Child, daughter, teacher, nun, excommunicated and then beatified. A feminist story, a Catholic story, a religious story, a spiritual story, an Australian story. An historical novel, a ‘fictional biography’. “It’s a book about suffering and strength, religion and rebellion, and love and anger.” Herald Sun “A window into the heart and mind of a young woman ahead of her time… an inspirational story no matter what your beliefs.” Magpies “The black and white history-book characters spring to life and will touch a chord in every heart” Teacher “A story of compassion, charity, trust, generosity and coming to terms with anger” Kairos “This is a book steeped in Australian and family history, filled with poetic descriptions and emotive language in a tender and moving narrative” Good Reading “This is an inspiring story of a great Australian woman that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.” Western Australian’s Anglican News Journal “poetic, emotive language…a moving narrative.” – Queensland Government Library Services. “The Black Dress deals with truth, justice, good, evil, love, courage and kindness, and Pamela Freeman succeeds in bringing Mary MacKillop back to life.” E Australia Corporation News