Dutch Kangaroo

This is a literary thriller about domestic violence and complicated family relationships.

The story is set against the backdrop of the emigration story of a Dutch couple in the 1960s. They leave for the other side of the world virtually unprepared; they know hardly anything about life in Australia. Their first port of call is the Bonegilla Migrant Camp, where they stay only a few weeks. After leaving the camp, they try to build a good life in Port Augusta by working hard. Things go well for them financially, but they do not have a happy marriage and they return to the Netherlands after a few years with their two infant children. The husband turns out to be a tyrant who does not hesitate to impose his will on his wife and family, but for many long years, the outside world cannot or will not see what is going on.

The main character is Kiki, the daughter. Events in her life are explained with earlier episodes of family life, which are told in a detached way, as if these episodes had nothing to do with her or her family.

Over time, however, she becomes more resilient. She moves to Amsterdam, away from her family, in an effort to be free, but this proves difficult.

There is a baffling climax and a surprising end to the story.