When Aboriginal Australian Shauna Bostock - a Bundjalung woman - began her research into her ancestral history, she didn't expect to discover she comeWhen Aboriginal Australian Shauna Bostock - a Bundjalung woman - began her research into her ancestral history, she didn't expect to discover she comes from slave traders who operated out of Africa. Robert Bostock Jnr was eventually convicted of slave trading, which had become illegal, and was transported to Sydney, Australia, in 1815, where he became a wealthy landowner. Robert Jnr's grandson, Augustus John, married Aboriginal woman One My (also known as Clara Wolumbin) and they were Shauna's great-great-grandparents.
Her research uncovered the Aboriginal Protection Board (which was anything but!) and she learned about the forced removal of children, of parents begging for help after they'd been put into reserves. During her research, Shauna, a former primary school teacher, gained a PhD in Aboriginal history, and she was helped along the way by many - Professor Peter Read AM, ANU (Australian National University); Professor Ann McGrath AM, ANU; Dr Jackie Huggins AM, historian & author.
Shauna is 58 years of age now, and the very readable Reaching Through Time totally engaged me. The photo on the front cover is of Mary Ann of Ulmarra, Shauna's great-great-grandfather's sister, which was taken by John William Lindt. The decoration of a dingo tail on her head, and the snakebone necklace were meant for men only, and it was theorized that Mary Ann looked unhappy because the photographer made her wear them. Uncle Lewis, a Wahlubal-Bundjalung man, was angry when sighting the picture, and said "They shouldn't have dressed her up like that."
Professor Ann McGrath AM said "Visual and visceral, this book will rumble the ground of what constitutes family history, if not what connects us, the Australian people as a whole." Highly recommended reading.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Brenda Simon was two years old in 1973 when she and her siblings were taken from their mum and dad by the Aboriginal Welfare Committee. After being plBrenda Simon was two years old in 1973 when she and her siblings were taken from their mum and dad by the Aboriginal Welfare Committee. After being placed in a home for children, the girls and boys were separated. Then a few months later Brenda was taken to a white family. She was happy with her mum Connie, and dad Mac, also her little sister Rebecca. Because Brenda was so young she didn't remember her Aboriginal family. The love her white family showered her with made her happy, but when she was seven, the Welfare demanded she be returned to her Aboriginal family. Confusion, sadness and despair filled the heart of a young Brenda - her other siblings had been returned also, although she didn't remember them. She was the last daughter to be returned.
Forty years later, Brenda was a mother and grandmother - she also felt something was missing from her life. Could she find the white family she barely remembered?
The Last Daughter is a heartbreaking memoir by a woman who was one of Australia's Stolen Generation. Brenda Matthews' trauma and heartache is there on the pages for all to see. There has also been a documentary made of Brenda's story. The terrible shame of what the Government did all those years ago is one all Australians are aware of - Brenda's story puts a face to the crime. Recommended reading.
With thanks to Text Publishing for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Wylah was taking over the teaching from her grandmother, the Koorie warrior, and was in the caves with the children, mixing ochre for the art lessons.Wylah was taking over the teaching from her grandmother, the Koorie warrior, and was in the caves with the children, mixing ochre for the art lessons. When the children decided throwing the ochre at each other was better than lessons, Wylah decided to introduce them to her animal friends, with a ride on the kangaroo. But when it was realized Po was missing, she left the children with her grandma and headed back to the caves. The suddenness of the falling rocks, blocking the entrance, meant Po and Wylah were trapped and when one of her pets dug them out, the world as she’d known it was changed.
Dragons had stolen her family, stolen all the village people and only her grandmother, lying on the ground, had been left behind. Wylah had to find her courage deep within to become the Koorie Warrior she needed to be, and it meant searching for the five Guardians so they could defeat the dragons and return the people to their land. But would she be able to do it? Her animal friends would all help…
Guardians is the first in the Wylah the Koorie Warrior series by Aussie author Jordan Gould and illustrated by Richard Pritchard. Inspired by First Nations history, this imaginative journey is grounded in culture and will be an informative and fun adventure for children aged 8-14 years. Book two will be coming soon, and I look forward to continuing Wylah’s adventure, along with her furry, feathered and scaley friends. Recommended.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review. ...more
Darnmoor – The Gateway to Happiness – where at the nearby Campground beside the Mangamanga River lived the Billymil family. Three generations of that Darnmoor – The Gateway to Happiness – where at the nearby Campground beside the Mangamanga River lived the Billymil family. Three generations of that family, part of the Yuwaalaraay people – Margaret, Celie and Mili – living through the racism, violence and prejudices from Darnmoor’s white population. Margaret had worked for a long time at the local hospital, washing the linens and working hard. When she was unexpectedly put off, it was at the same time as Celie’s husband died and she birthed Mili. Worry, stress and grief surrounded the family while progress moved forward creating change; but some things remained the same…
Song of the Crocodile is the debut novel by Aussie author Nardi Simpson, and it is lyrical, poignant and mystical, while filled with the horrors of racism and prejudice which the Aboriginal people continue to suffer from. The chapters where the ancestral spirits, along with the spirits of the recently deceased – where the song of the crocodile was sung, gently and with love – were profound. With an eye-catching cover and an important message to its readers, Song of the Crocodile is to be recommended.
With thanks to Hachette AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review. ...more
It was 1830 and thirty-two-year-old Eliza Grayling was at the markets when she was aware of being watched. The man followed her until she confronted hIt was 1830 and thirty-two-year-old Eliza Grayling was at the markets when she was aware of being watched. The man followed her until she confronted him and learned he was Srinivas, who had known her father in days gone by. Former Lieutenant Joshua Grayling was now reclusive and blind, and Eliza cared for him. What Srinivas wanted was something Eliza would not encourage. But before much time had passed, Eliza joined Joshua – as his carer and his eyes – on the Moonbird in search of a missing vessel. The Bass Strait was a dangerous stretch of sea for a voyage and one such as this was bound to have a bad outcome…
The Burning Island is the 2nd in the Grayling trilogy and follows on from Preservation – 33 years from the end of that novel. Eliza has lived in Sydney her whole life and she’s an independent spinster who cares for her father. The vastness of the ocean around Bass Strait; the journey they took to find the missing ship and her cargo; her father’s obsession – all narrated in Eliza’s voice, told a moving, descriptive story. Part fact, part fiction by Australian author Jock Serong, The Burning Island is to be recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Text Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
1885 and the Queensland outback was in the grips of a terrible drought. Tommy McBride, fourteen years of age, and his older brother, sixteen-year-old 1885 and the Queensland outback was in the grips of a terrible drought. Tommy McBride, fourteen years of age, and his older brother, sixteen-year-old Billy helped their father with the cattle mustering and other chores around their property, whilst their young sister, eleven-year-old Mary helped their mother in the farmhouse. The drought was causing their cattle to lose condition; the water had almost dried up and the feed was nonexistent. When the small town nearby refused them credit for basic necessities, the situation became dire.
The day Tommy and Billy ventured to the distant waterhole after some rain, swimming and sky larking the hours away, then sleeping in the sun before heading home was the day their lives changed forever. The shocking discovery the boys made on their return had them heading to their nearest neighbour, the much despised John Sullivan, for help. With Inspector Noone of the Queensland Native Police in charge, the boys joined Sullivan and the men in their search for justice…
Only Killers and Thieves is the debut novel by Aussie author Paul Howarth and it was brutal, violent and cruel. The harsh terrain plus the treatment of the native tribes (Australia’s Aboriginals) who inhabited the area was stark and savage. The story is well told; I found it hard to put down even with the content. Based on historical fact, the majority of the story is fictitious – but the knowledge that this kind of thing happened is shocking. Those two boys – Tommy and Billy – had to grow up quickly. Highly recommended. ...more
Irishman Garrett Cotter was only nineteen years old in 1822 when he was caught with a group of “Whiteboy” rebels (so called because of the white shirtIrishman Garrett Cotter was only nineteen years old in 1822 when he was caught with a group of “Whiteboy” rebels (so called because of the white shirts they all wore when protesting) and although initially sentenced to hanging, it was changed to transportation to New South Wales for the duration of his natural life. His journey with other male prisoners on the “Mangles” was long and arduous, but because of a kindly doctor who oversaw the men, they were reasonably healthy on their arrival in Sydney Cove.
After a period of a few years with a farmer near Parramatta, Cotter was then moved to new land on Weereewa (Lake George) where the land was lush with plenty of feed for the cattle. It was there that Cotter proved himself a hard worker and a dab hand with animals, especially horses. And it was also where he had his first encounter with the Aboriginal leader Onyong. Cotter and Onyong formed an alliance – at first uneasy – that would last many, many years, with Onyong helping Cotter find fertile land for cattle; their friendship meant he also met Onyong’s family and learned many Aboriginal ways.
Cotter received his ticket of leave, which was then revoked after an incident. His days with the darkness inside fortunately were less than the contented and happy days. His life wasn’t easy, but he was a well respected and liked man – by most. His use of land which Onyong referred to as “my country” was a privilege that Cotter appreciated; the men who didn’t understand the Aboriginal people were many and it saddened Cotter.
Cotter by Aussie author Richard Begbie is outstanding – up there with my favourite books for 2019. Although a fictional recounting, it’s heavily based on fact and with the Cotter Dam and Cotter River in Canberra, and many places mentioned in the book – Queanbeyan, Murrumbidgee River (the lifeblood of the country), Yass, Goulburn and many others – it felt familiar and was easy to visualize. The harshness of those early days in the colony was well told; the hatred by some whites of the Aboriginals; the exploitation and betrayal by many – Cotter was a likeable Irishman, smart and compassionate (he loved his dog Jimmy), and Cotter is a book well worth reading. And I wouldn’t have found it, let alone read it, if I hadn’t needed one for a challenge, which was set in Australia’s capital. A great win for me! Highly recommended....more
Charlie Campbell, famous and well-loved musician, Gwini man, uncle and carer of his sister’s two girls, Jill and Pearl, devoted member of the Mad4.5★s
Charlie Campbell, famous and well-loved musician, Gwini man, uncle and carer of his sister’s two girls, Jill and Pearl, devoted member of the Madjinbarra community where he’d been brought up – and the man who’d broken Beth Paterson’s heart seventeen years prior. With Beth’s dream of becoming a doctor fulfilled, she now owned her own clinic in Mount Clair and was a popular GP who devoted her time to the community, including her once a month visits to Madjinbarra. But the shock she received when she realized Charlie was in town brought their time together back with a vengeance; she knew she still cared.
Beth knew she and Charlie would be thrown together as he was home to help negotiate with mine conglomerate Gargantua. They wanted to open a new mine beside the Madjinbarra community, and the elders and Charlie knew that was a recipe for disaster. Beth was deeply involved and doing all she could as well. With the pressures of her full-time job, plus helping at the hospital when required, the five hour drive to and from the community and keeping in touch with her sisters, Willow and Free plus her Dad, Beth was exhausted. But she wouldn’t have it any other way. But could she stay immune to Charlie?
Love Song is the 3rd and final in the Daughters of the Outback trilogy by Aussie author Sasha Wasley and it was a delightful read. Heartfelt and emotional, the connection with music was special. I found Jill and Pearl’s characters to be exceptional, while Beth’s empathy shone through. The author writes in a way that makes everything real; the setting in outback Western Australia is perfect. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Penguin Random House AU for my copy to read in exchange for an honest review. ...more
Aimee McCartney's decision to leave her home in Perth for the mining town of Kalgoorlie wasn't made easily, but she was looking forward to the ch4.5★s
Aimee McCartney's decision to leave her home in Perth for the mining town of Kalgoorlie wasn't made easily, but she was looking forward to the change. A social worker, Aimee's new job felt right - her work-mates were friendly and welcoming, especially Lori, who seemed constantly full of life. As Aimee learned the ropes in the small town, she felt constant empathy toward the people she met. Her meeting with Paul, Kerry and Amber Steele as their support person taught her strength - the friendship between the family and Aimee grew.
The close knit community included Aggie, a reader of tea leaves. Aggie had lost her husband Frank some years previously, but was loved by all. When a problem with the mines reared its ugly head, the townsfolk banded together. But Aimee found herself dwelling too much in the past and the secrets she held. Could she release the hurt without hurting others?
The Secrets We Keep by Aussie author Shirley Patton is a gentle story of heartache, hope, respect and forgiveness. Set in Western Australia in the harshness of the desert of 1986, it shows the plight of the Aboriginals, the struggles of the miners and their families, and the simple caring of friends. The Secrets We Keep was a thoroughly enjoyable read and different from anything I've read in awhile. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read and review. ...more
Jacky was terrified but determined not to be caught again. The Settlers were brutal with anyone caught running away – they were brutal anyway. At bestJacky was terrified but determined not to be caught again. The Settlers were brutal with anyone caught running away – they were brutal anyway. At best, he’d be thrown in jail, and worst, a bullet in the back. But he was so hungry; he could find water, brackish though it might be – but finding food without a weapon was nigh on impossible. Stealing was his only option, but with stealing came immense danger.
Sister Bagra, Mother Superior of the mission, was charged with educating the Native children to become servants. She was a woman who never smiled; fought to control her anger and disciplined at the slightest fault. The children’s fear in her presence was palpable.
Esperance lived in an isolated camp with her mob; her Grandfather one of the elders. Never having enough water – it hadn’t rained in at least two years – and always desperate for food, the humans struggled from one day to the next. But they were always wary of the Settlers and needed to move camp more and more often.
Sergeant Rohan was on the hunt for Jacky – his frustration and anger at Jacky’s constant evasion of Rohan and the troopers had him swearing he would catch him if it was the last thing he did. The Natives were getting restless – if Jacky could escape there was a big chance others would try as well…
Terra Nullius by Aussie author Claire G. Coleman is an intriguing look into Australia’s distant future – a fully fictionalised future – where hope is lost for the Indigenous people after the invasion of the Settlers and their ilk. Set in a stark and desolate Western Australia, the main habitation is located where Perth once was. A completely mind-blowing debut novel from an author who was the Winner of the black&write! Fellowship in 2016. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Hachette Australia for my ARC to read and review. ...more
With his father sentenced to seven years hard labour in the colonies, eight-year-old Richard was granted his father’s request that he sail with him, aWith his father sentenced to seven years hard labour in the colonies, eight-year-old Richard was granted his father’s request that he sail with him, as his mother was dead. The journey at sea was long, but Richard made friends with two free settlers, Alexander and Robert, learning his letters along the way. His father was chained below deck with the other prisoners, rarely seeing sunlight.
Their arrival in Botany Bay was the beginning of a new life, but the chain gang was brutal for Richard’s father. In the meantime, roaming the streets with the other street kids became the norm and he learned much. When Richard’s father was pardoned and once again picked up his craft – that of a butcher, supplying meat to the colony - they were sure their futures were bright. Their supplies were the wild cattle roaming the bush; Richard’s job was to drive them in for slaughter. But corruption was rife throughout the colony, and when both he and his father were thrown into jail on a trumped-up charge of cattle theft, then Richard was sentenced to hang, he knew he had to escape…
Would Richard survive in the dense and inhospitable Australian outback? He was determined not to return to the colony as it would mean death – but was death waiting for him in the wilderness?
Framed! by Aussie author M.E. Skeel (Margaret) is a young adult historical novel. It’s a fascinating look at ancient Aboriginal cultures; some groups’ acceptance of a white man; others’ hatred of them and also shows Richard’s coming of age; the frightening struggles he had and his hopes for the future. Though written in a simplistic manner, and also needing minor editing, it was a quick read which I enjoyed. Recommended....more
When Aboriginal Trooper Lewis Dunbar heard the news that their loyal, battle weary partners in war – their beloved horses – were to remain behind whenWhen Aboriginal Trooper Lewis Dunbar heard the news that their loyal, battle weary partners in war – their beloved horses – were to remain behind when the Australian Lighthorse troops returned home after two years fighting in the Sinai desert, he was shattered. He’d raised Spade from a foal back home in outback Queensland; they were best friends, never separated. And it wasn’t going to happen now. He was prepared to desert the army and escape with Spade – they would find a new life together.
But his plans were foiled when the army’s prisoner - a young mute Bedouin girl – escaped in the dead of night by stealing Spade. Lewis saw her go and immediately began tracking Spade through the vast desert on foot. During his journey he called on his Dreamtime spirits to keep him safe; his avoidance of the army trailing him was second nature – but would he be able to catch up to Spade and the girl?
A'isha missed her family desperately and had no idea how to find them – but she hoped her talisman would keep her safe. Could she summon the spirit of the Djinn? She wasn’t sure of her powers – her youth meant they were mostly unexplored…
What would happen to these two young people in the vast and cruel Arabian desert? And would Lewis be reunited with his beloved Spade?
Saving Spade by Aussie author Dennis Ogden was a wonderful, highly original story that I absolutely loved! Filled with hope and heartbreak, loyalty and kindred spirits, the novel is well written; covering two different cultures it shows how the two can entwine with ease. I have no hesitation in recommending Saving Spade highly....more
Lainie Gracewood was happy with her life in Eden. The peace and tranquility; the lack of conflict – and with Annie by her side – made her memories of Lainie Gracewood was happy with her life in Eden. The peace and tranquility; the lack of conflict – and with Annie by her side – made her memories of Bane bittersweet. Their parting hadn’t been good, and she knew she was best to stay in Eden. But when Dallmin, one of the longest dwelling Edenites, decided he wanted to move through the boundary to Earth, Lainie knew she had to go as well; she had to keep him safe.
The small town of Nalong, near Bendigo in Victoria, was where Lainie’s family lived. Their farm was all she’d known when she was growing up. But returning from Eden would bring all sorts of problems to Lainie and those she loved. Would she be able to protect the knowledge she now had? Or was the evil too strong for her powers?
Sanguine is the 2nd in the Sentinels of Eden series by Aussie author Carolyn Denman, and I loved it! I thoroughly enjoyed Songlines, the first in the series, and Sanguine doesn’t disappoint. It’s an electric mix of paranormal, mystery and Indigenous heritage which is written for a YA audience, and highly palatable for those of us who haven’t been YA for some time! I’m looking forward to #3 now, and highly recommend the series.
With thanks to the author for my digital copy to read and review. ...more
Lainie and her best friend Noah were in their final year of school, studying for exams and cramming for good results. They both wanted to go away to uLainie and her best friend Noah were in their final year of school, studying for exams and cramming for good results. They both wanted to go away to uni, either Melbourne or Sydney, the following year. Noah and Lainie had been best friends since childhood with their farms bordering each other; since Lainie’s parents had died when she was very small, it was just Aunt Lily and herself, along with farmhand Harry, an Aboriginal elder, caring for their farm.
Bane (given name Ben) had been the bane of Lainie’s life through school – violent and bad-tempered, he seemed to have it in for Lainie, always tormenting her and driving her nuts. She had no idea what she’d done to cause him to dislike her so much, but she did her best to put it to one side.
The news of a mining company starting exploratory digging for gas on the edge of Lainie’s farm had Aunt Lily furious. The Aboriginal caves and sacred sites in the area had to be protected at all costs – when Harry told Lainie of her role in this, she didn’t believe him. But as time moved forward, and Harry didn’t return from his quest, Lainie and Noah realised something strange was happening. Lainie needed to find out more about her heritage – but would this search put her in danger? Could she stop the miners from doing the damage they would do if they continued?
Songlines by Aussie author Carolyn Denman is an enticing mix of paranormal, mystery and Indigenous heritage which I thoroughly enjoyed. Written for a Young Adult audience, nevertheless it’s highly readable for those of us who’ve long ago left the age of YA ;) Set in the rural countryside of Victoria, it is a well-written novel which is book #1 in The Sentinal of Eden series, and I’m very much looking forward to book #2. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital copy to read and review. ...more
Set in the small fictional outback town of Mululuk in the far north of South Australia, an hour from Coober Pedy, the people of the town were sud4.5★s
Set in the small fictional outback town of Mululuk in the far north of South Australia, an hour from Coober Pedy, the people of the town were suddenly split in two – north and south. The cause: the bridge joining the two parts of the town inexplicitly collapsed, crashing into the chasm below; with it went the car which was being driven over the bridge at the time.
Janice Harding woke from the month long coma - which was a miracle they said – but she was confused; her words wouldn’t form. But she remembered her baby Flora; would her husband Craig bring her to see her? And she remembered Shane…
Young Rachel had arrived from Melbourne to stay with her uncle, Father Nott, in Mululuk, her greyhound Moustache by her side. But immediately she was enshrouded in the mystery of why the bridge had fallen. Was it sabotage? Or was it something far more sinister? As events moved closer to the march Father Nott had organised, Shane Mannis took Rachel’s eye. But old Charlie, enigmatic and secretive, knew what was going to happen – his dark past led him to the beliefs he’d always followed – there was only one thing which would reunite the town…
All Fall Down by Aussie author Cassandra Austin is steeped in mystery and indigenous beliefs; the red dust has a life of its own and the storm is the catalyst. Intriguing and dark, All Fall Down is a thoroughly enjoyable read and one I highly recommend.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read and review. ...more
Bob Cooper was seventeen years of age when he put himself on his first survival challenge and with all the things that went wrong, he realized he needBob Cooper was seventeen years of age when he put himself on his first survival challenge and with all the things that went wrong, he realized he needed to get serious about survival. Over the years he had numerous maydays and challenges when he could have lost his life. Being prepared and not panicking was vital. He attended courses and trained diligently to be the best that he could be – now, over thirty years later, he has many skills which have been developed in varying ways.
Outback Survival is a practical guide for anyone who wants to explore our vast Australian outback (and the deserts of other countries as well) and come out of it alive. His Mark III Survival Kit is comprehensive, light to carry, and highly practical. This book is one adventurers need to read thoroughly as part of their preparation for survival. Recommended.
With thanks to Hachette AU for my copy to read in exchange for an honest review. ...more
Billy woke to find he’d been curled tight in a seat at the rear of a bus – the bus was stationary and empty of people. His bleary vision showed a roadBilly woke to find he’d been curled tight in a seat at the rear of a bus – the bus was stationary and empty of people. His bleary vision showed a roadhouse which he decided he needed to visit as his bladder needed relief. But when Billy exited the rest rooms, it was to see the bus heading off in the distance, its taillights fading in the darkness. Billy was alone in the middle of nowhere – he had no idea where he was; he also knew his hangover was fierce. And the departure of the roadhouse’s only occupant sent his spirits further into decline.
Wondering what he would do, Billy was surprised to see a figure standing on the opposite side of the road; but as he ventured near, the person raised a hand to stop Billy. The huge rush of wind from a passing road train shocked Billy to his core. The vehicle following some time later stopped however – and Billy met Rob and Tex – two men who would be instrumental in the change which was to come into Billy’s life.
As Billy grappled with what was happening to him, Rob and Tex took him to their community. It seemed they were in the outback, somewhere near Alice Springs. How he had come to travel so far from Adelaide was a mystery to him. Billy’s encounters with the enigmatic Pidgin, the Aboriginal elders and other members of the friendly community confused Billy. He’d had no idea he was so lost – but what he was being shown made him wish he knew more about his own Aboriginal heritage…
Loreless by Aussie author P.J. Whittlesea is a novel of discovery by a young Aboriginal man who had lived in the city for longer than he cared to remember. As he tried to work out how to get back to the city he’d come from, other forces were at work in getting him to stay.
Though I did find the telling of Loreless to be a little stilted and jerky, with the flow of the story uneven at times, it is an interesting and intriguing telling and one which I recommend.
With thanks to the author for this digital copy to read in exchange for my honest review. ...more
The First Fleet had been settled in Sydney Cove for just over a year and Surgeon John White was despairing of a ship with supplies ever coming over thThe First Fleet had been settled in Sydney Cove for just over a year and Surgeon John White was despairing of a ship with supplies ever coming over the horizon. They were down to rationing – food, medicines, rum – the stocks were low. When trouble struck in 1789 it wasn’t to the colony though; the natives surrounding Sydney Cove were dying and it seemed it was an outbreak of smallpox. The settlers including Surgeon White went to the sites where the natives lay to see if there were any left alive – two young children plus an adult were brought back to their primitive hospital. Nanberry survived after suffering from the blisters and fever for some days but his grandfather passed. The young girl also lived…
When Surgeon White went against everything and adopted the native boy Nanberry, he had no idea of the closeness and affection he would feel for this intelligent Aboriginal boy. Nanberry learned quickly and soon was interpreting for Governor Philip. He was torn between his new English ways and the memories of his clan, the Cadigal people. They had mostly been wiped out by the fever; but Nanberry was happy - his adopted father was kind and generous and taught Nanberry much.
When Andrew was born, Nanberry delighted in teaching him all he knew. As the boys grew, Nanberry became a sailor, joining the boats first heading to Norfolk Island and then further afield. He relished the ocean, the waves and the majesty of the ships. Andrew left Australia and made his own way in the world, fighting and ultimately surviving the Battle of Waterloo.
Nanberry: Black Brother White is a fictional account based heavily on the facts Aussie author Jackie French was able to unearth. The majority of the people who inhabit this book are real – the end of the book has facts on each character; Surgeon John White, Nanberry, Andrew White and his mother Rachel Turner and many more – which are profoundly interesting. With the little that was recorded in the eighteen hundreds making it hard for any writer and historian to garner facts, the obviously meticulous research of this book kept me enthralled. Written in a way to keep the reader interested, the story of Nanberry is an excellent one. I have no hesitation in highly recommending this book, and will be looking for more by this author. ...more
Jessica Manning would tell people she was “Aboriginal Irish – an exotic mix” with a grin as she quoted her father. Her mother Rose was Aboriginal and Jessica Manning would tell people she was “Aboriginal Irish – an exotic mix” with a grin as she quoted her father. Her mother Rose was Aboriginal and father Toby was Irish; the love between the pair was heart-warming to Jess and after her mother’s death, their memories and love for Rose continued unabated. Living in Sydney, Jess studied her heritage at university and when she was hired as an Aboriginal negotiator where she would work with the Elders as the Ghan railway was slowly constructed between Alice Springs and Darwin, her dreams felt like they were coming true.
It had been around a century since the line finished at Alice Springs, and with the usual delays, arguments and discussions, the agreement in 2001 to finally complete the railway to Darwin was a welcome one. But the crossing of Aboriginal land through the Red Centre was fraught with problems – many sacred sites had to be avoided and building the line couldn’t start until the agreements were made. Jess’ heritage was with the Arunta people, and she had such an intense understanding of their culture and all it involved, that it was obvious her spirituality was deeply ingrained within her. She was perfect for the job – was highly respected by both Aboriginal and white people alike.
Matthew Witherton hailed from Adelaide, where he had followed in his father’s footsteps – boss of the survey team which was marking the corridor for the rail line, Matthew was a quietly confident, casual young man who was well-respected by his men. When he and Jess met for the first time, Matthew had no idea of the impact Jess would have in his life. Suddenly the long ago past was confronting him; could Jess help him? Did she understand what was happening? Because Matthew certainly didn’t. The mysterious wrongs of the past needed to be remedied and time was running out…
I absolutely loved Spirits of the Ghan by Aussie author Judy Nunn! She is a wonderful writer; a storyteller who knows how to cast a spell over her readers. The descriptions of the Australian outback, the laying of the now famous Ghan railway line and the country it flows through – all is done so that I felt like I was there. The flies, the heat; I felt it all! Told in two timelines, 1876 and 2001, they came together in a most satisfying way. I have no hesitation in highly recommending Spirits of the Ghan to all.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review. ...more
When Emily Tempest arrived back in her old community of Moonlight Downs after ten years away, she could see that not much had changed. But she st4.5★s
When Emily Tempest arrived back in her old community of Moonlight Downs after ten years away, she could see that not much had changed. But she still felt a sense of not belonging – she’d always felt pulled between the two worlds; Aboriginal and white. But when her childhood friend Hazel turned up again it didn’t take long before they were relaxing in each other’s company. But a few days later a dear friend was found murdered; mutilated in the nearby bush – the terror of the locals caused a mass exodus from Moonlight Downs; the abandoned air, the shock and grief was traumatic.
With the only suspect long gone and the local police unable to track him down, Emily decided to take matters into her own hands. She was determined the death of her long-time friend would be avenged. The questions Emily was asking found her in all sorts of trouble though – Jack, her father reminded her that trouble always followed her around. But it appeared that this time she was in the biggest mess she had ever been in – and still she continued; doggedly and with extreme grit. What would be the outcome? And would she find the answers she sought?
Diamond Dove (also called Moonlight Downs) by Aussie author Adrian Hyland is a great Australian mystery – blended with Aboriginal folklore; the dreaming and the people of the (fictional) Warlpuju tribe, the story is based north of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. The epic descriptions of the bush, the birds (including the diamond dove) and the inhabitants are such that it is easy to visualise it all. I thoroughly enjoyed this crime novel and would recommend it to all. ...more
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