'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Wednesday, 6 September 2023

Junior Review: Wylah the Koorie Warrior: Custodians (book #2)

Wylah is a strong and kind girl, but she’s been through a lot. Her grandmother passed away and her family got kidnapped. 

In book 1, Wylah had to reunite the five guardians of the tribes so she could become the Koori Warrior. 

But her tribe and her family are still missing, captured by evil dragons.

In book 2, Wylah and her crew (her cousins Po and Merri, Merri’s new friend Jayden and the guardians) must travel through the most dangerous place — the Valley of Spirits — to get to the gold mines.

They’re hoping to trade gold for their people, but things don’t go to plan. Drop bears attack, a giant emu tries to trample them, and angry Yowies like to make trouble.

Add to that, not everyone is telling the truth about who they are. Wylah’s crew is betrayed, and they end up captured and in great danger. Can Wylah learn who to trust and get her tribe back from the dragons?

I love that this series is based on First Nations history and culture. I feel like I’m learning lots as I read it. I love the glossary at the end of the book that helps you learn the Peek Whurrong language. It has meanings of the words and how to say them.

The illustrations are great. Very life-like. They are black and white and there are lots of them throughout the book.

Journey with Wylah and learn her story.

Title: Wylah the Koorie Warrior: Custodians
Author: Jordan Gould and Richard Pritchard
Illustrator: Richard Pritchard
Publisher: Allen and Unwin, $15.99
Publication Date: 30 May 2023
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781761180040
For ages: 8 - 14
Type: Junior Fiction Middle Grade