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V knjigi se prepletata dve zgodbi. Junakinja prve je študentka Abby, ki dela doktorat iz življenja kengurujev. Z njimi v nacionalnem parku preživi veliko časa, prija ji samotnost, saj ji je materina smrt v zgodnjih najstniških letih pustila neizbrisen pečat in se z njo še ni uspela pomiriti. Pri svojem delu spozna novinarja Camerona. Čeprav ta izhaja iz melbournske visoke družbe, pa si želi iti svojo pot in se zaljubi v Abby. Njuno nežno ljubezensko zgodbo viharijo dogodki v zvezi z Abbynino družino in smrtjo njene matere, in šele ko slednjo v grozljivi noči podoživi, lahko s Cameronom svobodno zaživi.
Zgodba, ki se prepleta z Abbyino, pa pripoveduje o Daphne, ženski v pozni starosti, ki jo Abby spozna v nacionalnem parku. Daphne je mladost preživela na kmetiji, ki je stala na področju sedanjega parka. Kmetijo jima je z možem vlada vzela zaradi načrtovanega vesoljskega programa in ju preselila v predmestje Canberre. Sesul se jima je svet in mož Doug je umrl nepojasnjene smrti. Daphne se vrača v preteklost in želi ugotoviti, kaj se je zgodilo z njim, po drugi strani pa jo bremeni krivda do aboriginov, katerih zemljo so naselili njeni predniki. Med Daphne in Abby se razvije nežno prijateljstvo in druga drugi pomagata osvoboditi se iz prijema preteklosti.
Zgodba, ki se prepleta z Abbyino, pa pripoveduje o Daphne, ženski v pozni starosti, ki jo Abby spozna v nacionalnem parku. Daphne je mladost preživela na kmetiji, ki je stala na področju sedanjega parka. Kmetijo jima je z možem vlada vzela zaradi načrtovanega vesoljskega programa in ju preselila v predmestje Canberre. Sesul se jima je svet in mož Doug je umrl nepojasnjene smrti. Daphne se vrača v preteklost in želi ugotoviti, kaj se je zgodilo z njim, po drugi strani pa jo bremeni krivda do aboriginov, katerih zemljo so naselili njeni predniki. Med Daphne in Abby se razvije nežno prijateljstvo in druga drugi pomagata osvoboditi se iz prijema preteklosti.
478 pages, Hardcover
First published February 1, 2014
16 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
Karen Viggers
9 books109 followersKaren Viggers was born in Melbourne, Australia, and grew up in the Dandenong Ranges riding horses and writing stories. She studied Veterinary Science at Melbourne University, and then worked in mixed animal practice for seven years before completing a PhD at the Australian National University, Canberra, in wildlife health from which she published numerous scientific papers.
Since then she has worked on a wide range of Australian native animals in many different natural environments.
She lives in Canberra with her husband and two children. She works part-time in veterinary practice, provides veterinary support for biologists studying native animals, and writes most days. Karen’s first novel, The Stranding, was published by Allen & Unwin in 2008 and her second novel, The Lightkeeper’s Wife, also published by Allen & Unwin will be released in February 2011
Since then she has worked on a wide range of Australian native animals in many different natural environments.
She lives in Canberra with her husband and two children. She works part-time in veterinary practice, provides veterinary support for biologists studying native animals, and writes most days. Karen’s first novel, The Stranding, was published by Allen & Unwin in 2008 and her second novel, The Lightkeeper’s Wife, also published by Allen & Unwin will be released in February 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
November 9, 2015
Abby Hunter is a young woman who loves being outdoors on her own. She shies away from romantic relationships and is content studying the kangaroos, until Cameron Barlow, a journalist, comes to interview her and write about her work.
It is also the story of Daphne Norrington who raised her family in the high mountain country until she and her husband are forced off the land. When these women meet they strike up a friendship despite the disparity in their ages. Daphne reminds Abby of her Gran who died soon after Abby’s mother tragically did. I like books where different generations interact and the development of the relationship between Abby and Daphne comes across well. I have to say I was more drawn to Daphne than Abby. Abby annoyed me at times the way she chopped and changed her mind.
The setting of rural Australia is very much a character in this novel and the descriptions of the land are lovely. However there were some parts of this book, like the killing of kangaroos, I simply could not read. I see these creatures most days around our area, so the idea of a kangaroo cull and the graphic description was all too much for this city born and raised female. As was the idea of eating moths, Bogan or otherwise. I shuddered each time it was mentioned and I occurred a few times.
I enjoyed the story but sometimes I felt it got a bit bogged down in details and backstory. Plus, I really struggled to relate to Abby and her choices. So while I liked it and was glad I read it, I didn’t enjoy it quite as much as I expected to. Again, maybe expectations were too high. Sometimes that can affect how we relate to a book. Sadly, I didn't love it as much as some other readers I know did. So maybe, try it and make up your own mind.
It is also the story of Daphne Norrington who raised her family in the high mountain country until she and her husband are forced off the land. When these women meet they strike up a friendship despite the disparity in their ages. Daphne reminds Abby of her Gran who died soon after Abby’s mother tragically did. I like books where different generations interact and the development of the relationship between Abby and Daphne comes across well. I have to say I was more drawn to Daphne than Abby. Abby annoyed me at times the way she chopped and changed her mind.
The setting of rural Australia is very much a character in this novel and the descriptions of the land are lovely. However there were some parts of this book, like the killing of kangaroos, I simply could not read. I see these creatures most days around our area, so the idea of a kangaroo cull and the graphic description was all too much for this city born and raised female. As was the idea of eating moths, Bogan or otherwise. I shuddered each time it was mentioned and I occurred a few times.
I enjoyed the story but sometimes I felt it got a bit bogged down in details and backstory. Plus, I really struggled to relate to Abby and her choices. So while I liked it and was glad I read it, I didn’t enjoy it quite as much as I expected to. Again, maybe expectations were too high. Sometimes that can affect how we relate to a book. Sadly, I didn't love it as much as some other readers I know did. So maybe, try it and make up your own mind.
August 4, 2016
Abby Hunter is a struggling student who is studying kangaroos. Although her training may not pay very well Abby still loves tracking these beautiful big creatures. Just being able to watch them graze, sleep and interact with one another is more than enough for Abby. Having grown up on a farm in Victoria, Abby also loves being outdoors. She couldn't imagine being stuck in some stuffy office all day.
Cameron Barlow is a journalist and has been sent out to visit Abby to do an interview about the kangaroos. He wanted to meet in a cafe, but Abby wouldn't hear of it. She wanted him to get a clear understanding of what she did and to see the kangaroos in their own environment. Abby first impressions of Cameron was that he was a city boy who had no idea about how to drive on country roads. She showed him around and answered his questions and once he left he said he would keep in contact. And Abby was hoping he would keep he's word although Abby has always been a loner she did enjoy having Cameron there.
One day whilst Abby is out checking her kangaroos in the Birndabella Ranges she meets an elderly lady by the name of Daphne Norriington. Abby soon discovers that that this lady is the original owner of the deserted homestead in the area. Abby and Daphne will soon become close friends and they will share with each other their life long secrets. This is something that Abby has never done before as she has spent a lot of time on her own. The only other person she has ever opened up to was her gran who passed away when she was a teenager. But should some secrets and memories stay in the past as reliving them could do harm to those who are still here.
I absolutely LOVED this story. I loved all the characters especially Daphne. What a beautiful, sweet old lady. And I really enjoyed the friendship that Abby and Daphne shared as it reminded me of someone I use to know who was very close to me and we to shared a very special friendship. I also enjoyed reading about the kangaroos and the description of the countryside made you feel like you were there amongst it all. For me this book was a very enjoyable read and I didn't want it to end. I HGHLY recommend this book. This is a beautifully written novel by an Aussie author and one in which I will remember for a long time.
Cameron Barlow is a journalist and has been sent out to visit Abby to do an interview about the kangaroos. He wanted to meet in a cafe, but Abby wouldn't hear of it. She wanted him to get a clear understanding of what she did and to see the kangaroos in their own environment. Abby first impressions of Cameron was that he was a city boy who had no idea about how to drive on country roads. She showed him around and answered his questions and once he left he said he would keep in contact. And Abby was hoping he would keep he's word although Abby has always been a loner she did enjoy having Cameron there.
One day whilst Abby is out checking her kangaroos in the Birndabella Ranges she meets an elderly lady by the name of Daphne Norriington. Abby soon discovers that that this lady is the original owner of the deserted homestead in the area. Abby and Daphne will soon become close friends and they will share with each other their life long secrets. This is something that Abby has never done before as she has spent a lot of time on her own. The only other person she has ever opened up to was her gran who passed away when she was a teenager. But should some secrets and memories stay in the past as reliving them could do harm to those who are still here.
I absolutely LOVED this story. I loved all the characters especially Daphne. What a beautiful, sweet old lady. And I really enjoyed the friendship that Abby and Daphne shared as it reminded me of someone I use to know who was very close to me and we to shared a very special friendship. I also enjoyed reading about the kangaroos and the description of the countryside made you feel like you were there amongst it all. For me this book was a very enjoyable read and I didn't want it to end. I HGHLY recommend this book. This is a beautifully written novel by an Aussie author and one in which I will remember for a long time.
January 19, 2014
Abby Hunter was a struggling student, studying in Canberra and involved in research with kangaroos. Beautiful creatures, the grace and elegance of their movements captivated her continually. She loved working outside; having grown up on a farm in Victoria she had never wanted to work behind a desk. Now her training was taking her to places she loved, working with wild animals – the respect she had for the animals had her working closely with them, but keeping her distance; not invading their space.
The day she met Cameron Barlow, she was waiting for him up in the hills to interview her about her research. Cameron was a journalist, and wanted a human interest story – her PhD supervisor who was an ecologist with a world-wide reputation for his excellence in science encouraged her to meet with the media – it would further her career he said. The WRX Cameron arrived in told her all she needed to know about this city boy, or so she thought.
Abby was a loner; she preferred her own company and didn’t do the social situations at all well – her young past was buried deep, and she had no desire to get too close to anyone – she wouldn’t risk having to discuss her family or her life. The afternoon she was checking her tagged kangaroos in the Brindabella Ranges near an old, deserted homestead, she was surprised to notice an old woman seated nearby. But when Abby witnessed her collapse, she raced to her side, helping her while she regained her composure. And so Abby met Daphne Norrington, the original owner of the homestead they were beside.
As Abby and Daphne became close friends, they both realized each other had secrets – deep, long ago secrets laden with grief. Daphne reminded Abby of her beloved Gran whom she had lost while she was a teenager – she had loved her Gran and so immediately felt comfortable with Daphne, sensing the old lady needed a friend, as she did. But the trauma of the past was seeking release – Abby was feeling more and more overwhelmed. And Daphne found herself drifting into the past – she couldn’t get past the grief which was always there, threatening her sanity. Would these two women be able to release the secrets that bound them? Together could they forgive and move forward?
I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderfully moving story. The characters were well crafted though at times I wanted to shake Abby! Daphne was delightful, a sweet old lady, but I wanted to shake her at times too! The way the past was woven into the present was beautifully done, everything blended and wound its way to a very satisfying conclusion. I have no hesitation in recommending this novel highly.
With thanks to The Reading Room and the publisher for my copy to read and review.
The day she met Cameron Barlow, she was waiting for him up in the hills to interview her about her research. Cameron was a journalist, and wanted a human interest story – her PhD supervisor who was an ecologist with a world-wide reputation for his excellence in science encouraged her to meet with the media – it would further her career he said. The WRX Cameron arrived in told her all she needed to know about this city boy, or so she thought.
Abby was a loner; she preferred her own company and didn’t do the social situations at all well – her young past was buried deep, and she had no desire to get too close to anyone – she wouldn’t risk having to discuss her family or her life. The afternoon she was checking her tagged kangaroos in the Brindabella Ranges near an old, deserted homestead, she was surprised to notice an old woman seated nearby. But when Abby witnessed her collapse, she raced to her side, helping her while she regained her composure. And so Abby met Daphne Norrington, the original owner of the homestead they were beside.
As Abby and Daphne became close friends, they both realized each other had secrets – deep, long ago secrets laden with grief. Daphne reminded Abby of her beloved Gran whom she had lost while she was a teenager – she had loved her Gran and so immediately felt comfortable with Daphne, sensing the old lady needed a friend, as she did. But the trauma of the past was seeking release – Abby was feeling more and more overwhelmed. And Daphne found herself drifting into the past – she couldn’t get past the grief which was always there, threatening her sanity. Would these two women be able to release the secrets that bound them? Together could they forgive and move forward?
I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderfully moving story. The characters were well crafted though at times I wanted to shake Abby! Daphne was delightful, a sweet old lady, but I wanted to shake her at times too! The way the past was woven into the present was beautifully done, everything blended and wound its way to a very satisfying conclusion. I have no hesitation in recommending this novel highly.
With thanks to The Reading Room and the publisher for my copy to read and review.
February 4, 2014
The Grass Castle is a quiet, introspective novel exploring the themes of displacement and belonging, grief and healing.
Abby Hunter is a struggling PhD student who prefers the isolation of her fieldwork in the Brindabella mountain ranges to the bustling activity of the university lab. Wary of relationships since her mothers death, she is content with the company of the Kangaroo's she is studying, but a chance meeting with elderly matriarch Daphne Norrington, and the gentle persistence of journalist Cameron Barlow, penetrates her reserve and Abby is finally forced to deal with her tragic past.
Unfortunately I found I didn't particularly connect with Abby, she is too passive and reserved for my tastes, and while I had some sympathy for her difficult past I didn't really understand the choices she had made since, nor some of her behaviour during the story. I did admire eighty five year old Daphne, who weathered so much tragedy in her life, including the compulsory acquisition of her home by the government, and the deaths of her son and husband. The friendship between the women develops from their connection to the land and their mutual need for both for a confessor of past trauma and support in the present.
The romance between Abby and Cameron is low key, part of Abby's journey rather than a focal plot point. There are political elements in the novel in regards to the efficacy of kangaroo culling, indigenous land rights and media/political spin. I found them a little intrusive at times, even though I largely agreed with the sentiments.
This is a reflective novel that mediates on the need to accept and learn from the past and though The Grass Castle didn't fully engage me, I could appreciate the way Viggers evoked the setting, in both the past and the present, and the emotions in her characters.
March 8, 2015
I recieved this book as an uncorrected proof from The Reading Room and Allen & Unwin.
I really wish I could say I enjoyed this book more than I did as I was really looking forward to reading it after noting several other reviews.
I don't mean to sound too critical as I thought the book was well researched and had lots of potential. I just found it very hard to get a feel for the actual story as it seemed to be wandering in several directions and then drifting off again into another area which I was unable to link to what I thought was the main storyline. It just seemed that there was so much going on but not really leading to any definite thread...like loose ends.
About half way through I was still not sure where things were going and felt frustrated that I couldn't get into it more, and although it was not a difficult book to read, I felt it was missing some vital sense of intrigue or 'promise'.
I'm afraid to say that, to my mind the story didn't start to engage me until part 4 which was well towards to back of the book, and not until part 5 did it really start to pick up pace before ending on a befitting note.
I gave it three stars because it was well researched and gave a good insight into the plight of Kangaroos v the argument for culling and the position of farmers and landholders within that argument.
May 18, 2016
‘Night spreads its thick blanket over the valley. There is no moon, no light.’
Abby, a PhD student living in Canberra, is researching the movement and habitat of kangaroos. Hers is a fairly solitary existence: alone in the bush, tracking the animals, collecting the data she requires for her thesis. Daphne is an elderly woman, still very much attached to the land she once called home in the Brindabella Ranges. This land was reclaimed by the government and is now part of the Namadgi National Park. Daphne visits when her daughter Pam drives her out into the valley. Abby meets Daphne in the national park one day, and the two of them become friends.
On one level, this is a story about two women, both of whom feel a sense of disconnection, of displacement in the world they each now inhabit. Abby has her own issues from the past, issues that make her wary of others and reluctant to allow people too close. Daphne is mourning the loss of her way of life, the change to living in the city, to which her husband Doug never adapted. There are other regrets, too. Abby meets a journalist, Cameron, and although she is attracted to him she is afraid of becoming too close.
The third major character in Ms Viggers’s novel is the country. The Brindabella Ranges have seen waves of dispossession, first of the Indigenous inhabitants and then of European settlers. The changes in land use after European settlement have created a form of paradise for those most efficient of grazing animals, the kangaroos. Controlling the numbers of kangaroos is a topical issue in this area, and kangaroo culling has many opponents. Abby becomes caught up in this, as does Cameron.
I enjoyed this novel. While Abby’s contemporary story captured my attention, it was Daphne’s story of the past which kept me interested. I’d like to know more about those who lived in the Brindabella Ranges. And I’ve added Ms Viggers’s two previous books to my reading list.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Abby, a PhD student living in Canberra, is researching the movement and habitat of kangaroos. Hers is a fairly solitary existence: alone in the bush, tracking the animals, collecting the data she requires for her thesis. Daphne is an elderly woman, still very much attached to the land she once called home in the Brindabella Ranges. This land was reclaimed by the government and is now part of the Namadgi National Park. Daphne visits when her daughter Pam drives her out into the valley. Abby meets Daphne in the national park one day, and the two of them become friends.
On one level, this is a story about two women, both of whom feel a sense of disconnection, of displacement in the world they each now inhabit. Abby has her own issues from the past, issues that make her wary of others and reluctant to allow people too close. Daphne is mourning the loss of her way of life, the change to living in the city, to which her husband Doug never adapted. There are other regrets, too. Abby meets a journalist, Cameron, and although she is attracted to him she is afraid of becoming too close.
The third major character in Ms Viggers’s novel is the country. The Brindabella Ranges have seen waves of dispossession, first of the Indigenous inhabitants and then of European settlers. The changes in land use after European settlement have created a form of paradise for those most efficient of grazing animals, the kangaroos. Controlling the numbers of kangaroos is a topical issue in this area, and kangaroo culling has many opponents. Abby becomes caught up in this, as does Cameron.
I enjoyed this novel. While Abby’s contemporary story captured my attention, it was Daphne’s story of the past which kept me interested. I’d like to know more about those who lived in the Brindabella Ranges. And I’ve added Ms Viggers’s two previous books to my reading list.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
April 11, 2014
I won this in a Goodreads First Reads giveaway - thank you!
Karen Viggers’ The Grass Castle explores a number of themes, including forgiveness, making peace with the past and redemption. Once I realised it was mostly set in the Australian Capital Territory (the Brindabella Ranges in particular), with some trips to the gorgeous High Country in Victoria, I was keen to get stuck into this book, because they are area I remember well (and miss). It’s always nice to read novels set somewhere close to your heart – there’s that instant sense of familiarity. For me, the descriptions of these places were the stand-out aspect of the book – Viggers captured the essence of the area well.
Abby, a scientist and PhD student, studies kangaroos in the Brindabella Ranges. It’s solitary work, but it suits Abby fine; she’s not really interested in having friends, a bustling social life or a relationship. The loss of her mother some years before has left a gaping hole in Abby’s heart, her father’s remarriage has rubbed salt in the wound, and her brother’s struggle with depression worries her. When she meets Cameron, a journalist following the story of planned kangaroo culls, Abby puts all thoughts of a relationship out of her mind, but the inevitable happens and Abby soon finds herself pushing Cameron away, scared of getting too close.
Daphne, an older woman who grew up in a remote valley Brindabellas, meets Abby and the two form a friendship. Daphne shares her story of growing up with a controlling pastoralist father, raising her family in the high country with her husband Doug, and later being forced off the land by the government. It was a move that had tragic consequences for Doug, and Daphne’s never gotten over it. As she reflects on this, she can’t help recalling the Indigenous people who were forced off the land, and connecting this to the kangaroo culling plans now under way. As the women share their stories, fears and regrets they help each other realise that sometimes letting go is the only way to be free.
Underlying this story of relationships, forgiveness and making peace with the past, is the issue of displacement. Viggers examines this in a number of ways, beginning with the displacement of Indigenous people, then the pastoralists and now the kangaroos. Viggers does her best to bring balance to a loaded and multi-layered issue, using a number of different characters including a scientist, a journalist and an Aboriginal elder. I found this aspect fascinating and thought-provoking on a number of levels. Viggers’ research and aptitude for detail came to the fore here.
However, the story started very slowly and it took me quite a while to warm to it. It ended up being a stop-start read for the first third or so, as I struggled with the pace and found other things to read. Abby’s detachment from society transferred to the reader and while it could be argued that this was intentional, it made it difficult to want to be part of her story. As she opened up, I became more interested in her story, but it took a long time. Her hot and cold relationship with Cameron frustrated me; while understandable given her past, I just wanted to tell her to open her eyes and see the man in front of her as the decent person he was. Daphne’s story interested me more; on the one hand, I wished there was more input from her, but on the other, I respected that she was stepping back a little for the younger woman.
Overall, I thought this was a thoughtful read, but it fell short of being a great read. The author’s love for the country didn’t quite transfer through to the rest of the story, which was a bit of a let-down. I did find the writing a bit dry at times and other reviews I’ve since read would indicate that I’m not the only one. If it hadn’t been for the setting, I think I’d have struggled more.
Karen Viggers’ The Grass Castle explores a number of themes, including forgiveness, making peace with the past and redemption. Once I realised it was mostly set in the Australian Capital Territory (the Brindabella Ranges in particular), with some trips to the gorgeous High Country in Victoria, I was keen to get stuck into this book, because they are area I remember well (and miss). It’s always nice to read novels set somewhere close to your heart – there’s that instant sense of familiarity. For me, the descriptions of these places were the stand-out aspect of the book – Viggers captured the essence of the area well.
Abby, a scientist and PhD student, studies kangaroos in the Brindabella Ranges. It’s solitary work, but it suits Abby fine; she’s not really interested in having friends, a bustling social life or a relationship. The loss of her mother some years before has left a gaping hole in Abby’s heart, her father’s remarriage has rubbed salt in the wound, and her brother’s struggle with depression worries her. When she meets Cameron, a journalist following the story of planned kangaroo culls, Abby puts all thoughts of a relationship out of her mind, but the inevitable happens and Abby soon finds herself pushing Cameron away, scared of getting too close.
Daphne, an older woman who grew up in a remote valley Brindabellas, meets Abby and the two form a friendship. Daphne shares her story of growing up with a controlling pastoralist father, raising her family in the high country with her husband Doug, and later being forced off the land by the government. It was a move that had tragic consequences for Doug, and Daphne’s never gotten over it. As she reflects on this, she can’t help recalling the Indigenous people who were forced off the land, and connecting this to the kangaroo culling plans now under way. As the women share their stories, fears and regrets they help each other realise that sometimes letting go is the only way to be free.
Underlying this story of relationships, forgiveness and making peace with the past, is the issue of displacement. Viggers examines this in a number of ways, beginning with the displacement of Indigenous people, then the pastoralists and now the kangaroos. Viggers does her best to bring balance to a loaded and multi-layered issue, using a number of different characters including a scientist, a journalist and an Aboriginal elder. I found this aspect fascinating and thought-provoking on a number of levels. Viggers’ research and aptitude for detail came to the fore here.
However, the story started very slowly and it took me quite a while to warm to it. It ended up being a stop-start read for the first third or so, as I struggled with the pace and found other things to read. Abby’s detachment from society transferred to the reader and while it could be argued that this was intentional, it made it difficult to want to be part of her story. As she opened up, I became more interested in her story, but it took a long time. Her hot and cold relationship with Cameron frustrated me; while understandable given her past, I just wanted to tell her to open her eyes and see the man in front of her as the decent person he was. Daphne’s story interested me more; on the one hand, I wished there was more input from her, but on the other, I respected that she was stepping back a little for the younger woman.
Overall, I thought this was a thoughtful read, but it fell short of being a great read. The author’s love for the country didn’t quite transfer through to the rest of the story, which was a bit of a let-down. I did find the writing a bit dry at times and other reviews I’ve since read would indicate that I’m not the only one. If it hadn’t been for the setting, I think I’d have struggled more.
November 9, 2016
The Grass Castle by Karen Viggers is an enjoyable story set in an Australian context that I'm very familiar with. I liked reading about places that I know well. The book is quite descriptive in places which did slow the pace of the story and I did wonder whether this could have been handled better. However I found the story engaging so persisted through these passages.
Abby is a university student who meets Cameron an ambitious journalist through her research work on kangaroos. Daphne is an elderly widow trying not to be a drain on her family. I liked the unlikely romance between Abby and Cameron and the friendship between Abby and Daphne. These characters and their relationships were relatable and insightful. Both Abby and Daphne were burdened by issues from their past but they are able to come to a better place of understanding and acceptance through the book.
A kangaroo cull is a dramatic part of the story. This was a difficult but well-handled part of the story. Both sides of the controversy were shown and explored. Aboriginal land issues were also touched upon but not investigated to any large extent. It added to the backdrop without being a distraction.
Overall a thoughtful story with much to offer.
Abby is a university student who meets Cameron an ambitious journalist through her research work on kangaroos. Daphne is an elderly widow trying not to be a drain on her family. I liked the unlikely romance between Abby and Cameron and the friendship between Abby and Daphne. These characters and their relationships were relatable and insightful. Both Abby and Daphne were burdened by issues from their past but they are able to come to a better place of understanding and acceptance through the book.
A kangaroo cull is a dramatic part of the story. This was a difficult but well-handled part of the story. Both sides of the controversy were shown and explored. Aboriginal land issues were also touched upon but not investigated to any large extent. It added to the backdrop without being a distraction.
Overall a thoughtful story with much to offer.
October 26, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. Daphne was just a delight and Abby had just so much to try to overcome. A very engaging tale.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2022
Pas pour moi. Je gardais un assez bon souvenir d’un livre que j’avais lu de cette auteure, mais en relisant ma critique de l’époque, je me rends compte que mon appréciation était moindre que mon souvenir ne me le laissait croire et j’ai exactement le même commentaire envers ce livre. On y retrouve des personnages un peu ternes, de longs dialogues qui sonnent un peu faux et une histoire terriblement lente. J’ai aimé les descriptions de paysage et l’environnement, mais ce fut trop peu pour que j’apprécie réellement cette lecture. Je ne crois pas relire cette auteure.
February 7, 2015
I read Karen's The Lightkeeper’s Wife, some time ago and so thoroughly this epic story. Then recently heard Karen's ABC radio interview about her new book, The Grass Castle and thought this is really well worth checking out especially as I discovered Karen lives in Canberra and The Grass Castle is set in and around Canberra and so do I!
The Grass Castle tells the story of Abby, a student scientist studying Kangaroos, and Daphne, an elderly lady with a love of the land especially the Brindabella mountains. Abby also grew up on the land in Victoria but is deeply troubled by her past, losing her mother so early. She is swept up in a whirlwind romance with Cameron a journalist, but due to her past history she is not one to be tied down. Her path crosses with Daphne and an easy friendship forms between them. Connected by their love and history with rural backgrounds and the fact Abby’s Kangaroos live on property that appears to be Daphen's previously but it now National Park. As they get to know each other. they slowly start to share the history of their difficult and challenging lives.
Both women drew me in with their stories and made me care about them. Their warmth, their different identification with the land, Indigenous issues and their past made me feel like i couldn't put the book down and just wanted to help them thru. felt like you were sitting there with them listening to their conversations, wanting to reach out a hand to comfort them. Daphne’s story added extra depth to the novel, a story in a story, and particularly her prior experiences with Indigenous issues and then the course she takes to share her earlier life with Abby.
Interestingly enough, it had me thinking about Kangaroos in a way I never have before. Even seeing a few dead kangaroos on the local roads near my home in Canberra, while reading this book I reacted very differently. This actually surprised me, but thanks to reading this book I won't be looking at kangaroos the same way in the future. I hold a strong interest and passion for Indigenous issues, so I connected so warmly with the Indigenous issues Karen has incorporated into this story.
The Grass Castle was full of surprising plot twists and I loved how everything and everyone was connected in one way or another. It was an engaging, beautifully written story that I can highly recommend. Karen Viggers is a highly sensitive and skilled writer and one I wish to read from - so now already started on The Stranding!
After reading the Grass Castle I would like to follow up also on The Moth Hunters by Josephine Flood and Mark O'Connor's poetry Where the Body Lay; Skiers and The Olive Tree Collected Poems - all referenced in The Grass Castle.
Significant quotes - p182 Abby says to Cameron - I survive by forgetting.
P394 after last night's traumas and this morning's release, Abby needs to recuperate now, to take pause in the soothing presence of the mountains and the trees. She's neglected them these past weeks and they watch her with a new untrusting vigilance. Already they've partly forgotten her. That is their wildness. You can gain an edge of familiarity, but instinct is undeniable.
p400 Betty's face is luminous. Country lives in you and you live in country. all one. She sighs as if the weight of life is resting on her shoulders. Betty sighs again. That's what everyone was saying for so many years. That we all died out. But we bin here all along. They wanted to forget us. But we're still here! Betty's story is a patchwork, quilted together from all the little pieces told to her by the old folk on the mission where she grew up
P401 All bin happen long time ago Betty says, a weary smile on her face. I've had plenty of anger but you can't wear your hurt of your sleeve forever. Gotta get on. No point being cut up with it all your life. Anger is for the young ones who got the energy to make change. I'm past it now - My people have suffered, but they've survived. I've seen changes in my time. Lots of changes.
P403 - I want to think of happier time. I got plenty of those good memories too. Fishing down by the river. Playing music, singing all together. Caring, Loving, Getting married, Babies - that's the way forward. Not always beating yourself up over the past.p
The Grass Castle tells the story of Abby, a student scientist studying Kangaroos, and Daphne, an elderly lady with a love of the land especially the Brindabella mountains. Abby also grew up on the land in Victoria but is deeply troubled by her past, losing her mother so early. She is swept up in a whirlwind romance with Cameron a journalist, but due to her past history she is not one to be tied down. Her path crosses with Daphne and an easy friendship forms between them. Connected by their love and history with rural backgrounds and the fact Abby’s Kangaroos live on property that appears to be Daphen's previously but it now National Park. As they get to know each other. they slowly start to share the history of their difficult and challenging lives.
Both women drew me in with their stories and made me care about them. Their warmth, their different identification with the land, Indigenous issues and their past made me feel like i couldn't put the book down and just wanted to help them thru. felt like you were sitting there with them listening to their conversations, wanting to reach out a hand to comfort them. Daphne’s story added extra depth to the novel, a story in a story, and particularly her prior experiences with Indigenous issues and then the course she takes to share her earlier life with Abby.
Interestingly enough, it had me thinking about Kangaroos in a way I never have before. Even seeing a few dead kangaroos on the local roads near my home in Canberra, while reading this book I reacted very differently. This actually surprised me, but thanks to reading this book I won't be looking at kangaroos the same way in the future. I hold a strong interest and passion for Indigenous issues, so I connected so warmly with the Indigenous issues Karen has incorporated into this story.
The Grass Castle was full of surprising plot twists and I loved how everything and everyone was connected in one way or another. It was an engaging, beautifully written story that I can highly recommend. Karen Viggers is a highly sensitive and skilled writer and one I wish to read from - so now already started on The Stranding!
After reading the Grass Castle I would like to follow up also on The Moth Hunters by Josephine Flood and Mark O'Connor's poetry Where the Body Lay; Skiers and The Olive Tree Collected Poems - all referenced in The Grass Castle.
Significant quotes - p182 Abby says to Cameron - I survive by forgetting.
P394 after last night's traumas and this morning's release, Abby needs to recuperate now, to take pause in the soothing presence of the mountains and the trees. She's neglected them these past weeks and they watch her with a new untrusting vigilance. Already they've partly forgotten her. That is their wildness. You can gain an edge of familiarity, but instinct is undeniable.
p400 Betty's face is luminous. Country lives in you and you live in country. all one. She sighs as if the weight of life is resting on her shoulders. Betty sighs again. That's what everyone was saying for so many years. That we all died out. But we bin here all along. They wanted to forget us. But we're still here! Betty's story is a patchwork, quilted together from all the little pieces told to her by the old folk on the mission where she grew up
P401 All bin happen long time ago Betty says, a weary smile on her face. I've had plenty of anger but you can't wear your hurt of your sleeve forever. Gotta get on. No point being cut up with it all your life. Anger is for the young ones who got the energy to make change. I'm past it now - My people have suffered, but they've survived. I've seen changes in my time. Lots of changes.
P403 - I want to think of happier time. I got plenty of those good memories too. Fishing down by the river. Playing music, singing all together. Caring, Loving, Getting married, Babies - that's the way forward. Not always beating yourself up over the past.p
June 16, 2017
Je découvre pour la première fois la plume de Karen Viggers à travers ce beau roman qui m'a transporté jusque dans les plaines australiennes, où une belle amitié va naître entre une étudiante et une femme âgée...
Abby est étudiante en biologie et doit faire une thèse sur le comportement des kangourous. La solitude et la nature lui procurent l'apaisement qu'elle recherche depuis que sa mère s'est suicidée, il y a dix ans de cela. C'est ainsi qu'elle fait la connaissance du journaliste, Cameron, envoyé par son directeur de thèse, lui-même, espérant par cette occasion montrer une belle image de ces grands marsupiaux. La rencontre ne sera pas au beau fixe pour Abby, faut dire qu'il l'agace un peu malgré son charme distingué, un poil arrogant et ses bonnes manières ; quant à lui, complètement charmé par cette belle étudiante, il espère la revoir. Hélas, la jeune femme va tout faire pour l'éloigner, et plus elle va le fuir, plus il va s'accrocher.
En parallèle de cette histoire, Abby fait la connaissance de Daphne, une veuve qui vit dans ses souvenirs, qui pleure encore son mari et l'enfant qu'elle a perdu.
Une amitié forte va s'installer entre ces deux femmes malgré leur différence d'age. Pour Abby, Daphne lui rappelle à un certain moment la mère partie trop tôt et pour Daphne, l'oreille attentive qu'elle a tant besoin.
L'auteure a coupé l'histoire en quatre partie où nous allons suivre l'évolution/l'échec sentimental(e), l'amitié, les blessures cachées, les kangourous, avec une intrigue qui s'installe petit à petit au fil des pages, pointant du doigt les terres volées par les blancs aux aborigènes. Du coup, les non-dits et les secrets vont remonter à la surface. Et les personnages secondaires apportent également un souffle à l'histoire.
J'ai sincèrement adoré la plume de Karen Viggers, très poétique, intelligente, à tendance écolo, et parfois cruelle par des scènes très dures... Mais dans l'ensemble, l'essentiel est là et c'est le plus important ! A découvrir !
Abby est étudiante en biologie et doit faire une thèse sur le comportement des kangourous. La solitude et la nature lui procurent l'apaisement qu'elle recherche depuis que sa mère s'est suicidée, il y a dix ans de cela. C'est ainsi qu'elle fait la connaissance du journaliste, Cameron, envoyé par son directeur de thèse, lui-même, espérant par cette occasion montrer une belle image de ces grands marsupiaux. La rencontre ne sera pas au beau fixe pour Abby, faut dire qu'il l'agace un peu malgré son charme distingué, un poil arrogant et ses bonnes manières ; quant à lui, complètement charmé par cette belle étudiante, il espère la revoir. Hélas, la jeune femme va tout faire pour l'éloigner, et plus elle va le fuir, plus il va s'accrocher.
En parallèle de cette histoire, Abby fait la connaissance de Daphne, une veuve qui vit dans ses souvenirs, qui pleure encore son mari et l'enfant qu'elle a perdu.
Une amitié forte va s'installer entre ces deux femmes malgré leur différence d'age. Pour Abby, Daphne lui rappelle à un certain moment la mère partie trop tôt et pour Daphne, l'oreille attentive qu'elle a tant besoin.
L'auteure a coupé l'histoire en quatre partie où nous allons suivre l'évolution/l'échec sentimental(e), l'amitié, les blessures cachées, les kangourous, avec une intrigue qui s'installe petit à petit au fil des pages, pointant du doigt les terres volées par les blancs aux aborigènes. Du coup, les non-dits et les secrets vont remonter à la surface. Et les personnages secondaires apportent également un souffle à l'histoire.
J'ai sincèrement adoré la plume de Karen Viggers, très poétique, intelligente, à tendance écolo, et parfois cruelle par des scènes très dures... Mais dans l'ensemble, l'essentiel est là et c'est le plus important ! A découvrir !
February 6, 2014
Thanks to Allen and Unwin for this First Reads copy of The Grass Castle!
I'm not normally a huge fan of stories about Australia, as they are often be full of stereotypes and things that people from other countries want to hear about this country. I'm also not usually a fan of present tense narration, but somehow The Grass Castle wove its magic and won me over. Viggers writes characters with life-sized dimensions, and watching them interact against the stunning backdrop of the Brindabella Ranges is something to behold. It's always nice to read a novel set in a city you know, but even if I didn't know Canberra, the descriptions of the crisp autumn air and the nightlife, in sharp contrast to the sacred ground of the valley, are beautifully crafted and evocative. Central to the novel are relationships, particularly family ties, and the things that break and bind them. But what really brings this novel together is the complex friendship that blossoms between Abby and Daphne, which touches on difficult issues through two clear, poignant voices. A highly recommended read for an insight into rural history and life, the complexity of families, the power of the past and the surprising places forgiveness can be found.
I'm not normally a huge fan of stories about Australia, as they are often be full of stereotypes and things that people from other countries want to hear about this country. I'm also not usually a fan of present tense narration, but somehow The Grass Castle wove its magic and won me over. Viggers writes characters with life-sized dimensions, and watching them interact against the stunning backdrop of the Brindabella Ranges is something to behold. It's always nice to read a novel set in a city you know, but even if I didn't know Canberra, the descriptions of the crisp autumn air and the nightlife, in sharp contrast to the sacred ground of the valley, are beautifully crafted and evocative. Central to the novel are relationships, particularly family ties, and the things that break and bind them. But what really brings this novel together is the complex friendship that blossoms between Abby and Daphne, which touches on difficult issues through two clear, poignant voices. A highly recommended read for an insight into rural history and life, the complexity of families, the power of the past and the surprising places forgiveness can be found.
March 27, 2014
The characters and the country in this novel crept up on me. I thought I was reading a pretty standard novel then I realized how much I had seen these people, experienced them in friends and friend's families. I am probably biased living in Canberra and experiencing the wonder of the bush around here, the feeling not only of ancientness but of recent trials and tribulations of settlers. Viggers lays this out and it is that back ground that is the strength of the story , the feeling of place of the people that have come and gone.
The young set of Canberra are well portrayed as well as the rural families and sadly the Aboriginal past. There are many issues tackled here, loss and grief - suicide the pain of it not understanding it and the healing balm of country. It's a difficult quest to cover all but it is done almost under the radar. The only drawback was a lot of back story which bordered almost on tedium the way it was delivered but to me it was rescued by the sheer beauty of the description of country and connection with country.
The young set of Canberra are well portrayed as well as the rural families and sadly the Aboriginal past. There are many issues tackled here, loss and grief - suicide the pain of it not understanding it and the healing balm of country. It's a difficult quest to cover all but it is done almost under the radar. The only drawback was a lot of back story which bordered almost on tedium the way it was delivered but to me it was rescued by the sheer beauty of the description of country and connection with country.
December 31, 2017
This book sounded good, but didn’t live up to the expectations I had of it. Abby studies Kangaroos and meets Cameron, a journalist. At the same time we get to see Daphne’s story, about her time growing up in the same wilderness Abby now spends most of her days.
The characters in this story were okay, but I didn’t feel a strong connection to any of them. I would have like to have seen more of Daphne’s story, as for me that was the strongest part of this book. The plot line itself felt rather plodding, with not a lot actually happening.
A fast but only mildly interesting read for me.
The characters in this story were okay, but I didn’t feel a strong connection to any of them. I would have like to have seen more of Daphne’s story, as for me that was the strongest part of this book. The plot line itself felt rather plodding, with not a lot actually happening.
A fast but only mildly interesting read for me.
October 20, 2017
This had a slow start to it, but gradually I got drawn into Abby’s and Daphne’s lives and wanted to know their stories. Set in the ACT - in Queanbeyan and more rural areas, the description of some of the countryside is lovely. Abby is studying kangaroos, so there are some aspects of kangaroo management discussed.
A large portion of the book relates to mental health and suicide, so there could be some aspects that touch some triggers for some people.
A large portion of the book relates to mental health and suicide, so there could be some aspects that touch some triggers for some people.
January 28, 2014
I found the characters completely believable. The situations that they found themselves in, are ones that we have all done ourselves before.
It was easy to read and I often found myself picturing where they were, as I was right there with them.
It was very refreshing to read about our Aussie outback, each page was like a painting in print.
I would recommend it to my friends :)
It was easy to read and I often found myself picturing where they were, as I was right there with them.
It was very refreshing to read about our Aussie outback, each page was like a painting in print.
I would recommend it to my friends :)
September 15, 2019
A light and enjoyable read. Especially liked the setting in Canberra/Queanbeyan. Great perspective on how we really just are safekeepers of the land for future generations, and interesting to see the debates about kangaroo culling.
October 5, 2017
I connected with these characters and with the landscape of the Brindabella's.
August 1, 2021
L'autrice ha scelto di toccare temi importanti, tra cui il suicidio, la depressione (e la salute mentale in generale), l'elaborazione del lutto e altri ancora. Su alcuni temi si sente forte quanto le stiano a cuore e anche la competenza con cui li maneggia.
Il problema è che questo dovrebbe essere un romanzo. E uno sull'elaborazione del lutto, per di più. Solo che la storia scorre lenta, ci sono personaggi che appaiono e poi scompaiono per decine o centinaia di pagine, altri che sono poco più che token characters. Il tempo scorre a singhiozzo e più la trama va avanti più diventa difficile empatizzare con la protagonista.
Alcuni aspetti della trama sono trascinati al punto che è facile unire i puntini e scoprire ciò che dovrebbe essere la rivelazione finale ben prima di arrivarci e quando questa viene svelata ha perso tutta la sua carica emotiva.
Una nota particolarmente dolente è la questione degli aborigeni. Il personaggio di Betty, che risolve questa sottotrama nell'epilogo, appare per un paio di pagine, poi sparisce e torna alla fine per liquidare la questione come se non fosse niente di importante; sì, i bianchi hanno fatto delle cose orribili al suo popolo, ma insomma, il passato è passato, che vuoi che sia. L'ho trovato un modo davvero superficiale di trattare il tema.
Ed è così per tutto o quasi. Nessun tema è davvero scavato e addressato in maniera efficace e i rapporti tra i personaggi sono inconsistenti.
Il problema è che questo dovrebbe essere un romanzo. E uno sull'elaborazione del lutto, per di più. Solo che la storia scorre lenta, ci sono personaggi che appaiono e poi scompaiono per decine o centinaia di pagine, altri che sono poco più che token characters. Il tempo scorre a singhiozzo e più la trama va avanti più diventa difficile empatizzare con la protagonista.
Alcuni aspetti della trama sono trascinati al punto che è facile unire i puntini e scoprire ciò che dovrebbe essere la rivelazione finale ben prima di arrivarci e quando questa viene svelata ha perso tutta la sua carica emotiva.
Una nota particolarmente dolente è la questione degli aborigeni. Il personaggio di Betty, che risolve questa sottotrama nell'epilogo, appare per un paio di pagine, poi sparisce e torna alla fine per liquidare la questione come se non fosse niente di importante; sì, i bianchi hanno fatto delle cose orribili al suo popolo, ma insomma, il passato è passato, che vuoi che sia. L'ho trovato un modo davvero superficiale di trattare il tema.
Ed è così per tutto o quasi. Nessun tema è davvero scavato e addressato in maniera efficace e i rapporti tra i personaggi sono inconsistenti.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2014
Abby is a PhD student living in Canberra researching the movement and habitat of kangaroos. She lives a mostly isolated life in the bush tracking the animals and collecting the research she needs to write her thesis. A tragic event in Abby’s early teens has made her close herself off from the world. She lives away from her family and although she visits, they’re not exactly close. When she meets journalist Cameron, he tries to slip beneath the protective facade that Abby has constructed around herself. She doesn’t ever want to get close to anyone and when she feels as though Cameron might be becoming too much of a fixture in her life, she seeks to distance herself from him.
Daphne grew up on a farm in a valley of the Brindabella Ranges. She then married a farmer and raised her own children there, in a world of horses and cattle and country living. Then the government forced them off their land and Daphne’s husband never really adjusted to the change. Some thirty years later Daphne has moved in with her daughter Pam and Pam’s husband and observes their world of babysitting their grandchildren. Occasionally she likes to visit what’s left of her old homestead, crumbling away now and it is there she meets Abby.
Abby and Daphne strike up an unlikely friendship. Abby feels able to confide in Daphne in a way that she has never with anyone else and Daphne enjoys the company of someone who isn’t part of her family and obligated to spend time with her, even if they don’t mind. Both of them have secrets and need each other’s help to move forward in their lives.
I was quite excited about this book when I began reading it but I have to say, unfortunately it did not live up to my expectations. The two stories of Daphne and Abby who function as dual narrators are interesting enough on their own but there’s a real lack of cohesion in bringing the two together and keeping them there. Abby is such a loner and although she comes across Daphne in a moment of illness and weakness, the friendship they strike up seems very unusual for Abby, given how reticent she is and how little she seems to enjoy spending time around other people. There’s the probability that Daphne reminded Abby of her grandmother, who did a large bulk of raising Abby and Daphne was clearly looking for an ear, knowing that Pam was busy with looking after her various grandchildren but to be honest, I found the scenes between Abby and Daphne extremely dull and on one occasion, more than just a little odd.
There’s a strong theme of conservation and mistakes running through this novel and at times it can feel a little preachy. Daphne’s parents presumably took their land from the Aboriginals (although her father strongly denied it, but in a guilty way) and later on, Daphne and her husband have to surrender their land back to the government for them to establish it into a National Park. Daphne remarks years later that this has been detrimental to the land, that it was better cared for when it was being farmed. The kangaroo numbers were kept down, the scrub was controlled and overall, everything was much better. Yet another government scheme that apparently went wrong. Likewise there’s also the issue of kangaroo culling but what I think it supposed to be presented as a debate falls down. Abby is concerned that the journalist Cameron is presenting his story one sided, which is a big no-no (even though Cameron says that the other side declined to comment). However this book presents the protesters as a bunch of raving lunatics intent on doing physical harm to anyone on the other side. It comes across as a bit sanctimonious and doesn’t really address the contentious issue very well. There’s no denying that kangaroos in large numbers can be pests and the fact that droughts can really strip the areas of their feed. However, they’re also a national icon and the idea of killing them simply because doesn’t sit well with many people, no matter how the scientists present their case. Killing native animals because there are too many of them is not the same as culling rabbits or wild pigs, who are only here because of human intervention. And yet there seems to be no other real workable solution.
The relationship between Abby and Cameron felt extremely underdeveloped and not just because Abby is borderline socially retarded. Abby’s first impression of him is terrible and therefore, the reader’s is too and although this can be overcome with careful and clever writing, it doesn’t seem like there’s a lot of effort that went into Cameron. He’s basically a good guy making his own way in life against his horrid parent’s wishes but he’s never really fleshed out properly and neither are his feelings for Abby. And because we’re with Abby most of the time, her feelings about Cameron are…distant. She’s not wanting to get involved because of her family history but her inner argument tends to make little sense to me and presumably even less sense to Cameron. The whole thing just felt really odd and awkward and not at all like a tormented relationship. Also, the inclusion of the mysterious “George” was very strange and far, far too convenient for any sort of believability.
I struggled through this one – some parts were interesting to me but they weren’t expanded upon enough. Others were far too embellished and I felt my eyes glazing over and would have to snap out of it and force myself back into reading.
Daphne grew up on a farm in a valley of the Brindabella Ranges. She then married a farmer and raised her own children there, in a world of horses and cattle and country living. Then the government forced them off their land and Daphne’s husband never really adjusted to the change. Some thirty years later Daphne has moved in with her daughter Pam and Pam’s husband and observes their world of babysitting their grandchildren. Occasionally she likes to visit what’s left of her old homestead, crumbling away now and it is there she meets Abby.
Abby and Daphne strike up an unlikely friendship. Abby feels able to confide in Daphne in a way that she has never with anyone else and Daphne enjoys the company of someone who isn’t part of her family and obligated to spend time with her, even if they don’t mind. Both of them have secrets and need each other’s help to move forward in their lives.
I was quite excited about this book when I began reading it but I have to say, unfortunately it did not live up to my expectations. The two stories of Daphne and Abby who function as dual narrators are interesting enough on their own but there’s a real lack of cohesion in bringing the two together and keeping them there. Abby is such a loner and although she comes across Daphne in a moment of illness and weakness, the friendship they strike up seems very unusual for Abby, given how reticent she is and how little she seems to enjoy spending time around other people. There’s the probability that Daphne reminded Abby of her grandmother, who did a large bulk of raising Abby and Daphne was clearly looking for an ear, knowing that Pam was busy with looking after her various grandchildren but to be honest, I found the scenes between Abby and Daphne extremely dull and on one occasion, more than just a little odd.
There’s a strong theme of conservation and mistakes running through this novel and at times it can feel a little preachy. Daphne’s parents presumably took their land from the Aboriginals (although her father strongly denied it, but in a guilty way) and later on, Daphne and her husband have to surrender their land back to the government for them to establish it into a National Park. Daphne remarks years later that this has been detrimental to the land, that it was better cared for when it was being farmed. The kangaroo numbers were kept down, the scrub was controlled and overall, everything was much better. Yet another government scheme that apparently went wrong. Likewise there’s also the issue of kangaroo culling but what I think it supposed to be presented as a debate falls down. Abby is concerned that the journalist Cameron is presenting his story one sided, which is a big no-no (even though Cameron says that the other side declined to comment). However this book presents the protesters as a bunch of raving lunatics intent on doing physical harm to anyone on the other side. It comes across as a bit sanctimonious and doesn’t really address the contentious issue very well. There’s no denying that kangaroos in large numbers can be pests and the fact that droughts can really strip the areas of their feed. However, they’re also a national icon and the idea of killing them simply because doesn’t sit well with many people, no matter how the scientists present their case. Killing native animals because there are too many of them is not the same as culling rabbits or wild pigs, who are only here because of human intervention. And yet there seems to be no other real workable solution.
The relationship between Abby and Cameron felt extremely underdeveloped and not just because Abby is borderline socially retarded. Abby’s first impression of him is terrible and therefore, the reader’s is too and although this can be overcome with careful and clever writing, it doesn’t seem like there’s a lot of effort that went into Cameron. He’s basically a good guy making his own way in life against his horrid parent’s wishes but he’s never really fleshed out properly and neither are his feelings for Abby. And because we’re with Abby most of the time, her feelings about Cameron are…distant. She’s not wanting to get involved because of her family history but her inner argument tends to make little sense to me and presumably even less sense to Cameron. The whole thing just felt really odd and awkward and not at all like a tormented relationship. Also, the inclusion of the mysterious “George” was very strange and far, far too convenient for any sort of believability.
I struggled through this one – some parts were interesting to me but they weren’t expanded upon enough. Others were far too embellished and I felt my eyes glazing over and would have to snap out of it and force myself back into reading.
February 23, 2014
The Grass Castle is a big book, covering a lot of topics ranging from domestic violence, loneliness, mental illness, ageing, kangaroo culling, racism and family issues. It’s a big job to cover so much in one book. Not everything is covered in great detail, but that’s reflective of life in my opinion – we can’t be everything to everybody. With this softly paced, quiet novel, Viggers captures life from a distance in all its ups and downs.
The main character of The Grass Castle is Abby, a PhD student who is studying kangaroos. Her work is predominantly out in the field alone and that’s how she likes it. Scarred by the death of her mother and the violent relationship between her father and his de facto, Abby wants peace and quiet. Not to cause a ripple in the pond. She even avoids her fellow students due to the noise and interaction. Deep down, Abby’s afraid to connect with another human.
Then she meets Cameron, a journalist doing a feature on the booming kangaroo population during the drought. Against Abby’s better judgement, they start a relationship in which Cameron falls hard. Abby doesn’t feel quite the same, even though Cameron sticks by her during numerous family issues. Abby also comes into contact with Daphne, an elderly lady who lived on the farm where Abby studies her kangaroos before it was turned into a national park. Through flashbacks, the reader gains an idea of how things were different back then – the harsh treatment of the Aboriginal people, relationships with family and the relationship with the land. Daphne and Abby strike up an unlikely friendship and the narrative weaves between Daphne’s history and present day alongside Abby. Meanwhile, tensions run high in the community as a kangaroo cull is proposed.
The narrative has a quiet, lyrical feeling to it as if the reader is standing back, watching things unfold through a misty lens. At first I found the pace rather slow, but as the book progressed I found myself looking forward to the chance to slow down and lose myself in the book. Others may find the pace too slow for their liking. As for the characters, I warmed to Daphne straight away – she’s a (great) grandmotherly type who has a lot of wisdom to share, but doesn’t always get the chance as the rest of her family seem to have written her off due to age. It’s when Daphne’s with Abby that she really gets the chance to shine and be valued as a human. Abby is a bit more of a cold fish, unwilling to reveal much of herself at once to the reader- it was really only in the latter half of the book that I began to like her. Possibly this was because I thought Cameron was a great character – warm and patient with everyone and Abby’s reluctance with him annoyed me somewhat. He’s a catch!
The book will also make you consider where you stand on kangaroo welfare. Kangaroos have the ability to hold off breeding until conditions are favourable and in the book, they’re at record high populations in a drought. There simply isn’t enough food for them. Is a cull the answer? And if the cull goes ahead, should the joeys (baby kangaroos) be killed too? Daphne’s viewpoint of the farmer (shoot them) is in opposition to those of her granddaughter (a wildlife carer), while Abby sits on the fence. She’s an ecologist, she knows the population isn’t sustainable…but is culling the answer? Viggers also goes into Aboriginal land rights but I didn’t feel this was extensively covered and may be a little patchy to foreign readers who aren’t aware of the background.
If you enjoy books with a dreamy feel to them, this book would be of interest to you.
Thank you to Allen and Unwin and The Reading Room for the eARC of this book.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
The main character of The Grass Castle is Abby, a PhD student who is studying kangaroos. Her work is predominantly out in the field alone and that’s how she likes it. Scarred by the death of her mother and the violent relationship between her father and his de facto, Abby wants peace and quiet. Not to cause a ripple in the pond. She even avoids her fellow students due to the noise and interaction. Deep down, Abby’s afraid to connect with another human.
Then she meets Cameron, a journalist doing a feature on the booming kangaroo population during the drought. Against Abby’s better judgement, they start a relationship in which Cameron falls hard. Abby doesn’t feel quite the same, even though Cameron sticks by her during numerous family issues. Abby also comes into contact with Daphne, an elderly lady who lived on the farm where Abby studies her kangaroos before it was turned into a national park. Through flashbacks, the reader gains an idea of how things were different back then – the harsh treatment of the Aboriginal people, relationships with family and the relationship with the land. Daphne and Abby strike up an unlikely friendship and the narrative weaves between Daphne’s history and present day alongside Abby. Meanwhile, tensions run high in the community as a kangaroo cull is proposed.
The narrative has a quiet, lyrical feeling to it as if the reader is standing back, watching things unfold through a misty lens. At first I found the pace rather slow, but as the book progressed I found myself looking forward to the chance to slow down and lose myself in the book. Others may find the pace too slow for their liking. As for the characters, I warmed to Daphne straight away – she’s a (great) grandmotherly type who has a lot of wisdom to share, but doesn’t always get the chance as the rest of her family seem to have written her off due to age. It’s when Daphne’s with Abby that she really gets the chance to shine and be valued as a human. Abby is a bit more of a cold fish, unwilling to reveal much of herself at once to the reader- it was really only in the latter half of the book that I began to like her. Possibly this was because I thought Cameron was a great character – warm and patient with everyone and Abby’s reluctance with him annoyed me somewhat. He’s a catch!
The book will also make you consider where you stand on kangaroo welfare. Kangaroos have the ability to hold off breeding until conditions are favourable and in the book, they’re at record high populations in a drought. There simply isn’t enough food for them. Is a cull the answer? And if the cull goes ahead, should the joeys (baby kangaroos) be killed too? Daphne’s viewpoint of the farmer (shoot them) is in opposition to those of her granddaughter (a wildlife carer), while Abby sits on the fence. She’s an ecologist, she knows the population isn’t sustainable…but is culling the answer? Viggers also goes into Aboriginal land rights but I didn’t feel this was extensively covered and may be a little patchy to foreign readers who aren’t aware of the background.
If you enjoy books with a dreamy feel to them, this book would be of interest to you.
Thank you to Allen and Unwin and The Reading Room for the eARC of this book.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
April 29, 2017
Avis Le murmure du vent de Karen Viggers
Je suis agréablement surprise par la qualité de ce roman qui m’a énormément plu. Les premières pages ont été vite balayées car je m’ennuyais ferme. Je me trouvais face à un roman sentimental et une héroïne un peu niaise. Mais non, Abby est tout sauf une imbécile et on va apprendre à bien la connaître au fil des pages.
Le murmure du vent avait tout pour me plaire puisqu’il se déroule dans un pays que j’aimerais visiter et où j’ai toujours voulu vivre. L’Australie. Avec ses grands espaces. L’auteur nous fait certes voyager mais elle n’en fait pas un pays idyllique. Il y a une partie historique et politique très intéressante à lire et donc à connaître. Les aborigènes vaincus, déplacés ou encore tués pour laisser la place aux blancs. Ces mêmes blancs qui se sont installés sur des terres qu’ils ont fait fructifier, qu’ils ont plantées. Ce sont des amoureux de la terre, ce sont des hommes robustes. Eux aussi ont dû s’en aller. Cela leur a fait mal. Ils sont allés vivre en ville et certains n’ont pas réussi à s’accoutumer. Qui dit politique, dit également écologie avec ce réchauffement climatique qui entraîne une énorme sécheresse en Australie, notamment dans le bush. Les pouvoirs publics manient la langue de bois avec dextérité, comme partout. Et ici, c’est pour les kangourous. Tout cela ne change pas ma vision de l’Australie.
Parlons des kangourous qui font partie de la vie d’Abby, future th��sarde. Elle les étudie. Ils sont trop nombreux et ne sont pas une espèce protégée car pas en voie d’extinction. Mais ils se multiplient trop. Rien n’a encore été trouvé pour contrôler l’espèce et les naissances. Tout en narrant l’histoire d’Abby et de Daphne, l’auteur a inséré les kangourous dans son roman et nous explique tout sur eux. Très intéressant de connaître ces petites bêtes mignonnes et bondissantes. Le regard du lecteur change.
Le murmure du vent est un roman chargé de souvenirs, de transmissions entre Abby et Daphne qui se sont rencontrées. La première est très jeune mais elle a perdu sa maman qui s’est suicidée suite à de nombreuses dépressions et des troubles bipolaires. Cela a changé cette jeune femme qui ne s’est jamais remise de la mort de sa mère et qui reste très proche de son frère et de son père. Mais Abby est une solitaire, elle s’épanche peu et elle ne veut surtout pas s’engager. Elle est une jeune femme qui a peur, surtout de l’amour. Sa rencontre avec Cameron, beau gosse de service et journaliste, la plonge dans de nombreux délices. Elle ne veut pas s’avouer qu’elle l’aime et elle ne veut pas s’attacher. Arrivera-t-elle à passer outre ses angoisses ? Quant à Daphne, c’est une vieille dame, très proche de la terre, au caractère affirmé. Elle est droite, franche et avec Abby, elle va s’épancher petit à petit. L’une et l’autre se sont bien trouvées. Abby trouve en Daphne la grand mère trop tôt disparue.
Karen Viggers nous livre un roman riche sur les interrogations des vivants lors de la mort d’un parent lorsque l’on est jeune ou d’un mari. Ce sont également des réflexions sur la mort qui reste à venir, ce que l’on peut laisser à ceux qui restent.
Je remercie les Editions Les Escales et NetGalley.
Résumé Le murmure du vent de Karen Viggers
Abby se destine à la recherche pour la sauvegarde des kangourous. Elle a 23 ans et passe de nombreuses journées et nuits dans le bush pour les étudier. Elle prépare sa thèse. Elle rencontre Cameron venue l’interviewer.
Lorsqu’il la quitte, il a un accident de voiture et blesse une femelle kangourou qu’Abby est obligée d’abattre.
Je suis agréablement surprise par la qualité de ce roman qui m’a énormément plu. Les premières pages ont été vite balayées car je m’ennuyais ferme. Je me trouvais face à un roman sentimental et une héroïne un peu niaise. Mais non, Abby est tout sauf une imbécile et on va apprendre à bien la connaître au fil des pages.
Le murmure du vent avait tout pour me plaire puisqu’il se déroule dans un pays que j’aimerais visiter et où j’ai toujours voulu vivre. L’Australie. Avec ses grands espaces. L’auteur nous fait certes voyager mais elle n’en fait pas un pays idyllique. Il y a une partie historique et politique très intéressante à lire et donc à connaître. Les aborigènes vaincus, déplacés ou encore tués pour laisser la place aux blancs. Ces mêmes blancs qui se sont installés sur des terres qu’ils ont fait fructifier, qu’ils ont plantées. Ce sont des amoureux de la terre, ce sont des hommes robustes. Eux aussi ont dû s’en aller. Cela leur a fait mal. Ils sont allés vivre en ville et certains n’ont pas réussi à s’accoutumer. Qui dit politique, dit également écologie avec ce réchauffement climatique qui entraîne une énorme sécheresse en Australie, notamment dans le bush. Les pouvoirs publics manient la langue de bois avec dextérité, comme partout. Et ici, c’est pour les kangourous. Tout cela ne change pas ma vision de l’Australie.
Parlons des kangourous qui font partie de la vie d’Abby, future th��sarde. Elle les étudie. Ils sont trop nombreux et ne sont pas une espèce protégée car pas en voie d’extinction. Mais ils se multiplient trop. Rien n’a encore été trouvé pour contrôler l’espèce et les naissances. Tout en narrant l’histoire d’Abby et de Daphne, l’auteur a inséré les kangourous dans son roman et nous explique tout sur eux. Très intéressant de connaître ces petites bêtes mignonnes et bondissantes. Le regard du lecteur change.
Le murmure du vent est un roman chargé de souvenirs, de transmissions entre Abby et Daphne qui se sont rencontrées. La première est très jeune mais elle a perdu sa maman qui s’est suicidée suite à de nombreuses dépressions et des troubles bipolaires. Cela a changé cette jeune femme qui ne s’est jamais remise de la mort de sa mère et qui reste très proche de son frère et de son père. Mais Abby est une solitaire, elle s’épanche peu et elle ne veut surtout pas s’engager. Elle est une jeune femme qui a peur, surtout de l’amour. Sa rencontre avec Cameron, beau gosse de service et journaliste, la plonge dans de nombreux délices. Elle ne veut pas s’avouer qu’elle l’aime et elle ne veut pas s’attacher. Arrivera-t-elle à passer outre ses angoisses ? Quant à Daphne, c’est une vieille dame, très proche de la terre, au caractère affirmé. Elle est droite, franche et avec Abby, elle va s’épancher petit à petit. L’une et l’autre se sont bien trouvées. Abby trouve en Daphne la grand mère trop tôt disparue.
Karen Viggers nous livre un roman riche sur les interrogations des vivants lors de la mort d’un parent lorsque l’on est jeune ou d’un mari. Ce sont également des réflexions sur la mort qui reste à venir, ce que l’on peut laisser à ceux qui restent.
Je remercie les Editions Les Escales et NetGalley.
Résumé Le murmure du vent de Karen Viggers
Abby se destine à la recherche pour la sauvegarde des kangourous. Elle a 23 ans et passe de nombreuses journées et nuits dans le bush pour les étudier. Elle prépare sa thèse. Elle rencontre Cameron venue l’interviewer.
Lorsqu’il la quitte, il a un accident de voiture et blesse une femelle kangourou qu’Abby est obligée d’abattre.
January 16, 2018
'The Grass Castle' by Karen Viggers follows the life of Abby,a young PhD student studying kangaroos, her relationship with a journalist, and a deep friendship she makes with an old lady who used to live in the high country before the government resumed it for a national park. Throw in secrets and traumas from the past, a depressed brother, a father with relationship problems with his second wife, the old lady's daughter and granddaughter, discussions about kangaroos, and a vivid and very realistic kangaroo cull and you have one very busy story. While I enjoyed the actual plot, I felt there was too much detail given in the various sub-plots. It was all well written, but I wanted there to be more momentum focussing on the three lead characters, instead of having to wade through the other characters' lives that weren't that interesting. I was also frustrated at Abby's determination to exclude all relationships because of her past and this made it hard for me to relate to her. This seems to be the plot device of so many of these stories and I am getting a little tired of it.
May 18, 2016
I really wanted to like this more than I was able to. There was some beautiful writing and great descriptions, and a great deal of research had obviously been done before writing. However, I found Abby hard to relate to at times, and enjoyed Daphne's story more than Abby's. I found it hard to get over my first impressions of Cameron where he is portrayed quite negatively. The story was often told more in flashbacks or unrelated anecdotes than a structured story which I found frustrating at times. I did learn quite a lot about the Brindabella Ranges region and the issues around kangaroo culling.
September 21, 2018
errr....sstruggling to get through this! Annoying how there's no storyline happening. My husband said what's it about? I really could not answer.. I expected it to 'go back in time' with Daphne's story, but no she just has short flashbacks that don't develop into anything. And since I realised just how similar to Viggers previous book 'The Lightkeepers Wife' it is - that is annoying me as well - another sick old lady remembering - seems like the same person - quite depressing really. I did enjoy The Lightkeepers Wife, but Grass Castle seems to be a re-hash of a similar theme - disappointing.
March 17, 2014
The Grass Castle is a quiet, introspective novel exploring the themes of displacement and belonging, grief and healing. Overall I cannot say I really enjoyed it. There were chapters where I was enthralled and others where I was bored. The story line of Abby Cameron and Daphne is well written and some of the descriptions are very vivid.
June 7, 2014
I love this woman's writing style. She has a beautiful way with words and descriptive phrases. The story was an enjoyable mix of past and present.
The character Abby was a little frustrating at times and felt like she needed to take a hold of her life.
Loved the bond between Daphne and Abby.
The ending was a little unsatisfying however and left all as an assumption not a definitive outcome.
The character Abby was a little frustrating at times and felt like she needed to take a hold of her life.
Loved the bond between Daphne and Abby.
The ending was a little unsatisfying however and left all as an assumption not a definitive outcome.
May 22, 2014
I loved this novel. Karen Viggers has such a gift for getting to the heart of her characters and presenting them as such real and multifaceted people. She have a knack for creating such beautiful settings. The issues investigated are woven so expertly into the whole work.
July 31, 2015
A very beautiful book that charts the changes of two women, both effected by death, that balances sensitivity to the land, aboriginal land rights, farming, animal rights, and kangaroos and the ecology as a beautiful work f fiction.
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