Characters
This character is the granddaughter of Odette Brown and plays a central role in the novel
Sissy
This theme refers to the institutional and societal discrimination faced by Indigenous people, which is central to the novel.
Racism
In which remote Australian town do Odette and Sissy live?
Deane
"You are never going to take her away from me. Ever."
This line is spoken by which character?
Odette
This character is the matriarch who raises her granddaughter alone, protecting her from the government authorities.
Odette Brown
The novel explores this bond between Odette and Sissy, showing how family is crucial to survival and resistance
Family
Where did Odette and Sissy meet Jack Haines?
At a cafe at the train station
"Why can't I go to school like the other kids?"
This line is spoken by which character?
Sissy
This is the local constable who poses a threat to Odette and Sissy, enforcing discriminatory laws against Aboriginal people.
Sergeant Lowe
This theme highlights how Odette constantly fights to maintain her dignity in the face of oppressive forces.
Resillience
What is the name of Sissy's mother and why does she leave Deane?
Lila. She escapes Deane because of her traumatic experience being sexually assaulted by Joe Kane, resulting in her falling pregnant with Sissy.
"The law is the law, and it doesn't care for your sob stories."
This line is spoken by which character?
Sergeant Lowe
This character helps Odette and Sissy in their journey to freedom, offering them protection from the authorities.
Dr. Singer
The novel reflects on the damaging legacy of this government policy that sought to remove Indigenous children from their families.
The Stolen Generation
Sergeant Lowe uses this government law to justify his attempts to take Sissy away from Odette
The Aboriginal Protection Act
"It's not the colour of a person's skin that should determine their future, but the strength of their spirit."
This line is spoken by which character?
Dr. Singer
He is the man who warns Odette about the danger Sergeant Lowe poses to her family.
Bill Shea
This theme in the novel underscores the difficulties of navigating both Indigenous and non-Indigenous worlds as Sissy grows up.
Identity
Odette takes this dangerous action to ensure that Sissy is never taken away by the authorities
Flees to the city
"Be careful, Odette. Men like him don't stop until they get what they want."
This line is spoken by which character?
Bill Shea