Jessica by Bryce Courtenay

ABOUT THE BOOK

Jessica is based on the inspiring true story of a young girl’s fight for justice against tremendous odds.

A tomboy, Jessica is the pride of her father, as they work together on the struggling family farm. One quiet day, the peace of the bush is devastated by a terrible murder. Only Jessica is able to save the killer from the lynch mob – but will justice prevail in the courts?

Nine months later, a baby is born … with Jessica determined to guard the secret of the father’s identity. The rivalry of Jessica and her beautiful sister for the love of the same man will echo throughout their lives – until finally the truth must be told.

Set in the harsh Australian bush against the outbreak of World War I, this novel is heartbreaking in its innocence, and shattering in its brutality.

‘A deserved bestseller, based on fact, a story told with heartbreaking honesty.’ Australian Women’s Weekly

‘Courtenay draws on the social satire of Jane Austen and the dark forces of Thomas Hardy, and his tragic heroine parallels Antigone … ‘ Herald Sun

COMMENTS

Bryce Courtney’s book Jessica is an enthralling read about life in the outback early 1900’s Australia.  The hardship and expectations of everyone around her just made her more determined to go her own way in life.  That is until wrongly committed to the asylum.  Friendship and love prevail.  It’s a beautifully written book set in sheep country with vivid descriptions of life and death on a station.  However there were those who found it implausible and disappointing.

READ BY

MJ Readers Club 7/10

The Harp in the South by Ruth Park

ABOUT THE BOOK

Since it was first published in 1948, this compassionate novel has become a favourite with generations of Australian readers.