Bushfire Book

I was entered in the twenty-thrid annual Australian Family Therapists’ Award for Children’s Literature. This award is highly regarded in thye field. Bushfire was put on the recommended reading list for therapists to use with their clients: “Bushfire … [is] for therapists who may work with clients in the aftermath of a natural disaster which impacts on a whole community.

It was placed in the top five books for “Older Readers” (meaning children from about 10 years of age and up). I am delighted.

There are some truly amazing people around.  I’ve been having a bit to do with a wonderful group of artists  who live in the bushfire affected areas.  Almost as soon as the fires were finished they devoted huge amounts of time and energy to supporting children who were impacted by the fires.  Using their talents as artists they’ve created mosaics, danced, played music, messed around with clay and paint and done all sorts of other wonderful things with the children. 

Phoenix arising from the ashes is an old and well worn image that  has, for me, been renewed beautifully by the lovely creations of the children and the artists.  They represent hope and life in the midst of devastation.  I love knowing you all and you inspire me.

I’ve just received two great new reviews from a wonderful newzine called Good Gabble (www.goodgabble.blogspot.com).  There are lots of interesting things to read and a wonderful journey around Australia to share.  Jennifer Deaves and her daughter Samantha Lo wrote them.  I have abbreviated them and you can see the full reviews on the Good Gabble blog.

Jennifer wrote:

Bushfire by Elizabeth Mellor, a reflection of loss, a celebration of life and a book that heals. Having first-hand experience of the terror of a bushfire in 2002, Elizabeth writes with truth and detail that takes the reader within the life of Ruby, her family and their hardship and joys…  (To read more, click on the link)  Read the rest of this entry »

Sunday tea at Grandma’s was usually a light meal of things only eaten at that meal. It followed the traditional big Sunday roast lunch so no one was especially hungry – or at least the adults weren’t. Puftaloons were one of those special dishes. Mrs. Tottle taught Ruby how to cook them in Bushfire and they were a great treat to those lucky enough to get one. (To read more, click on the link.) Read the rest of this entry »

For Younger Readers, Parents, Teachers and Other Adults 

Bushfire by Elizabeth Mellor (The Awakening Network Inc) Reviewed by Wendy Blaxland

How would we react as a firestorm races towards us? How would we cope with the aftermath, picking up our life again?

And even more so, how do vulnerable kids cope? How might we help them?

That’s where bushfire, Elizabeth Mellor’s new novel for upper primary and early secondary aged children, comes in. Her book handles this sensitive but vital topic for all Australians from a unique double point of view. The author herself experienced first-hand the terror of facing a firestorm in rural Victoria and then the long complex process of recovery. She also has thirty years’ experience as a counsellor and social worker, helping trauma survivors and working in parent education, as well as a number of books to her name. (Read more of this excellent review.) Read the rest of this entry »

It took some time and now it’s up and ready to go.  I’m talking about the Teacher’s Resource Guide.  It looks really  good and has heaps of suggestions for busy teachers who want to use Bushfire in the classroom. 

Read the rest of this entry »

Well, I thought I was about to have another kind of fire experience on my way to Bendigo.  I had to pull over to the side of the highway as a very loud noise began under the bonnet and the car was enveloped in black smoke. Read the rest of this entry »

I’m looking forward to talking to Geoff on Phoenix Radio in Bendigo tomorrow morning – that’s Wednesday 24/3/10. It’s 89.5fm or possibly 106.7fm if you’re in the area and want to tune in.  I’ll be on from just after 9am till sometime after 10.00am.  I had a great time talking to Hilary Harper on the ABC a couple of weeks ago.  I enjoy the conversations about Bushfire.

At eleven I was taken on a scenic tour through a bushfire by my father’s cousin.  He was in the country fire brigade and thought it would be educational.  It was!  My memories of the vivid fire colours, the smell of smoke and the unexpected explosions of trees bursting into flame or crashing to the ground in a shower of fire are still vivid.  I’m glad I was with someone who knew what he was doing.

Bushfire comes out in 7 days!!! I’ve seen a preview copy and it looks fabulous. I’m especially excited about Meg English’s wonderful cover. And, I’m so glad I have a beautiful little drawing of Lilly (my Aussie Shepherd) at the top of each chapter.