Ten-year-old Maddie is confused and extremely angry when her parents reveal they’re moving from their inner-city Melbourne home to a small regional town. Her sense of dislocation is profound as all that she’s ever experienced – home, school and friendships – will now be so far away. Essentially, she feels homeless. But it’s in the small town of Plenty that Maddie discovers family and a wonderful friend who not only truly understands her plight but gives new meaning to ‘home’.

I found myself completely involved in Maddie’s journey from homesickness and anger to understanding and acceptance, and finally to a sense of belonging. I loved this story’s honesty and tender heart, its perceptive portrayal of Maddie’s emotional upheaval and uncertainty, and its gentle resolution. Beautifully written and wonderfully insightful, this story will definitely strike a chord with confident, independent readers. It’s also a compelling and satisfying read-aloud book. Highly recommended.

Athina Clarke