Lessac’s gouache, full page illustrations in striking colour are stunning.
The miniature ones, spread across the front, end papers, introduce the contents addressed in the book.
The back, end papers display additional areas to explore, accompanied by their historical connection.
The impressive collection of entries includes Kakadu’s ancient rock art,
Dirk Hartog and the Cape Inscription, Port Arthur, Captain Cook, and explorers Burke and Wills, the massacres at Myall Creek, Gold Strikes, and the uprising at Eureka Stockade.Very interesting to read about is the little-known,
courageous rescues from the SS Georgette that ran aground on the south-west coast of Australia, and the background
on the Afghan cameleers. Ned Kelly is included with Jandamarra and the Bunuba Resistance,
Federation, Anzacs, and the Japanese attack on Darwin. It ends with the Eddie
Mabo court case.
Mark Grenwood encapsulates the information in three
parts.
Simply and briefly, the theme of the double spread is introduced. This is followed by the historical point, where it takes place or is to be found, and ends with a short, thought-provoking comment, with Lessac’s artwork complementing every word.
The talented team of Greenwood and Frane Lessac have again created a stunning book of value on the history of our country. It is accessible in language and visuals to a young and older age group, even adults, interested in extended study. A must-have for school, public, and home libraries.
Title: Our Country: Bk 2 - Where History Happened
Author: Mark Greenwood
Illustrator: Frane Lessac
Publisher: Walker Books, $26.99
Publication Date: 1 September 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781760653576
For ages: 7+
Type: History Non Fiction