Australian Kids
through the Years by
Tania McCartney, illustrated by Andrew Joyner (National Library of Australia)
HC RRP $24.99
ISBN 9780642278593
Reviewed By Anastasia Gonis
This impeccably constructed book by Tania McCartney
and Andrew Joyner celebrates the cultural diversity of Australia. It focuses on
Australian children through the years as it educates and informs readers about
the shifting and evolving periods of Australian history. It starts from the
1800s and ends at 2000 and beyond.
The layout of the book follows a pattern. Two
children are introduced in each era. They then appear in a double spread that
reveals them in their daily environment. We progressively learn about the
children’s life and living conditions, the food they eat, the way they dress,
what they play, their educational opportunities and later what they are
reading.
Indigenous Australians are first in the book. Their relationship to the land, and the
reverence they hold for it is of paramount importance to their life.
Mid 1800s and brings the convict era. Children work
hard and schooling is rare. It is followed by the Gold Rush which brings the
Chinese to the Goldfields. Tents house the gold diggers and their families. The
dress code has changed slightly and Hotels begin to appear. Thousands of Irish
immigrants make Australia their home.
Most children are now getting an education and living conditions have
improved significantly.
Pre and post War life is addressed. An increase in
migration and decimal currency are stamped on Australia’s history. Big hair and
bright clothes, Ninja turtles and Atari herald great changes and shifts in the
life of children. This prepares them for the electronic age. And the rest is
history.
This book for the 5-8 years age range is a valuable asset
for schools, libraries, and tourist facilities as are most of Tania McCartney’s
recent books. Andrew Joyner’s fantastic illustrations complement the text
perfectly, bringing to life the past and how children’s lives changed
significantly for the better with the passing of time. The excellent end papers
reflect the contents as do the magnificent covers in vibrant colour.
As usual, the NLA has played a large part in this
beautiful production. Black and white photos from the archives enhance the List
of Illustrations from the National Library that appear with details of their
origins and other significant information.
The old is blended with the new as modern coloured
illustrations sit beside the old photos.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Buzz Words Books would love to hear what you think.