A tale of survival: Judith McNeil author talk

What: Author talk with Judith McNeil

When/where: Wednesday 14 October, 6.30pm, Noosa Library

Thursday 15 October, 10.30am, Maroochydore Library

Bookings: Noosa Library ph 5442 4411

Maroochydore Library ph 5475 8900

Cost: Noosa evening session - $6 including wine and supper

Maroochydore morning session - free

The tragic twists and turns of author Judith McNeil’s dramatic life story of a turbulent childhood in 1950s Australia to destitution in Singapore makes for a shocking and inspiring story of survival.

The author will share her story, recounted in the book “The Girl with the Cardboard Port”, at Noosa Library on Wednesday 14 October and Maroochydore Library on Thursday 15 October.

Beginning with the early death of her father in a railway accident, Judith’s penniless mother is forced to take her young family to Brisbane where she quickly remarries. Following a life threatening altercation with her stepfather, Judith flees to Sydney where she marries a Singaporean man. However, her dreams of love are soon dashed when he sends her to live with his family in Singapore, while he remains in Australia.

Abandoned in a strange country with her young child and loathed by her husband’s father, Judith escapes to find herself at the mercy of one of Malaya’s headhunting Dayak rebels, and is forced into prostitution to feed her family.

Later, reunited with her husband, she battles “body rats” feeding on corpses buried in a neighbouring cemetery before seeking refuge in the drains. Ultimately, Judith is faced with a devastating decision – to escape her nightmare world she will have to leave her children behind.

Hear Judith’s compelling life story at an author talk at Noosa Library on Wednesday 14 October at 6.30pm, and at Maroochydore Library on Thursday 15 October at 10.30am.

Bookings are essential. Contact your local library to book your spot.