The Story of Danny Dunn

ISBN-13:9780670073344

In the aftermath of the Great Depression few opportunities existed for working-class boys, but at just eighteen Danny Dunn has a good deal going for him: brains, looks, sporting ability - and an easy charm. His parents run The Hero, a favourite neighbourhood pub, and Danny is a local hero.

Luck changes for Danny when he signs up to go to war. He returns home a physically broken man, to a life that will be changed for ever. Together with Helen, a woman of strength, character and intelligence who becomes his wife, he sets about rebuilding his life. It is a life tormented by personal demons, and shaped by compassion, corruption, love and power - and the gift of twin daughters, Sam and Gabby.

Set against a backdrop of Australian pubs and politics, The Story of Danny Dunn is an Australian family saga spanning three generations. It is a compelling tale of love, ambition and the destructive power of obsession, at a time of great change in Australia's history.

The Story of Danny Dunn is out now.



Keep up to date with all the latest news and media interviews for The Story of Danny Dunn on Bryce's Facebook page.

Penguin TV takes you into the life and home of Bryce Courtenay. Learn about Bryce's life, writing, passions and inspirations in this mini-documentary.

Read Chapter One of The Story of Danny Dunn

User Reviews

• Comment by Georgina Stewart June 2, 2010
  Yet another wonderful book from Bryce Courtenay - thank you. Bryce has maintained his position as my favourite author with yet another exceptionally researched tale. Having read every one of Mr Courtenay's books I am always astounded when his latest work manages to keep me gripped right to the end...I don't think I could ever tire of his wonderful writing and ability to make the reader feel like part of the tale. It was somewhat embarrasing to finish reading this book in a public place as tears streamed down my face - a heartachingly devastating yet somehow appropriate ending. My only "complaint" is that Bryce does not write fast enough! It will be a very sad day indeed when Mr Courtenay retires from writing.
• Comment by Jan Bryan May 24, 2010
  I would like to say how much I enjoyed The Story of Danny Dunn. I read it in a week, as I couldn't put it down as I wanted to read what was happening. Coming from Balmain, I can relate to lots of places etc. I have passed on my praise for the book to family & friends. Thanks Bryce
• Comment by Kennneth Russell May 21, 2010
  Danny Dunn is the greatest Australian story I have ever read, possibly the greatest ever written.
• Comment by Margaret Zeeno April 13, 2010
  I had purchased this book for a Christmas present to myself, it took me 3 months to read and I thought it was brilliant. I feel a little lost and bored with myself now so I am looking for another Bryce Courtenay novel to read.
• Comment by Denise February 15, 2010
  I bought the book for my Uncle who is 76 years old and an avid reader, particualrly since becoming bound to a wheelchair after an accident at home some 4 years ago. My uncle has read many of Bryce Courtenay books but said that he thinks it is the best book he has ever read and wants to know when the sequel will be available. Having being born in Australia and spending many of his years working in the Australian bush and living through the war and Depression himself, he found the book thorughly enjoyable. He couldn't put it down but at the same time didn't want the story to finish.
• Comment by Megan December 31, 2009
  I received this book as a christmas present and could not put it down for the three days it took for me to complete it. The story was so unbelievably good. I normally am not interested in stories about conflict and war but Bryce Courtenay did such an excellent job of writing about Danny's time in the army, I was entranced!!!!