'The opening scene sets the tone for this satisfying story set in the outback in the 1920s. Audrey pulls back the hessian curtains, glad her parents can’t afford glass, and leans out to whisper to Stumpy, ‘we’re going to find out the swagman’s secret’. Audrey is a feisty young heroine, the middle child in a struggling family living an isolated bush life. Audrey decides to try being, in turn, a swaggie (for the freedom), a man (because they claim to know everything and can use words girls can’t) and a teacher as all she will have to do is tell people what to do. Her adventures, including being around when her brother accidentally blows up the dunny, are very entertaining, but it is also a touching story about facing hardships and growing up in one’s own time.' (Publication summary)
