Peter is a former teacher and academic who has co-founded Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTaR), the first nation-wide support organisation of its type.

Join Peter online on Thursday August 13, from 6pm to 7pm for a talk on his latest book, 'Bush School', a charming, funny and moving story of a new teacher on his first assignment in remote Australia, in a one-teacher bush school.

In 1960, newly minted teacher Peter O'Brien started work as the only teacher at a school in Weabonga, two days' travel from Armidale, and it's his own experiences that have inspired this book.

Peter was only 20 years old and had never lived away from his home in Sydney. He'd had some teaching experience, but nothing to prepare him for the monumental challenge of being solely responsible for the education of 18 students, ranging in age from five to 15 years old.

After reading this book you will have become one of Peter's students; learning from him the transformative power of a good teacher, the importance of education (particularly in regional areas of Australia), how to overcome challenges and fears (including snakes and unimaginable living conditions), and the resilience and spirit of children when they are believed in, nurtured and provided with responsibilities.

"We're delighted to have Peter joining us for this very special, very timely online author talk," said Chris Jones, manager of MidCoast Council Libraries.

"Peter's insight and experiences working with and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people means he has so much to offer in the current climate and everyone can learn a lot from him."

Bookings are essential for this event, and participants will need a Zoom account to join.

Grab your tickets and find out more at www.midcoastlibraries.com.au/events