Based on the information available, "The Matriarch: The Kathy Pettingill Story" by Adrian Tame explores the following themes and topics:
* **True Crime** The book presents a real-life account of Kathy Pettingill's involvement in criminal activities in Melbourne 【1】.
* **Crime Families** The story delves into the dynamics of a violent and notorious Australian criminal family led by Kathy Pettingill 【2】【3】.
* **Matriarchal Role in Crime** The book examines Kathy Pettingill's position as the matriarch and her influence within the criminal underworld and with the Victorian police force 【2】【3】.
* **Relationships and Culpability** The book addresses Kathy's relationship with her son Dennis and her accountability in the Walsh Street killings 【4】.
These themes can help you draw connections to other books in a library that deal with similar subjects, such as true crime stories, crime family sagas, and the roles of women in organized crime.