A Fortunate Life

Born in 1894 and first sent to work at the age of eight, Facey lived the rough frontier life of a labourer and farmer and jackaroo, becoming lost and then rescued by Indigenous trackers, then gaining a hard-won literacy, surviving Gallipoli, raising a family through the Depression, losing a son in the Second World War, and meeting his beloved Evelyn with whom he shared nearly 60 years of marriage.

Despite enduring unimaginable hardships, Facey always saw his life as a fortunate one.

A true classic of Australian literature, Facey’s simply penned story offers a unique window onto the history of Australian life through the greater part of the twentieth century – the extraordinary journey of an ordinary man.

PRAISE FOR THE BOOK

‘[A] plain, unembellished, utterly sincere and un self-pitying account of the privations of childhood and youth.’ Courier Mail

‘This compelling story is not just a personal account but a reflection of an era, making it a must-read for anyone interested in Australia’s past.’ Australian Women’s Weekly

‘[An] extremely powerful description of Gallipoli.’ Australian Book Review

‘This is the sort of book that makes me feel comfortable and warm. It’s a companion and friend, much, much more than a collection of words … The charm of the chapters lies in the sincerity of the author, a man that one finds so easy to admire through his writing alone.’ Queensland Reviewers Collective

‘His autobiography is full of tales of adventure and misadventure. His straight-forward style, ironic humour and muted exaggeration makes them entertaining and immensely readable.’ Western Ancestor Magazine