Description
Set in New Zealand in 1967, ten-year-old Atama and his family have moved to a new army base just as his father is preparing to leave for service in Vietnam. Before departing, Dad entrusts Atama with his Koro’s precious WWII star medal, hoping it will give him the courage he needs. As Atama navigates a new home, new friendships and a challenging initiation into a local group, he discovers that courage is about much more than wearing a medal—especially when an adventure deep in the tunnels beneath the army base takes a dangerous turn. The story combines historical fiction, family relationships and adventure with a slight supernatural element.
Interest age: 9+
Reading age: 9+
Themes explored include: Courage, family, friendship, heritage, whakapapa, belonging, resilience, responsibility, bullying, acceptance, growing up, bravery, fear, loss, war, military life, father-son relationships, making friends, standing up for others
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