EVIE AND THE RHINO BY NERIDAH MCMULLIN AND ILLUSTRATED BY ASTRED HICKS

Evie is a silent girl who lives with her grandfather in Southern Victoria in 1891. Together with Cook and Mr Duffer, the farm hand, they live a quiet life at Lunar House. Evie’s parents died two years ago and she hasn’t spoken since. Her grief is tied to her voice and Evie knows that speaking will overwhelm her so much she daren’t try.

One morning, after a terrible storm, Evie discovers an amazing creature lying in the sand, exhausted and asleep. Evie has an affinity with animals and immediately senses this one is gentle and needs help. She takes him home, settles him in the stables and goes to find her Grandpa who identifies it as a Rhinoceros. A ship with a precious cargo from India, including some exotic animals destined for the Melbourne Zoo, was shipwrecked at their beach and although all the humans survived, no one is sure what happened to the animals. As time goes by and at last the roads are safe enough to travel, Grandpa goes to report the shipwreck but neglects to mention the rhino. During the weeks they anxiously wait for news from the Royal Melbourne Zoo, Evie and her family from a strong bond with their gentle giant guest.

Finally, young George Henley arrives to take Rhino back to the zoo. He is a kindly soul who suffers greatly from his father’s anger and apparent dislike. When he meets Rhino and stays with Evie and her Grandpa for some weeks due to bogged roads and terrible weather, he realises taking the creature away from its idyllic life and his beloved Evie, will break everyone’s heart, including his own. What can these fine humans do to save this wonderful creature from a life of captivity in a soulless concrete bunker?

Neridah McMullin has woven a gentle story of love, bravery and standing up for yourself and your principals. Loss, grief and also joy and friendship are all explored in this tale developed from a true moment in Australia’s history. The illustrations by Astred Hicks are thoughtful depictions of the characters and their changing emotions. As well as ornithological pictures of Australian birds, the images in this book compliment the narrative beautifully. Readers who love animals as fiercely as Evie will cherish this story of an unusual friendship.

For Ages: 9-13 years

Number of Pages: 272

Published: October 2022 Walker Books Australia

Themes: Friendship, grief and standing up for yourself.

Purchase here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/evie-and-rhino-neridah-mcmullin/book/9781760654207.html