When I looked for Ned Kelly books in my school library the database came up with Tim Pegler’s Game as Ned. Whilst not a book about Ned Kelly, Pegler takes parts of Ned’s story (and other bushrangers) and parallels them with the story of an autistic teenage boy called Ned and a 16 year old girl called Erin. With themes of vulnerability, difference, bullying, autism, justice, friendship and empathy, it is a novel that can be delved into on many levels. The fact that Erin is not believed by the police, the Ned is seen as being dangerous reflects the misguided notions of a small minded society. There is a disturbing scene in the novel which would make it unsuitable for a younger audience. Probably suitable for Year 8 and older.
Teacher guide http://www.harpercollins.com/harperimages/ommoverride/teacher_guide_game_as_ned.pdf
Teacher Librarian Help 
Discussion
Comments are closed.