I hope it’s pretty there
Alex Kopp, illustrated by Kevin Vindeg

Age range 9 to 12

In February 1829, a ship called Parmelia left England headed for the west coast of Australia. It was packed with men, women and children set on building a new life for themselves by the mouth of the Swan River.

Among them was young Joseph Daly, his mum, dad and four siblings. Filled with hope, uncertainty — and cases full of pots, pans and other household goods — the passengers were to become the first settlers to the new colony. But the promise of a new idyllic life is shattered when tragedy strikes during the voyage.

Meticulously researched and beautifully illustrated, I hope it’s pretty there recounts the drama of the historic journey through Joseph’s eyes and serves as a bittersweet tale of hope, courage, loss and resilience.