My latest children’s book, written by Dee White, is in all good bookshops from June 4th.
It tells the story of a Susie Bourne who modelled as the tar boy in Tom Roberts’ famous painting ‘Shearing the Rams’.
A shy girl, she toils away un-noticed on the family farm until Tom Roberts arrives and pays her and her sister to kick up dust for his paintings.
Set in 1890s Corowa, the painting is born amongst the shearer’s strike, massive societal change and the beginning of the Labour Party. Susie, as a girl, was not allowed in the shearing sheds. As the tar boy, she represents the changing face of Australia.
Dee’s prose is beautiful and evocative; it is a beautiful and educational book
The official book launch is in Corowa on June 7th. It will be opened by the mayor and both Dee and I will be doing book signings.
See you there!
