THE TALE OF MRS POSSUM: A Reflection On New Zealand Society, is a work of non-fiction and science literacy. Grand Theft Auto was a popular computer game in the 1990s, and this book could well be thought of as a form of Grand Theft Literati. However an extensive and deliberate bibliography of sources and images is provided. This is intended to encourage readers and non-readers alike down their own path of discovery. The proper crediting of sources, through footnoting and bibliography, honours the work of authors and artists I have consulted and read during ten years of research for this book. It is also a benevolent nod to my University of Otago history training in referencing. One third of my sources are reputable books, one third online internet sources and one third current global and local media (film, music, newspapers and magazines). I have adopted the New Zealand possum into the title of this book. She is the underdog; reviled colonial pest, symbol of the public intellectual, and a reflection of countless struggles with environmental issues by Team Planet Earth. Paradoxically the possum is an erected species in Australia. Team Planet Earth’s population of some 7.9 billion people must work together inclusively for the future of our world. 10 chapter non-fiction science literacy book. Fully illustrated with 228 colour and 50 B&W infographics, art and photographs. Includes preface, epilogue and index.
Email: 64cannington@gmail.com
Writer: Rachel Ovens