The Sundowners (novel)

The Sundowners is a 1952 novel by Australian author Jon Cleary. It follows the Carmody family – Paddy, Ida, and their son Sean – as they work as drovers and shearers in the Australian outback during the 1920s. The novel explores their nomadic lifestyle and the tensions it creates, particularly between Paddy, who revels in the freedom of itinerant work, and Ida, who longs for a settled home and a stable future for Sean. The story chronicles their experiences traveling across the country, their interactions with other characters, and the challenges they face in a harsh and unforgiving environment. Central themes include the allure and hardship of the Australian outback, the conflict between individual freedom and familial responsibility, and the search for belonging and a place to call home. The novel provides a glimpse into the lives of working-class Australians in the early 20th century and their connection to the land.