Bush Studies

Written by Barbara Baynton

Narrated by Lisa Giles

Bush Studies is a collection of six short stories by the enigmatic Australian author, Barbara Baynton (1857–1929). Embedded in Baynton's merciless, rugged vistas, these stories highlight the tragedy, harshness and humour of nineteenth century Australian bush life — particularly from the perspective of the women involved.


Haunting and evocative, the nuanced tones of Lisa Giles brings Baynton's stories back to life, as memories of a past that continues to echo into the present.


Stories include:


A Dreamer


Squeaker's Mate


Scrammy 'And


Billy Skywonkie


Bush Church


The Chosen Vessel

• Language: English
• Publisher: Voices of Today
• Release date: Apr 7, 2022
• ISBN: 9781953007650

Reviews for Bush Studies

[paradiseporch · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

First published in 1902, Bush Studies is a collection of short stories set in the Australian outback of her day. While the stories certainly convey the harsh conditions, I felt that Baynton made scathing commentary on the harsh, crude and vulgar behaviour particularly of the men, and particularly toward women.I found Scrammy ‘And and The Chosen Vessel to be especially compelling, and if I taught high-school literature would want to include them in my curriculum, regardless of where I was teaching.Having met only the “jolly swagman’ of Waltzing Matilda, I had my eyes opened wide.Read this if: (obviously) you want to find out about life in the outback at the end of the 19th century; or you are interested in the history of women’s role in Australian or global society. 4½ stars