A very long war
Subtitle: the families who waited
By: Margaret Reeson.
Publisher: Melbourne University Press
Published: 2000
Place of publication: Carlton South, Vic
Language: eng
Number of pages: 200
Subjects: World War, 1939-1945 -- Papua New Guinea.; World War, 1939-1945 -- Women -- Australia.; World War, 1939-1945 -- Evacuation of civilians -- Papua New Guinea.; World War, 1939-1945 -- Missing in action -- Papua New Guinea.; Missing in action -- Family relationships.; World War, 1939-1945 -- Social aspects -- Australia.; War and family -- Australia.
Description: "A Very Long War is about the experiences of the families of men missing in the New Guinea islands during World War 2, many of whom never returned." "When Japan entered the Pacific war, the Australian Government evacuated all Australian women and children from the Territory of New Guinea. The women found themselves suddenly alone and solely responsible for the welfare of their families." "Back in Australia, they were cut off from letters and reliable news for three and half years. Rumours abounded, adding to their trauma and anxiety. Like the families of POWs, they lived in a limbo of waiting. For many of them, the effects of the mystery and the trauma have continued to the present day."--BOOK JACKET.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 182-191) and index.