' The narrative voice is yarning, chatty and sardonic, but under all the jokes and stories there' s a sharp critique of bureaucrats and institutions, and an appreciation of the heroic nature of resistance.' - Kerryn Goldsworthy, The Sydney Morning Herald

In this biting and hilarious novel from Marie Munkara, A Most Peculiar Act takes a look at the ludicrous and bizarre nature and interpretations of the Aboriginal Protection Acts of the early twentieth century -and makes merciless fun of the characters involved. The story follows the trials and tribulations of Sugar, a 16 year-old fringe-camp dweller.

Set in Darwin, just before the Japanese bombing raids, we meet characters such as: Horatio Humphris (Horrid Hump), chief protector of Aboriginals, teetotaller and 42 year old virgin; Ralphie Brown, who has the unedifying honour of being the only public servant to ever be sacked; Drew Hepplewaite, redneck racist and female patrol officer armed with balls of steel; and the Administrator' s wife, Penelope, who has a fetish for anything oriental.

With the Aboriginal Ordinances Act and the ' White Australia' policy as a backdrop, Sugar' s resistance to assimilation becomes a protracted battle that culminates in the Christmas party from Hell. Interspersed with illicit affairs, stolen children, leprosy and ' fucking foreigners,' this story sees Sugar and her oppressors finally face off in a way none ever expected.