SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2025 READINGS CHILDREN'S FICTION PRIZE

A gently lyrical story about discovering Country and the importance of family, friendship and the magic of the bush, from an emerging Indigenous talent and winner of a black&write! Fellowship.

When eleven-year-old Alex moves to Adelaide from London after her mother gets engaged to a man across the globe, Alex must negotiate a new country, a new school, and (most difficult of all) a new stepbrother, the prickly teenaged Koen.

What sustains Alex in this strange new world is the wonder of the natural world around her, particularly a magnificent tree that comes to represent magic, resilience and strength.

Alex discovers the mystery of the bush, the true impact of climate change and a passion to fight for what is right.

Tania Crampton-Larking is a proud Mirning woman who writes to inspire others to connect with Nature's vibrant, timeless beauty. She seeks to promote caring values that are opposed to destructive ignorance and racism. She is passionate about fighting for the preservation and restoration of Earth's healthy natural systems, and for a future that is safe, magical and sacred for all.