Journey to Eureka

by Kerry Greenwood

It is 1854- Llew Jones swindles his way on board the Great britain as it sets sail for Australia, anxious to find his mother and uncle who have been sent there.

After several long months at sea, Llew finally reaches Autralian shores wuth new friends and the prospect of anew home at the goldfileds near Ballarat.

But his journey has only just begun. Old enemies are waiting and violent bloody battle called the Eureka Stockade threatens to destroy his new-found happiness forever.

Genres: Historical Fiction

248 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

About the author

Kerry Isabelle Greenwood was an Australian author and lawyer. She wrote many plays and books, most notably a string of historical detective novels centered on the character of Phryne Fisher, which was adapted as the popular television series "Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries." She wrote mysteries, science-fiction, historical fiction, children's stories, and plays. Greenwood earned the Australian women's crime fiction Davitt Award in 2002 for her young adult novel The Three-Pronged Dagger.

Reviews

[Jane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another of Greenwood's excellent junior historical fiction books. She brings each setting to life most vividly. However not as good as A Different Sort of Real - this one feels like the educational aspects overtake the story.

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Llewellyn Jones has had to learn how to look out for himself from a very young age. All but abandoned by his mother, he nevertheless follows her to Australia, sneaking onto a ship heading that way. While on the ship he makes himself useful to the crew and the passengers by utilizing his many skills. While en route, he meets the Rowland family who take him under their wing. Upon landing in Australia, they travel to the gold fields of Ballarat, where they end up being in the front row seats of the Eureka Stockade.

I got to read this book with a bunch of elementary kids, which was fun. Llew was a talented kid who had to deal with some tough circumstances. I loved his "on the feet" thinking as he did whatever he needed to in order to survive and thrive. It made me happy to see him becoming a part of the Rowlands family - loosely based on the author's ancestors - and finding a place with them. Additionally, knowing very little about Australian history, I liked learning more about a pivotal part Australia's history.

[Julie Kleehammer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this Kerry Greenwood novel too. Thinking back upon this book and another young adult fiction I just reviewed, also by Kerry Greenwood, I am reminded of Bryce Courtney. I really enjoy the telling history through fiction and the amazing characters that are created to inform.

[Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another view point of the eureka stockade. This book contained the journey to Australia but it was a bit simplistic. Everything turned out so well at the end that it was unbelievable. Best part was three viewpoints of eureka.

[Anna Davidson · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5* A great read. A different perspective of a child's journey to the Ballarat goldfields. Llew, the main character is courageous, loyal and wise beyond his years. Gives a good insight into the Eureka rebellion, from multiple perspectives.

[Janee]

Loved it! Missing the characters already. I wish it was a series ;-)