Donna K. (katshack) reviewed on 5/21/2006 + 21 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 5

The first half of this book was gripping - as based in part on an actual event that occurred in Sumatra in WWII, where Dutch female prisoners were marched all around the island for 2-1/2 years. The second half of the book - which primarily takes place in Austrailia - I think would make an excellent discussion for book clubs. I felt it had the perpective of colonial English. I found out later that the author actually was born and breed in England, and didn't move to Austrialia until well into his adult years, so that may not be far off the mark. The perspective of racial relations between the Aussies and Aboriginals was very interesting too. This book was written in the 1950s, and uses some racial slang common at the time - a little difficult to read now, but I guess it's an honest reflection of the time. I do admit it's nice to see a literary example of a strong, independent woman, though I don't always agree with her motivations and methods! This was definetely a book that made me think! I'd recommend it.

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