The Little Larrikin: Ethel Turner

Lawrence is the youngest of the Carruthers family of five boys. Their parents are dead and they are cared for by the careless and rough-spoken Eliza, the old family maid. The eldest son, Roger, is a barrister intent on marrying Linley, a refined and artistic young lady; Martin has almost completed his medical degree at University; Clem will soon be finished high school; Phil still has some years of schooling left and Lawrence - or Lol, as he is known - is the Little Larrikin who spends his days roaming the alleys Sydney and getting up to mischief with the louts in the local 'push'. Lol finds an unexpected friend in Marcia, Linley's sister, even though she is often amazed at his cheeky remarks. Here is an excellent portrait of family life in Sydney in the late 19th century, with all the challenges of poverty, young love, romance, heartbreak, near tragedy - but also plenty of humour.