Christian Focus

These are two delightful Australian books (The Back Leg of a Goat and Water or Goo) following the efforts of 10 year old Tania Abbey as she seeks to make a difference in the world. Tania Abbey finds in her suburban life that she can bring about changes in lives of children in very different circumstances.
While Tania struggles to come to terms with the loss of a best friend who has moved she reluctantly allows a new friend into her life who has just returned from living in India. Through the stories from India, Tania learns about a girl called Shanti who lives very differently from kids in Australia.
In The Back Leg of a Goat Tania has been inspired by the "Gift Catalouge" and has been trying to save enough money to buy a goat but, as the title suggests, she only has enough money to buy it's back leg. So a great adventure begins as she and the other neighbourhood kids get together and set about the raise the rest of the money.
Water or Goo develops Tania's story further as she is encouraged by her teacher to participate in the annual Water for the World march. Tania's parents, afraid that she is just interested in participating to impress the teacher, challenge Tania to think about what the march is really about. Again Tania and her friends come up with some creative ideas to raise awareness about the importance of clean drinking water.
Through both these adventures Tania is reminded of things that Jesus said about serving him. In her author's note Penny Reeve says, "When I was nine or ten I remember being frustrated that although my parents could serve God, I couldn't because I was just a kid. But I learnt this isn't true." Penny skilfully raises issues of service in the world that is intrinsically part of a child's faith in a way that is accessible for children.
These two junior novels are suitable for girls and boys between 7-10 years old and would make a lovely present. They would also be a good addition to Church and Christian School libraries.

Miriam Bevis

This is an interesting, fun Australian story for juniors. Tania is challenged to be in the Water for the World march. She enlists her friends and their families in the project. Strategies appear to be going well until she realizes that the plan will not work without Jesus. The book is delightfully presented with many black and white illustrations, large print and bright cover. The story is short; I would have liked more episodes to have been developed in this particular ‘adventure'. It is an excellent resource to involve discussion and action on social issues with 8-10 year olds in a Christian group or family.

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