Uncle Rupert: The Man Who Threw Money Over Back Fences
by James Cumes

[General Fiction]

"Uncle Rupert," the story begins, "was our Cargo Cult."
Enchanting, intriguing and elusive, the man who throws money over back fences starts work in a bank under the egregious Mr Harfglass. Propelled by fear of marriage to the predatory Iro, he flees the bank and goes on the track. But he always cares for those he loves. He meets Godfrey Bronze, a battler for the battlers all his life, and wins political office. He becomes Foreign Minister and "President of the World," but, again, he opts for freedom to seek better ways of "throwing money over back fences." He uses the strengths of the capitalist order to benefit the poor and weak and bring more colour, brightness and purpose to the lives both of those who give and those who receive.

Unique even in the realm of heroes, Rupert has the capacity to change the world but retains an endearing innocence, amiability and selflessness. He sees even those, like Mr Harfglass and fellow banker Mr Collopy, whose lifestyle he abhors, as victims of the system. Many characters - Deadly and Maisie Morbid, Hansom Cab, Fingers McCall, Harry Clambake, Kemble Wallaby, Sterling Bodger and Sir Samuel Bonkole-Jones - are as unforgettable as their whimsical names.

UNCLE RUPERT is an original, imaginative and captivating story, written in a style that sparkles with animation and wit. Optimistic and hopeful, it also offers a kindly and extremely readable commentary on much that tarnishes our contemporary society.