Lizzie nonsense

When Papa takes the sandalwood he has cut into town, it is fifty miles along sand tracks by horse and cart, and he will be away a long time.

Then Lizzie and Mama and baby are all alone in the little house in the bush.

Lizzie is always playing and pretending. She is always dreaming. "Lizzie nonsense!" her mama calls it. Lizzie Nonsense brings to life, through the story of one family, the experience of pioneering women and children left alone in the Australian bush while their husbands and fathers were away working.

Seen through the eyes of Lizzie, a playful and imaginative little girl, the joy and exuberance of childhood shines through, despite the hard work and isolation.

But Lizzie Nonsense is, first and foremost, a story about a mother and daughter, told with warmth, tenderness and humour.

Jan Ormerod's stunning, evocative illustrations make this a rich and resonating book.