Reviewed by Wendy Lipke
This story by lecturer from the University of Canberra and Queensland Wuilli Wuilli woman, Lisa Fuller, would probably best suit 9–12-year-old young people.
The key themes as mentioned in the Media Release include –
- First Nations people and perspectives.
- Diversity and how this can help to solve problems.
- Bullying, racism and discrimination.
- Rights of groups different from the norm.
- Importance of friendship, cooperation, tolerance and teamwork.
- Environmental destruction.
What an interesting way the author has chosen to address these themes.
Two sisters from an aboriginal family in Queensland jump into a washpool while on an outing with the women of the family and discover themselves in a very strange and somewhat frightening world. As they try to find a way back to their family, they encounter many varied and unusual beings. Some are similar to what the girls are familiar with, some seem to be linked to stories told to the girls by their grandmother.
In an effort to find their way back home, they become embroiled in problems in this strange new setting. They are directed towards the Summer Feast, the gathering of various groups. This time it is held on the lands of the Lady Dragon. There is enmity between some of these different species and when the girls become separated, they find themselves caught up in these opposing forces. To make matters worse the Lady Dragon’s egg has gone missing, and proceedings cannot get underway until it is found adding more tension to the whole situation.
Throughout this story the comparisons between this strange new world and the aboriginal culture is strong and as the girls discover this, the reader also learns more. I was intrigued by the way the adults spoke to the younger ones. At times the given name was doubled up eg Bella became Belle Belle or she was called by her relationship rather than her name- ‘Bring her here, daughter’ or ‘Good morning grandson’ (11). Throughout the story names of the various characters were often abbreviated but not consistently.
This storyline has given the opportunity to describe the landscape of Australia before cattle were introduced. It is full of basic beliefs, knowledge and values which parents impart to their children as they are growing up which will help them in their everyday activities. As the girls confront each of their problems in this new situation, they are reminded of their grandmother’s wise words such as ‘if in doubt, listen’ (25) and what is best to do if lost.
This story has much that should interest young readers and older ones too. It is written in a style suitable for all ages, with some of the humour that would appeal to the young. It contains knowledge as well as mystery, fear, panic, loving relationships and also more antagonistic ones. It highlights the wisdom of older generations as well as some of the more intolerant attitudes. However, on the whole, all these encounters have been used to show the readers of the way more positive attitudes can help solve most problems. In this story the seer tells them all that the bond required to restore things is ‘living flames enveloped by water’ (130), with the warning to heal a rift or doom everyone (131). a seemingly impossible situation.
I found this to be a very interesting read, and I am a couple of generations older than the group the book was written for. I liked the way the information was presented and exploring the imagination of the author. Her use of onomatopoeic words throughout enhanced the whole story.
Washpool
(2025)
by Lisa Fuller
Lothian Children’s Books Hachette Australia
ISBN:978-0-7344-2075-6
$16.99; 286pp