Emily Rodda, Something Special, 40th anniversary edition, HarperCollins Children’s Books, July 2024, 80 pp., RRP $17.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781460766415
Magic, memories and second-hand clothes bring the past and present together. Sam’s mother has spent two days off work, to prepare the pre-loved items for sale. Sam helps her. Dad does too. The second-hand clothes are to be sold at the school fete to raise money for the school.
A gentle story, where past teachers, family, friends and mean people too, arrive in the present and enrich the stories of the clothes. Each ‘Special’ piece of clothing holds memories that make the past alive today.
Sweet story with a touch of magic, filled with nostalgia. Lovely realistic illustrations.
Reviewed by Susanne Gervay
