Gabrielle Wang, The Silken Thread, Penguin, July 2025, 288 pp., RRP $17.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781761350740
It’s the time of the Great Depression. Moonie lives in Melbourne and dreams of being a clothes designer to film stars. Little Dipper lives on Chongming Island in China and he dreams of learning English, but his family are poor and his journey to school is beset by troublesome ghosts blocking his path.
When Moonie’s beloved Ma Mi goes away, Little Dipper appears with a cocoon and silk thread that magically connects the two children. They bond instantly and with each visit their friendship grows. Moonie has a plan to make her Ma Mi a special dress, which she hopes will be enough to bring her home. But when her De Di hires the mean Miss Yip to take care of them, Moonie fears her hopes for Ma Mi are lost.
Together, Moonie and Little Dipper help each other overcome their troubles and move closer to achieving their dreams. Inspired by her parents’ love story, Gabrielle has written and illustrated a charming novel blending Chinese and western culture, that seamlessly weaves these children’s lives together. Teachers notes are available at the publisher’s website.
Highly recommended for readers who love historical fiction, and stories of warmth, friendship and a touch of magic.
Reviewed by Deborah Abela
