Sandy Bigna, Little Bones, University of Queensland Press, March 2025, 256 pp., RRP $16.99 (pbk), ISBN 9780702268878
In Sandy Bigna’s Little Bones, eleven-year-old ‘Bones’ must navigate friendship and loss following the death of her brother and absence of her mum. However, her newfound fascination for animal bones is something special she can focus on, no matter what anyone has to say about it. One day, Bones finds the skeleton of a baby bird, and with the power of moon magic, somehow immortalises it in the form of a living skeleton. When she vows to set things back as they once were, Bones embarks on a journey that sees her face the trauma of her past, overcome her fears, and explore what it means to have a friend again.
Sandy Bigna’s debut novel is extraordinarily beautifully written. While an entire book written in verse is certainly an acquired taste, it suits Little Bones perfectly, encapsulating the racing thoughts and painful emotions of an eleven-year-old navigating loss. Each small poem allows for a change in tone, style, and setting, allowing the story to progress without any boring moments, and follow characters and storylines that come together beautifully in the end. The plot inspires adventure, creativity, and especially empathy in young readers, as the relatable young protagonist embarks on a journey of self-discovery. The illustrations are intricate and add complexity to the novel, allowing the reader to visualise the small treasures Bones finds on her adventure.
Little Bones is perfect or adventurous readers aged 9+ and is a wonderful introduction to poetry and language that is not typical to average novels. It explores a theme of healing through the metaphor of broken bones, slowly coming back into place, bringing to light both the emotional and physical fragility of people dealing with loss. Teaching notes are available at the publisher’s website.
Reviewed by Lily Pearson
Read Suzanne Ingelbrecht’s review here.
