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When We Were Two
Dan had to go, He felt he had no choice, but leaving home was never going to be easy . . . Dan and his brother Eddie take off for the coast, in search of their lost mother, in search of a better life . . . but it's a long road they face and Dan must use all his wits to get them there in one piece. When they are taken under the wings of a group of would-be soldiers marching over the mountains to join up for the Great War, Dan and Eddie's journey becomes something quite unexpected. The experiences they share will shape their future beyond recognition. This extraordinary rite of passage is a powerful, heart-rending story Robert Newton at his very best.
176 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2011
36 people are currently reading
341 people want to read
About the author
Robert Newton
75 books23 followersRobert Newton works as a full-time firefighter with the Metropolitan Fire Brigade. His first novel, My Name is Will Thompson, was published in 2001. Since then he has written four other novels for young people, including Runner, which was published by Penguin in 2005. He lives in Melbourne with his wife and three daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
October 29, 2012
When We Were Two is a tender and engrossing Aussie YA novel. At just under 200 pages, the pages seem to slip by, yet the journey that takes place in so few words manages to get completely under your skin. It is story of two brothers, running away, heading towards the unknown.
I loved how I wasn't sure where the story would take me. How I was placed alongside Dan and Eddie, as if I was journeying along with them. I loved the people they met (so varied. I surprisingly found myself so swiftly attached to minor characters who popped up in the story. Such as Ah Ling, who was delightful. They time with him was hilarious, poignant and heart-breaking ~ as was true of many of the encounters).
Newton has description and setting down to an art form. At no time did I feel bogged down with the setting (they journey from Central West New South Wales east to coastal Port Macquarie ~ which was lovely for me as I have done that same trip ~ albeit not on foot ;) ~ many times.) neither did the historical time period alienate me (opposite, it was charming and resounded strongly). Newton has a gift with creating
I would not have assumed this novel would be my thing (topically) but this incredible story of hope, resilience and brotherhood was mesmerising. I stayed up too late two nights in a row devouring this. It was heartbreaking in parts, and then ever-so-unexpectedly-endearingly funny moments later. The dialogue was so Australian and perfect in tone, mateship and love conveyed in between the lines superbly.
I have to say, I have not come across such a lovable, endearing character such as Eddie in such a long time. He made me smile and ache and his optimism and courage stirred something inside of me. I loved him, and the relationship between him and his brother felt all too real. I think sibling relationships in fiction are some of the most powerful relationships we can explore in terms of unconditional love despite all our flaws.
In conclusion: this broke my heart (a real tear-jerker). It was perfectly tender and gorgeously funny. It also, weirdly, gave me a real sense of pride for the characters, the era and the general Aussieness of it. This book is a real triumph, and it's story is ageless, certain to charm and affect Aussie readers (young and old) for years to come. Oh, I loved this story so.
I loved how I wasn't sure where the story would take me. How I was placed alongside Dan and Eddie, as if I was journeying along with them. I loved the people they met (so varied. I surprisingly found myself so swiftly attached to minor characters who popped up in the story. Such as Ah Ling, who was delightful. They time with him was hilarious, poignant and heart-breaking ~ as was true of many of the encounters).
Newton has description and setting down to an art form. At no time did I feel bogged down with the setting (they journey from Central West New South Wales east to coastal Port Macquarie ~ which was lovely for me as I have done that same trip ~ albeit not on foot ;) ~ many times.) neither did the historical time period alienate me (opposite, it was charming and resounded strongly). Newton has a gift with creating
I would not have assumed this novel would be my thing (topically) but this incredible story of hope, resilience and brotherhood was mesmerising. I stayed up too late two nights in a row devouring this. It was heartbreaking in parts, and then ever-so-unexpectedly-endearingly funny moments later. The dialogue was so Australian and perfect in tone, mateship and love conveyed in between the lines superbly.
I have to say, I have not come across such a lovable, endearing character such as Eddie in such a long time. He made me smile and ache and his optimism and courage stirred something inside of me. I loved him, and the relationship between him and his brother felt all too real. I think sibling relationships in fiction are some of the most powerful relationships we can explore in terms of unconditional love despite all our flaws.
In conclusion: this broke my heart (a real tear-jerker). It was perfectly tender and gorgeously funny. It also, weirdly, gave me a real sense of pride for the characters, the era and the general Aussieness of it. This book is a real triumph, and it's story is ageless, certain to charm and affect Aussie readers (young and old) for years to come. Oh, I loved this story so.
April 7, 2013
I loved this book by Australian Robert Newton. It is a very young adult book, easy to read but packing a punch. Boys from the country run away from their abusive father, heading to the coast. Set around the start of WW1, it's about relationships and, of course, growing up. Tissues are required!
September 3, 2012
Wow. I couldn't put it down. Very moving. Best book I've read in a long time. An intimate portrayal of mateship, a simple story, beautifully written, and perfectly pitched for both adult and young readers.
November 5, 2023
This was recommended to me years ago but it is only now that I have got to it... and I'm so glad I did!
It is a touching story of two young brothers who set off in rural Australia (during WW1) to find their mother. Dan, the older brother, is harbouring a painful secret that has to do with the reason his younger brother is "different". Dan must keep Eddie safe on their long journey and he also must come to terms with the past. Dan and Eddie meet different people on their journey - most good hearted and well meaning.
I found the boys, and their helpers along the way, endearing. The book acknowledges hardships that most people have to face in their lives and the different ways of coping. It also gives a great insight into the history of rural Australia at the time.
The book is quite quick to read at just under 200 pages and should appeal to young people who like stories about family bonds, accepting disability and historical fiction. Warning - there is tragedy in this story.
It is a touching story of two young brothers who set off in rural Australia (during WW1) to find their mother. Dan, the older brother, is harbouring a painful secret that has to do with the reason his younger brother is "different". Dan must keep Eddie safe on their long journey and he also must come to terms with the past. Dan and Eddie meet different people on their journey - most good hearted and well meaning.
I found the boys, and their helpers along the way, endearing. The book acknowledges hardships that most people have to face in their lives and the different ways of coping. It also gives a great insight into the history of rural Australia at the time.
The book is quite quick to read at just under 200 pages and should appeal to young people who like stories about family bonds, accepting disability and historical fiction. Warning - there is tragedy in this story.
July 19, 2018
What a great little YA novel! This story of hope, resilience and brotherhood was an absolute page turner. I couldn’t put it down. I can see why this would be a perfect novel selection for high school students.
When I initially began reading it, I seriously did not expect the story to unravel how it did. I thoroughly enjoyed taking the journey along with Dan and Eddie, meeting the different characters along the way, and embracing the typically Aussie language and ideals of mateship and camaraderie they experience.
Powerful. Heart wrenching. A really good worthwhile read.
When I initially began reading it, I seriously did not expect the story to unravel how it did. I thoroughly enjoyed taking the journey along with Dan and Eddie, meeting the different characters along the way, and embracing the typically Aussie language and ideals of mateship and camaraderie they experience.
Powerful. Heart wrenching. A really good worthwhile read.
May 30, 2020
3.5 stars; the writing isn't the absolute best, as I didn't connect much with the protagonist, and the ending wasn't satisfying enough for me, but otherwise it's wonderful. It's hard to put it down, as it hardly gets boring, and most of the characters seem authentic and genuine. Their brotherly bond is also very real and sweet. Their journey to me reminded me of a painting that kept expanding as their world came to life, eventually reaching the great expanse of the sea.
Retrospectively, I'd give it 4 stars; but the ending still kinda bummed me out.
Retrospectively, I'd give it 4 stars; but the ending still kinda bummed me out.
January 5, 2023
Such a beautiful story about the bond of brothers on the back of childhood trauma.
Travelling the road together and meeting the best and worst of society along the way, this moving story of brotherly love, guilt and forgiveness is a short read but filled with drama, kinship, laughter and tears.
YA at its best.
Travelling the road together and meeting the best and worst of society along the way, this moving story of brotherly love, guilt and forgiveness is a short read but filled with drama, kinship, laughter and tears.
YA at its best.
December 13, 2017
Moving and trully an emotional read. I had to study it for school so if you enjoy the books your school gives you, WW1, Australian History with other themes of Manship, Friendship, Hardship, (lots of other -ships) - This is for you.
January 26, 2021
Having really enjoyed Promise Me Happy, this book was disappointing. There seemed to be gaps in the storyline where the author assumed prior knowledge. A story of resilience and courage in the face of hardship and loss.
October 22, 2018
It is a good book because it teaches you how to be grateful with what you got
December 22, 2018
ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS EVER MADE
February 26, 2019
So many emotions packed into such a short book - another good quality read from Robert Newton encompassing layers of brotherly love, adventure, escape and haunting memories.
July 31, 2021
Ok. Thought it was gonna be the dog that died. Devastating. But a really interesting book, I loved the way Eddie brought out different sides of people and how Dan looked after them all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2025
nice quick read, didn't amaze me
January 10, 2017
An absolutely moving novel that will continue to stay with you, until the next time you pick it up.
May 29, 2012
Dan’s had enough and takes off from home – the trouble is Eddie, his younger brother has decided to tag along too. What is he to do? Turn around to take him back? Send him back to a cruel and aggressive father – the one he is fleeing from himself?
Eddie is determined and refuses to go back anyway. So to make tracks , Dan has to encourage the marching activity Eddie loves, put up with his incessant chatter and humour him with stories and imaginings. And thus they march away from their old life in Gunnedah.
Along the road (to the distant Port Macquarie), Dan has to have his wits about him, as they encounter different people with different levels of interest in the pair. Dan is wary of the many of the adults they meet on the road; including one who shows an uncomfortable interest in young Eddie. (Eddie is a little slow following a childhood accident; Dan is hugely protective of him.)
Robert Newton has blended some endearing characters in this tale, and he takes you alongside on their march, with both humorous events and soulful accounts of the boys’ past. Each step they take becomes a triumph, as they overcome lots of hurdles along the way – both physical and mental hurdles, and you really want to cheer them on towards their goal.
Eddie is as delightful, as Daniel is dedicated – a terrific team of two. A group of would-be soldiers also finds Eddie endearing, when the boys join their march over the mountains to join up for the Great War. Together they become an interesting band, as Eddie’s childlike antics brings out the true nature of the men and boys around him, as they all move towards their own goals.
There are many changing moods in ‘When we were two’ – among them are periods of determination, anxiety, confusion, sadness and happiness. Dan and Eddie are searching for their lost mother, on a journey away from the past, towards an unknown future. It is the strength of their brotherly love and dedication that spurs them on, and it is indeed…
‘A powerful, heart-rending story’…
Eddie is determined and refuses to go back anyway. So to make tracks , Dan has to encourage the marching activity Eddie loves, put up with his incessant chatter and humour him with stories and imaginings. And thus they march away from their old life in Gunnedah.
Along the road (to the distant Port Macquarie), Dan has to have his wits about him, as they encounter different people with different levels of interest in the pair. Dan is wary of the many of the adults they meet on the road; including one who shows an uncomfortable interest in young Eddie. (Eddie is a little slow following a childhood accident; Dan is hugely protective of him.)
Robert Newton has blended some endearing characters in this tale, and he takes you alongside on their march, with both humorous events and soulful accounts of the boys’ past. Each step they take becomes a triumph, as they overcome lots of hurdles along the way – both physical and mental hurdles, and you really want to cheer them on towards their goal.
Eddie is as delightful, as Daniel is dedicated – a terrific team of two. A group of would-be soldiers also finds Eddie endearing, when the boys join their march over the mountains to join up for the Great War. Together they become an interesting band, as Eddie’s childlike antics brings out the true nature of the men and boys around him, as they all move towards their own goals.
There are many changing moods in ‘When we were two’ – among them are periods of determination, anxiety, confusion, sadness and happiness. Dan and Eddie are searching for their lost mother, on a journey away from the past, towards an unknown future. It is the strength of their brotherly love and dedication that spurs them on, and it is indeed…
‘A powerful, heart-rending story’…
April 8, 2013
A brief and romanticised dalliance with two brother, joined by family and separated by the injustices of a cruel world.
"When We Were Two" leads us gently, but immediately into the heart of a young, precocious narrative voice- that of Dan. His innocence is punctuated by a series of quizzical issues that arise as he and Eddie, his charming and slow-witted younger brother make their way across the Australian landscape during the first part of the twentieth century. The plot moves quickly, possibly a little too much so, as fleeting meetings and plot twists seem to dance passed my vision only to be quickly forgotten: the unnerving presence of Mr Greeves, is silenced sharply by the brief and unfulfilling encounter with Gracie and her shapely white legs.
It is a story that seems to be told on a word budget, almost poetic is quality. Newton has not given anything more than absolutely necessary to fulfil the narrative's purpose, and this is, at times, costly in my opinion.
The second half of the novel follows the boys as they join a group of country men, avid supporters of their country in peril. This lengthy section seems to be the main narrative, with all that precedes it comparably brief and unimportant, which, perhaps given the tragic ending, is on purpose.
I will never forget Eddie, but I might forget Dan, whose ubiquitous narrative voice highlights Eddie's delightful nature more than his own story.
Like a modern take on "Of Mice and Men" set in the laconic Australian setting, this novel, has a lot to say in very few pages.
"When We Were Two" leads us gently, but immediately into the heart of a young, precocious narrative voice- that of Dan. His innocence is punctuated by a series of quizzical issues that arise as he and Eddie, his charming and slow-witted younger brother make their way across the Australian landscape during the first part of the twentieth century. The plot moves quickly, possibly a little too much so, as fleeting meetings and plot twists seem to dance passed my vision only to be quickly forgotten: the unnerving presence of Mr Greeves, is silenced sharply by the brief and unfulfilling encounter with Gracie and her shapely white legs.
It is a story that seems to be told on a word budget, almost poetic is quality. Newton has not given anything more than absolutely necessary to fulfil the narrative's purpose, and this is, at times, costly in my opinion.
The second half of the novel follows the boys as they join a group of country men, avid supporters of their country in peril. This lengthy section seems to be the main narrative, with all that precedes it comparably brief and unimportant, which, perhaps given the tragic ending, is on purpose.
I will never forget Eddie, but I might forget Dan, whose ubiquitous narrative voice highlights Eddie's delightful nature more than his own story.
Like a modern take on "Of Mice and Men" set in the laconic Australian setting, this novel, has a lot to say in very few pages.
July 27, 2012
When we were two has won a PM Literary Award this year for YP fiction and it is a very deserving winner. Robert Newton has created such endearing characters in Dan and Eddie and these brothers - their relationship, their amazing bond, their Aussie mateship - will draw you into their story. You will walk side by side with them and feel as tho you are with them on their journey, experiencing their hardships and their conquests.
Older brother Dan is fed up with his life and can't take his cruel abusive father any longer so he leaves home in search of a better life. Dan thought he was embarking on a solo journey until he realises his little brother Eddie has joined him. At first Dan orders Eddie straight back home but after Eddie refuses Dan concedes, he doesn't really want to send his brother back to their father, the man he is running from. So they head off together determined to find a better life and with the hope of finding their lost mother. On their travels they meet different people with different agendas and Dan must keep his wits about him to protect his brother. They meet a group of soldiers and join forces as they march over the mountains to join up in the Great War.
The language is typically Australian and the story deals with periods of fortitude, angst, sadness, happiness, confusion, hope and loss. It's a multitude of emotion. It is a book that will make you cry and one that will have you laughing out loud. A real Aussie gem of a book. :-)
Older brother Dan is fed up with his life and can't take his cruel abusive father any longer so he leaves home in search of a better life. Dan thought he was embarking on a solo journey until he realises his little brother Eddie has joined him. At first Dan orders Eddie straight back home but after Eddie refuses Dan concedes, he doesn't really want to send his brother back to their father, the man he is running from. So they head off together determined to find a better life and with the hope of finding their lost mother. On their travels they meet different people with different agendas and Dan must keep his wits about him to protect his brother. They meet a group of soldiers and join forces as they march over the mountains to join up in the Great War.
The language is typically Australian and the story deals with periods of fortitude, angst, sadness, happiness, confusion, hope and loss. It's a multitude of emotion. It is a book that will make you cry and one that will have you laughing out loud. A real Aussie gem of a book. :-)
February 28, 2012
This is a beautiful book and an effortless read. It is set during the First World War in country New South Wales. Dan has had it. He has to leave home, find his mum, get away from his dad.
But just outside of Gunnedah his little brother, Eddie, and Bess the dog, catch him up, and Dan loses that argument. Then they were two. They are headed to the coast - to Port Macquarie - away from a cruel father and perhaps in search of a mother who took off a couple of years earlier. Intellectually Eddie is a little slow but his spirit and faith are strong. He can tell a story when necessary but needs protection and lots of understanding, which Dan provides, mostly out of love but with some guilt as well. Along the way they meet some good and bad travelling companions and end up with a group of men from Walcha marching to the Port to join up.
This recalled Of Mice and Men almost from the start, and there is some sense in that, but When We Were Two is a very different beast. The story goes at a good pace and is filled with incident and a cast of believable characters. There is lots of humour and some sadness, as well as an open but not unsatisfying ending. Newton is a rewarding writer and doesn't settle for the pat solution.
But just outside of Gunnedah his little brother, Eddie, and Bess the dog, catch him up, and Dan loses that argument. Then they were two. They are headed to the coast - to Port Macquarie - away from a cruel father and perhaps in search of a mother who took off a couple of years earlier. Intellectually Eddie is a little slow but his spirit and faith are strong. He can tell a story when necessary but needs protection and lots of understanding, which Dan provides, mostly out of love but with some guilt as well. Along the way they meet some good and bad travelling companions and end up with a group of men from Walcha marching to the Port to join up.
This recalled Of Mice and Men almost from the start, and there is some sense in that, but When We Were Two is a very different beast. The story goes at a good pace and is filled with incident and a cast of believable characters. There is lots of humour and some sadness, as well as an open but not unsatisfying ending. Newton is a rewarding writer and doesn't settle for the pat solution.
August 22, 2021
Nice ending scene with Eddie
September 4, 2012
When we were two would be an easy read for secondary students. It could easily be read by younger students, but be aware that two brief scenes (one where Dan observes Greeves watching his brother without clothes on and the other where Dan imagines putting his hand under Gracie's blouse) might concern some parents of younger children.
While the story is okay, it is not gripping. It is a bit disjointed and the characters that the boys encounter on their journey never have the opportunity to develop making the story seem shallow. No particular aspect of the boys life is fully explained, it almost feels like there needs to be other books to enable the characters and plot to develop fully. In saying that, I am not certain that this book would compel me to read a sequel.
The book is suitable for either boys or girls.
Subjects: brothers, journeys, disabilities
While the story is okay, it is not gripping. It is a bit disjointed and the characters that the boys encounter on their journey never have the opportunity to develop making the story seem shallow. No particular aspect of the boys life is fully explained, it almost feels like there needs to be other books to enable the characters and plot to develop fully. In saying that, I am not certain that this book would compel me to read a sequel.
The book is suitable for either boys or girls.
Subjects: brothers, journeys, disabilities
June 18, 2015
When We Were Two is a magnificently written book that only just missed out on getting 5/5. I can happily say that this book is one of the best novels that I have read in the past few years and I would readily recommend it to almost anyone. A warning, though: When We Were Two will break your heart. And then heal it, before breaking it again. The novel starts when brothers Dan and Eddie run away from home, determined to find sanctuary and a new life in Port Macquarie. Nothing has ever been easy for these boys, and life remains that way as they encounter several ups and downs throughout the novel. The novel is rich with unique characters and beautiful descriptions of the world which Dan and Eddie inhabit. This really was a fantastic novel, and I couldn’t recommend it more. As long as you don’t mind suffering emotional trauma at the hands of a paperback.
July 27, 2012
Dan and Eddie are walking from Gunnedah, their home town, to try find their mother who now lives in Port Macquarie, after leaving their bullying father. Dan has to care for his 12 year old brother, who is intellectually damaged, after an accident while swimming when Dan was meant to be looking after him. Along the way, they meet other travelers, and eventually join a group of volunteers on their way to join up to fight in the First World War. Eddie becomes ill and dies just as they reach Port Macquarie. Dan is even more upset when he discovers that his mother has a new family and has made a new life for herself, without her sons. But this gives him the freedom to rejoin the volunteers, with whom he has established strong bonds. Verynatmospheric.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2014
This book was a great read. 'When We Were Young' takes you along on a journey with two boys, Dan and his younger brother, Eddie. With their mother gone, they set off on a journey to the coast, on a search to find her.
The road and journey is long and on the way they meet many great people and share stories and adventures.
Along the way they come across a group of wannabe soldiers who take them under the wing. Together they set off on the journey of a lifetime, over the mountains, on the journey to The Great War.
Their journey takes a surprising turn and they are forced to face many challenges which will prove their loyalty to themselves and one another. It is a test of brotherhood and their hopes for the sea bring them together.
The road and journey is long and on the way they meet many great people and share stories and adventures.
Along the way they come across a group of wannabe soldiers who take them under the wing. Together they set off on the journey of a lifetime, over the mountains, on the journey to The Great War.
Their journey takes a surprising turn and they are forced to face many challenges which will prove their loyalty to themselves and one another. It is a test of brotherhood and their hopes for the sea bring them together.
March 12, 2015
I smashed through this one. What a story. Set during the recruiting period of WWI when men marched through country towns to reach recruiting station, two young boys run away from home and join up with a small band of would-be soldiers on their way to enlist. These soldiers become more like family and fathers than their real parents.
I have not cried reading a book since finishing "Lord Of The Rings: Return of the King" after finishing Year 12. Frodo leaving over the waters was akin to the end of my schooling. THIS WAS AN AMAZING READ and heart wrenching. It's also particularly topical with the centenary of ANZAC approaching. These are the lads who went to fight.
I have not cried reading a book since finishing "Lord Of The Rings: Return of the King" after finishing Year 12. Frodo leaving over the waters was akin to the end of my schooling. THIS WAS AN AMAZING READ and heart wrenching. It's also particularly topical with the centenary of ANZAC approaching. These are the lads who went to fight.
December 1, 2011
I liked this book even though it made me cry.
It is the beginning of World War 1 and Dan leaves home one night, leaving his brother with his abusive father because he thinks he won't make the journey over the mountains. Eddie his little brother, hears him go and follows him with his dog Bess and his billy cart.
Along the way they encounter some adventures. Some of them sad and heart renching and some funny.
A very good read, I recommend it to anyone.
It is the beginning of World War 1 and Dan leaves home one night, leaving his brother with his abusive father because he thinks he won't make the journey over the mountains. Eddie his little brother, hears him go and follows him with his dog Bess and his billy cart.
Along the way they encounter some adventures. Some of them sad and heart renching and some funny.
A very good read, I recommend it to anyone.
June 13, 2012
This book was an unexpected pleasure. A gentle story of two brothers, brave enough to leave a destructive father and search for their mother and the sea.
"Is it blue, Dan?"
"Yeah mate," I say. "It's bluer than anything you've ever seen."
Set during WW1 the boys embark on a journey of 200 miles, most of which is by foot and most of which is also a chance to meet other's who teach them hope and alternatives ways of living and seeing.
"Is it blue, Dan?"
"Yeah mate," I say. "It's bluer than anything you've ever seen."
Set during WW1 the boys embark on a journey of 200 miles, most of which is by foot and most of which is also a chance to meet other's who teach them hope and alternatives ways of living and seeing.
December 30, 2012
There's more than a touch of Steinbeck's 'Of Mice and Men' to this novel. A different coming-of-age meets road trip story, with two brothers marching across Australia to join in the great war, it's a story of mateship, dealing with the past and family issues, all set in an Australian context. Newton's writing is poetic and literary, almost 'old-fashioned' storytelling, yet most suitable for committed thoughtful readers in Years 8 - 10.
August 17, 2012
Although this is a very easy, short read, written for a young adult audience it is a beautifully written story. Set in the NSW countryside, at the beginning of World War I, brothers Dan and Eddie are runnaways, escaping from their violent father. Together they walk the back roads of country NSW, meeting others along the road, both good and evil. With gentle humour, Robert Newton writes a touching story about the search for love.
Warning - You will need tissues. Well, I did.
Warning - You will need tissues. Well, I did.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews