Shadows of Olive Trees

It’s the 1970s in Australia, the second rise of feminism is having a major impact on women’s rights. Tessa is the daughter of Greek immigrants who cling to the traditions of the ‘old country’, stifling her search for independence. Tessa has been an obedient, dutiful daughter but society is changing—......more

Compassion and sub-text are the qualities which are needed for a story which lasts. Impressive that this coming of age YA novel was written over 20 years ago and is still universally relevant to any culture where parents' aspirations and youthful desires come into conflict. In "Shadows of Olive Tree......more

This is the only book I've ever read many years ago that translated the second rise of feminism through the life of a Greek girl. It can apply to any ethnic group and still stands as important feminist literature.......more

This book reads like the author watched the "Story of a Greek Australian Family" from the Screen Archives (also on YouTube) and peppered it with as many stereotypes and inaccuracies about the Greek Australian experience as possible. This is one of those Young Adult novels that should have stayed in......more

Wonderful book for all ages. Please continue a second.......more