Crime Time

A book that will disgust and delight pre-teen readers who won t even notice they re learning about history. "
A well-written taster of the dark side of Australian history. "
Chocka-block with fascinating facts and true stories of Australia s most infamous, Crime Time really does have something for everyone . . . stories ranging from Jeronimus Cornelisz s blood-thirsty mutiny in 1629 off the coast of Western Australia to modern day thug Carl Williams systematically chart four centuries of murderous mayhem that despite, or perhaps because of their subject matter, make for riveting reading. "
Crime Time is organised chronologically, beginning with a persuasive sailor in 1629, and finishing up with cases still fresh in the public memory. There is an introduction from Kerry Greenwood, a contents page, and a detailed index to the characters mentioned. Entries are relatively short, three-four pages, with info boxes providing snippets on some of our less salubrious citizens. Sue Bursztynski has presented information in an almost conversational and sometimes humourous style, easily accessible to readers. There is plenty of gory detail, but it s not so graphic as to cause nightmares. For the budding criminologist keen to learn more, the bibliography provides books and website details. From poisoning grannies, to bumbling burglars, this is an extensive rogues gallery. Recommended for upper-primary boys and beyond."
Crime Time Australians Behaving Badly is guaranteed to chill and thrill young readers as they are introduced to a cast of unsavory characters including the kind old lady who poisoned her victims with homemade pikelets and jam and the escaped convict who survived by eating his friends. The book is presented in a chronological format, opening with the Batavia incident in the 1600s and moving through the 19th and 20th centuries to the present day. Black and white illustrations by Louise Pratt enhance the text and fascinating Did You Know? information snippets are included throughout. Each story is written in a readable, conversational style with plenty of appeal for young readers. It is not for the fainthearted with vivid imaginations, but will no doubt enthrall those who revel in spine-chilling tales of murder."
It s an impressive collection of interesting tales backed with research. "
Here is a well-researched and broad-ranging collection of tales which focus on criminals appearing throughout Australian history. Each story devotes about four pages to its subject, accompanied by a clever little portrait drawn by Louise Prout, with Did You Know facts presented as a footnote to each chapter. This compilation is readable and interesting, and perfect for the young investigator. Overall the collection is informative and extensive, with each entry conveying a good sense of place, time and character. A useful bibliography and index are included.