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Reviewed by Jenny Tawa, Teacher, Hauraki Plains College, Wakato
Opening sentence
Aotearoa New Zealand is a land of adventurers, from the first explorers sailing here in their waka from islands in the Pacific, European explorers wishing to draw a global map, and Māori and European settlers traversing the mountainous regions of New Zealand.
'Epic New Zealand Adventurers' by Maria Gill is a thrilling collection that dives deep into the exploits of ten audacious Kiwis who pushed the boundaries of human capability. From Sir Edmund Hillary's perilous race to the South Pole to Jean Batten's hair-raising flights, and from Laura Dekker's solo yacht circumnavigation to Helen Thayer's Magnetic North Pole journey, each story is a testament to the indomitable Kiwi spirit.

Maria Gill skillfully merges facts and creative interpretation, crafting riveting narratives that feel alive and immediate. Quotes, seemingly drawn from the adventurers themselves, breathe life into these tales, giving readers a glimpse into the psyche of these daredevils.

Marco Ivancic's illustrations perfectly complement the dangers, thrills, and sheer awe of each adventure. While some adventurers like Batten and Hillary are familiar names, others like Cam McLeay and Helen Thayer offer fresh tales of courage and determination.

'Epic New Zealand Adventurers' not only chronicles incredible feats but also introduces a new generation to the legacies of these extraordinary individuals—a must-read for those seeking inspiration and adrenaline-packed stories.
Author & Illustrator: Maria Gill, illustrator: Marco Ivancic
Publisher: Upstart Press Ltd
ISBN: 9781776940127
Format: Paperback
Publication: Jul 2023
Ages: 8+
Themes: Adventure, Action, Bravery, Courage, Danger