BOOK BRIEF

Nanberry: Black Brother White

Jackie French
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Nanberry: Black Brother White

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2011

Book Brief

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Jackie French

Nanberry: Black Brother White

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2011
Book Details
Pages

309

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sydney, Australia • 1810s

Publication Year

2011

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

Nanberry: Black Brother White by Jackie French explores the life of Nanberry, an Aboriginal boy in early colonial Australia. He navigates cultural changes after being taken in by Surgeon White. The story highlights his journey between two worlds, illustrating themes of identity, adaptation, and resilience during a time of significant historical transformation.

Informative

Emotional

Heartwarming

Challenging

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.2

2,152 ratings

74%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Nanberry: Black Brother White by Jackie French is celebrated for its vivid historical detail and engaging narrative, bringing early Australian history to life through the eyes of indigenous and colonial characters. Critics praise its educational value and emotional depth. However, some reviews note that the portrayal of complex historical themes could be simplified.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Nanberry: Black Brother White?

A reader who enjoys Nanberry: Black Brother White by Jackie French likely appreciates historical fiction with multicultural themes. Fans of The Secret River by Kate Grenville and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak may find it engaging for its exploration of identity, colonial Australia, and personal transformation.

4.2

2,152 ratings

74%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Nanberry: Black Brother White was inspired by the real historical figure Nanbarry, an Aboriginal boy who became part of colonial Australian history after being adopted by Surgeon John White.

Jackie French is known for extensive historical research, and in writing Nanberry: Black Brother White, she aimed to provide a balanced perspective that includes both Aboriginal and colonial viewpoints of early Sydney.

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The book highlights the theme of dual identity, showcasing the unique challenges faced by Nanberry as he navigates between his Indigenous heritage and his life in a European household.

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Book Details
Pages

309

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sydney, Australia • 1810s

Publication Year

2011

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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