The locket of dreams by Belinda Murrell
Random House, 2009. ISBN 9781741662917.
Recommended especially for upper primary girls. Based on her own
grandmother's story, Belinda Murrell has captured the atmosphere of
Scotland in 1858. Modern day Sophie, whilst staying with her
grandmother Nonnie and wearing Scottish Charlotte's golden locket, time
slips to Charlotte and Nell's Scottish home. Later, when the
girls' fortunes are undone by a scheming uncle and aunt they sail to
Australia to live a completely different life with one of their
Mother's cousins, Annie McLaughlin and her caring family. Here
they find love, acceptance and fascinating experiences. Their
Australian journey includes encounters with bushrangers and fighting a
fire. The story of the box Nonnie showed Sophie begins the
enchanting tale. Sophie slips whilst wearing the locket into
Charlotte and Eleanor's lives but this also helps Sophie cope with her
own family issues. The story fits the historical fiction genre
well, but the time slips are not always as smooth as they could
be. Nonetheless, it's a delightful read. I note that Tom's
Midnight Garden by Philippa Pearce is once again on the shelves
as is Kirsty Murray's Market Blues both of which are well worth
reading.
Sue Nosworthy