Jessica [Paperback]

Bryce Courtenay (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 27, 2000

'A superb storyteller ...it is impossible not to be impressed by Courtenay's talents' - "The Times". "Jessica" is based on the real life of a remarkable young Australian woman who defied the conventions of her time. She had a stubborn streak and the courage to act out her convictions...in spite of the consequences. This compelling, sweeping story is her personal fight for justice against enormous odds, and a testimony to the power of the human spirit to triumph over adversity.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Bryce Courtenay was born in South Africa but has spent the greater part of his adult life in Australia. THE POWER OF ONE and its sequel TANDIA were international bestsellers. He lives in Sydney.

Product Details

• Paperback: 608 pages
• Publisher: Penguin Books (July 27, 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0140279601
• ISBN-13: 978-0140279603
• Product Dimensions: 7.1 x 4.3 x 1.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.1 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (26 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #697,244 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

24 of 25 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Heart Warming, December 10, 2000

By 

Betty Chan - See all my reviews

This review is from: Jessica (Hardcover)

"Jessica" tells of a true story set in the early 1900s of a young woman's hardships inflicted upon her by her own mother, Hester, and elder sister Meg.

A story of love and friendship as well, we see Jessica grow up from a little girl all the way to her death many years later. Bryce's backward looking technique in telling the story was well done, blending seamlessly into the tale that would grip you right from the start.

I loved how easily I was drawn into the life and sufferings of Jessica and I could almost feel for her; the loneliness arising from the cruelty of her mother's dominion over the family, her heartbreak when her true love goes to war, her joy and satisfaction of a friendship she found in an Aborigine lady.

I imagine that "Jessica" could become one of the tear-jerker movies that touches people and remind us all how cruel people can be, and to really appreciate and be thankful for all that we have. "Jessica" will break your heart.

A great story told really well by Bryce.

13 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Very good reading, April 21, 2002

By 

Kelly St Denis (Alberta) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Jessica (Hardcover)

Jessica is an excellent book. I found that it keep my interest through the whole thing....I couldn't wait to find out what happened next in Jessica's life. The writing is easy to follow and understand, and the descriptions are wonderful...it was easy to imagine the hardship of living in Australia at that time. It was a tear jerker though, and I can admit to crying while reading it, especially at the end.
I've read The Power of One, and Tandia, also by Bryce Courtenay, which were both good, especially The Power of One, but I'd say that I enjoyed this one more and really couldn't put it down until I was done. I recommend it highly.

14 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars JESSICA, August 28, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: Jessica (Hardcover)

This book can not be missed, it will keep you glued to your seat just like it did with me. I havent in my life read anything as good as this. Bryce Courtenay truly has created a mastrepiece of a book.
Jessica is a tomboy (the boy her father never had) and lives on a farm with her family, in the Australian bush. The story is set in the early 1900's just before World War 1. It is a tough life just to keep the farm going, along with the stuggles that occur during the outbreak of war. Jessica's mother, Hester and sister,Meg have forever been fighting for a wealthy young man who in future is planned to be Meg's husband.However Jessica's love is real and stonger and will overpower Meg. The fight will not stop!
You will be shocked at the events that will occur in this book. They are truly unexpected and heartbreaking.
Jessica is a fantastic read for everyone!