True History of the Kelly Gang : Book Review

"True History of the Kelly Gang" by Peter Carey is an enthralling and imaginative retelling of the infamous Australian outlaw, Ned Kelly. This gripping novel takes readers on a thrilling journey through Kelly's turbulent life, from his poverty-stricken upbringing to his life as a bushranger.

Carey's writing captures the language and dialect of 19th-century Australia with skill and authenticity. The story is told from the perspective of Ned Kelly himself, providing an intimate and personal touch to the narrative. Carey's prose is raw and powerful, immersing readers in the harsh and unforgiving landscape of the Australian bush.

A standout aspect of the book is its complex characterization of Ned Kelly. Carey presents a deeply flawed but sympathetic man, driven to a life of crime by the injustices he witnesses and experiences. Kelly's love for his family and his homeland shines through, making him more than just a regular outlaw.

The novel delves into themes of identity, class struggle, and the clash between colonizers and indigenous individuals in Australia. Carey provides historical context, shedding light on the social and political dynamics that influenced Kelly's actions. Through vivid descriptions and meticulous research, Carey brings the era to life and offers a fascinating glimpse into Australian history.

"True History of the Kelly Gang" is a remarkable book that combines historical accuracy with literary flair. Carey's masterful storytelling and compelling portrayal of Ned Kelly make this novel an enthralling read. Whether you are familiar with Kelly's story or not, this book will captivate you from beginning to end and leave a lasting impression.

What are readers saying?

Peter Carey's novel "True History of the Kelly Gang" has garnered a range of responses from readers. Some have lauded Carey's ability to vividly portray historical events, praising his storytelling skills and his portrayal of characters, particularly the notorious Australian outlaw, Ned Kelly. Many readers were captivated by the book's exploration of Australian history and its examination of the social and political factors that shaped the infamous Kelly Gang.

On the other hand, some readers found the book challenging to follow due to its use of colloquial language and unconventional writing style. The heavy reliance on Australian slang proved difficult for some, hindering their full comprehension of the story. Additionally, a few readers felt that the book lacked a cohesive narrative structure and jumped around chronologically, resulting in a confusing and disjointed experience.

Despite these criticisms, several reviewers commended Carey's meticulous research and attention to detail, noting that it added depth and authenticity to the story. They appreciated the historical accuracy and admired the seamless blend of fact and fiction. However, a few felt that the level of detail led to a slow pace, and certain sections were unnecessarily lengthy and verbose.

Opinions on the character development differed among readers. While some found the portrayal of Ned Kelly and other characters to be sympathetic and nuanced, others thought they lacked depth and their motivations and actions were inadequately explored. Additionally, there were reviewers who expressed dissatisfaction with the book's ending, considering it abrupt and leaving loose ends.

In summary, "True History of the Kelly Gang" has garnered mixed reviews. It appealed to readers who enjoyed historical fiction and appreciated Carey's unique storytelling approach. However, those who prefer more conventional narratives or struggle with heavy use of slang may find it less enjoyable. Overall, the novel offers a captivating exploration of Australian history, but its unconventional writing style and varying levels of character development may not resonate with all readers.

TrueHistory KellyGang AustralianLiterature