The Pencil Case - Softcover

Cobcroft, Lorraine Ann

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0980571413 ISBN 13: 9780980571417

Publisher: Rainbow Works Pty Ltd, 2013

Synopsis

A hit on the head with a pencil case began Paul Wilson's lifelong battle against the system and the pencil-pushers who tormented him... but nothing could break his indomitable spirit. Paul was a fifth generation, native-born white Australian, and a stolen child. Bureaucrats stole him twice. So-called 'women of God' and a misguided carer stole his identity, his heritage and his self-respect. Journey into the home and lives of a battling Aussie bush family and weep over cruel injustice that breaks a mother's heart and kills a father's soul. Witness child abuse and deprivation in an almost Dickensian world. Meet foster parents whose dedication and caring gives orphans and waifs hope for a future. Follow Paul's struggle through adult life, sharing his and his family's pains and joys. Celebrate his triumphs. Mourn his foolishness. Admire his strength and courage as he fights continuing injustice, haunted by demons from his past and nursing an insatiable thirst for revenge. A story that illustrates the beauty and strength of the human spirit and the power of family love.

About this title

Review

''Impeccably written and a story worth telling.'' (M.A. McRae) ''I love the descriptive power of this writer. The writing has just the right balance, not too flowery but giving rich sensual detail that paints the scene. Biographers can get caught up in distracting details, but not here. Not every facet is outlined, allowing the reader to fill the gaps in a satisfying way. Perfect for me. The narration is totally credible and very moving. I felt fully engaged with Paul and could see the world through his eyes. I sincerely hope this work receives the light of attention it deserves. Excellent.'' (Nick Goulding) ''have to say that your imagery is superb'' (Diana Hockley) ''I've only just begun your book, but I am already amazed at both your writing ability and the deeply emotional story you have to tell. I was immediately drawn into Paul's backstory, completely captivated by the early family life and the unimaginably poor living conditions. You paint beautifully with such colorful words, and I felt as if I was right there...craving the loaf of bread and scared to death of the snake. To tell you the truth, I'm not a fan of reading on the computer (at ALL!), but I felt so at ease with your piece. The honesty, the pain, the truly raw humanity here draws me in, and I know it will carry me on through your work. Giving you highest stars. A beautifully-written, utterly moving piece of art.'' (Faith Rose) "I think that it is an awesome book. This story must be told. As a mother, my heart went out to your husband over and over again. Lorraine, you are an awesome author. You write extremely well.'' (Cherrye Vasquez) ''This is a very powerful account of the lives of children taken into care by the Australian government. Paul's account of his time at the Home under the 'care' of the nuns was appalling, although not completely surprising to anyone who attended a school run by nuns in the 50s or earlier. This is clearly a book that needs to be written - and read.'' (Colin Neville)

Edition details

• Publisher: Rainbow Works Pty Ltd
• Publication date: 2013
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0980571413
• ISBN 13: 9780980571417
• Binding: Paperback
• Illustrator: Cobcroft Peter Herbert
• Number of pages: 302