Washpool is the second novel by Lisa Fuller, a Wulli Wulli woman and award-winning writer. Unlike the darker mysteries of her previous YA novel, Ghost Bird, Washpool is a surreal fantasy fit for any middle-grade reader.
Sisters have their own ways of handling things. Cienna, the older and more confident sister, just wants the best for her younger sister, Bella, who prefers to be left alone with her head in her sketchbook. After a tough week at school, the two sisters, along with their family, head to their favourite watering hole to wash it all away. Having been told stories about the history of Washpool by their Gran, the girls sense the magic within it. But when they swim to the bottom of the waterhole, they never expect to resurface in the fantastical world of Muse, with its neon pink sun and lilac coloured grass.
In their quest to get back to the waking world, Bella and Cienna need to work together as they face challenges, gain fresh perspectives and learn life lessons. Fuller weaves nuanced moments throughout the book, emphasising the recurring themes of family and culture. Sensitive readers will be reminded of the importance of Cienna and Bella’s sacred connection to Country as they make their discoveries working with magical creatures.
This heartfelt story cleverly blends the magical with important environmental and social issues in a way that appeals to young readers. With just the right amount of world-building, magic and suspense, Fuller has designed a fantasy novel rich in detail that doesn’t overwhelm middle-grade readers. I loved the sincerity of Washpool and highly recommend it for readers eight years and up.
Washpool is the second novel by Lisa Fuller, a Wulli Wulli woman and award-winning writer. Unlike the darker mysteries of her previous YA novel, Ghost Bird, Washpool is a surreal fantasy fit for any middle-grade reader.
