True History of the Kelly Gang by Peter Carey

True History of the Kelly Gang is a novel by Peter Carey. It is presented as a work of fiction centred on the outlaw Ned Kelly.

Key details

• Author: Peter Carey
• Title: True History of the Kelly Gang
• Book type: novel
• Features a portrayal of outlaw Ned Kelly as seen by authorities and ordinary Australians

Synopsis

The description contrasts how Ned Kelly is viewed by the authorities, who pursue him as a horse thief, bank robber and police-killer, with how he is regarded by fellow ordinary Australians, who see him as their own Robin Hood. It also includes a first-person reflection on losing a father at the age of 12 and being raised amid lies and silence.

Peter Carey is described as bringing the famous bushranger to life through a “dazzling act of ventriloquism”, with an approach characterised as wild and passionate.