Review: Terrific Book
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 09 29, 2013
Redstone Station by Therese CreedTerrific BookThis poignant, well-written story coupled with detailed description of ranch life in the Australian outback produces an affecting novel.  The reader acquaints us with the land and its animals in many situations - draught, storm, and occasional good weather.  The characters are well developed and feel real.  They range from old to young.  Each has a distinct personality, strengths, and weaknesses.  Throughout the story, they continue to grow and age.  In many cases, through the story's action, the author reveals the experiences, which molded and continue to shape their personalities.  Animals, a central part of ranch life, also have characters and feelings.  People constantly interact with many kinds of animals and develop an understanding of them and an acceptance of death as part of life that city dwellers rarely do.The author tackles difficult topics such as treatment of indigenous aboriginals, heavy drinking, sex, small town culture, parental rejection, and attitudes towards gender roles.  Action mainly takes place on a large ranch. But important events also take place in the wilderness, a small town, an indigenous community, and a mine.The story unfolds at a leisurely pace.  I enjoyed this because it gave me time to savor and contemplate.  Those who primarily want fast action may find it slow.I have visited Australia and glimpsed the outback.  The author's descriptive gifts made me feel as though I now know it well.