James Vance Marshall author page

James Vance Marshall biography

James Vance Marshall is the pen name used by the English writer Donald Payne for several works, most notably in children’s and young adult literature. Under this pseudonym, Payne is best known for the novel Walkabout, first published in 1959. The story follows two children who become stranded in the Australian outback and are aided by an Aboriginal boy. Walkabout has been recognised for its depiction of survival and cross-cultural encounter.

Donald Payne wrote under various names throughout his career, but the works attributed to James Vance Marshall are particularly associated with Australian themes and settings. The use of the Marshall pseudonym has sometimes led to confusion regarding the author’s identity, but sources confirm that Payne is the writer behind the name.

Among other works published as James Vance Marshall are Down the Long Hills and A River Ran Out of Eden. These novels often explore themes of nature, endurance, and the challenges faced by young protagonists in unfamiliar environments.

Walkabout remains the most widely recognised work by James Vance Marshall, with its first publication in 1959 marking a significant contribution to children’s and young adult literature.