For a child adjusting to a big move or feeling like an outsider, this diary offers a poignant look at finding belonging in an unfamiliar, challenging landscape.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is grappling with the loneliness and uncertainty of a major move, especially to a place that feels completely alien. Based on the real history of the Snowy Mountains Scheme, this diary-format novel tells the story of Eva, a twelve-year-old German girl whose family moves to a remote Australian work camp in 1958. Through her journal entries, we experience her profound isolation, the challenge of a new language, and the slow, rewarding process of building friendships with other immigrant children. It’s a powerful story of resilience, finding your place, and discovering that community can be built anywhere. This historical fiction is ideal for readers who feel like outsiders and need a story that validates their feelings while offering hope.
The harsh alpine environment and the dangers of the construction project are mentioned.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly with xenophobia and prejudice. Eva is called a "kraut" by another child, reflecting post-WWII tensions. The approach is direct but handled from a child’s perspective, focusing on the emotional hurt. The resolution is hopeful, as friendships form across cultural lines, suggesting understanding can overcome prejudice. Peril is present in the descriptions of the dangerous construction work and the extreme weather, but it remains in the background.
Ideal Reader
This book is perfect for a thoughtful 9-12 year old experiencing a major life change, such as a move to a new town or country. It resonates with children who feel like outsiders or are struggling to make friends. It would also appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction, diary formats, and stories about personal growth and perseverance.
Parent Prep
A brief discussion about post-World War II immigration to Australia and the Snowy Mountains Scheme would provide valuable context. Parents should be aware that a derogatory term ("kraut") is used once. Previewing this scene (around the middle of the book) can prepare a parent to discuss prejudice and why words can be so hurtful. No other significant prep is needed. The parent has a child who is withdrawing after a move or starting a new school. The child might say things like, "I hate it here," "I have no friends," or "I want to go back home." The parent is looking for a book to show their child they are not alone in these feelings.
Age Experience
A younger reader (9-10) will connect most with Eva's loneliness and the universal story of making new friends in a difficult situation. They will focus on the day-to-day challenges and triumphs. An older reader (11-13) will have a greater appreciation for the historical context, the multicultural dynamics of the camp, and the specific challenges of being a German immigrant in the 1950s.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many immigration stories set in large cities, this book's unique setting in a remote, rugged, and temporary work camp is a key differentiator. The focus on a diverse community of European immigrants all starting new together, rather than a single family assimilating into an established culture, provides a unique perspective on finding belonging. The diary format offers an intimate, authentic-feeling voice.
Read plot summary
Twelve-year-old Eva Fischer and her family emigrate from Germany to a remote construction camp in Cabramurra, Australia, in 1958 for the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme. The novel is her diary, detailing her initial profound loneliness due to language barriers and cultural differences. She documents the harsh, snowy environment, the makeshift living conditions, and her experiences at a school with children from all over Europe. Over the course of a year, Eva slowly forges powerful friendships, learns to navigate her new world, and develops a deep resilience, finding a new sense of home and belonging.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Eva and her new friends come from many different countries and speak different languages. How do they manage to communicate and build friendships before they can all speak English well?
2
When a boy calls Eva a derogatory name related to her German heritage, it deeply upsets her. Why do you think he chose to say something so hurtful? How did that event affect Eva's sense of belonging?
3
The environment in Cabramurra is very harsh, with extreme cold and snow. In what ways did living in such a challenging place help bring the different families together?
4
Eva’s feelings about Australia change significantly from the beginning of her diary to the end. What specific event or moment do you think was the biggest turning point for her in starting to feel at home?
New Gold Mountain: The Diary of Shu Cheong, Lambing Flat, NSW, 1860-1861
