A Man Called Possum

Biography & Memoir History Australiana

A Man Called Possum by Max Jones is a 1985 Australian hardcover that blends autobiography with outback history, offering young-adult and adult readers a vivid window into bush culture. Jones recounts his years spent as a “possum”—a loner living off the land—while illustrators Tony Hersey and David Gough supply atmospheric sketches that bring the landscapes and characters to life.

This scarce, illustrated edition is inscribed on the acknowledgement page, adding a personal touch for collectors of Australiana or anyone hunting unique biographies and true stories. Geography and cultural-studies buffs will appreciate the first-hand look at remote Australian life, leisure, and survival skills during a bygone era.

The book is in good vintage condition: pages are clean and crisp, binding is tight, and there are no dog-ears or tears. A previous owner’s name appears only on the final acknowledgement page, with light thumbing there; otherwise the copy is tidy and comes from a smoke-free home.