Geraldine Brooks provided readings, discussion and interviews about Caleb's crossing during her visit to New Zealand in June. She was very forthcoming about the historical background to her latest book, the research that she had done and the reasons for creating a female fictional narrator. Kim Hill's interview was revealing and local reviews were mostly favourable.I found the book well-paced, full of interesting characters and fascinating details. Bethia was portrayed as a child of her time but with such spirit and intellect and humanity that she became a vital part of the story and made me want to keep on reading.
Geraldine Brooks is certainly able to take a historical idea and create a novel experience for readers, always leaving us with something new to think about. Try also People of the Book and March.
