Lightning Ridge (book)

Lightning Ridge is a historical fiction novel by Australian author Mary Durack, first published in 1959. The story is set in the early 20th century in the harsh outback of Western Australia and follows the journey of the Forrest family as they establish a pastoral property and struggle to survive the challenges of drought, isolation, and conflict with the local Aboriginal population. The novel explores themes of perseverance, family loyalty, the impact of colonization on Indigenous Australians, and the evolving relationship between settlers and the land. It is considered a significant work of Australian literature, offering a portrait of life in the Australian frontier and contributing to the broader understanding of Australian history and culture.