AustLit

'In 1932 Japanese pearl fishermen came ashore in the Caledon Bay area of Arnhem Land and raped several Yolngu women. In retaliation they were fatally speared by Yolngu men who were gaoled and sentenced to death. Anthropologist Thomson convinced the government to set up a commission to investigate and subsequently they were released.' (Libraries Australia)

'Thomson recorded his experiences in newspaper and academic articles, private papers and extended reports to the government. Nicolas Peterson brings this material together as a compelling, highly personal narrative in Thomson's own words. It is a narrative that names all the Aboriginal people involved, presenting them as individuals in a way no other writings of the time do. Through it all Thomson's passionate commitment to Aboriginal rights as defender, critic and advocate, shines through.' (Melbourne University Publishing).