Azaria: Wednesday's Child - The Complete Story of Australia’s Dingo Baby Case - James Simmonds

Azaria: Wednesday's Child – The Complete Story of Australia’s Dingo Baby Case by James Simmonds is a detailed, journalistic account of one of Australia’s most infamous and controversial legal sagas. The book explores the 1980 disappearance of baby Azaria Chamberlain at Uluru (Ayers Rock), and the subsequent accusations, media frenzy, and wrongful conviction of her mother, Lindy Chamberlain, for murder.

Simmonds, a seasoned journalist, reconstructs the events with precision—examining the initial incident, the investigation, the trial, and the broader social and cultural factors that shaped public perception. He scrutinizes the forensic evidence, police conduct, courtroom procedures, and the role of prejudice and media sensationalism in shaping a national narrative that turned tragic error into legal catastrophe.

Azaria: Wednesday’s Child stands out for its comprehensive scope and critical tone, revealing how a grieving family became the focus of a nation’s judgment. It’s both a cautionary tale about justice gone wrong and a cultural study of how myth, media, and mistrust can distort the truth. A compelling and essential read for those interested in true crime, legal history, and Australian society.