Greta is the daughter of a successful German businessman and enjoys a privileged life in Singapore. While Tilly is the daughter of a German born baker living a modest life in Brisbane.
With the outbreak of war in Europe, friends and neighbours treat them like the enemy. Harassed in the streets, possessions defaced, and unwelcome gifts left at their doorsteps. Both girls are taken away from lives, their homes as they know it are confiscated and they are interned in a camp in rural New South Wales.
Well researched, this evocative novel highlights the cruelties of war and how integral our sense of community is in when faced with adversity.
Greta’s prized possession is her violin, this is stolen when they are transported back to Australia. Whereas Tilly watches her father being taken away to be imprisoned and her mother retreat from the world – this sense of loss shapes their lives.
Written from the point of view of the two girls, Greta and Tilly’s challenges, heartache and friendship will resonate with readers.
As the end of the war approaches, the Spanish Flu will make its appearance. Nothing and no one will be left untouched, every aspect of their lives will be impacted. Will Greta and Tilly survive, along with their families? Will they ever be together again?
Author Pamela Rushby has woven a multi-faceted story through the pages of history to capture the prejudice and adversity war has on our lives and the remarkable sense of triumph that can be achieved as a community.
Title: Interned
Author: Pamela Rushby
Publisher: walker Books, $17.99
Publication Date: 1 March 2022
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781760653019
For Ages: 10-14
Type: Middle Grade Fiction
