MARK your calendars for an evening of fascinating insights! The Shepparton Library is set to play host to esteemed author and historian Danielle Scrimshaw on Thursday, November 16 at 7.30pm. Scrimshaw will discuss her recently released book, ‘She and Her Pretty Friend’, which delves deeply into the often-misconceived history of women who love women.
Throughout historical records, women’s romantic relationships have frequently been downplayed or misinterpreted. A pair of ‘roommates’ or ‘close friends’ could very well have been more. ‘She and Her Pretty Friend’ challenges this perception by revealing the truths about women’s relationships throughout Australian history.
The book takes readers on an explorative journey, introducing figures like Anne Drysdale, Lesbia Harford, and Cecilia John, and shedding light on those the historical narrative has often overlooked. It not only uncovers the impact of colonisation on sexual perception but also portrays how queer women gained opportunities during Australia’s suffrage movement. The book aims to end the denial of a queer past and urges readers and historians to regard some historical figures as more than mere ‘roommates’.
Scrimshaw, a lighthouse enthusiast and shortlisted nominee for the Deakin University Nonfiction Prize, has had her work published widely. ‘She and Her Pretty Friend’ is her first book. Gather at the Shepparton Library to meet Danielle and learn about her writing and research process. Don’t miss snagging your copy of the book at the event.
