Review: Compelling Story of Australian History
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 15, 2014
Ms. Shell writes a compelling tale of the early Scottish settlements in the outback of Australia around Queensland. The settlers encounter a nearby Aboriginal tribe (WW) and the story moves along quickly from there. We learn of their struggles as well as the underbelly of these early communities with the gambling, mixing and other issues. There are several stories in the collection but what most struck me is the issue of race and skin color. The Stolen Generation issues really pulled at my emotions. The main characters are Emily and Jarrah. Both are half Scottish and half Aboriginal. We follow them through time and watch as they negotiate the difficulties of prejudice and racism. There's also a wonderful description of the hundred year flood that rushes through the outback community. I was riveted. Ryn Shell captured my interest with her skills and abilities as a writer. You'll enjoy learning about Australian history if you buy this series.