The Sentinel

COMMUNITY & EVENTS PAGE 7 Book Recommendations Shelf Life Looking for your next page-turner? The Sentinel’s curated book recommendations make finding the perfect read a breeze – for adults and kids alike! The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Sharak – Reviewed By Anne Higgins A Turkish writer well worth trying and if you haven’t read any of her books then perhaps start with this one. It is set on Cyprus and is the story of a love between a Greek Cypriot and a Turkish Cypriot which is forbidden on this divided island. The story uses two timelines with dual stories. First set in London in 2010, the story of 16 year old Ada. The second timeline follows Ada’s parents on Cyprus in the 1970’s, much of it set in a Taverna in the courtyard of which grows a fig tree watching over characters as the story unfolds. Here lies a touch of magic realism, the presence of the fig tree makes the story a unique one. Themes of loss, grief, devastation and hope underpin the story following the cultural history of Cyprus and its consequences. It speaks to all friendships and relationships that suffer because a country is divided by conflict. “The Snow Wombat” by Susannah Chambers, illustrated by Mark Jackson – Reviewed By Anne Fisher “Bush Tracks” is a picture book written by Ros Moriarty, featuring vibrant illustrations by Balarinji, an Australian Indigenous design studio. It is a lyrical, fun story inviting readers to take a bush walk down to the sea, tracking the plants and animals along the way. The striking artwork and descriptive language draw children’s attention to the world around them. The illustrations, using colours of the natural environment and patterns of the tracks, link with text urging readers to move and take action - walk, dig, watch, wade. This is a call to venture outdoors, to be aware of what’s around us on the ground and in the sky. As readers watch out for snakes and crocodiles, guided by the moon and stars, they are encouraged to wonder about their place within the universe and the natural world. “Bush Tracks” is a challenging and satisfying adventure celebrating the sights and sounds of life in nature. Brought to you by “Books & More,” 232 Dowling St, Dungog. Explore our $5 book collection and support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Contact Anne Higgins at 0403 029 181. Here to support you, your family and carers Living with a life-limiting illness can be challenging. Our friendly volunteers are here to offer non-medical support and a helping hand. Our service is FREE to anyone living within the Dungog Shire with a life-limiting illness. We can help with: • Transport • Equipment • Linen and laundry • Respite for carers Email: admin@dungogcarers.com.au Call/text: 0457 846 806 A Caring Hand, When You Need It dungogcarers.com.au Clarence Town Op Shop & Treasure Centre Fill Your Bag for $15! Our winter bargains are still “fill-a-bag” for just $15 (clothes, shoes, hats). We’re changing over to Spring/Summer fashions, so come in from 19th August and grab a bargain. Bags of white cotton waste also available. Our Treasure Centre has an amazing range of household needs, toys, books and much, much more. You will be surprised at what you could find. Too much to list. Thank you to our wonderful volunteers who are so reliable to help us keep the centre running. You will never know just how valued and loved you all are. Keep warm everyone. Blessings to all Gillian Finch 4994 9168 / 0477 326 142 St. John’s Anglican Church, Cnr of Grey & Queen Sts

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