There have been many Australiana fads over the years. Way back in the 1980s, following the international (read North American) success of films like PThere have been many Australiana fads over the years. Way back in the 1980s, following the international (read North American) success of films like Paul Hogan's Crocodile Dundee and erm. . . Crocodile Dundee II, whole industries spawned to cash in on Aussie curiosity, mostly centred on the tourist dollar. In children's publishing, no book has traded on this momentum better than Possum Magic with its cute cast of bush critters dashing hither and thither on their tour gastronomique in an effort to re-make Hush visible. Pavlova in Perth. Anzac Biscuits in Adelaide. They stop at nothing. Though I have to say pumpkin scones in Brisbane is a good in-joke, as it's a reference to a former Queensland politician, 'Lady Flo,' who popularised these delicacies.
So, the plot moves along at a pace. Things work out and the book makes a great souvenir for the grandkids. It's never held much appeal for me, but don't let my lack of enthusiasm slow you down. You might be one of the millions who adore this and you never know, it could inspire an interest in unusual baked goods....more
My sister and I loved this book as youngsters and re-reading now I am happy to say it stands up well as a rollicking grand adventure with justice prevMy sister and I loved this book as youngsters and re-reading now I am happy to say it stands up well as a rollicking grand adventure with justice prevailing for the young Bonnie and Sylvia Green and the evil Miss Slighcarp getting her comeuppance en route to Botany Bay! Joan Aiken's vocabulary is so rich here. I learnt some new words and am in awe of the beautifully structured sentences....more