Kate Gordon, Whalesong, Yellow Brick Books, September 2022, 192 pp., RRP $16.95 (pbk), ISBN 9780645218022
After repeated rejection from her current modern lifestyle, Aberdeen embarks on an unexpected journey to find herself and fulfil her true purpose through her passion of saving the whales surrounding the coast of Tasmania. With the help of a mysterious girl, Aberdeen is faced with the impossible goal of saving all the whales from the wrath of past human poachers. Can Aberdeen alter the future of the whales for the better?
Aberdeen’s strong and independent character provides a true inspiration to all budding environmentalists as her unique aspirations and personality reflects the less common ambitions of our generation to change the world for the better. Throughout the story, Aberdeen discovers that it is important to stay true to herself regardless of what others think, a lesson I believe is very important to the youth today.
Kate Gordon is cleverly able to weave parts of Hobart’s unique history throughout the novel, including the main antagonist Captain James Kelly. It was intriguing to see a different side of his character through Aberdeen’s perspective, and the truth of what he provided to current day Hobart. I suggest that this novel would be suitable for ages 12 and up, as there are mild themes of kidnapping and violence.
Reviewed by Emily Woolnough
