Black Snake

Part 1: The Kelly Gang

This part introduces Ned Kelly as a young boy growing up in the harsh Australian bush. It details his family's struggles after his father, John 'Red' Kelly, dies, leaving his mother, Ellen, to raise a large family in poverty. The Kellys move to Eleven Mile Creek, near Greta, and face constant suspicion and harassment from the police, particularly Sergeant Kennedy. Ned's early life is marked by hard work, loyalty to his family, and a growing sense of injustice as he witnesses the unfair treatment of Irish selectors by the authorities. He learns bush skills and develops a strong bond with his siblings, particularly his younger brother Dan. This section establishes the socio-economic and political context that shaped Ned's future.

Part 2: The Bushranger

Ned's first significant brushes with the law are detailed here. He is falsely accused of horse stealing and serves a short prison sentence, which hardens him. Upon his release, he falls under the influence of the notorious bushranger Harry Power, acting as his apprentice for a period. Ned learns the ways of the bush and the tactics of evading police, though he eventually distances himself from Power's more violent methods. He attempts to live a legitimate life, working as a timber cutter and horse breaker, but the constant police surveillance and the family's reputation make it difficult. This part highlights Ned's internal conflict between wanting to live honestly and being drawn into a life of crime by circumstance and perceived injustice.

Part 3: The Outlaw

This section describes the escalating conflict between the Kelly family and the police, culminating in the events that force Ned and his brother Dan into outlawry. A dispute involving Constable Fitzpatrick at the Kelly homestead leads to accusations of assault and attempted murder against Ned and Dan, despite conflicting accounts. With warrants issued for their arrest, Ned, Dan, Joe Byrne, and Steve Hart form the Kelly Gang and go into hiding in the Wombat Ranges. The pursuit by police leads to the Stringybark Creek incident, where the gang ambushes and kills three policemen – Sergeant Kennedy, Constable Scanlon, and Constable Lonigan – marking their transformation from fugitives to declared outlaws with a bounty on their heads.

Part 4: The Legend

Following the Stringybark Creek murders, the Kelly Gang becomes the most wanted men in Victoria, but also gains significant public sympathy, particularly among the poor Irish selectors. This part details their audacious bank robberies in Euroa and Jerilderie, where they hold entire towns captive, destroy mortgage documents, and explain their grievances to the public. During the Jerilderie raid, Ned dictates the famous Jerilderie Letter, a lengthy document outlining the injustices faced by his family and the Irish community, justifying their actions, and challenging the corrupt police and government. These acts solidify their status as folk heroes to some and dangerous criminals to others, further fueling the legend of the Kelly Gang.

Part 5: Glenrowan

This part builds towards the climactic final stand at Glenrowan. The gang, increasingly desperate and cornered, plans a final, ambitious act: to derail a police train carrying reinforcements to capture them, then take hostages and negotiate. They construct their iconic bulletproof armour from ploughshares, believing it will give them an advantage. The plan goes awry when a schoolmaster, Thomas Curnow, escapes and warns the approaching train. The gang takes hostages in the Glenrowan Inn, leading to a prolonged siege with the police. The inn is eventually set on fire, and in the ensuing chaos, Joe Byrne, Dan Kelly, and Steve Hart are killed. Ned, wearing his armour, attempts a final charge but is wounded and captured.

Part 6: The Trial

The final section covers Ned Kelly's capture, his subsequent trial, and execution. Severely wounded, Ned is taken to Melbourne, where he is tried for the murder of Constable Lonigan at Stringybark Creek. Despite his eloquent and defiant speeches in court, where he attempts to justify his actions and expose the corruption of the police and legal system, he is found guilty. Justice Barry, the presiding judge, sentences him to death. Ned Kelly maintains his innocence and defiance to the end. The book concludes with his execution at Melbourne Gaol on November 11, 1880, solidifying his place in Australian history as a complex figure – a criminal to some, a rebel and hero to others.

"Black Snake" by Carole Wilkinson is a historical fiction novel that takes readers back to the early days of Australia, specifically during the time of the European colonization. The story is centered around the life of a young Indigenous boy named Bindi, who is caught in the midst of cultural upheaval and the clash between Indigenous Australians and British settlers. Wilkinson's storytelling combines engaging characters with rich historical details, making it a poignant exploration of identity, resilience, and the impact of colonization.

The narrative unfolds through Bindi’s eyes as he navigates his world, filled with the traditions of his Aboriginal community. His life takes a dramatic turn when British settlers arrive, bringing with them not only new opportunities but also significant challenges and threats to his way of life. As Bindi witnesses the encroachment of settlers on his land, he grapples with the loss of his heritage and the changes to his family and community.

Bindi’s journey is marked by personal growth as he learns to reconcile his identity with the harsh realities of a changing world. Along the way, he encounters a variety of characters, including both Indigenous people and settlers, each representing different perspectives on the conflict. The story builds to a climax as Bindi must make choices that will determine his future and the future of his people, illustrating the resilience and strength of Indigenous culture in the face of adversity.

1. Cultural Identity: The novel delves into the significance of cultural heritage and the struggles faced by Indigenous people in maintaining their identity amidst colonization.

2. Colonial Impact: Wilkinson highlights the devastating effects of European settlement on Indigenous communities, showcasing both the physical and emotional toll of this historical event.

3. Resilience and Resistance: Bindi’s character embodies the strength and determination of his people to resist oppression and fight for their rights and land.

4. Friendship and Loyalty: The relationships Bindi forms throughout his journey emphasize the importance of community and support in overcoming challenges.

"Black Snake" serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of history and the ongoing impact of colonization on Indigenous cultures. Readers are encouraged to reflect on the importance of understanding and respecting diverse perspectives. The novel not only tells a compelling story but also educates about a critical period in Australian history, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in social justice and cultural identity. Ultimately, it calls for empathy and awareness in recognizing the struggles