I wanted this because I enjoyed The Turning: New Stories so much. I liked Winton’s prose very much – he’s got a very good command of the language, and many excellent turns of phrase. I really enjoyed the beginning, with Scully’s arrival in Ireland and the description of his efforts to fix up the new house. Unfortnately, the story took a darker turn, and the pressures build on Scully, causing him to do some ill-advised things. I found that I could either believe that his actions were a huge stret…more I wanted this because I enjoyed The Turning: New Stories so much. I liked Winton’s prose very much – he’s got a very good command of the language, and many excellent turns of phrase. I really enjoyed the beginning, with Scully’s arrival in Ireland and the description of his efforts to fix up the new house. Unfortnately, the story took a darker turn, and the pressures build on Scully, causing him to do some ill-advised things. I found that I could either believe that his actions were a huge stretch, or that any parent could do such things – I wasn’t comfortable with either option, and ended up not liking Scully very much. Ultimately, this marred my enjoyment of Winton’s words. I’d read others, but I’d check to see if they’re a little happier first…
(From GoodReads)

I love Tim Winton’s work normally – Cloudstreet and Shallows are two of my most favourite novels ever. But The Riders is just turgid to get through. It’s hard to feel any sympathy for the main character of Scully. It’s one thing to be self-destructive, it’s another to take your child down with you. And there is such an air of misogyny that hangs over the book – except for his child all the women are portrayed as evil, soulless bitches out to get our hapless hero. It’s bizarre, considering Winton’s other novels where women play such prominent and equal roles (well, they are at least as equally flawed as their male counterparts). Disappointing.

had to read this for yr 12 lit. hated it. the mc was so irritating and pathetic. grr! it was far longer than it should have been.