A Man Called Possum
ISBN: 014 038268 2
Publisher: Penguin Books Australia, 1998
An adaptation for younger readers of Max Jones' book about the mysterious hermit who lived in scrub along the River Murray. Possum was a loner. He hid from his pursuers in wild bush country. He was one of the great survivors of the twentieth century. But who was he really? Max Jones, country detective, was determined to find out - even if it took him thirty years.
Awards
- NSW Premier's Awards, shortlisted
- Children's Book Council of Australia, Notable Book
Teacher notes
Reviews
If you are looking for a good biography then
A Man called Possum is superb and very different. Possum was the name given to a recluse who lived along the banks of the River Murray in eastern South Australia, living a life of complete isolated independence, living off the land and going for years without speaking to anyone ... It is told through extracts of interviews, diary notes, tapes, letters and ... narrative. It is engrossing reading and reads like a detective story but it also gives us revealing insights into the reasons why Possum lead such a fiercely independent and isolated life. It is also a wonderfully evocative description of the Riverland country especially during the depression years.
Highly recommended for anyone from Year 7 up.
AUSTRAL ED, September 1998
This book is out of print, but may be available from your school or local library.