Gaolbird

`Simon Barnard's Hogarthian yarn of cunning and hapless convict pirates is no less absurd for being true: the kind of slapstick lunacy that so often passes for actual history. Wonderfully conceived, surprisingly original, terrifically entertaining. Three cheers for Gaolbird!' -- Shaun Tan
`A boisterous slice of Australian colonial history...the visual style will appeal to lovers of Horrible Histories or the ever-increasing range of graphic novels.' * Books + Publishing *
`The utterly true tale of escaped convict turned pirate William Walker. There's grim stuff here but the neat illustrations, regular fact bombs and remarkable tale carry the whole show along.' * New Zealand Herald *
`This beautifully told and illustrated story of William Swallow and convict Popjoy is an historical adventure with a difference.' * National Trust Australia *
`This is an exciting book with a lot going on, both visually and in the story. Readers will enjoy this highly entertaining insight into two incredible characters from Australia's convict history.' * Reading Time *
`An unusual book inspired by the truth being stranger than fiction...There is a real sense of humour in the story, which could be described as both farcical and tragic. It is certainly memorable.' * Kids Book Review *
`Barnard manages to use the picture book format to capture the historical in a clever and engaging way... A hugely entertaining look at a moment in our history.' * Magpies *

`Simon Barnard employs his superb artistic flair to illustrate this chaotic, comical and calamitous tale.'

* Tasmania Historical Research Association Journal *