‘Ned Kelly and the Green Sash’ by Mark Greenwood, brings to life the history of Ned Kelly and the Kelly Gang; Australia’s most infamous bushrangers. The story begins in Ned’s early years when he displays true heroism by saving a classmate from drowning in a flooded creek and is awarded a green sash. This green sash is still proudly being worn by Ned when, a few years later, he is captured by the authorities. The book is an intriguing insight into the life of a poor boy, who would eventually be hanged for murder and is remembered as Australia’s most notorious bushranger.
The format of the picture book is narrative non-fiction and Greenwood uses the format to great effect. Written from the first-person voice of Ned Kelly, a sense of realism is created for the reader, it is as if they are hearing the voice of Kelly himself. At the same time the narrative non-fiction format allows the author to detail the factual details of both the exploits of the Kelly gang and harshness of life in Australia during the late 1800s. Incorporating newspaper articles and Ned’s own writing to form part of the storyline, as well as colloquial language and phrases, the reader is transported back in time to 1860 -70s.
Frané Lessac’s naïve illustration style contains intricate detail and reflects the accompanying text exquisitely. The illustrations contrast the rich colours of the bush with the more subdued tones of the prison cell and the sepia tones of the newspaper articles. The endpapers include brief biographies on the Kelly Gang, their victims and the true story behind the green sash.
A fearless hero or ruthless villain? This book is sure to spark debate and contemplation.
‘I do not pretend that I have led a blameless life, or that one fault justified another, but the public, judging a case like mine, should remember that the darkest life may have a bright side …’
‘Ned Kelly and the Green Sash’ was
The Children’s Book Council of Australia Notable Book 2011
SCBWI Crystal Kite Award Shortlist 2011
WAYRBA Winner 2011 Hoffman Award
CJ Korean Picture Book Awards 2010 Finalist
Picture Books for Older Readers
