Tom Gerrard is a novel that explores the bonds of family and the contrasting lives of its characters. The narrative centers on a cattleman who, after the tragic loss of his own family, reconnects with his young niece. The story begins with an encounter between the cattleman and his niece, who is collecting pippies on the beach. Through their conversation, the child's innocence is revealed, alongside the strained and neglectful care she receives from her austere aunt. The protagonist's growing bond with the girl underscores themes of familial love, loss, and the complexities of relationships. The opening sets the stage for an exploration of the emotional distance between family members, the harsh realities of rural life, and the ways in which children are shaped by their upbringing. The contrast between the unloving home life the girl endures and the growing warmth of her relationship with her uncle hints at future conflicts and resolutions. The narrative promises a poignant look at the effects of neglect and the possibility of healing through familial connection.