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AbstractHistoryArchive Description
'A murder in the remote bush in 1916 sparks a chain of events that will haunt a family for generations. Hidden in the refuge of a secret valley, their tiny community lives unknown to the world. When, a century later, Broome schoolboy Dancer falls foul of the local bikie gang, he and his father head up the Gibb River Road. Here, in a maze of rugged ranges and remote communities, Dancer begins to unravel the truth behind the mysterious disappearance of Milly Rider, the mother he never knew. But the valley hides its secrets well. As Dancer learns the ways of his mother’s country, he uncovers a precious inheritance – one not even those closest to Milly expected to find.' (Publication summary)
Notes
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Dedication: For Sam and Tony, for helping me to get out there in the wild country.
Publication Details of Only Known VersionEarliest 2 Known Versions of
Works about this Work
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Family Secret
2019
single work
essay
— Appears in: Australian Book Review , January / February no. 408 2019; (p. 32)'The discovery of human bones is an intriguing narrative opening that rarely disappoints and seems an adaptable vehicle for the Australian gothic and representations of the impacts of colonisation on people and country. Perhaps this is because the image of curved, white mineral shapes (and the hint of stories fossilised within) contrast equally vividly with sandy coastal plains, central red dust, bleak mountain scarps, and dense green forest.' (Publication summary)
-
Family Secret
2019
single work
essay
— Appears in: Australian Book Review , January / February no. 408 2019; (p. 32)'The discovery of human bones is an intriguing narrative opening that rarely disappoints and seems an adaptable vehicle for the Australian gothic and representations of the impacts of colonisation on people and country. Perhaps this is because the image of curved, white mineral shapes (and the hint of stories fossilised within) contrast equally vividly with sandy coastal plains, central red dust, bleak mountain scarps, and dense green forest.' (Publication summary)
- Kimberley area, North Western Australia, Western Australia,
- 1916
- 2016
