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Saltwater Boy

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( 175 ratings, 32 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Saltwater Boy by Bradley Christmas is a charming children's book that follows the adventures of a young protagonist discovering the enchanting world of the ocean. As he explores the vibrant marine life and seaside mysteries, he learns about friendship, courage, and the wonders of nature. This heartwarming tale is perfect for sparking a child's imagination and love for the sea.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$2499
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy heartwarming children's stories filled with adventure and a touch of magic. It's an enchanting tale that weaves together themes of friendship, exploration, and the wonders of the natural world. Perfect for young readers who love a mix of excitement and heartfelt moments.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

When Matthew’s dad gets in trouble, he makes trouble for everyone else too. But with Dad in jail, Matthew and his mum have a chance to put their pieces back together.

Mum makes plans for a summer down the coast, fixing up Grandpa’s old place in an effort to make ends meet. The beach, the swirling rockpools and the vast ocean offer new perspective and promise to Matthew as he strikes up a friendship with Bill, an old local who recognises a fellow Saltwater Boy – and shows him how to find pippis and catch fish, and even make a few pounds from it. Bill becomes the paternal figure that Dad isn’t – wise and patient – but Bill isn’t welcomed in town, and Matthew begins to witness old rivalries and buried truths resurface.

Then Dad gets out on parole and his recklessness puts everything, and everyone, at risk.

Heartfelt and poignant, this captivating coming-of-age story navigates the difficult terrain of fractured families, the lies that break, and the ties that bind.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Saltwater Boy by Bradley Christmas has garnered praise for its engaging storytelling and authentic portrayal of characters. Reviewers have highlighted the novel's nuanced exploration of themes such as family dynamics, identity, and environmental consciousness, told through the perspective of the protagonist, Matthew. The book is noted for its sensitive handling of complex issues, including domestic violence and Indigenous rights, without overwhelming the reader, making it suitable and inspiring for young audiences.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781760656393

Publisher: Walker Books Australia

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 08 March 2023

Country: Australia

Imprint: Walker Books Australia

Audience: Children

DIMENSIONS

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 199.0mm

Weight: 301g

Pages: 400

About the Author

Bradley Christmas is a full-time writer – and moonlighting musician – who splits his time between Sydney and his beloved beach shack on the NSW South Coast. While building his writing career he worked as a social worker, English language teacher and children’s entertainer. These days as a freelance copywriter he helps charities like Greenpeace, The Royal Flying Doctor Service and The Sydney Children’s Hospital Network share their stories. His short fiction has appeared in a number of magazines and publications including The Big Issue and received several award nominations. He can also regularly be found performing around Australia with his country band Copperline. Saltwater Boy is his first YA novel.

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