It’s 1892. Amid a fevered gold rush, 14-year-old Clara Saunders is in search of adventure in the new outback town of Coolgardie.
A friendship with cheeky young water carter Jack is a promising start, but the goldfields are a harsh place, where water is scarce, disease is common and where many men will never find the fortune they’ve come to seek.
With unforeseen tragedies on the horizon, Clara’s time in the dusty town will truly test the limits of her fierceness and determination.
PRAISE FOR THE BOOK
‘Goldfields Girl is a fantastic read and a real and personal window into WA’s gold history.’ Subiaco Post
‘This book would be a great read for 9-14 year olds interested in historical fiction. What stood out for me was that Clara was only 14 when she left her family and went to Coolgardie all alone. In today’s world that would never happen. I think Clara Saunders was very brave and courageous.’ Céití, age 11, Alphabet Soup
‘… this tale will capture the reader’s attention and bring the 1890s to life for a new generation.’ Writing WA
‘This will be a popular read for lovers of historical fiction and an inspirational read of resilience and determination.’ Magpies
‘Goldfields Girl is an inspirational story for 9-14 year olds.’ Fremantle Shipping News
Elaine Forrestal
Elaine Forrestal is a full-time writer who lives and works in Scarborough, Western Australia. She grew up in the Wheatbelt but now travels all over the world, and has spoken at festivals and presented writing workshops in Australia, Singapore, France, Italy, and Ireland. Elaine has had novels, picture books, magazine articles and short stories published […]Explore more from our catalogue
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