Kangaroo by D. H. Lawrence is a thought-provoking and engaging novel that delves into the complexities of political ideology and personal identity. Set in Australia in the 1920s, the story follows an English writer named Richard Lovat Somers who becomes entangled with a charismatic and enigmatic local political leader known as Kangaroo.

The novel explores themes such as nationalism, loyalty, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. Lawrence's writing is evocative and poetic, drawing readers into the unique landscape and culture of Australia.

The characters in Kangaroo are vividly drawn and deeply flawed, making them both relatable and intriguing. The relationship between Somers and Kangaroo is at the heart of the story, providing a lens through which to examine the larger social and political forces at play.

Overall, Kangaroo is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that will leave readers questioning their own beliefs and values. Lawrence's insights into human nature and society are as relevant today as they were nearly a century ago.

Book Description:
"Kangaroo" is the nickname of a character in this novel, Benjamin Cooley, who was a charismatic leader in the fascist movement of ex-soldiers who fought in the Australian army in WWII. The story's main character is an international journalist, Richard Lovat Somers who, with his wife, comes to rent a house next door to Jack Calcott and his wife who are natural-born Australians through-and-through. Jack is in league with Kangaroo and tries to persuade Lovat to join their political movement conflicting with the Socialist political faction in the country. Throughout this book, there is an undercurrent of vaguely defined "Generalized Love" which borders closely on homosexuality between the otherwise testosterone-saturated Australian men. Action-wise: There are riots and gunfights; but there are also moments of great tenderness of the men for their wives. Both Jack and Lovat dearly want to become "leaders of men", but Lovat backs away when he is recruited to join in an espionage campaign against the Socialists. Another undercurrent which muddies the waters for Lovat is that he is a true British citizen and thus resented by the Australians.