What an absolute treat to come across a book written by a First Nations author from the Torres Strait Islands, let alone an historical fiction set in a shantytown on the far north-east coast of Australia in the 1930s and 40s. The story features traditional language and provides a rare insight into that time and place.
This is the beautifully told story of Pearl, a young girl who wants more for herself and her kin and who’s not afraid to try to get it. Whip-smart and hardworking, Pearl strives to get ahead and overcome the prejudices of the town folk and the set way things are run. Along the way she draws the attention of a young white man, the bank managers son, and while they try to keep a wrap on their feelings and budding relationship, secrets are hard to keep in a small town.
Pearl is a gorgeous character and through her eyes we get a first-hand glimpse into the racism and oppression of the times, including the forced removal of children, and the unfair judicial system. We also see rare insights into Australia during the War, the US troop bases, and our young men heading off to fight. It is so richly vivid and descriptive that I could picture every scene perfectly in my mind. It would make an incredible movie.
If you enjoy books like Song of the Crocodile by Nardi Simpson, Bila Yarrudhanggalangdhuray by Dr Anita Heiss, or The Secret World of Connie Starr by Robbi Neal, then I think you will truly love The Pearl of Tagai Town.
I adored it.
Reviewed by Sarah Kraus
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I am a proud Meriam and Wagedagam woman born and raised on Gimuy-Walubarra Yidinji country in far north Queensland. I have worked in the government, community and private sectors and been a staunch advocate for First Nations children and families. I am published in anthologies including Growing Up Torres Strait Islander In Australia and On Butterfly Wings, and in magazines including The Big Issue.
In 2021 I was awarded the Writing NSW Boundless Mentorship for my manuscript about a family of Torres Strait Islanders living in a shantytown during the 1930s.
My debut novel was The Pearl of Tagai Town.
I am proudly a member of the First Nations Australia Writers Network.
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