title: Strike Me Lucky (novel)
text: # Strike Me Lucky (novel)
  
  Strike Me Lucky is a 1959 novel written by Jon Cleary in collaboration with his wife Joy. The plot concerns an Australian family who discover gold and the effect this has on their small town.
  
  ## Background
  
  Cleary originally wrote it as a short story for the Saturday Evening Post. Later while the Clearys were living in Spain, Joy was at a loose end and decided to adapt the story into a novel, which Jon then rewrote. It was published under her name and enjoyed minor success. It was based on a story "Trumpets of Home" which was based on a true story.
  
  Marlon Brando optioned the film rights for his production company Pennebaker, intending to make it as a co-production in England, but no movie was made. However Jon Cleary did later adapt it into a play in 1969.
  
  