Matt Ottley’s new book is an ambitious combination of words, illustrations and music. Drawing on his own experiences as a stockman, he has crafted a story that brings together a coming-of-age tale, the Stolen Generations, and a dark reflection on human nature and the power of myth. The book is divided into four parts, each of which has a corresponding selection of musical tracks. The audio component includes traditional aboriginal songs alongside compositions by Ottley with lyrics from the Catholic Requiem. The aural component complements and builds on the already dense atmosphere of the book. Text and image work in tandem on the page to tell the story of a young stockman and his encounters with the native people of the region, his fellow stockmen, and a legendary bull. Through his dreams and memories, the story becomes a broader meditation on cruelty, compassion, culture and history. This work is obviously a labour of love, and is a major achievement in each of the separate media involved. Taken together as a whole, Requiem for a Beast provides a unique portrait of the physical and psychic landscape of the Australian outback. Highly recommended for mature secondary readers.

Heath Graham is a secondary teacher and bookseller for A&R

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