Swimming on the Lawn

Farida lives with her family in Khartoum, Sudan. For Farida the 1960s are a time of fun and adventure, from riding the train to a remote village by the remains of Nubian pyramids to seeing the twirling dancers of the Mawlid festival. But as columns of black smoke rise on the horizon, can Farida’s happiness last?

PRAISE FOR THE BOOK

‘The oppressive heat the unusual flora and fauna the scrumptious breakfasts and the experience of birth and death are all brought to life against a wonderful backdrop of Sudanese culture and customs … young readers won’t fail to recognise the celebration and importance of family life. Highly recommended for ages 9+.’ Readings Monthly

‘Most Australian children will find the setting and lifestyle described in sensory detail very different from their lives today … the novel’s structure is discovered to be subtle and clever and its ending is unexpected …’ Magpies

‘Set in Sudan in the 1960s you are gently drawn into the childhood of Farida and her siblings … all the small details of the everyday immerses the reader in Farida’s world … readers will enjoy comparing and contrasting their childhood experiences and learning about Sudanese culture.’ Kids’ Reading Guide

‘This beautifully written novel paints a delightful picture of a girl growing up like its author in 1960s Khartoum … [4.5 out of 5 stars]’ Adelaide Advertiser

‘The author describes the culture foods and celebrations [of 1960s Khartoum] very well.’ In The Good Books Blog

‘The languid atmosphere of Sudan permeates the story with Hamid recalling her homeland effortlessly reporting the small details of family life religion and culture. Food and its preparation clothes school births and deaths and sleeping on the verandah when it is too hot inside [all] form a heart warming background to this story of family life.’ ReadPlus