Set a year after the devastating bushfires of 2020–21, the small community of Wangaroo Bay is still reeling. As the first anniversary approaches, the police have reopened Operation Bayfire to investigate the arson incident which started the local fire. Immie lost her Dad, a volunteer RFS firefighter, and Fletch’s family lost their house in the blaze but the two close friends are coping as best they can.
What begins as a middle-grade novel examining the aftermath of such a catastrophic event becomes a gripping mystery novel. Someone has called Crimestoppers and given an anonymous tip-off that Fletch’s older brother is the arsonist. While some members of the community turn on Cooper and his family, others are convinced that he is innocent and being framed. Immie and Fletch set out to find the truth.
The setting, atmosphere and characters are realistically portrayed. Many small communities are still suffering, even after five years. While the flipping back and forth from the present to earlier incidents tends to get a bit annoying, the plot is well written and engaging. In the process, Immie and Fletch discover they are stronger and more resilient than they thought.
Reviewed by Lynne Babbage
Age Guide 10+
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sue Whiting is an award-winning children’s and YA author and editor and former teacher, who has worked in publishing for 20+ years. Sue was senior commissioning editor and publishing manager for Walker Books Australia for many years before leaving in 2016 to concentrate on her writing.
Sue has written numerous books for a variety of age groups, from picture books through to YA, including the bestselling Missing, the acclaimed The Book of Chance and a number of CBCA Notable Books. Sue’s latest books are Tilda, a historical novel for readers 10+ and Pearly and Pig and the Lost City of Mu Savan, the second book in her new junior fiction series. As a storyteller and schools’ performer, Sue has informed, inspired and entertained thousands of kids across the country.
Sue is passionate about the power of story and is an advocate for reading and writing for pleasure.
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