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Paris Savages

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( 261 ratings, 64 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Paris Savages by Katherine Johnson follows the journey of a group of Aboriginal people from Fraser Island, Australia, in the 19th century as they travel to Europe for public exhibitions. The story delves into themes of cultural exploitation and resilience, highlighting their struggle for dignity amidst the spectacle. Through thought-provoking narrative and rich historical detail, the novel explores the impact of colonialism and the deep humanity of its characters.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you are drawn to stories that explore cultural exchange, historical injustices, and human resilience. Set in the 19th century, it follows an intriguing journey that delves into the complexities of identity and the impact of colonialism, narrated with sensitivity and depth.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

‘This story has its genesis in fact, when three Fraser Island people were taken to Germany in 1882–83. The sole survivor was Bonangera (Boni/Bonny) whose life-size plaster cast remains at the Musée des Confluences, Lyon, France. The silencing that Badtjala people continue to endure in the localised historiography of place is ongoing.’

Dr Fiona Foley, Badtjala artist and academic

Fraser Island, 1882. The population of the Badtjala people is in sharp decline following a run of brutal massacres. When German scientist Louis Müller offers to sail three Badtjala people – Bonny, Jurano and Dorondera – to Europe to perform to huge crowds, the proud and headstrong Bonny agrees, hoping to bring his people’s plight to the Queen of England.

Accompanied by Müller's bright, grieving daughter, Hilda, the group begin their journey to belle-époque Europe to perform in Hamburg, Berlin, Paris and eventually London. While crowds in Europe are enthusiastic to see the unique dances, singing, fights and pole climbing from the oldest culture in the world, the attention is relentless and the fascination of scientists intrusive. When disaster strikes, Bonny must find a way to return home.

A story of love, bravery, culture and the fight against injustice, Paris Savages brings a little-known part of history to blazing life, from award-winning novelist Katherine Johnson.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Paris Savages by Katherine Johnson is often praised for its moving narrative and vivid historical detail. Reviewers highlight Johnson’s ability to sensitively depict the tragic journey of three Indigenous Australians taken to Europe in the 19th century. The novel is commended for its powerful exploration of cultural exploitation and identity, delivering an emotional impact that lingers with readers.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781920727529

Publisher: Ventura Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 28 July 2021

Country: Australia

Imprint: Ventura Press

DIMENSIONS

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 352

About the Author

Katherine Johnson is the author of three previous novels: Pescador’s Wake (Fourth Estate, 2009), The Better Son (Ventura Press, 2016) and Matryoshka (Ventura Press, 2018). Her manuscripts have won Varuna Awards and Tasmanian Premier's Literary Prizes. The Better Son was longlisted for both the Indie Book Awards and the Tasmania Book Prize. Katherine holds both arts and science degrees, has worked as a science journalist, and published feature articles for magazines including Good Weekend. Katherine lives in Tasmania with her husband and two children. She recently completed a PhD, which forms the basis of her latest novel, Paris Savages.

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