Roberta B. Sykes (1943–2010)

A brave biography of a difficult but happy childhood growing up on the wrong side of the tracks in a racist society. Sykes has an eye for detail and her writing flows like a story simply spoken out loud. She wonders aloud about her situation, and judges but never rants. The story itself condemns the people and system that were arrayed against her. Ultimately it is a story about her retaining her dignity and self respect, which given the circumstances of her teenage years is quite surprising. show more Not just a great story about growing up in disadvantage, this is a great story about growing up in Australia. show less

Interesting but sad. Racism in Australia would resonate with historical record of the USA. Inspiring because of author's courage and drive to success politically and personally. Snake Dreaming is book 1 of trilogy titled Snake Dreaming, the snake being the totem of the author. A personal record such as this balances the glorified takeover of an ancient ancestral land by British invaders.

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