THE YEAR THE MAPS CHANGED BY DANIELLE BINKS

The Year the Maps Changed is a story of acceptance and fitting in. It’s 1999 and Fred lives with her Pops and adoptive father Luca in Sorrento, Victoria. But her world is changing – Luca’s girlfriend Anika moves in with her son Sam and her Pops has had to go to hospital after a fall.

A war is raging in Europe leaving many thousands of people without homes or even a country to call their own. Fred’s town welcomes 400 refugees from war-torn Kosovo and many in her community volunteer their help. The refugees are placed in an old quarantine station and in only a short time the township is divided on whether they should be welcomed permanently.

Fred’s teacher Mr Khouri loves maps and has given Fred an interest in the shape of things and how situations should be looked at from all angles. The lines drawn don’t necessarily tell the whole story as it depends on who is drawing the lines.

Fred’s life and the lines that surround her family and friends are changing too. Her place in the world is shifting. A family tragedy and the increasing tensions due to the refugees makes her have to decide where to draw a line herself. She needs to choose between good intentions and legal boundaries.

Danielle Binks’ novel creates a vision of a quiet seaside town divided by prejudice and unwarranted fear. A political problem is thrust on them and its injustice and the consequences are seen first-hand in the people they were told were welcome.

Fred, her family and friends are beautifully portrayed and lead the reader through their experiences with a steady hand.

For Ages: 10-14 years

Number of Pages: 304 paperback.

Published: April 2020

Themes: fitting in, resilience and acceptance.

Rating: 4/5