ANZAC Day Book Reviews

Evan Warrender was a pacifist, and so was his father. So you might have been wondering, and for good reason, what business they might have had in the Allied trenches of the Dardanelles. Well, Evan’s father had a mission – to make the Australian soldier’s lives just a little better, using things like lice powder and curry powder. At least, until they were captured by the Turks! With the help of a water-carrier named Abdul, they narrowly escaped being shot and began their journey back home.

On foot, by carriage and by boat, through gypsy camp and medical tent, they gradually progressed into Allied territory. Along the way, they faced hardship, with Evan’s father losing his mind and Evan becoming involved in a spy ring. Their safety was not even ensured in Greece, as Evan was worried he and his father would be suspected of treason (though that couldn’t be more untrue). Luckily, they were cleared to return to Australia and they soon sailed homeward. It’s only there that Evan was able to reveal his true identity, which is sure to be a shock for the reader.

Evan’s Gallipoli is a moving story about the Gallipoli landings and the cruelty of war. Seen through the eyes of a 14-year-old, it reflects what war was portrayed as, as opposed to the reality of trench warfare. It is an inspiring account of survival, endurance, resilience and homecoming, as Evan’s party journey through Turkey, Bulgaria, Greece and finally Australia. I think that it reflects the Australian spirit of the time, of honour, never giving up and always doing your part.

As we prepare to celebrate ANZAC Day, we all buy flowers and make ANZAC cookies to remember those who lost their lives. But it always helps to see the reality of what they were fighting for and doing – and that’s where this book will be your inseparable companion. The history of the Gallipoli landings, what those soldiers faced, who they were opposing, is not always explained in detail at ANZAC Day services. Get the backstory with Evan’s Gallipoli.

Lest we forget those soldiers who fought for us. Lest we forget their sacrifice and hardship. Lest we forget what they fought for.

Lest we forget.

A completely immersive read, Fromelles brings to light one of the most untold, yet devastating battles for Australians: The Battle of Fromelles on the Western Front, in World War I.

Not quite like anything I have seen before, Fromelles alternates between fictitious narratives and informative sections - masterfully blended to create a realistic recount of the atrocities of war. Actual photographs taken during the Battle of Fromelles adds authenticity, as does the inclusion of graphics such as recruitment posters.

Written in first person, Private Walter McAlister’s recounts immediately transports the reader to his battleground. We hear the shells and gunfire he hears, we see the bloody sights he sees, and we experience, to some extent, the futile losses Private McAlister experiences. I found Private McAlister’s narratives especially relatable, as he was brave despite having fears.

Fromelles strikes a chord with young readers as it allows us to gain insights into the unforgiving realities of war. The informative sections are full of facts, which are both intriguing and instrumental in understanding the role our soldiers have held in Australian history.

This book is not for the faint-hearted – it’s raw and it’s real. I would personally rate this book a 9.5 out of 10.