Belinda Murrell: Bringing Australian History To Life | Page 7
‘Dear Belinda,
Studying The Forgotten Pearl in Year 6
took our children on a journey of discovery
about Australia’s history, the importance of
family and the consequences of war. The more
they read, the more motivated they were to
questions and discover new and interesting
facts while enjoying the story unfold. The
children were constantly predicting what
might happen next for each character and they
were thrilled with the ending. The book was a
springboard for learning activities for both the
teachers and students, and motivated previously
reluctant readers to experience the joy of reading. Your school visit was definitely a
highlight. Having their questions answered and hearing the motivation behind the
writing of the book was a memorable event. Throughout your talk the children were
riveted and inspired. It was a truly amazing experience which the children and staff will
remember for all time.’ – Liz Montague, Kingsgrove Primary School
‘Dear Belinda,
We have just returned from
a six week camping trip,
driving up to Darwin and
back and on the way I read
The Forgotten Pearl, mainly
to my eight-year-old daughter
but my other older children
listened in too. I just wanted
to write and say how much
we enjoyed it – it gave a
wonderful background to
visiting Darwin and the
Northern Territory and
described the war years in a
way that we could all relate
to. I did struggle to read it
aloud sometimes however as I
would become too emotional!
I think being a mother of
four myself, I kept getting all
choked up when the family
was separated and then I
was a complete wreck when
they reunited for Christmas!
Congratulations and I look
forward to reading some of
your other books in the near
future.’
– Cilla, Chloe’s mum
‘Holy Zarquon Singing Fish!
I just cannot wait for The
Sequin Star to be released! It
sounds like an absolute gem
of a story and one I think I
will love. The cover is one of
the best yet, it’s GORGEOUS! I
also love the scenario for this
story, it tops the lot! Can’t
wait!’ – Ella
WRITE TO BELINDA!
Email Belinda at [email protected]
Post letters to Belinda via her publisher:
Belinda Murrell, c/o Random House Australia,
Level 3, 100 Pacific Highway, North Sydney, NSW 2060
randomhouse.com.au/teachers 7