A book written by an Australian about Great Barrier Island in the 60's. Insert themes of over fishing by Japanese trawlers, 1 man who has come back from the war a complete wreck, one male childrens writer, and one woman who magically is a doctor/psychologist/incubator all in one.
I like to be able to believe in my characters, and this novel felt a little contrived as everything seems to work out conveniently every chapter. While the examples of Red's lapses into mania due to traumatic wartime experiences appear to be well written, the novel has a sexism and underlying sexuality that did not sit well with me.
I did not enjoy the portrayal of women in this novel at all - the behaviour of the two main female characters does not make any sense, even when considered as a sign of the times (based in the 60's).
While the novel did grip me occasionally, I came away feeling I didn't exactly enjoy it and don't knowif I really took anything from it! I'm sure if the same subject matter was handled by a female author it would have had quite a different spin.
I don't think I would read this novel again either.
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