Evie and Rhino by Neridah McMullin illustrated by Astred Hicks

Things that appealed to me about this book:

• The cover
• The back story of the real shipwreck off the coast of south-west Victoria in 1891 which contained exotic animals including a real rhinoceros
• The apple pie recipe at the back of the book
• The small sections of text where we read the thoughts/perspective of Rhino himself
• The themes of justice for animals and healing for humans
• The beautiful "voice" of young Evie
• The wonderful happy ending

Publisher blurb: A moving tale about love, connection and the healing power of friendship. 1891 On a stormy night off the coast of southern Australia, a ship transporting a cargo of exotic animals tosses and turns in enormous seas. Rhino senses they are in grave danger. Not far away, ten-year-old Evie and her grandfather shelter in their crumbling, once-grand old home. They know too well how deadly storms can be. When all is calm, Evie treks over the dunes to the sea and makes a discovery that will change her life, and Rhino’s, forever. Will the tragedies of their pasts finally be put to rest?

This book was published in October 2022. Huge thanks to Beachside Bookshop for my advance copy.

Narrated in the present tense, this charming story of friendship and conservation will be enjoyed by those who like adventure, animals, and justice. McMullin’s descriptive language and captivating story-telling leave the reader wanting more after each chapter. In addition, she incorporates the rhino’s perspective, narrated alongside the child’s perspective, which allows the reader to fully understand the bond between Evie and Rhino. Reading Time

I would pair this book with this picture book:

Recently on a social media forum someone asked for books to read after Storm Boy. Here is their request: Hi everyone! I just read Storm Boy to my 7-year-old son and he loved it, and wants to read more real-life stories about special friendships with animals. 

I did disagree with a few of the suggestions especially Pax by Sara Pennypacker which in my view is aimed at a much older reader and I would like to say save this for later.  I would suggest Evie and Rhino might be a book this parent could read with their child. Other books suggested on the forum were: 

Wandi by Favel Parrett (this could be perfect)

Blueback by Tim Winton

One dog and his boy by Eva Ibbotson (not a true story)

The last bear by Hannah Gold

The dog with seven names by Dianne Wolfer

Speedy by Colin Thiele

The one and only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

I previously talked about two picture books by Neridah McMullin

Fabish - the horse that braved a bushfire

Drover