Seven Versions of an Australian Badland

by Ross Gibson

Part road trip, part murder mystery, this compelling and creative account embarks on an enthralling journey through time, along an infamous road in Australia known as the Horror Stretch. Winding through the frontier territory of central Queensland, this long and lonely stretch is the scene of brutal history, where death, mayhem, and a myriad of murders—casual and callous—have taken place. Ross Gibson drives readers along this dangerous route through the badlands and across two centuries into the realms of myth, magic, narcissism, and genocide, ultimately painting a grisly picture of Australia's history.

Genres: Nonfiction, History

200 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Michael Holmes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers some great analysis and insight into the creation and purpose of myths in a colonial society. Gibson investigates the complex weave of cultures that found themselves in the heart of the Tropic of Capricorn, and how these events shaped the myths and paranoia of generations to follow. Well worth a read for anyone interested in exploring the so called badlands of Australia, including both the physical and psychological manifestations of such places.

[Guy Salvidge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful writing, intriguing content.

[Rosemary]

Not for me. Reading about a horror landscape just makes me itch to set up gabions and start a permaculture oasis rather than wallowing in misery. No rating as I haven't read it.

[Julie (Bookish.Intoxication) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had to read this book for uni, so I was a little dubious about liking it or if I would be engaged with its contents, and my presumption was half right.

The first half of this novel is engaging and about the true crime of Australia's 'Badlands'. Of course that was engaging and enjoyably creepy, however, as the novel progresses, the truth about Australia's history comes to light and although that is great to see, and is done in such a respectful way, I am doubtful about it's truthfullness and factitious being.

The writing is amazing, it kept me engaged and wanting to read on, even when the words began to say things that didn't especially interest me. This novel is for any Australian or History buff who wants to read something contrversial and honest. A Good read.

[Daniel · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5