Poison Under Their Lips
Mark Svendsen

Lothian Books: 
YA Fiction 2001

208p pbk $14.95

ISBN: 0-7344-0183-3

What happens to a person whose ideals are compromised by his work? How does he live with himself? Is there any hope of redemption? This novel suggests there is not. A challenging read for more able readers, Poison Under Their Lips weaves real nineteenth-century documents into a narrative about a young Christian man trying to cope with his duties as a member of the infamous Native Police.
The Native Police had the terrible task of relocating aboriginal people - in reality, clearing the land of blacks  (usually by murdering them) so that white settlers could live unmolested by 'savages.' Under the command of white officers, aboriginal men from southern tribes performed this shameful duty. Frederick Wheeler was a particularly harsh officer who was ultimately charged and tried for his part in this 'war', but the corrupt and racist system of the time made a mockery of justice.
The use of real characters and documents of the time gives the novel a chilling reality, but also makes it a difficult read that many young readers will find dreary. I also think the inclusion of Psalms and folk song lyrics may put some readers off. The author has tried to recreate an authentic nineteenth century voice in the character of young Wilbraham, and while this is admirable, and well done, I don't know how appealing it will be to modern readers. The bleak ending left this reader feeling rather flat, but hey, I like a happy ending!
A disturbing read for lovers of historical fiction.
Sue, Canberra, ACT