One Hundred Years of Betty is a sweeping saga of one woman’s journey through a century of change. With wit, warmth and vivid storytelling, Debra brings Betty to life -a seemingly ordinary woman with an unforgettable journey. Spanning from 1928 to 2028, Betty’s story shows how even the smallest moments can shape a life in extraordinary ways.
Born into poverty in pre-war London, Betty’s early years were shaped by the Blitz. Her migration to Australia aboard the SS Asturias marks the beginning of a remarkable transformation. Onboard she forms life-long friendships with Pearl, a party-loving optimist, Athena, a Greek bride-to-be and Leo, a German Jew reeling from the war.
In Sydney, Betty reimagines her life, first as a waitress at the iconic Trocadero dance hall. Soon she finds herself swept up in a whirlwind romance with Donald, a wealthy businessman, and dedicates herself to being the perfect 1950s suburban housewife. But Betty’s story doesn’t end there and life throws her unexpected challenges that demand strength.
Spanning decades of global events and social upheavals, Betty’s story intertwines with movements like the anti-war protests, the women’s liberation movement and the AIDS crisis. Her determination to embrace every challenge leads her to unexpected roles, including that of a TV screenwriter. As Betty approaches her 100th birthday, her curiosity remains unwavering. Even in her nineties, she continues to engage with the world in surprising ways.
Inspired by her own mother, Debra’s novel is a tribute to a generation of trailblazing women who fought for equality. Through a masterful blend of humour, heartache and resilience, she captures the joys, sorrows and complexities of a life lived against the backdrop of monumental change. For fans of richly detailed, character-driven sagas, One Hundred Years of Betty is a celebration of the strength of women navigating a century of change. Highly recommended!
Debra Oswald is a playwright, screenwriter and novelist, best known as the creator of the successful TV series Offspring.
Reviewer: Andrea Molloy
Allen & Unwin