The Night they Stormed Eureka

The Night They Stormed Eureka is a captivating novel that transports readers to the heart of the 1854 Ballarat goldfields rebellion, blending historical events with an unforgettable tale of dreams, gold, and unlikely friendships across time. The story follows Sam, a homeless teenager who mysteriously finds herself pulled back in time to the goldfields, where she joins the Puddlehams - a warm, hardworking family who run the best cook shop on the diggings. As the Puddlehams dream of owning a hotel with velvet seats, Sam becomes embroiled in the mounting rebellion against the British crown and corrupt officials. While the miners' protests are dismissed, Sam soon witnesses firsthand the powerful unity that fuels the Eureka Rebellion, a defining moment in Australia's history. This engaging narrative offers a unique perspective on the fight for justice and freedom, while underscoring the importance of community, solidarity, and friendship. Through Sam's journey, readers are given an accessible and thought-provoking entry point into the pivotal events of the Eureka Rebellion.

Educational Benefits:

• Introduces students to an important chapter of Australian history, the Eureka Rebellion, and its significance.
• Explores themes of social justice, resistance, and the fight for freedom, promoting discussions on collective action.
• Encourages empathy through Sam's personal journey and her connection with the Puddlehams.
• Promotes critical thinking about how historical movements shape modern struggles for equality and rights.

Classroom Ideas:

• History Lessons: Study the causes and effects of the Eureka Rebellion and its impact on the development of Australian society.
• Creative Writing: Have students write a letter from Sam to the Puddlehams, detailing what she has learned from the rebellion and how it changed her.
• Debate: Host a debate on the right to protest, examining historical and modern-day examples of protests that led to change.
• Role-play: Organise a role-playing activity where students reenact key moments from the Eureka Stockade to better understand its significance.
• Art: Encourage students to create a visual timeline of events leading up to and during the Eureka Rebellion, helping to visualise the unfolding history.

Information:

• Ages: 10+
• Book Size: 198 (H) x 128 (W) mm
• Pages: 304
• Format: Paperback