BINDI BY KIRLI SAUNDERS AND ILLUSTRATED BY DUB LEFFLER

Bindi is an 11-year-old girl who lives in Gundungurra Country. As the new school year starts, she falls into a routine of her favourite things - art classes, and dancing and riding her beloved horse. As the term progresses and her hockey team continues to lose every game, she and her classmates also learn about country.

This novel is written in verse and includes Gundungurra language. It is a story told from the child’s point of view and as the story progresses we see Bindi’s world unfold. The three main chapter headings – Seedlings, Cinders and Sprouts – refer to the renewing of the land after fire and through the storyline, show how both people and the land can heal if they cooperate and respect each other.

Kirli Saunder’s novel is lyrical and its simple language brings to life the struggles and joys of living in our unique land. The themes of friendship, family and respect flow through the narrative and will be well received by Middle Grade readers. Dub Leffler’s black and white illustrations fly through the pages giving us visual glimpses of the things that matter to Bindi. This book should be given to all upper Primary kids to read.

For Ages: 9-12 years

Number of Pages: 144

Published: November 2020

Themes: Family, belonging and respect

Rating: 4/5