The Dingo Boys The Squatters of Wallaby Range By: George Manville Fenn (1831-1909)
The Dingo Boys: The Squatters of Wallaby Range by George Manville Fenn is an adventurous and thrilling novel set in the vast Australian outback. The story revolves around two brothers, Dick and Larry, who embark on a journey to save their family's estate, Wallaby Range. As squatters, their family is faced with the imminent threat of losing their land to the wealthy English landlord, Mr. Grubbs. Determined to fight for their rights, the boys set out on a daring counter-offensive. Fenn's writing beautifully captures the spirit of the Australian wilderness, painting vivid descriptions of the rugged landscape and its exotic inhabitants. From encounters with wild dingoes to breathtaking gallops on horseback, the author's attention to detail transports readers to the heart of the outback. The characters in The Dingo Boys are well-developed and relatable, each with their own unique personalities. Dick, the older brother, is portrayed as brave, resourceful, and fiercely protective of his heritage. On the other hand, Larry, the younger sibling, is depicted as curious and impulsive, a perfect complement to his brother's level-headedness. Their bond is at the heart of the story, as they face countless dangers and obstacles together. The plot is fast-paced, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers eagerly turning the pages. Fenn masterfully combines action, suspense, and even a touch of mystery, creating a captivating narrative that appeals to both young and adult readers. The exploration of themes such as family loyalty, the clash of cultures, and the struggle against injustice adds depth and complexity to the story. Furthermore, Fenn's portrayal of the social divide between the wealthy English landlord and the hardworking squatters adds a layer of social commentary to the novel. The conflict between the two groups serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for land rights and the consequences of colonization. One aspect that could have been further explored is the Indigenous Australian perspective. While Fenn briefly mentions the rich Aboriginal culture and their connection to the land, it would have been intriguing to delve deeper into their history and involvement in the story. Overall, The Dingo Boys: The Squatters of Wallaby Range is an enthralling adventure novel that transports readers to the heart of the Australian outback. With its compelling characters, an engaging plot, and vivid descriptions, George Manville Fenn showcases his skill as a storyteller. Whether you are a fan of action-packed adventures or simply enjoy immersive storytelling, this book is a must-read. First Page: The Dingo Boys; or, The Squatters of Wallaby Range, by George Manville Fenn. A family from England arrive in Australia, where they acquire the carts and other material needed to set forth and find suitable land to squat on. The family consists of several adults, two young daughters of around twenty, and three boys of around sixteen, cousins. There is also an old English gardener who has agreed to come out with them. On the way up country they acquire somehow an aboriginal hanger on, who, however, proves a tower of strength in all sorts of vicissitudes in which they find themselves. Because he's black they call him Ashantee at first, shorten this to Shanter, and then refer to Tam o' Shanter on certain occasions. The adults keep saying they distrust Shanter, but time after time he proves them wrong, and gets them out of situations which appear hopeless, in the typical George Manville Fenn style. An interesting read, but you will have to get used to the speech forms used by Shanter, which are in a sort of pidgin cum aboriginal form. Nothing too difficult, though, as plenty of guidance is provided in the text. THE DINGO BOYS; OR, THE SQUATTERS OF WALLABY RANGE, BY GEORGE MANVILLE FENN... Continue reading book >>

The Dingo Boys The Squatters of Wallaby Range By: George Manville Fenn (1831-1909)

The Dingo Boys: The Squatters of Wallaby Range by George Manville Fenn is an adventurous and thrilling novel set in the vast Australian outback.

The story revolves around two brothers, Dick and Larry, who embark on a journey to save their family's estate, Wallaby Range. As squatters, their family is faced with the imminent threat of losing their land to the wealthy English landlord, Mr. Grubbs. Determined to fight for their rights, the boys set out on a daring counter-offensive.

Fenn's writing beautifully captures the spirit of the Australian wilderness, painting vivid descriptions of the rugged landscape and its exotic inhabitants. From encounters with wild dingoes to breathtaking gallops on horseback, the author's attention to detail transports readers to the heart of the outback.

The characters in The Dingo Boys are well-developed and relatable, each with their own unique personalities. Dick, the older brother, is portrayed as brave, resourceful, and fiercely protective of his heritage. On the other hand, Larry, the younger sibling, is depicted as curious and impulsive, a perfect complement to his brother's level-headedness. Their bond is at the heart of the story, as they face countless dangers and obstacles together.

The plot is fast-paced, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers eagerly turning the pages. Fenn masterfully combines action, suspense, and even a touch of mystery, creating a captivating narrative that appeals to both young and adult readers. The exploration of themes such as family loyalty, the clash of cultures, and the struggle against injustice adds depth and complexity to the story.

Furthermore, Fenn's portrayal of the social divide between the wealthy English landlord and the hardworking squatters adds a layer of social commentary to the novel. The conflict between the two groups serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for land rights and the consequences of colonization.

One aspect that could have been further explored is the Indigenous Australian perspective. While Fenn briefly mentions the rich Aboriginal culture and their connection to the land, it would have been intriguing to delve deeper into their history and involvement in the story.

Overall, The Dingo Boys: The Squatters of Wallaby Range is an enthralling adventure novel that transports readers to the heart of the Australian outback. With its compelling characters, an engaging plot, and vivid descriptions, George Manville Fenn showcases his skill as a storyteller. Whether you are a fan of action-packed adventures or simply enjoy immersive storytelling, this book is a must-read.

First Page:

The Dingo Boys; or, The Squatters of Wallaby Range, by George Manville Fenn.

A family from England arrive in Australia, where they acquire the carts and other material needed to set forth and find suitable land to squat on. The family consists of several adults, two young daughters of around twenty, and three boys of around sixteen, cousins. There is also an old English gardener who has agreed to come out with them.

On the way up country they acquire somehow an aboriginal hanger on, who, however, proves a tower of strength in all sorts of vicissitudes in which they find themselves. Because he's black they call him Ashantee at first, shorten this to Shanter, and then refer to Tam o' Shanter on certain occasions.

The adults keep saying they distrust Shanter, but time after time he proves them wrong, and gets them out of situations which appear hopeless, in the typical George Manville Fenn style.

An interesting read, but you will have to get used to the speech forms used by Shanter, which are in a sort of pidgin cum aboriginal form. Nothing too difficult, though, as plenty of guidance is provided in the text.

THE DINGO BOYS; OR, THE SQUATTERS OF WALLABY RANGE, BY GEORGE MANVILLE FENN... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Teen/Young adult

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Wikipedia – George Manville Fenn
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