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Freedom Ride

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( 426 ratings, 76 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
Freedom Ride by Sue Lawson is a compelling young adult novel set against the backdrop of 1960s Australia. It follows the story of a teenage boy who navigates the complexities of social and racial injustices during a time of significant civil rights movements. Through his journey, readers witness his growing awareness and involvement in the fight for equality and human rights.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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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?

You might enjoy this book if you are interested in stories about social justice and historical events. Set in the turbulent 1960s, it captures the journey of a young Australian as they witness and become part of the fight for indigenous rights. This compelling narrative combines personal growth with impactful themes, making it ideal for those who appreciate meaningful coming-of-age stories.

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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

The uncomfortable truth of racism embedded within 1960s Australian society, set against the backdrop of the Freedom Ride.

Australia 1965. Racial tensions around the country are flaring, and the town of Walgaree is no exception. Robbie just wants to keep his head down, concentrate on his summer mowing job, and avoid the wrath of his intolerant family. After all, there’s nothing he can do about how the Aborigines are treated. He’s only one person.

But when a group of university students arrive in Walgaree with the Freedom Ride, Robbie realises it’s time to make a stand. Will he blow up everything he holds dear to change things for the better?

Freedom Ride is a thought-provoking reminder of the past, especially powerful when the Uluru Statement from the Heart calls for a future in which all Australians walk together.

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?

Freedom Ride by Sue Lawson is praised for its handling of Indigenous issues with pathos, honesty, and humour. Reviewers commend its honest depiction of racial tensions in 1965 Australia, highlighting the stark realities faced by Aborigines alongside the courage of those fighting for change. The novel is described as brilliant and evocative, capturing a pivotal moment in history, with its powerful narrative underscoring the violence and prejudice faced by Indigenous people and emphasising resilience and bravery.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781760658298

Publisher: Walker Books Australia

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 02 August 2023

Country: Australia

Imprint: Walker Books Australia

Audience: Teenage

DIMENSIONS

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 248g

Pages: 368

About the Author

Sue Lawson writes books for children and young adults. Her love for books began when she was a child on a farm in country Victoria where she spent her time reading, writing, listening to her father and grandfather’s stories and avoiding working with the cattle. These days, she's added stationery shops to her football obsession and when not writing, teaches and runs workshops for young people and adults. In 2012, Pan’s Whisper was short-listed for the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards, was a Notable Book at the Children’s Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Awards and won the Australian Family Therapists’ Award for Children’s Literature. You Don’t Even Know was short-listed for the Western Australian Premier’s Book Awards in 2014.

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