Station Life in New Zealand
Barker LadyThe classic account of the author's life on a Canterbury sheep station in the 1860s. NZ Interest. [Larger font]
Comments from Groups
Most members enjoyed Lady Barker's writing style - her attitude reflected the views of her 'class' and society at the time, but she was a resourceful and courageous woman. Te Pahu 001 Surprisingly contemporary for its age, but better NOT to read the introduction first. Christchurch 109 Most found it fascinating reading. Hamilton 022 Half the group really enjoyed the book. Others felt some of the long descriptive passages a little tedious. All enjoyed the Canterbury connection. Te Piro 001 All our group thoroughly enjoyed this book, without exception. We thought she was a remarkable woman. A great commentary on our colonial history. Ashhurt 001 Half of our book club enjoyed reading about the early life of women in NZ. But some of the ladies thought it got a bit boring as she wrote about similar adventures in most of her letters. This book created a lot of discussion. Pukeko 004
Pages
238
238
Year
1883
1883
Reviews
04-03-2024
A lot of enjoyment had over the environment and culture of the day. We felt it was well-written and genuine, giving us a realistic and honest understanding of life and society of the day.
06-09-2021
A very easy book to read. A fascinating time snap of our very early history. Lady Barker achieved a great deal in her three years here, despite the challenges of isolation and deprivation.
26-08-2019
Enjoyed by everyone. However some found her cold - mainly due to her treatment of her children. The book gave us a great insight into life in Canterbury, and the horrors of the storms. The formal language of the period has to be taken into account when reading this book.
26-08-2019
Our group did enjoy it. A very strong and "gutsy" lady. Well-written.
26-08-2019
Very enjoyable book for all of us.
26-08-2019
Not a big turnout for this month, but those that came and read the book loved Lady Barker's account of life in general for that time, and her optimism in general. Many of our readers are familiar with this area, so to be able to compare with then and now was really interesting for all of us.
26-08-2019
Overall, enjoyed by all. Good discussion.
26-08-2019
Thoroughly enjoyed by the group - loads of admiration for Lady Barker's exploits and spirit. Interesting juxtaposition of her relationship with Frederick, strong and equitable, against Victorian norms. Delightful descriptions of flora, fauna and an informative piece of NZ social history.
19-06-2019
Three ladies really enjoyed but most found it a struggle . A couple didnt enjoy the letter format and some never finished it. Very mixed response.