The Ha-Ha Man

by Sandy Mccutcheon

Fictional Novel, General & Adult Fiction, Literary Fiction

406 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Alana Woods · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novel tackles the topical subjects of terrorism and illegal entry; both highly controversial and highly emotive. The author presents them through two sets of characters involved from two angles: the first is the victim of Taliban brutality in Afghanistan who escapes and enters Australia illegally; the second is a husband and wife team who help him and others in similar circumstances. Anyone with a heart would sympathise with terrorism victims but illegal entry is another matter entirely and generally people are divided into two camps: those who sympathise and those who don’t. Whatever side you’re on, this is an important book. Intellectually I recognise that. However, I failed to be engaged. The story should have left me outraged, one way or the other, but it didn’t. The author failed to make me care for his characters. So, although it’s well written I can only give it three stars.

[Chel · Rating 3 out of 5]

UHRL

ANZLL discussion

Australian story about illegal refugees with temporary protection visas, refugee camps and a crusade by Australians, Afghani legal immigrants, illegals who come together in an underground campaign against the Australian government.

Good story, good insight inot press releases, political party portocol and also an insight into Afghanis and their fight against the Taliban, Saddam Hussain.

Suspenseful climax as all players come together - a passive ending in Afghanistan. Kamir has his orchard and the two main Australian characters, Rossey and Layla work there as Kamir's guests.

[Javad · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic book. Very enjoyable too. I really liked it.

[Lisa · Rating 1 out of 5]

He meant well, I'm sure. He had an agenda to push, and he wrote a book to appeal to popular taste, to push his agenda...

[Barb · Rating 3 out of 5]

meh.