Stephanie Jane recenzis The secret river de Kate Grenville
Fictional history that is sadly still very relevant
4 steloj
I read a book a few years ago, English Passengers I think, which told some of the story of Australia's colonisation from the Aboriginal viewpoint. Secret River is very much from the white side but in a way that allows the reader to empathise with both peoples. Will and Sal are sent from destitution in London where petty thieves are hung, violence commonplace and class distinction rubbed in their faces at every turn. Upon arrival, they believe are no longer the lowest of the low, misunderstanding the native people's independence from material possessions as savagery. I love how Kate Grenville understands Will and Sal, their partnership and their desperation to improve their lot. Her descriptions of the as yet unspoilt wilderness are inspirational and she has a great sense of time and place. The novel is a lesson in how ignorance breeds fear which breeds anger which leads to destruction. …
I read a book a few years ago, English Passengers I think, which told some of the story of Australia's colonisation from the Aboriginal viewpoint. Secret River is very much from the white side but in a way that allows the reader to empathise with both peoples. Will and Sal are sent from destitution in London where petty thieves are hung, violence commonplace and class distinction rubbed in their faces at every turn. Upon arrival, they believe are no longer the lowest of the low, misunderstanding the native people's independence from material possessions as savagery. I love how Kate Grenville understands Will and Sal, their partnership and their desperation to improve their lot. Her descriptions of the as yet unspoilt wilderness are inspirational and she has a great sense of time and place. The novel is a lesson in how ignorance breeds fear which breeds anger which leads to destruction. It is so sad that this tale of over 200 years ago should still be as relevant now.