Desert Queen - The Many Lives and Loves of Daisy Bates

This biography Desert Queen by Susanna de Vries is another of her many interesting stories of women who have made their mark in Australia's history. Daisy Bates had a remarkable life and is most noted for her anthropological work with the aborigines. The author's research uncovered the truth behind some of the myths that Daisy herself used to cover up her humble beginnings. Her grace and education brought her into contact with many dignatories whom she used to fund her work. Some of Daisy's more sensational stories (e.g. cannibalism) were sold to newspapers and publishers to ensure an income. Such stories damaged her credibility and offended aboriginal groups. However, most of her work was undertaken with reverence and its value in preserving many of the oral histories and dreamtime stories which would otherwise have been lost cannot be overestimated. Excellent. 4/5