Seven Little Australians
(The Woolcots #1)
by
3.89 · Rating details · 4,485 ratings · 251 reviews
19th century Australia: Captain Woolcot, having lost his wife tragically young, remarried a much younger young woman to provide his six children with a new mother. Together, they had another child, making seven. The Captain felt it was necessary to run the family with army discipline, but his rules and regulations were no match for the fun loving children, led by the redou ...more
Hardcover, 152 pages
Published November 28th 2006 by Indy Publish (first published 1894)
Original Title
Seven Little Australians
Edition Language
English
Series
Setting
Australia
Sydney, New South Wales (Australia)
Sydney, New South Wales (Australia)
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Best Books Set in Australia
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Mar 14, 2020Chavelli Sulikowska rated it really liked it · review of another edition
Shelves: childrens-literature, classics
Essentially the Aussie version of Little Women, Turner's bitter sweet tale of a band of unruly young siblings in country NSW early last century is a heartening story of the bonds of family, youth and the hardships of the Australian pioneer life. Turner beautifully evokes both the glory and brutality of the Australian landscape, which forms a clever mirror to the joys and sorrows of the loveable but ruffian Woolcott children - "There is a lurking sparkle of joyousness and rebellion and mischief in nature here, and therefore in children..."
Well written descriptive passages elevate this novel from simple YA fiction - such as "run through the paddocks under cover of the kindly dusk" and "Such a sunset! Down at the foot of the grass hill there was a flame-coloured sky, with purple, soft clouds massed in banks high up where the dying glory met the paling blue. The belt of trees had grown black, and stretched sombre, motionless arms against the orange background. All the wind had died, and the air hung hot and still, freighted with the strange silence of the bush."
Ultimately this is a sad tale, and I wouldn't go on to read the novels that follow - similarly I stopped at Little Women and many other books that go on and on until they wear themselves out and we begin to even despise the original. Highly recommend for any nostalgic Aussie expats such as myself, as well as readers who want a quintessential Aussie bush story experience! (less)
Well written descriptive passages elevate this novel from simple YA fiction - such as "run through the paddocks under cover of the kindly dusk" and "Such a sunset! Down at the foot of the grass hill there was a flame-coloured sky, with purple, soft clouds massed in banks high up where the dying glory met the paling blue. The belt of trees had grown black, and stretched sombre, motionless arms against the orange background. All the wind had died, and the air hung hot and still, freighted with the strange silence of the bush."
Ultimately this is a sad tale, and I wouldn't go on to read the novels that follow - similarly I stopped at Little Women and many other books that go on and on until they wear themselves out and we begin to even despise the original. Highly recommend for any nostalgic Aussie expats such as myself, as well as readers who want a quintessential Aussie bush story experience! (less)
This is my second attempt at reading Seven Little Australians. The first time I gave up only a short way through, it was so sad and the parents really frustrated me. I purchased the book for a reading challenge. ‘A classic you’ve never read’.
I loved the different personalities of the children and I could easily imagine them running wild around the house, a free spirited bunch. I’m now interested in watching the series to see how Meg is portrayed. It seemed to me at sixteen she was very immature.
Seven Little Australians is a wonderfully descriptive story portraying Australian life during the late 1800’s. The story is quite sad however it still had some lighthearted moments and gave me a few laughs.
Even though the children bickered and fought their dedication and love for each other was evident throughout. (less)
I loved the different personalities of the children and I could easily imagine them running wild around the house, a free spirited bunch. I’m now interested in watching the series to see how Meg is portrayed. It seemed to me at sixteen she was very immature.
Seven Little Australians is a wonderfully descriptive story portraying Australian life during the late 1800’s. The story is quite sad however it still had some lighthearted moments and gave me a few laughs.
Even though the children bickered and fought their dedication and love for each other was evident throughout. (less)
This book has never been out of print since it was published in 1894. Undoubtedly the story holds a special place in the hearts of many generations of Australians. It is indeed a classic. Having said that, I must confess that I was a tad underwhelmed by it.
While written in 1894, this is a surprisingly modern book in many ways. Turner's prose is lively, fresh, immediate and direct. Some of the passages could have been written yesterday. How like a 21st century family are the Woolcots, with their many issues, such as brilliant, headstrong children, determined to follow their own hearts, lax supervision by distracted parents, disregard for education, and deliberate deceptions? Yet in many other ways it is absolutely a product of its time, including the social mores and class structure which underpinned the management of middle class families in the Victorian era.
There are some mixed values exposed in the story which rather perplexed me. There is a fine line being drawn between 'Aussie free-spirit', 'likeable rogue' and 'delinquent'. Are we supposed to like Bunty, when he is such an inveterate liar and thief, notwithstanding he is a little boy? Apart from the toddlers, all the children lie, all the time - which does not endear me to them, and makes me wonder about the messages going out to the Australian children who would read this book over the generations. The negative portrayal of the father, and the children’s obvious dislike and lack of respect for him appalled me, frankly. Yet, this is indeed a very modern matter, and is something frequently addressed by 21st century authors writing about dysfunctional families. Perhaps Turner was ahead of her time? I don't want this book to be all about 'happy families' either. But that whole aspect of the narrative, the relationship between the children and their father and step-mother seems underdone to me, could have been handled better.
I also think there is a lack of balance in the narrative between events in Sydney and Yarrahappini, outback NSW. What happened on the station was a defining moment in the history of the Woolcot family. I think it deserved more in-depth treatment. It seems to be rushed, towards the end of the book, as if the author was in a hurry to get it finished. An example of that lack of balance: it seems to me many hundreds of words are devoted to the dialogues between Meg Woolcot and her world-wise friend Aldith about fashion and boys, while the major event at the rural property is dealt with in a few pages. And that is the rather abrupt end of the book. So, despite its status as a classic, I only gave this book 3 stars. (less)
While written in 1894, this is a surprisingly modern book in many ways. Turner's prose is lively, fresh, immediate and direct. Some of the passages could have been written yesterday. How like a 21st century family are the Woolcots, with their many issues, such as brilliant, headstrong children, determined to follow their own hearts, lax supervision by distracted parents, disregard for education, and deliberate deceptions? Yet in many other ways it is absolutely a product of its time, including the social mores and class structure which underpinned the management of middle class families in the Victorian era.
There are some mixed values exposed in the story which rather perplexed me. There is a fine line being drawn between 'Aussie free-spirit', 'likeable rogue' and 'delinquent'. Are we supposed to like Bunty, when he is such an inveterate liar and thief, notwithstanding he is a little boy? Apart from the toddlers, all the children lie, all the time - which does not endear me to them, and makes me wonder about the messages going out to the Australian children who would read this book over the generations. The negative portrayal of the father, and the children’s obvious dislike and lack of respect for him appalled me, frankly. Yet, this is indeed a very modern matter, and is something frequently addressed by 21st century authors writing about dysfunctional families. Perhaps Turner was ahead of her time? I don't want this book to be all about 'happy families' either. But that whole aspect of the narrative, the relationship between the children and their father and step-mother seems underdone to me, could have been handled better.
I also think there is a lack of balance in the narrative between events in Sydney and Yarrahappini, outback NSW. What happened on the station was a defining moment in the history of the Woolcot family. I think it deserved more in-depth treatment. It seems to be rushed, towards the end of the book, as if the author was in a hurry to get it finished. An example of that lack of balance: it seems to me many hundreds of words are devoted to the dialogues between Meg Woolcot and her world-wise friend Aldith about fashion and boys, while the major event at the rural property is dealt with in a few pages. And that is the rather abrupt end of the book. So, despite its status as a classic, I only gave this book 3 stars. (less)
Mar 30, 2021Lesle rated it really liked it · review of another edition
Shelves: 2-young-adult, read-in-2021
The Captain (Father) of the most diverse children ever. A bit naughty with much laughter and a few heartfelt tugs.
I felt as if at times I was at play with my own sister and our constant teasing with a few antics thrown in for fun.
The Captain is too strict with his children and reprimands constantly causing more issues than what was necessary.
My favorite of the Seven is without a doubt the clever, outspoken and a bit daring Judy! and in the end I was very sadden as the fresh air and the sheep station did not help in the end.
Turner does a great job as the voice of the children.
"Oh, don't the days seem lank and long When all goes right and nothing goes wrong, And isn't your life extremely flat With nothing whatever to grumble at!"
(less)
I felt as if at times I was at play with my own sister and our constant teasing with a few antics thrown in for fun.
The Captain is too strict with his children and reprimands constantly causing more issues than what was necessary.
My favorite of the Seven is without a doubt the clever, outspoken and a bit daring Judy! and in the end I was very sadden as the fresh air and the sheep station did not help in the end.
Turner does a great job as the voice of the children.
"Oh, don't the days seem lank and long When all goes right and nothing goes wrong, And isn't your life extremely flat With nothing whatever to grumble at!"
(less)
The book begins.
Before you fairly start this story I should like to give you just a word of warning.
If you imagine you are going to read of model children, with perhaps, a naughtily inclined one to point a moral, you had better lay down the book immediately and betake yourself to 'Sandford and Merton' or similar standard juvenile works. Not one of the seven is really good, for the very excellent reason that Australian children never are.
Sigh. It's true, it's true.
(less)
Aug 31, 2014Amanda - Mrs B's Book Reviews rated it really liked it
Shelves: 2018-books, aww2018, book-bingo-2018
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Seven Little Australians, penned by Ethel Turner in 1894, is my choice for the somewhat problematic category for Book Bingo 2018 (and one I admit to avoiding) ‘a forgotten classic’. I did find this square a touch hard to adequately fulfil, as it is difficult to decide what constitutes as a ‘forgotten classic’. It really is a personal choice, or a reflection on individual reading habits. Although I am a great fan of children’s books and Australian literature, I rarely delve into Australian classics. I decided to select my title, Seven Little Australians, based on the fact that I didn’t read this one as a child, or later as an adult. I have heard of the book, but despite that fact that Seven Little Australians has remained in reprint for over one hundred years after it was first published, this is my first experience of the title. I acquired my illustrated copy from a local op shop and this particular edition was published in 1991.
The front cover of my edition of Seven Little Australians introduces this book as ‘Ethel Turner’s Endearing Children’s Classic’. After reading this title tag, it made me feel much more confident that my selection for a ‘forgotten classic’ was valid. As I made my way through the opening ‘Publisher’s Note’, I was surprised to discover that the author of Seven Little Australians, first began writing this book on her 21st birthday! This little nugget of information really took me aback, I was amazed that a woman of this age could compose such an enduring classic.
My version of Seven Little Australians is divided into chapters with a contents page. Interspersed between the narrative are beautiful illustrations that compliment the unfolding story. Seven Little Australians is the story of a stern patriarch, a young stepmother and their gaggle of children that range in age from an infant, through to a young woman in the cusp of adulthood. Each child depicted in the book is given their own time in the spotlight. The approach Turner takes is almost like presenting the reader with an episode of each little Australian’s life. Readers will enjoy the various misadventures, debacles and sticky situations the characters in the book face at various points. Turner carefully balances light and humourous moments with tragic episodes. Seven Little Australians has the power to teach the reader, young and old, about lifelong learning, love, respect, growing up and self discovery.
Family and childhood is at the core of Ethel turner’s classic. These themes are carried over well and explored in detail. I enjoyed the commentary on childhood, play, perceptions of naughty behaviour, sibling rivalries, banter, teasing, politics and the general interactions between the family in this book. It also provides us with a good snapshot into early blended and non traditional families of the time. I felt the father figure typified the strong patriarchal image that defined this era, while casting a young stepmother as the female head of the family was an interesting touch. This is a true representation of a family unit and I admired the inherent love and care for one another the Woolcot’s displayed, through the good and bad times.
The best aspect of Seven Little Australians was the wonderful depiction of life in Sydney and NSW in the 1800s. It was nice to see this time and place through the eyes of not only an adult, but a child growing up at this point in time. It gives us a good understanding of the strict moral codes, rules, practices and ordered lives families such as the Woolcot’s inhabited at this point in our nation’s history. Although this book was published over a century ago, there are still areas that connect us together. The mischief and wonder of the Woolcots shows us that children and families have not changed greatly. Captain Woolcot struggled to keep his children under his direction, so do we as parents today!
It is imperative that from time to time, that we delve back into the literature of yesteryear. It gives us an appreciation for and a better understanding of where our writing first originated and how it has progressed. I am pleased that I had the opportunity to take a step back from reading continual new releases and launch back in time, to a period depicted with charm by the talented Ms Ethel Turner.
Seven Little Australians is book #131 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge (less)
Seven Little Australians, penned by Ethel Turner in 1894, is my choice for the somewhat problematic category for Book Bingo 2018 (and one I admit to avoiding) ‘a forgotten classic’. I did find this square a touch hard to adequately fulfil, as it is difficult to decide what constitutes as a ‘forgotten classic’. It really is a personal choice, or a reflection on individual reading habits. Although I am a great fan of children’s books and Australian literature, I rarely delve into Australian classics. I decided to select my title, Seven Little Australians, based on the fact that I didn’t read this one as a child, or later as an adult. I have heard of the book, but despite that fact that Seven Little Australians has remained in reprint for over one hundred years after it was first published, this is my first experience of the title. I acquired my illustrated copy from a local op shop and this particular edition was published in 1991.
The front cover of my edition of Seven Little Australians introduces this book as ‘Ethel Turner’s Endearing Children’s Classic’. After reading this title tag, it made me feel much more confident that my selection for a ‘forgotten classic’ was valid. As I made my way through the opening ‘Publisher’s Note’, I was surprised to discover that the author of Seven Little Australians, first began writing this book on her 21st birthday! This little nugget of information really took me aback, I was amazed that a woman of this age could compose such an enduring classic.
My version of Seven Little Australians is divided into chapters with a contents page. Interspersed between the narrative are beautiful illustrations that compliment the unfolding story. Seven Little Australians is the story of a stern patriarch, a young stepmother and their gaggle of children that range in age from an infant, through to a young woman in the cusp of adulthood. Each child depicted in the book is given their own time in the spotlight. The approach Turner takes is almost like presenting the reader with an episode of each little Australian’s life. Readers will enjoy the various misadventures, debacles and sticky situations the characters in the book face at various points. Turner carefully balances light and humourous moments with tragic episodes. Seven Little Australians has the power to teach the reader, young and old, about lifelong learning, love, respect, growing up and self discovery.
Family and childhood is at the core of Ethel turner’s classic. These themes are carried over well and explored in detail. I enjoyed the commentary on childhood, play, perceptions of naughty behaviour, sibling rivalries, banter, teasing, politics and the general interactions between the family in this book. It also provides us with a good snapshot into early blended and non traditional families of the time. I felt the father figure typified the strong patriarchal image that defined this era, while casting a young stepmother as the female head of the family was an interesting touch. This is a true representation of a family unit and I admired the inherent love and care for one another the Woolcot’s displayed, through the good and bad times.
The best aspect of Seven Little Australians was the wonderful depiction of life in Sydney and NSW in the 1800s. It was nice to see this time and place through the eyes of not only an adult, but a child growing up at this point in time. It gives us a good understanding of the strict moral codes, rules, practices and ordered lives families such as the Woolcot’s inhabited at this point in our nation’s history. Although this book was published over a century ago, there are still areas that connect us together. The mischief and wonder of the Woolcots shows us that children and families have not changed greatly. Captain Woolcot struggled to keep his children under his direction, so do we as parents today!
It is imperative that from time to time, that we delve back into the literature of yesteryear. It gives us an appreciation for and a better understanding of where our writing first originated and how it has progressed. I am pleased that I had the opportunity to take a step back from reading continual new releases and launch back in time, to a period depicted with charm by the talented Ms Ethel Turner.
Seven Little Australians is book #131 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge (less)
Nov 24, 2020Deborah Ideiosepius rated it liked it · review of another edition
This book is an absolute classic Australian children's literature novel which was embraced heartily by the rest of the world. I am told it has never been out of print since the very young Ethel Turner published it in 1894. It was greatly beloved by many children here and overseas, it was translated into many other languages for many other countries. Somehow, I had never read it.
Like many other kid's books I loved as a child, it relates the lives and small adventures of the seven mischievous Woolcot children and since as a kid I always loved stories of large families, (mine being tiny) so I probably would have adored it if I had read it as a kid, though as an adult it is a 3* read. Set in 1880's Australia the Woolcot brood live in a house nicknames 'Misrule' with their stern, emotionally distant army father Captain Woolcot, and young stepmother Esther who is only a couple of years older than the oldest daughter.
It was a lot of fun, it was cute and at times innocent and at other times really, really out of step with the times. So many points about it would mean that this beloved classic would NEVER be touched by even the bravest of publishers today. The age difference between 'the father' Captain Woolcot and 'the stepmother' Esther, on it's own would probably strike it out. The adventures of the children, which entranced so many generations, are often quite horrific by modern standards, including both emotional and financial neglect by the father and outright dangerous behaviour as well and poor morals and values.
I am actually very glad I finally read it; I enjoyed the characters which were vivid and though naively written still believable and at times likable. The small childhood adventures and woes were fascinating in the historical sense and the while book has a cheerful lightheartedness to it, even in the bad times. So combine that with the nice descriptions of colonial Australia and the bush - good book.
It has been so extensively translated as well as being used in many other media; film, at least two television mini-series, various stage plays (and I think there was a musical) that it is definitely a classic. (less)
Like many other kid's books I loved as a child, it relates the lives and small adventures of the seven mischievous Woolcot children and since as a kid I always loved stories of large families, (mine being tiny) so I probably would have adored it if I had read it as a kid, though as an adult it is a 3* read. Set in 1880's Australia the Woolcot brood live in a house nicknames 'Misrule' with their stern, emotionally distant army father Captain Woolcot, and young stepmother Esther who is only a couple of years older than the oldest daughter.
It was a lot of fun, it was cute and at times innocent and at other times really, really out of step with the times. So many points about it would mean that this beloved classic would NEVER be touched by even the bravest of publishers today. The age difference between 'the father' Captain Woolcot and 'the stepmother' Esther, on it's own would probably strike it out. The adventures of the children, which entranced so many generations, are often quite horrific by modern standards, including both emotional and financial neglect by the father and outright dangerous behaviour as well and poor morals and values.
I am actually very glad I finally read it; I enjoyed the characters which were vivid and though naively written still believable and at times likable. The small childhood adventures and woes were fascinating in the historical sense and the while book has a cheerful lightheartedness to it, even in the bad times. So combine that with the nice descriptions of colonial Australia and the bush - good book.
It has been so extensively translated as well as being used in many other media; film, at least two television mini-series, various stage plays (and I think there was a musical) that it is definitely a classic. (less)
Nov 19, 2008Sarah rated it it was amazing
I re-read this today for my children's literature course and was surprised by what a brute the Captain (their father) is - I never really noticed it when I read it as a child. He's awful. He makes it perfectly clear that he doesn't like or understand his children and considers spending any time at all with them on par with having teeth pulled. When Judy makes him look after the youngest alone for an hour he's so mad he sends her off to boarding school despite the protests and tears of the entire family, including his second wife, and refuses to let her come home even when she's clearly miserable. Only when she gets sick from walking for a week to get home does he grudgingly relent. Her death at the end is awful and heartbreaking and still makes me cry, but it totally serves him right. It says at the end that it makes him love his remaining children more, although he still can't bear to let any of them see it, oh no.
I suppose he is an accurate portrait of parents in those days, but STILL. Those poor kids. (less)
I suppose he is an accurate portrait of parents in those days, but STILL. Those poor kids. (less)
Mar 28, 2020Deb (Readerbuzz) Nance rated it really liked it
Shelves: family, children-s-books, kids-1001
“But in Australia a model child is - I say it not without thankfulness - an unknown quantity. It may be that the miasmas of naughtiness develop best in the sunny brilliancy of our atmosphere. It may be that the land and the people are so young-hearted together, and the children's spirits are not crushed and saddened by the shadow of long years' sorrowful history. There is a lurking sparkle of joyousness and rebellion and mischief in nature here, and therefore in children.”
This is a classic children's book, the story of a family in Australia with seven rather difficult children.
You can't help but like this family, with real children who disobey their parents, act willfully, and speak back to their elder; with a real stepmom who tires easily from the work that goes along with trying to keep the children in line; with a real dad who is constantly forced to discipline the children. The children are willful, yes, but charming, too, and the dad is strict, but loving.
All isn't joy and happiness in this world; I don't want to say too much, but there are several very sad parts of the story.
One of the 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up (less)
This is a classic children's book, the story of a family in Australia with seven rather difficult children.
You can't help but like this family, with real children who disobey their parents, act willfully, and speak back to their elder; with a real stepmom who tires easily from the work that goes along with trying to keep the children in line; with a real dad who is constantly forced to discipline the children. The children are willful, yes, but charming, too, and the dad is strict, but loving.
All isn't joy and happiness in this world; I don't want to say too much, but there are several very sad parts of the story.
One of the 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up (less)
Jan 27, 2013Natasha Lester rated it really liked it · review of another edition
I read this book aloud, a chapter a night, to my four and a half and six and a half year old daughters. When I began reading the first chapter, I thought that they might not choose the book again the following night. The language is obviously somewhat old-fashioned - the book was published in 1894 after all. But as Ethel Turner writes, she addresses the reader - she is telling the story to them. The book begins, 'Before you fairly start this story I should like to give you just a word of warning.' And she then proceeds to tell the reader that the tale she is about to unfold is one of very naughty children and that it is something about the Australian landscape - 'the sunny brilliancy of our atmosphere' - that contributes to their naughtiness.
There are a few things about this introduction that I think children find so appealing. The first is the idea that they are going to read about naughty children. What will these naughty children do? Just how naughty will they be? And what will happen to them when their naughtiness is discovered? I could well imagine that these thoughts were running through my daughters' minds as we read.
From there, the story traces all the mischief of the children - from Bunty laming his father's horse with a cricket ball, to Judy depositing the baby at her father's barracks so she can enjoy an afternoon of fun at the fair, to the children continually interrupting a dinner party in the hopes of taking plates of roast chicken up to the nursery, rather than bread and butter. It's all good, innocent fun and daring - apart from Bunty and the horse - but the consequence of it is that Judy is sent off to boarding school, a place she promptly runs away from, setting in train the tragic events at the end of the book.
My daughters didn't cry at the end - they left that job to me. So, if you have children aged around 6 or 7 and want to enjoy a piece of classic Australian literature with them, then I thoroughly recommend Seven Little Australians to you. Just remember to have a box of tissues on the couch beside you!
My full review is here: http://whilethekidsaresleeping.wordpr...
(less)
There are a few things about this introduction that I think children find so appealing. The first is the idea that they are going to read about naughty children. What will these naughty children do? Just how naughty will they be? And what will happen to them when their naughtiness is discovered? I could well imagine that these thoughts were running through my daughters' minds as we read.
From there, the story traces all the mischief of the children - from Bunty laming his father's horse with a cricket ball, to Judy depositing the baby at her father's barracks so she can enjoy an afternoon of fun at the fair, to the children continually interrupting a dinner party in the hopes of taking plates of roast chicken up to the nursery, rather than bread and butter. It's all good, innocent fun and daring - apart from Bunty and the horse - but the consequence of it is that Judy is sent off to boarding school, a place she promptly runs away from, setting in train the tragic events at the end of the book.
My daughters didn't cry at the end - they left that job to me. So, if you have children aged around 6 or 7 and want to enjoy a piece of classic Australian literature with them, then I thoroughly recommend Seven Little Australians to you. Just remember to have a box of tissues on the couch beside you!
My full review is here: http://whilethekidsaresleeping.wordpr...
(less)
Seven Little Australians
(The Woolcots #1)
by
3.89 · Rating details · 4,485 ratings · 251 reviews
19th century Australia: Captain Woolcot, having lost his wife tragically young, remarried a much younger young woman to provide his six children with a new mother. Together, they had another child, making seven. The Captain felt it was necessary to run the family with army discipline, but his rules and regulations were no match for the fun loving children, led by the redou ...more
Hardcover, 152 pages
Published November 28th 2006 by Indy Publish (first published 1894)
Original Title
Seven Little Australians
Edition Language
English
Series
Setting
Australia
Sydney, New South Wales (Australia)
Sydney, New South Wales (Australia)
Recommend This Book None of your friends have reviewed this book yet.
Ask the Goodreads community a question about Seven Little Australians
Popular Answered Questions
Best Books Set in Australia
887 books — 551 voters
Australian Children's Literature
351 books — 188 voters
More lists with this book...
Showing 1-30
Mar 14, 2020Chavelli Sulikowska rated it really liked it · review of another edition
Shelves: childrens-literature, classics
Essentially the Aussie version of Little Women, Turner's bitter sweet tale of a band of unruly young siblings in country NSW early last century is a heartening story of the bonds of family, youth and the hardships of the Australian pioneer life. Turner beautifully evokes both the glory and brutality of the Australian landscape, which forms a clever mirror to the joys and sorrows of the loveable but ruffian Woolcott children - "There is a lurking sparkle of joyousness and rebellion and mischief in nature here, and therefore in children..."
Well written descriptive passages elevate this novel from simple YA fiction - such as "run through the paddocks under cover of the kindly dusk" and "Such a sunset! Down at the foot of the grass hill there was a flame-coloured sky, with purple, soft clouds massed in banks high up where the dying glory met the paling blue. The belt of trees had grown black, and stretched sombre, motionless arms against the orange background. All the wind had died, and the air hung hot and still, freighted with the strange silence of the bush."
Ultimately this is a sad tale, and I wouldn't go on to read the novels that follow - similarly I stopped at Little Women and many other books that go on and on until they wear themselves out and we begin to even despise the original. Highly recommend for any nostalgic Aussie expats such as myself, as well as readers who want a quintessential Aussie bush story experience! (less)
Well written descriptive passages elevate this novel from simple YA fiction - such as "run through the paddocks under cover of the kindly dusk" and "Such a sunset! Down at the foot of the grass hill there was a flame-coloured sky, with purple, soft clouds massed in banks high up where the dying glory met the paling blue. The belt of trees had grown black, and stretched sombre, motionless arms against the orange background. All the wind had died, and the air hung hot and still, freighted with the strange silence of the bush."
Ultimately this is a sad tale, and I wouldn't go on to read the novels that follow - similarly I stopped at Little Women and many other books that go on and on until they wear themselves out and we begin to even despise the original. Highly recommend for any nostalgic Aussie expats such as myself, as well as readers who want a quintessential Aussie bush story experience! (less)
This is my second attempt at reading Seven Little Australians. The first time I gave up only a short way through, it was so sad and the parents really frustrated me. I purchased the book for a reading challenge. ‘A classic you’ve never read’.
I loved the different personalities of the children and I could easily imagine them running wild around the house, a free spirited bunch. I’m now interested in watching the series to see how Meg is portrayed. It seemed to me at sixteen she was very immature.
Seven Little Australians is a wonderfully descriptive story portraying Australian life during the late 1800’s. The story is quite sad however it still had some lighthearted moments and gave me a few laughs.
Even though the children bickered and fought their dedication and love for each other was evident throughout. (less)
I loved the different personalities of the children and I could easily imagine them running wild around the house, a free spirited bunch. I’m now interested in watching the series to see how Meg is portrayed. It seemed to me at sixteen she was very immature.
Seven Little Australians is a wonderfully descriptive story portraying Australian life during the late 1800’s. The story is quite sad however it still had some lighthearted moments and gave me a few laughs.
Even though the children bickered and fought their dedication and love for each other was evident throughout. (less)
This book has never been out of print since it was published in 1894. Undoubtedly the story holds a special place in the hearts of many generations of Australians. It is indeed a classic. Having said that, I must confess that I was a tad underwhelmed by it.
While written in 1894, this is a surprisingly modern book in many ways. Turner's prose is lively, fresh, immediate and direct. Some of the passages could have been written yesterday. How like a 21st century family are the Woolcots, with their many issues, such as brilliant, headstrong children, determined to follow their own hearts, lax supervision by distracted parents, disregard for education, and deliberate deceptions? Yet in many other ways it is absolutely a product of its time, including the social mores and class structure which underpinned the management of middle class families in the Victorian era.
There are some mixed values exposed in the story which rather perplexed me. There is a fine line being drawn between 'Aussie free-spirit', 'likeable rogue' and 'delinquent'. Are we supposed to like Bunty, when he is such an inveterate liar and thief, notwithstanding he is a little boy? Apart from the toddlers, all the children lie, all the time - which does not endear me to them, and makes me wonder about the messages going out to the Australian children who would read this book over the generations. The negative portrayal of the father, and the children’s obvious dislike and lack of respect for him appalled me, frankly. Yet, this is indeed a very modern matter, and is something frequently addressed by 21st century authors writing about dysfunctional families. Perhaps Turner was ahead of her time? I don't want this book to be all about 'happy families' either. But that whole aspect of the narrative, the relationship between the children and their father and step-mother seems underdone to me, could have been handled better.
I also think there is a lack of balance in the narrative between events in Sydney and Yarrahappini, outback NSW. What happened on the station was a defining moment in the history of the Woolcot family. I think it deserved more in-depth treatment. It seems to be rushed, towards the end of the book, as if the author was in a hurry to get it finished. An example of that lack of balance: it seems to me many hundreds of words are devoted to the dialogues between Meg Woolcot and her world-wise friend Aldith about fashion and boys, while the major event at the rural property is dealt with in a few pages. And that is the rather abrupt end of the book. So, despite its status as a classic, I only gave this book 3 stars. (less)
While written in 1894, this is a surprisingly modern book in many ways. Turner's prose is lively, fresh, immediate and direct. Some of the passages could have been written yesterday. How like a 21st century family are the Woolcots, with their many issues, such as brilliant, headstrong children, determined to follow their own hearts, lax supervision by distracted parents, disregard for education, and deliberate deceptions? Yet in many other ways it is absolutely a product of its time, including the social mores and class structure which underpinned the management of middle class families in the Victorian era.
There are some mixed values exposed in the story which rather perplexed me. There is a fine line being drawn between 'Aussie free-spirit', 'likeable rogue' and 'delinquent'. Are we supposed to like Bunty, when he is such an inveterate liar and thief, notwithstanding he is a little boy? Apart from the toddlers, all the children lie, all the time - which does not endear me to them, and makes me wonder about the messages going out to the Australian children who would read this book over the generations. The negative portrayal of the father, and the children’s obvious dislike and lack of respect for him appalled me, frankly. Yet, this is indeed a very modern matter, and is something frequently addressed by 21st century authors writing about dysfunctional families. Perhaps Turner was ahead of her time? I don't want this book to be all about 'happy families' either. But that whole aspect of the narrative, the relationship between the children and their father and step-mother seems underdone to me, could have been handled better.
I also think there is a lack of balance in the narrative between events in Sydney and Yarrahappini, outback NSW. What happened on the station was a defining moment in the history of the Woolcot family. I think it deserved more in-depth treatment. It seems to be rushed, towards the end of the book, as if the author was in a hurry to get it finished. An example of that lack of balance: it seems to me many hundreds of words are devoted to the dialogues between Meg Woolcot and her world-wise friend Aldith about fashion and boys, while the major event at the rural property is dealt with in a few pages. And that is the rather abrupt end of the book. So, despite its status as a classic, I only gave this book 3 stars. (less)
Mar 30, 2021Lesle rated it really liked it · review of another edition
Shelves: 2-young-adult, read-in-2021
The Captain (Father) of the most diverse children ever. A bit naughty with much laughter and a few heartfelt tugs.
I felt as if at times I was at play with my own sister and our constant teasing with a few antics thrown in for fun.
The Captain is too strict with his children and reprimands constantly causing more issues than what was necessary.
My favorite of the Seven is without a doubt the clever, outspoken and a bit daring Judy! and in the end I was very sadden as the fresh air and the sheep station did not help in the end.
Turner does a great job as the voice of the children.
"Oh, don't the days seem lank and long When all goes right and nothing goes wrong, And isn't your life extremely flat With nothing whatever to grumble at!"
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I felt as if at times I was at play with my own sister and our constant teasing with a few antics thrown in for fun.
The Captain is too strict with his children and reprimands constantly causing more issues than what was necessary.
My favorite of the Seven is without a doubt the clever, outspoken and a bit daring Judy! and in the end I was very sadden as the fresh air and the sheep station did not help in the end.
Turner does a great job as the voice of the children.
"Oh, don't the days seem lank and long When all goes right and nothing goes wrong, And isn't your life extremely flat With nothing whatever to grumble at!"
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The book begins.
Before you fairly start this story I should like to give you just a word of warning.
If you imagine you are going to read of model children, with perhaps, a naughtily inclined one to point a moral, you had better lay down the book immediately and betake yourself to 'Sandford and Merton' or similar standard juvenile works. Not one of the seven is really good, for the very excellent reason that Australian children never are.
Sigh. It's true, it's true.
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Aug 31, 2014Amanda - Mrs B's Book Reviews rated it really liked it
Shelves: 2018-books, aww2018, book-bingo-2018
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Seven Little Australians, penned by Ethel Turner in 1894, is my choice for the somewhat problematic category for Book Bingo 2018 (and one I admit to avoiding) ‘a forgotten classic’. I did find this square a touch hard to adequately fulfil, as it is difficult to decide what constitutes as a ‘forgotten classic’. It really is a personal choice, or a reflection on individual reading habits. Although I am a great fan of children’s books and Australian literature, I rarely delve into Australian classics. I decided to select my title, Seven Little Australians, based on the fact that I didn’t read this one as a child, or later as an adult. I have heard of the book, but despite that fact that Seven Little Australians has remained in reprint for over one hundred years after it was first published, this is my first experience of the title. I acquired my illustrated copy from a local op shop and this particular edition was published in 1991.
The front cover of my edition of Seven Little Australians introduces this book as ‘Ethel Turner’s Endearing Children’s Classic’. After reading this title tag, it made me feel much more confident that my selection for a ‘forgotten classic’ was valid. As I made my way through the opening ‘Publisher’s Note’, I was surprised to discover that the author of Seven Little Australians, first began writing this book on her 21st birthday! This little nugget of information really took me aback, I was amazed that a woman of this age could compose such an enduring classic.
My version of Seven Little Australians is divided into chapters with a contents page. Interspersed between the narrative are beautiful illustrations that compliment the unfolding story. Seven Little Australians is the story of a stern patriarch, a young stepmother and their gaggle of children that range in age from an infant, through to a young woman in the cusp of adulthood. Each child depicted in the book is given their own time in the spotlight. The approach Turner takes is almost like presenting the reader with an episode of each little Australian’s life. Readers will enjoy the various misadventures, debacles and sticky situations the characters in the book face at various points. Turner carefully balances light and humourous moments with tragic episodes. Seven Little Australians has the power to teach the reader, young and old, about lifelong learning, love, respect, growing up and self discovery.
Family and childhood is at the core of Ethel turner’s classic. These themes are carried over well and explored in detail. I enjoyed the commentary on childhood, play, perceptions of naughty behaviour, sibling rivalries, banter, teasing, politics and the general interactions between the family in this book. It also provides us with a good snapshot into early blended and non traditional families of the time. I felt the father figure typified the strong patriarchal image that defined this era, while casting a young stepmother as the female head of the family was an interesting touch. This is a true representation of a family unit and I admired the inherent love and care for one another the Woolcot’s displayed, through the good and bad times.
The best aspect of Seven Little Australians was the wonderful depiction of life in Sydney and NSW in the 1800s. It was nice to see this time and place through the eyes of not only an adult, but a child growing up at this point in time. It gives us a good understanding of the strict moral codes, rules, practices and ordered lives families such as the Woolcot’s inhabited at this point in our nation’s history. Although this book was published over a century ago, there are still areas that connect us together. The mischief and wonder of the Woolcots shows us that children and families have not changed greatly. Captain Woolcot struggled to keep his children under his direction, so do we as parents today!
It is imperative that from time to time, that we delve back into the literature of yesteryear. It gives us an appreciation for and a better understanding of where our writing first originated and how it has progressed. I am pleased that I had the opportunity to take a step back from reading continual new releases and launch back in time, to a period depicted with charm by the talented Ms Ethel Turner.
Seven Little Australians is book #131 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge (less)
Seven Little Australians, penned by Ethel Turner in 1894, is my choice for the somewhat problematic category for Book Bingo 2018 (and one I admit to avoiding) ‘a forgotten classic’. I did find this square a touch hard to adequately fulfil, as it is difficult to decide what constitutes as a ‘forgotten classic’. It really is a personal choice, or a reflection on individual reading habits. Although I am a great fan of children’s books and Australian literature, I rarely delve into Australian classics. I decided to select my title, Seven Little Australians, based on the fact that I didn’t read this one as a child, or later as an adult. I have heard of the book, but despite that fact that Seven Little Australians has remained in reprint for over one hundred years after it was first published, this is my first experience of the title. I acquired my illustrated copy from a local op shop and this particular edition was published in 1991.
The front cover of my edition of Seven Little Australians introduces this book as ‘Ethel Turner’s Endearing Children’s Classic’. After reading this title tag, it made me feel much more confident that my selection for a ‘forgotten classic’ was valid. As I made my way through the opening ‘Publisher’s Note’, I was surprised to discover that the author of Seven Little Australians, first began writing this book on her 21st birthday! This little nugget of information really took me aback, I was amazed that a woman of this age could compose such an enduring classic.
My version of Seven Little Australians is divided into chapters with a contents page. Interspersed between the narrative are beautiful illustrations that compliment the unfolding story. Seven Little Australians is the story of a stern patriarch, a young stepmother and their gaggle of children that range in age from an infant, through to a young woman in the cusp of adulthood. Each child depicted in the book is given their own time in the spotlight. The approach Turner takes is almost like presenting the reader with an episode of each little Australian’s life. Readers will enjoy the various misadventures, debacles and sticky situations the characters in the book face at various points. Turner carefully balances light and humourous moments with tragic episodes. Seven Little Australians has the power to teach the reader, young and old, about lifelong learning, love, respect, growing up and self discovery.
Family and childhood is at the core of Ethel turner’s classic. These themes are carried over well and explored in detail. I enjoyed the commentary on childhood, play, perceptions of naughty behaviour, sibling rivalries, banter, teasing, politics and the general interactions between the family in this book. It also provides us with a good snapshot into early blended and non traditional families of the time. I felt the father figure typified the strong patriarchal image that defined this era, while casting a young stepmother as the female head of the family was an interesting touch. This is a true representation of a family unit and I admired the inherent love and care for one another the Woolcot’s displayed, through the good and bad times.
The best aspect of Seven Little Australians was the wonderful depiction of life in Sydney and NSW in the 1800s. It was nice to see this time and place through the eyes of not only an adult, but a child growing up at this point in time. It gives us a good understanding of the strict moral codes, rules, practices and ordered lives families such as the Woolcot’s inhabited at this point in our nation’s history. Although this book was published over a century ago, there are still areas that connect us together. The mischief and wonder of the Woolcots shows us that children and families have not changed greatly. Captain Woolcot struggled to keep his children under his direction, so do we as parents today!
It is imperative that from time to time, that we delve back into the literature of yesteryear. It gives us an appreciation for and a better understanding of where our writing first originated and how it has progressed. I am pleased that I had the opportunity to take a step back from reading continual new releases and launch back in time, to a period depicted with charm by the talented Ms Ethel Turner.
Seven Little Australians is book #131 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge (less)
Nov 24, 2020Deborah Ideiosepius rated it liked it · review of another edition
This book is an absolute classic Australian children's literature novel which was embraced heartily by the rest of the world. I am told it has never been out of print since the very young Ethel Turner published it in 1894. It was greatly beloved by many children here and overseas, it was translated into many other languages for many other countries. Somehow, I had never read it.
Like many other kid's books I loved as a child, it relates the lives and small adventures of the seven mischievous Woolcot children and since as a kid I always loved stories of large families, (mine being tiny) so I probably would have adored it if I had read it as a kid, though as an adult it is a 3* read. Set in 1880's Australia the Woolcot brood live in a house nicknames 'Misrule' with their stern, emotionally distant army father Captain Woolcot, and young stepmother Esther who is only a couple of years older than the oldest daughter.
It was a lot of fun, it was cute and at times innocent and at other times really, really out of step with the times. So many points about it would mean that this beloved classic would NEVER be touched by even the bravest of publishers today. The age difference between 'the father' Captain Woolcot and 'the stepmother' Esther, on it's own would probably strike it out. The adventures of the children, which entranced so many generations, are often quite horrific by modern standards, including both emotional and financial neglect by the father and outright dangerous behaviour as well and poor morals and values.
I am actually very glad I finally read it; I enjoyed the characters which were vivid and though naively written still believable and at times likable. The small childhood adventures and woes were fascinating in the historical sense and the while book has a cheerful lightheartedness to it, even in the bad times. So combine that with the nice descriptions of colonial Australia and the bush - good book.
It has been so extensively translated as well as being used in many other media; film, at least two television mini-series, various stage plays (and I think there was a musical) that it is definitely a classic. (less)
Like many other kid's books I loved as a child, it relates the lives and small adventures of the seven mischievous Woolcot children and since as a kid I always loved stories of large families, (mine being tiny) so I probably would have adored it if I had read it as a kid, though as an adult it is a 3* read. Set in 1880's Australia the Woolcot brood live in a house nicknames 'Misrule' with their stern, emotionally distant army father Captain Woolcot, and young stepmother Esther who is only a couple of years older than the oldest daughter.
It was a lot of fun, it was cute and at times innocent and at other times really, really out of step with the times. So many points about it would mean that this beloved classic would NEVER be touched by even the bravest of publishers today. The age difference between 'the father' Captain Woolcot and 'the stepmother' Esther, on it's own would probably strike it out. The adventures of the children, which entranced so many generations, are often quite horrific by modern standards, including both emotional and financial neglect by the father and outright dangerous behaviour as well and poor morals and values.
I am actually very glad I finally read it; I enjoyed the characters which were vivid and though naively written still believable and at times likable. The small childhood adventures and woes were fascinating in the historical sense and the while book has a cheerful lightheartedness to it, even in the bad times. So combine that with the nice descriptions of colonial Australia and the bush - good book.
It has been so extensively translated as well as being used in many other media; film, at least two television mini-series, various stage plays (and I think there was a musical) that it is definitely a classic. (less)
Nov 19, 2008Sarah rated it it was amazing
I re-read this today for my children's literature course and was surprised by what a brute the Captain (their father) is - I never really noticed it when I read it as a child. He's awful. He makes it perfectly clear that he doesn't like or understand his children and considers spending any time at all with them on par with having teeth pulled. When Judy makes him look after the youngest alone for an hour he's so mad he sends her off to boarding school despite the protests and tears of the entire family, including his second wife, and refuses to let her come home even when she's clearly miserable. Only when she gets sick from walking for a week to get home does he grudgingly relent. Her death at the end is awful and heartbreaking and still makes me cry, but it totally serves him right. It says at the end that it makes him love his remaining children more, although he still can't bear to let any of them see it, oh no.
I suppose he is an accurate portrait of parents in those days, but STILL. Those poor kids. (less)
I suppose he is an accurate portrait of parents in those days, but STILL. Those poor kids. (less)
Mar 28, 2020Deb (Readerbuzz) Nance rated it really liked it
Shelves: family, children-s-books, kids-1001
“But in Australia a model child is - I say it not without thankfulness - an unknown quantity. It may be that the miasmas of naughtiness develop best in the sunny brilliancy of our atmosphere. It may be that the land and the people are so young-hearted together, and the children's spirits are not crushed and saddened by the shadow of long years' sorrowful history. There is a lurking sparkle of joyousness and rebellion and mischief in nature here, and therefore in children.”
This is a classic children's book, the story of a family in Australia with seven rather difficult children.
You can't help but like this family, with real children who disobey their parents, act willfully, and speak back to their elder; with a real stepmom who tires easily from the work that goes along with trying to keep the children in line; with a real dad who is constantly forced to discipline the children. The children are willful, yes, but charming, too, and the dad is strict, but loving.
All isn't joy and happiness in this world; I don't want to say too much, but there are several very sad parts of the story.
One of the 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up (less)
This is a classic children's book, the story of a family in Australia with seven rather difficult children.
You can't help but like this family, with real children who disobey their parents, act willfully, and speak back to their elder; with a real stepmom who tires easily from the work that goes along with trying to keep the children in line; with a real dad who is constantly forced to discipline the children. The children are willful, yes, but charming, too, and the dad is strict, but loving.
All isn't joy and happiness in this world; I don't want to say too much, but there are several very sad parts of the story.
One of the 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up (less)
Jan 27, 2013Natasha Lester rated it really liked it · review of another edition
I read this book aloud, a chapter a night, to my four and a half and six and a half year old daughters. When I began reading the first chapter, I thought that they might not choose the book again the following night. The language is obviously somewhat old-fashioned - the book was published in 1894 after all. But as Ethel Turner writes, she addresses the reader - she is telling the story to them. The book begins, 'Before you fairly start this story I should like to give you just a word of warning.' And she then proceeds to tell the reader that the tale she is about to unfold is one of very naughty children and that it is something about the Australian landscape - 'the sunny brilliancy of our atmosphere' - that contributes to their naughtiness.
There are a few things about this introduction that I think children find so appealing. The first is the idea that they are going to read about naughty children. What will these naughty children do? Just how naughty will they be? And what will happen to them when their naughtiness is discovered? I could well imagine that these thoughts were running through my daughters' minds as we read.
From there, the story traces all the mischief of the children - from Bunty laming his father's horse with a cricket ball, to Judy depositing the baby at her father's barracks so she can enjoy an afternoon of fun at the fair, to the children continually interrupting a dinner party in the hopes of taking plates of roast chicken up to the nursery, rather than bread and butter. It's all good, innocent fun and daring - apart from Bunty and the horse - but the consequence of it is that Judy is sent off to boarding school, a place she promptly runs away from, setting in train the tragic events at the end of the book.
My daughters didn't cry at the end - they left that job to me. So, if you have children aged around 6 or 7 and want to enjoy a piece of classic Australian literature with them, then I thoroughly recommend Seven Little Australians to you. Just remember to have a box of tissues on the couch beside you!
My full review is here: http://whilethekidsaresleeping.wordpr...
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There are a few things about this introduction that I think children find so appealing. The first is the idea that they are going to read about naughty children. What will these naughty children do? Just how naughty will they be? And what will happen to them when their naughtiness is discovered? I could well imagine that these thoughts were running through my daughters' minds as we read.
From there, the story traces all the mischief of the children - from Bunty laming his father's horse with a cricket ball, to Judy depositing the baby at her father's barracks so she can enjoy an afternoon of fun at the fair, to the children continually interrupting a dinner party in the hopes of taking plates of roast chicken up to the nursery, rather than bread and butter. It's all good, innocent fun and daring - apart from Bunty and the horse - but the consequence of it is that Judy is sent off to boarding school, a place she promptly runs away from, setting in train the tragic events at the end of the book.
My daughters didn't cry at the end - they left that job to me. So, if you have children aged around 6 or 7 and want to enjoy a piece of classic Australian literature with them, then I thoroughly recommend Seven Little Australians to you. Just remember to have a box of tissues on the couch beside you!
My full review is here: http://whilethekidsaresleeping.wordpr...
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Top reviews from Australia
Veronica
4.0 out of 5 stars What can I say, it's a classic!
Reviewed in Australia on 3 April 2021
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This is my second attempt at reading Seven Little Australians. The first time I gave up only a short way through, it was so sad and the parents really frustrated me. I purchased the book for a reading challenge. ‘A classic you’ve never read’.
I loved the different personalities of the children and I could easily imagine them running wild around the house, a free spirited bunch. I’m now interested in watching the series to see how Meg is portrayed. It seemed to me at sixteen she was very immature.
Seven Little Australians is a wonderfully descriptive story portraying Australian life during the late 1800’s. The story is quite sad however it still had some lighthearted moments and gave me a few laughs.
Even though the children bickered and fought their dedication and love for each other was evident throughout.
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Catmistress
TOP 1000 REVIEWER
4.0 out of 5 stars Ethel Turner's Classic Victorian Tale of Seven Children
Reviewed in Australia on 4 June 2017
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I was brought to this classic story originally by watching the 1973 ABC series starring Leonard Teale and featuring Bruce Smeaton's gorgeous title tune. It is such a great classic that I can't give this book less than four stars, although I am sorely tempted due to the poor formatting and frequent typos. But looking past these gripes, underneath the slightly rough exterior lies the shimmering gold of Turner's narrative.
Set in Sydney in the late 1880's, the story is about the Woolcot family. Captain Woolcot is a stiff army man who has six children from his first marriage, and a seventh to his second wife Esther, who is only four years older than the Captain's eldest child Meg. The Captain does not really understand his children, and Esther struggles to bring them under control. As a result they get into many scrapes of varying degrees. (To be honest I sometimes think that second son Bunty is destined for life as a petty criminal, but that's just my idle speculation!)
Thirteen-year-old Judy is bright but headstrong. After a particularly disastrous episode (she and brother Pip go to town and park their baby brother in their father's room at the barracks so that they can go to the aquarium), the Captain decides to send her away to boarding school. There is quite a lot of fallout from this decision, and it all leads up to the climax of the story. Which, be warned, is a very emotional one for a children's book. Not quite the traditional happy ending that we all long for, but brilliantly done all the same.
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Katie
5.0 out of 5 stars This version includes the indigenous kookaburra narrative
Reviewed in Australia on 24 July 2021
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This version includes Mr Gillet telling the indigenous story about the kookaburra to the children when they visit Esther's parents' farm in chapter 18. This section was censored between 1897 and 1994, removed from fifth edition onwards. This has significant implications given Seven Little Australians is considered an important piece of Australian literature. In my literature class most weren't even aware this had been censored which is concerning.
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kaileana Lund
5.0 out of 5 stars Great Australian Story
Reviewed in Australia on 28 March 2020
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The book is great read. I remember the tv series with Lenard Teal as Captain when growing up how differant they are.
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DJ Elton
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