Description
This is a story about a boy called Pender and a kangaroo called Brindabella, about how they became friends, and all the things that happened to them because of it. Pender and his father live in an old house made of honey-coloured stone in the bush by the river, with only the company of his father's paintings and the loyal dog, Billy-Bob.
Then, on one winter morning, a gunshot amongst the trees changes everything. When Pender rescues Brindabella from the pouch of her murdered mother, an unusual friendship blossoms between the lonely boy and the orphaned joey. But Brindabella is no ordinary kangaroo. And though Pender has saved her life, the untameable wildness of the bush--and freedom--call to her...
Lyrical and unforgettable, Brindabella explores the brutal beauty of the Australian bush.
Review
This really is a very powerful story.
Pender is a gentle, lonely young boy who lives with his father in the bush, surrounded only by their animals and the local wildlife. So when Pender rescues a baby joey, Brindabella, he throws himself wholeheartedly into looking after her and raising her as his own.
But there is a longing in Brindabella to be free, and all the human love and care from Pender cannot stop her need to go. But will she make it on her own and find the adventure that she longs for?
The voices of all the animals will stay with you long after putting the book down. It is a story that will get your students thinking about and discussing the relationships between humans and animals, and how the interaction between the two can work harmoniously.
This story will be enjoyed by all readers aged 8 and above.
Reviewed by Sam
Teacher Notes prepared by the publisher are available on our website for this title.
