The Sequin Star by Belinda Murrell

Over the last few years I have enjoyed discovering Australian writers and one who has captured my attention is Belinda Murrell. She has written a number of brilliant junior fiction novels mainly for girls where she combines historical events in ways that capture the imagination and make learning Australian history fun. Not growing up in Australia or learning Australian history at school I have discovered so much from her books. Murrell has also written a children’s fantasy series that I’m enjoying at the moment.

The Sequin Star

by Belinda Murrell

The Sequin Star is a fun timeslip novel about a modern day teenager experiencing life in the 1930s. The Depression years in Australia were anything but amusing and yet there were those who tried to alleviate the struggle at least for a short time.

In the present day Claire is struggling with her life; her parents are strict and she isn’t sure that she wants to continue with her ballet lessons. Maybe it would be more exciting to hang out with her friends. Claire finds a mysterious star brooch amongst her wealthy grandmother’s possessions and wonders why she keeps such a tattered, obviously fake and cheap piece when most of the jewels she owns are exquisite gemstones.

The brooch transports Claire to 1932 where she meets a troop of circus performers. The mysterious Princess Rosina of Romani and cheerful Jem take her under their wing and introduce her to a menagerie of circus animals. They also meet sophisticated Kit, son of a wealthy businessman.  

Claire witnesses the opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. She celebrates famous Australian racehorse Phar Lap winning the world’s richest horse race. And sees first had the difficulties of life during the depression when tens of thousands lost their jobs. Families were evicted from their homes and forced to live in shantytowns.

Claire’s life in the 1930s is complicated enough with the uncertainty of whether she will ever get home but the mystery deepens as she begins to wonder if she has a far greater connection to Princess Rosina and Kit than just friendship. The chance to perform in the ring under the big top, a kidnapping and a circus fire all add to the exciting adventures Claire has with her friends.

The book is so entertaining and packed with interesting historical facts that bring the past to life. The book is perfect for kids aged 9-13.

Have fun reading!