coaster ride from jaw dropping revelations to laugh out loud moments"
Danny literally bares it all with naked vulnerability and courage. This incredible journey, filled with shocking twists and turns, is cleverly woven into a delightful narrative that is captivating from start to finish – I could not put it down!
Tracey Fox
It's a life well-lived, full of exciting adventures, unbelievable trials, and wonderfully triumphant. There are so many life lessons to gain from it. There is always hope and redemption for all of us and this author’s life has courageously proven it.
Meggy Savady Washington DC.
A fascinating and uplifting account of his journey from drifting addiction to to personal and professional success and fulfilment. McFadden stitches together the tapestry of his chaotic life in 60's and 70's London and Europe with his awakening and growth from the 1980's onward in Australia and China effortlessly. A feel good read for anyone wanting the inspiration gained from the fragility but also the determination of the human spirit.
Peter Bailey Bristol UK
This book is a wonderful tale of descent into the ravages of the disease of alcoholism –including periods of immense excitement and wildly eccentric characters – but reaches a dramatic turning point, the chapter fittingly titled End of the Line.
John M Donegal Ireland
Danny McFadden’s memoir lays out how the vicissitudes of life offered him the opportunity to experience life at its fullest.
Danny traversed so many worlds and openly shares intimate parts of it. He cherished many of the people he encountered along the way and appreciated the kindness of strangers. One could venture to say; perhaps he didn’t have too much to lose at earlier points in his life. Danny guides the reader through each chapter, wondering what could possibly happen next?
Toyo Linda Obayashi USA
The book captures and holds the reader's attention from the beginning. The authenticity, descriptions, vivid characters, and the characters' vulnerability and strength are all compelling.
Aparna Mukerjee Chennai India
With Danny McFadden the truth is more incredible than fiction, with some amazing highs and lows and adventures in between. A common theme in this book for me is that despite the challenges, misfortunes or even poor choices, Danny ultimately uses a combination of his intelligence, ingenuity and tenacity in different situations to try to make life better.
Andy Rogers London UK
Connect with Danny McFadden
danny@wilder-shores.com