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Published 28 August 2006
Format Paperback, 588 pages
RRP $24.95
ISBN-13 9780143004639
Imprint Penguin
Publisher Penguin Aus.
Origin Australia
Category Modern & Contemporary Fiction (Post C 1945)

Matthew Flinders' Cat

ISBN-13:9780143004639

The story of a drunk, a boy and a cat

Billy O'Shannessy, once a prominent barrister, is now on the street where he sleeps on a bench outside the State Library. Above him on the window sill rests a bronze statue of Matthew Flinders' cat, Trim. Ryan is a ten-year-old, a near-street kid heading for the usual trouble. The two form an unlikely bond.

Through telling Ryan the story of Flinders' circumnavigation of Australia as seen through Trim's eyes, Billy is drawn deeply into Ryan's life and into the Sydney underworld.

A modern-day story of friendship and redemption by an internationally bestselling author.


User Reviews

  • Comment by Anthony Kirby March 10, 2010
    This book provides a gritty and fascinating insight into the realistic struggle faced by alcoholics. Billy deals with personal demons in an effort to correct lifes wrongs, and in the process becomes heavily embroiled in a seedy underworld of cover ups and distractions. A must read!
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