The Shiralee (novel)


The Shiralee is the debut full-length novel by D'Arcy Niland published in 1955. It was adapted into a movie in 1957 and a mini series in 1987.

Plot

The swagman Macauley takes his young daughter Buster on the road with him.

Reception

The Argus called it a "great Australian novel".
The New York Times called it a "fine story" which Niland "told well... Mr Niland's approach is honest as it is refreshing... one wants to hear more from him".

Adaptations

Film rights were sold in 1955 for a reported £10,000.
In 1957 a British film was made by Ealing Studios, directed by Leslie Norman.
A second adaptation was made in 1987. It was an Australian TV film directed by George Ogilvie, starring Bryan Brown and Noni Hazelhurst.