Craig Sherbourne – Hoi Polloi (Rating: 3)
Voted as a ‘best book’ of 2005 in the Bulletin, The Australian and ABR, this is a gritty memoir by an outstanding journalist, Hoi Polloi describes the world of seedy pubs, horseracing, sex, crime and new money. The young Sherborne’s journey begins in Heritage, New Zealand in 1968 where a curious only child is exposed to violence, drinking and murky racial politics. His parents, whom Sherborne names Winks and Heels as part of his eccentric personal language, decide to sell their hotel and move to Sydney, Australia. To their minds Australia is New Zealand’s ‘England’ and offers boundless wealth, prestige and social opportunities. In Sydney, the family begins a love affair with the racing scene. Attempts to groom the ever-rebellious Sherborne into a member of the upper crust provide an often hilarious story. Here is a portrait of an extraordinary childhood – brutal, poignant and unforgettable.
Ath book club comments:
All Ath Book Club members agreed that that the book has a beautiful cover and an apt title. Sherborne’s life story of his childhood is based on an adult’s subjective memory. His nick names on his parents are a sign of him distancing from them and the story is partly very cruel towards them. The book presents a very narrow point of view and the description of some life changing dramatic events is very shallow.
Free feel to put your thoughts and comments on this book.
