Born in England in 1808, Caroline was lucky enough to enjoy an upbringing of privilege and opportunity. But a strong sense of social justice and the importance of helping others less fortunate was also instilled in her at an early age. And it's this that shaped her future and inspired her many extraordinary achievements.
From establishing a support network for young female migrants to Sydney to opening up land for settlement and finding work and housing for women and families; from improving the standards onboard the migrant ships to promoting migration to Australia back in the United Kingdom; from reuniting convicts with their wives and children to providing shelters for families journeying to the goldfields, Caroline was always motivated by the desire to improve the lives of others. Along the way, she wrote the first non-fiction book by a female author in Australia, and still found time to be a dedicated wife and mother!
It's testament to the skill of author Tania McCartney that all this factual information sits lightly in the framework of what is above all the engaging story of a woman who defied the conventional role for well-bred women at the time and instead embraced challenge and adventure as she set about changing the world! We are given real insight into the character of Caroline, sharing her successes and tragedies, while also gaining greater understanding of the social issues of the time. The illustrations by Pat Reynolds are a delightful addition that will further help to engage the interest of young readers.
This is an excellent addition to New Frontier's Aussie Heroes series and a fitting tribute to a woman who played a key role in shaping Australia's history.
Title: Caroline Chisholm: The Emigrant's Friend
Author: Tania McCartney
Illustrator: Pat Reynolds
Publisher: New Frontier, $14.95 RRP
Publication Date: October 2013
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781921928482
For ages: 8–12
Type: Faction Novel, History Book
Tania McCartney is on tour with sweet Caroline! From Monday 30 September to Wednesday 2 October, join them as they tour the web, visiting some spectacular sites, with Caroline Chisholm: The Emigrant's Friend.
There will be guest posts, reviews, giveaways and author interviews. Stops are listed below, or click the poster above to see updated links as the tour unfolds.
SCHEDULE
Monday 30 September
Giveaway - Kids’ Book Review
Review - Kids’ Book Review
Author Interview – Dianne Bates, Writing for Children
Writing Historical Faction - Pass It On
Researching Sweet Caroline - Sheryl Gwyther’s Blog
Tuesday 1 October
Review + Five Historical Faction Writing Tips - DeeScribe
Review - Elaine Ouston Blog
The Coolest People in Australian History - Soup Blog
Author Interview - My Book Corner
Wednesday 2 October
Review - HerCanberra
Author Interview - Buzz Words
Review - Alison Reynolds
Blog Tour Wrap-Up - Tania McCartney’s Blog
