Uncorrected proof edition, obtained from the nice people at Canongate, via the "First Reads" comp on the Goodreads.com website. Because it is a proof copy, any further reviews should heed the review request: "These proofs are uncorrected and that substantial changes may be made before this book is printed. If any material from the book is quoted in a review, please check it in the text of the final bound book"

Amazon blurb:
As a boy, Daniel Rooke was always an outsider. At school he learned to hide his clever thoughts from his cruel peers; at home his parents were bemused by their bookish son. Daniel could only hope – against all the evidence – that he would one day find his place in life. By 1788, Daniel has become Lieutenant Rooke, astronomer with the First Fleet as it lands on the unknown shores of New South Wales. As the newcomers struggle to establish a settlement for themselves and their cargo of convicts, and attempts are made to communicate with those who already inhabit this land, Rooke sets up his observatory to chart the stars. But the place where they have landed will prove far more revelatory than the night sky. Out on his isolated point, Rooke comes to know the local Aboriginal people, and forges a remarkable connection with one child, which will change his life in ways he never imagined. Based on real events, Kate Grenville’s stunning new novel conveys the poignancy and emotional power of an extraordinary friendship, and how through it a man might find himself: a story that resonates across the oceans and across the centuries.

Excellent book, starting with a brief detailing of the growing up of Daniel Rooke and his joining of the British Navy as a marine (although really brought on board to make use of his navigational skills).

After several years, he arrives in New South Wales and sets up camp in an attempt to find Halley's comet. He soon comes in contact with the natives and begins to win their trust, and starts learning their language, especially via his relationship with one young girl. This relationship is not only important from a linguistics point of view, but makes Rooke learn more about himself and what he is prepared to accept as a right as a human being. His decisions then affect the rest of his life

Ray Rules

1) Everybody should leave a journal entry when receiving the book and after the read! Please let us all know what you think about it...
2) Also PM the next person on the list for a mailing address and when that person doesn't answer (within 7 days MAX!) please PM the one after...Please check the list to make sure it hasnt changed
3) Everybody should also try to read the book soon (< 2 months)
4) You can send the book via surface mail or airmail - that is completely up to you.
5) If you find you don't have the time to read it when it's your turn please PM and I'll do my best to move you to a later slot.
6) I'll attempt to include new members as possible, based on shipping prefs and location, but may have to refuse if impossible to get in or out!

Current members:

Brumbie, Uk, Uk Preferred (Europe optional)
Winterson, Uk, International Possible
lucy-lemon, wales, UK preferred.

CONTROLLED RELEASE NOTES:

Given to Brumbie as the first person on the list

This beautifully written book is based on the real records kept by William Dawes, started in 1788, of his conversations with the Cadigal people of New South Wales and in particular with a child called Patyegarang. Kate Grenville uses his account of devising a grammar as a metaphor for the deeper meanings and values of language and communication in helping completely different cultures to understand each other. I found this book fascinating on all levels and will probably read it again.

REceived safe and well today. Will add it to the pile and get on it asap. Think I have 1 book ahead of this.

Great book! A book that caught my imagination and made me think about the limits and possibilities of communication and relationships. Also deals with a person's will to stand up for what they believe in and brave the consequences.
Thanks for passing this on, I'll be looking out for a copy to keep hold of and read again.

CONTROLLED RELEASE NOTES:

Sent on to next participant. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did :)

Arrived a couple of days ago - thanks for the reminder winterson! Really looking forward to reading this one, and will be starting it asap.

got it back safe and sound, thanks

WILD RELEASE NOTES:

Given to the Big Issue Seller between the Bull Ring and New Street Station