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Evie and Rhino
When Evie finds a fully-grown rhinoceros washed up on a beach, she feels an immediate connection and knows she has to help him. When Rhino wakes, he knows the small, golden-haired child in front of him will save his life. Side-by-side, these unlikely friends form a bond capable of overcoming the tragedies that saw one in chains and the other lose her parents and unable to speak.
240 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2022
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December 8, 2022Sweet story reimagining historical events with a happy ending and some great lessons along the way. Themes of friendship, compassion, grief and trauma, with beautiful demonstrations of love, healing, and doing the right thing.
The tone of this is almost junior fiction at times, however the content is certainly middle fiction, with one scene (remembered by a character) of an animal being mistreated in captivity. It is handled well and offers a great lesson about the humane treatment of animals, but may be upsetting to younger/sensitive readers. As such, I’d say this is best for readers ages 9+
Australian-based historical fiction great for animal lovers.
The tone of this is almost junior fiction at times, however the content is certainly middle fiction, with one scene (remembered by a character) of an animal being mistreated in captivity. It is handled well and offers a great lesson about the humane treatment of animals, but may be upsetting to younger/sensitive readers. As such, I’d say this is best for readers ages 9+
Australian-based historical fiction great for animal lovers.
September 3, 2023
Sublime! Gave me all the feels of Charlotte’s Web, without the devastating ending. A child with a special bond with an adoring and adorable Rhino (and other animals), and a sense of foreboding that it couldn’t all end well, that had me gripped to the satisfying (and maybe unbelievable - but who cares?) ending. I loved this book and my 10 year old self would have too.
January 12, 2024
Evie and Rhino is a beautiful children's book that has a big, rich heart at its centre and aches with sadness and love. Told in the most engaging way by its author Neridah McMullin and elegantly illustrated by Astrid Hicks, it is the kind of story that fits so well into Australian children's literature traditions, whilst also speaking to today's kids. Whilst at times the anthropomorphic aspects of the characetrisation of the Rhino are slightly distracting for an adult reader such as myself, the overall achievement of McMullin's fiction is amazing.
Perhaps the most engaging aspect of Evie and Rhino is how the author creates a meaningful connection with her two key characters, the two orphans Rhino and Evie. For a considerable part of the book loss is a central plank of the emotional narrative, and McMullin gives the reader plenty of opportunities to explore how this affects not just her characters but us as well. Grief, loneliness and the need for love are explored by the author through her story and characters, and it helps make her book heartbreakingly beautiful. It must be said, however, that the sadness doesn't overwhelm the story or the reader. Thankfully McMullin seasons her fiction with moments of happiness and of comedy that help both alleviate and accentuate the more sad aspects of her book.
That McMullin understands how important it is to leaven the sadder emotional narrative of her book with some levity is seen quite early in the book, as shown by the following extract:
"With a shock, Rhino glimpses his own sadness in the eyes of the golden-haired human child. His heart is full of an aching blackness, which he recognises. She, too understands pain and loss. A tiny flicker of hope ignites inside him and he knows he can trust this human child with his own life. He burps before lowering his head to drink.
The child reaches up and touches his horn., She taps it with her finger and clicks her tongue, encouraging him to rise. He doesn't want to get up but he does, for her, and he groans as he struggles to stand on his wobbly legs.
As Rhino is led by his horn by the human child, he swirls his little tail in the air, and farts."
To punctuate such a tender moment in the book with in such a manner is both hilarious and yet so moving. McMullin understands that not only will younger readers connect with Rhino breaking wind, she also knows that tragedy and comedy are linked. Throughout the book earthy moments of humour help alleviate the sadder parts of the narrative, and it makes for a more engaging, more meaningful read because of this.
It should also be noted that McMullin's prose is redolent with the sights and sounds of the rural world she has set her story in. The frequent references to Evie's chicken Albine making her burk burk sound are sweetly tangible sounds of the farm, and McMullin also gives the reader a strong impression of the stormy coast upon which the story is set. There is a strong sense of place and time all through Evie and Rhino and it helps keep the reader immersed in the author's fictional world. Both real and unreal, I suspect McMullin's setting for her story will draw many a child into it (and more than a few adults too).
Astrid Hick's beautiful illustrations need to be noted at this point. Yes, McMullin's story is wonderful yet I wonder if it would have been so effectively realised in book form if it hadn't been for Hicks' drawings. Both redolent of old school Victorian era children's books, but also light and not too elaborate, they help add to the impact of the author's words. As many a good to great children's author and publisher knows, younger children need those visual cues at times to help add to the depth of their connection to the story. Hicks has made sure that this is achieved in Evie and Rhino; the publisher, editor and of course Hicks and McMullin deserve high praise for what they've achieved in this aspect of the book.
As noted earlier, there is a slight drawback to Evie and Rhino in that McMullin has made Rhino a bit too anthropomorphic, at least in terms of its emotional characterisation. To be fair to the author this is a concern that an adult would possibly raise; I wouldn;t expect any child to be that considered about how the Rhino thinks and feels beyond his simple needs for love, safety, connection etc. So take my criticism with a dose of salt.
There is so much to love about Evie and Rhino. The main characters are all interesting and engaging, though to be honest the reader is mostly invested in Evie and Rhino. It could be said that Lunar House and its farm is a bit too perfect, what with its contented animals, a loving grandfather and some rather friendly staff. Also, it reads a bit more like an English setting than an Australian one. Perhaps this might lose the book some of its gloss for a few readers. However, the idyllic nature of McMullin's setting helps underscore and validate the emotional aspects of her story. In this beautiful, remote and at times storm battered little corner of the world love and sadness and healing come together, and these are universal themes.
I shan't say much more about this book. The best way to understand it is to read it. I have no hesitation in recommending it to younger readers (I'd like to use it as a textbook in fact), and adults should enjoy it too. Evie and Rhino is a beautiful and moving chidlren's book that provides a superb illustration of the talents of McMullin and Hicks. It deserves the accolades it has won, it desreves to be read.
Perhaps the most engaging aspect of Evie and Rhino is how the author creates a meaningful connection with her two key characters, the two orphans Rhino and Evie. For a considerable part of the book loss is a central plank of the emotional narrative, and McMullin gives the reader plenty of opportunities to explore how this affects not just her characters but us as well. Grief, loneliness and the need for love are explored by the author through her story and characters, and it helps make her book heartbreakingly beautiful. It must be said, however, that the sadness doesn't overwhelm the story or the reader. Thankfully McMullin seasons her fiction with moments of happiness and of comedy that help both alleviate and accentuate the more sad aspects of her book.
That McMullin understands how important it is to leaven the sadder emotional narrative of her book with some levity is seen quite early in the book, as shown by the following extract:
"With a shock, Rhino glimpses his own sadness in the eyes of the golden-haired human child. His heart is full of an aching blackness, which he recognises. She, too understands pain and loss. A tiny flicker of hope ignites inside him and he knows he can trust this human child with his own life. He burps before lowering his head to drink.
The child reaches up and touches his horn., She taps it with her finger and clicks her tongue, encouraging him to rise. He doesn't want to get up but he does, for her, and he groans as he struggles to stand on his wobbly legs.
As Rhino is led by his horn by the human child, he swirls his little tail in the air, and farts."
To punctuate such a tender moment in the book with in such a manner is both hilarious and yet so moving. McMullin understands that not only will younger readers connect with Rhino breaking wind, she also knows that tragedy and comedy are linked. Throughout the book earthy moments of humour help alleviate the sadder parts of the narrative, and it makes for a more engaging, more meaningful read because of this.
It should also be noted that McMullin's prose is redolent with the sights and sounds of the rural world she has set her story in. The frequent references to Evie's chicken Albine making her burk burk sound are sweetly tangible sounds of the farm, and McMullin also gives the reader a strong impression of the stormy coast upon which the story is set. There is a strong sense of place and time all through Evie and Rhino and it helps keep the reader immersed in the author's fictional world. Both real and unreal, I suspect McMullin's setting for her story will draw many a child into it (and more than a few adults too).
Astrid Hick's beautiful illustrations need to be noted at this point. Yes, McMullin's story is wonderful yet I wonder if it would have been so effectively realised in book form if it hadn't been for Hicks' drawings. Both redolent of old school Victorian era children's books, but also light and not too elaborate, they help add to the impact of the author's words. As many a good to great children's author and publisher knows, younger children need those visual cues at times to help add to the depth of their connection to the story. Hicks has made sure that this is achieved in Evie and Rhino; the publisher, editor and of course Hicks and McMullin deserve high praise for what they've achieved in this aspect of the book.
As noted earlier, there is a slight drawback to Evie and Rhino in that McMullin has made Rhino a bit too anthropomorphic, at least in terms of its emotional characterisation. To be fair to the author this is a concern that an adult would possibly raise; I wouldn;t expect any child to be that considered about how the Rhino thinks and feels beyond his simple needs for love, safety, connection etc. So take my criticism with a dose of salt.
There is so much to love about Evie and Rhino. The main characters are all interesting and engaging, though to be honest the reader is mostly invested in Evie and Rhino. It could be said that Lunar House and its farm is a bit too perfect, what with its contented animals, a loving grandfather and some rather friendly staff. Also, it reads a bit more like an English setting than an Australian one. Perhaps this might lose the book some of its gloss for a few readers. However, the idyllic nature of McMullin's setting helps underscore and validate the emotional aspects of her story. In this beautiful, remote and at times storm battered little corner of the world love and sadness and healing come together, and these are universal themes.
I shan't say much more about this book. The best way to understand it is to read it. I have no hesitation in recommending it to younger readers (I'd like to use it as a textbook in fact), and adults should enjoy it too. Evie and Rhino is a beautiful and moving chidlren's book that provides a superb illustration of the talents of McMullin and Hicks. It deserves the accolades it has won, it desreves to be read.
September 14, 2022
A precious story about a girl who finds a rhino washed up on a beach. They end up having a connection to one another that brought out all the emotions in me. This was loosely based off of a real event however, the novel has a happier outcome for the animals that had been involved in the shipwreck.
I loved the writing and the perspectives of Evie and Rhino. The illustrations added to the emotions that came from the scenes. Definitely a feel good novel for middle grade readers.
I loved the writing and the perspectives of Evie and Rhino. The illustrations added to the emotions that came from the scenes. Definitely a feel good novel for middle grade readers.
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November 12, 2022I loved everything about this heartwarming story.
May 12, 2025
What worked:
This is a story of heart and love. Evie lost her parents two years ago and hasn’t spoken since that time. Rhino was on his way to an Australian zoo when he became stranded alone and dying on the beach. Each can sense the pain and suffering in the other, as they form an immediate bond. Evie cares for Rhino’s physical and emotional needs, and Rhino becomes a loyal friend. That’s why Evie’s grandfather dreads the heartache Evie will suffer when the zoo inevitably shows up to retrieve their rhinoceros.
Present-tense verbs help to create the feeling of a traditional children’s story. It’s set in the summer of 1891 along the shore of southern Australia. Evie lives alone with her grandfather, although a housekeeper and farmhand are present too. Evie’s innocence is displayed when she tells her grandfather that she’s found a Triceratops dinosaur on the beach. Her two dogs frolic along on her adventures, while a mother hen watches Rhino recuperate from his injuries. It’s clear Evie’s home and surroundings are full of love, support, and compassion. Select pages reflect Rhino’s thoughts and feelings as he tries to return Evie’s kindness and encouragement.
It's interesting to note that a ship containing exotic animals actually crashed along the same Australian beach in July of 1801. The drama in the book develops when Grandpa contacts the Melbourne Zoo about finding the missing rhinoceros. This communication starts a countdown to the plot’s climax when zoo representatives will arrive to take Rhino away. Grandpa has a past relationship with the zoo’s owner, and it’s for an unknown reason that was contentious. Readers will wonder about this connection with the zoo owner, which adds a layer of tension to the growing conflict. The son of the zoo owner shows up to take Rhino, but his presence creates an unexpected twist.
What didn’t work as well:
The plot moves slowly and highlights the characters’ emotions, which may not appeal to all middle-grade readers. Evie’s grief over her parents’ deaths isn’t developed, and readers may wonder about Evie’s sudden recovery from mutism. Also, the minor characters could have used more attention.
The final verdict:
This is an emotional story of a young girl dealing with grief and finding solace and comfort in a rhinoceros. It will touch the heartstrings of middle-grade readers, and I recommend you give it a shot.
This is a story of heart and love. Evie lost her parents two years ago and hasn’t spoken since that time. Rhino was on his way to an Australian zoo when he became stranded alone and dying on the beach. Each can sense the pain and suffering in the other, as they form an immediate bond. Evie cares for Rhino’s physical and emotional needs, and Rhino becomes a loyal friend. That’s why Evie’s grandfather dreads the heartache Evie will suffer when the zoo inevitably shows up to retrieve their rhinoceros.
Present-tense verbs help to create the feeling of a traditional children’s story. It’s set in the summer of 1891 along the shore of southern Australia. Evie lives alone with her grandfather, although a housekeeper and farmhand are present too. Evie’s innocence is displayed when she tells her grandfather that she’s found a Triceratops dinosaur on the beach. Her two dogs frolic along on her adventures, while a mother hen watches Rhino recuperate from his injuries. It’s clear Evie’s home and surroundings are full of love, support, and compassion. Select pages reflect Rhino’s thoughts and feelings as he tries to return Evie’s kindness and encouragement.
It's interesting to note that a ship containing exotic animals actually crashed along the same Australian beach in July of 1801. The drama in the book develops when Grandpa contacts the Melbourne Zoo about finding the missing rhinoceros. This communication starts a countdown to the plot’s climax when zoo representatives will arrive to take Rhino away. Grandpa has a past relationship with the zoo’s owner, and it’s for an unknown reason that was contentious. Readers will wonder about this connection with the zoo owner, which adds a layer of tension to the growing conflict. The son of the zoo owner shows up to take Rhino, but his presence creates an unexpected twist.
What didn’t work as well:
The plot moves slowly and highlights the characters’ emotions, which may not appeal to all middle-grade readers. Evie’s grief over her parents’ deaths isn’t developed, and readers may wonder about Evie’s sudden recovery from mutism. Also, the minor characters could have used more attention.
The final verdict:
This is an emotional story of a young girl dealing with grief and finding solace and comfort in a rhinoceros. It will touch the heartstrings of middle-grade readers, and I recommend you give it a shot.
May 26, 2023
Quickly scanning the other reviews, I am very clearly in the minority with this book - so maybe take this review with a grain of salt. Maybe "it's not you, it's me".
Evie & Rhino has a fascinating premise, using real events as a launching pad for an imaginative story (a ship carrying exotic animals is shipwrecked in 1891. What if they made it to shore and were discovered by an animal-loving little girl?).
However, for some reason I just couldn't get into this story. It started right at the opening scene, which just did not feel believable and had me flipping for the author's note at the back to see if there was a true story behind it (the answer - sort of). I love an animal story, and even an anthropomorphised one, but the sections from Rhino's point of view just didn't feel real. Why this is the case when I can very happily enjoy Ivan's or Scruffity's thoughts in The One and Only Ivan or The Way of Dog I can't quite pinpoint. as well as this, while I enjoyed Evie's character, the other characters were very black and white, and the resolution was a bit too convenient.
I will be interested to see if my young readers enjoy it better than I did, as we read through the CBCA 2023 shortlist together.
Evie & Rhino has a fascinating premise, using real events as a launching pad for an imaginative story (a ship carrying exotic animals is shipwrecked in 1891. What if they made it to shore and were discovered by an animal-loving little girl?).
However, for some reason I just couldn't get into this story. It started right at the opening scene, which just did not feel believable and had me flipping for the author's note at the back to see if there was a true story behind it (the answer - sort of). I love an animal story, and even an anthropomorphised one, but the sections from Rhino's point of view just didn't feel real. Why this is the case when I can very happily enjoy Ivan's or Scruffity's thoughts in The One and Only Ivan or The Way of Dog I can't quite pinpoint. as well as this, while I enjoyed Evie's character, the other characters were very black and white, and the resolution was a bit too convenient.
I will be interested to see if my young readers enjoy it better than I did, as we read through the CBCA 2023 shortlist together.
January 26, 2023
Our Review...
Evie and Rhino is one of my absolute favourite children’s books that I’ve read this year. After only a few pages, I knew this book would be just perfect to read with my 8-year-old animal loving daughter.
Evie is a sweetheart of a young girl who has suffered the devastating loss of her parents and now lives in a rundown mansion with her beloved grandfather and other staff at the family’s once illustrious estate.
The moment her parents died, Evie lost her voice and has not spoken a word for the two years since. She stopped attending school when the other children just didn’t understand her profound grief and even teased her for silence.
One day, a shipwreck occurs on the boundaries of her property, and Evie soon meets the surviving animals. Her life is transformed by the misunderstood and mistreated Rhino, who miraculously survives and who Evie tenderly nurses back to health. But soon enough, the zoo that Rhino belongs to sends a representative to recover the beautiful animal and recapture it for tourism.
It is up to Evie to fight on Rhino’s behalf and, through her strength, find her voice stronger than ever.
This is a beautiful tale about the healing power of animals, about the process of grief, and how to survive the darkest of times. It is a beautiful, sensitively written, and powerful book, perfect for ages 8 plus or older to enjoy independently.
Review by Lydia @ Great Escape Books
Evie and Rhino is one of my absolute favourite children’s books that I’ve read this year. After only a few pages, I knew this book would be just perfect to read with my 8-year-old animal loving daughter.
Evie is a sweetheart of a young girl who has suffered the devastating loss of her parents and now lives in a rundown mansion with her beloved grandfather and other staff at the family’s once illustrious estate.
The moment her parents died, Evie lost her voice and has not spoken a word for the two years since. She stopped attending school when the other children just didn’t understand her profound grief and even teased her for silence.
One day, a shipwreck occurs on the boundaries of her property, and Evie soon meets the surviving animals. Her life is transformed by the misunderstood and mistreated Rhino, who miraculously survives and who Evie tenderly nurses back to health. But soon enough, the zoo that Rhino belongs to sends a representative to recover the beautiful animal and recapture it for tourism.
It is up to Evie to fight on Rhino’s behalf and, through her strength, find her voice stronger than ever.
This is a beautiful tale about the healing power of animals, about the process of grief, and how to survive the darkest of times. It is a beautiful, sensitively written, and powerful book, perfect for ages 8 plus or older to enjoy independently.
Review by Lydia @ Great Escape Books
April 16, 2023
How has this not been a story we’ve heard thousands of times?
All the ingredients are there for a classic adventure: Australia’s shipwreck coast, colonising species, Victorian ideals, wild v’s domesticated animals and, animal & human bonds.
I deeply admire writer Neridah McMullin’s talent in capturing the nuanced relationships between inter-generational family members, domestic staff and animals.
Who ever thought to team writer Neridah McMullin with designer and illustrator Astrid Hicks deserves a pat on the back also. This book is beautiful with it’s illustrations, cover design, spaces and layouts on the page and, use of varying fonts and text types.
So much to unpack here - and, a big shout out to Trove, digitised National Library of Australia collection, which gets a mention in the endnotes. Bravo.
From a classroom teaching perspective (years 4-6): use of primary sources (history), first and third person perspectives (English), changing cultural values (history), native and introduced species (science) and, conservation of native species(geography).
Applauding The Children’s Book Council of Australia for shortlisting this book in the ‘Book of the year: younger readers’ category.
All the ingredients are there for a classic adventure: Australia’s shipwreck coast, colonising species, Victorian ideals, wild v’s domesticated animals and, animal & human bonds.
I deeply admire writer Neridah McMullin’s talent in capturing the nuanced relationships between inter-generational family members, domestic staff and animals.
Who ever thought to team writer Neridah McMullin with designer and illustrator Astrid Hicks deserves a pat on the back also. This book is beautiful with it’s illustrations, cover design, spaces and layouts on the page and, use of varying fonts and text types.
So much to unpack here - and, a big shout out to Trove, digitised National Library of Australia collection, which gets a mention in the endnotes. Bravo.
From a classroom teaching perspective (years 4-6): use of primary sources (history), first and third person perspectives (English), changing cultural values (history), native and introduced species (science) and, conservation of native species(geography).
Applauding The Children’s Book Council of Australia for shortlisting this book in the ‘Book of the year: younger readers’ category.
November 26, 2022
Set in rural and coastal Victoria in the late 19th century where shipwrecks are frequent, the story starts with Rhino on board a sinking vessel and captures the distress and fear of the event. Washed up on an isolated beach, Rhino is found by 10 year old Evie, who is still traumatised by the death of her parents two years ago, and has not spoken since. Living in a grand, but deteriorating house, with her adoring, but also grief stricken grandfather and the servants, Evie has an innate ability to understand and communicate with animals and she nurses Rhino back to health and her voice is aded to the story. This balance between Rhino and Evie extends the story line considerably and makes both characters come to life. But the exotic ship's cargo was destined for the Melbourne Zoo and tensions mount as the son of the zoo keeper is sent to retrieve the rhinoceros.
There are strong themes of friendship, animal conservation, social responsibility and family love throughout this delightful story. The very occasional pencil illustrations by Astred Hicks provides some scientific elements to show native wildlife, some more pictorial representation of events.
There are strong themes of friendship, animal conservation, social responsibility and family love throughout this delightful story. The very occasional pencil illustrations by Astred Hicks provides some scientific elements to show native wildlife, some more pictorial representation of events.
November 4, 2022
This is one I will add to my buying list for our growing grandchildren. The love between Evie and the rhinoceros who manages to swim ashore after a shipwreck is beautifully portrayed. So is Evie's love for and connection with the other animals who share her rural home. Evie's parents have died. She lives with her grandfather. So Evie and Rhino have deep loss in common.
McMullin's inspiration for the story was the loss of a rhinoceros and other "exotic animals". The crew of the SS Bancoora survived the 1891 shipwreck and brought the rhinoceros, white elephant, monkeys, and parrots onshore. Two days later the rhinoceros died. That mammal may have been the lucky one. The others were transported to Geelong and likely reached their destination, the Melbourne Zoo. Life there would have been a sad parody of their wild homes, given the state of zoos at that time.
Anything we can do to encourage respect and love for the creatures we humans continue to displace will make the world a better place. This book is a good one for that. It is also a well-told tale.
McMullin's inspiration for the story was the loss of a rhinoceros and other "exotic animals". The crew of the SS Bancoora survived the 1891 shipwreck and brought the rhinoceros, white elephant, monkeys, and parrots onshore. Two days later the rhinoceros died. That mammal may have been the lucky one. The others were transported to Geelong and likely reached their destination, the Melbourne Zoo. Life there would have been a sad parody of their wild homes, given the state of zoos at that time.
Anything we can do to encourage respect and love for the creatures we humans continue to displace will make the world a better place. This book is a good one for that. It is also a well-told tale.
March 31, 2023
Oh my heart - what a beautiful read! I adored this story about a grieving girl who forms a heartfelt connection with a shipwrecked rhinoceros. Author Neridah McMullin was inspired to write the story after reading about the shipwreck of the SS Bancoora in 1891. The ship left Calcutta carrying a rhinoceros, rhesus monkeys, a baby elephant and exotic birds bound for Melbourne Zoo. In real life, the rhinoceros died. But Neridah reimagined it's existence, enabling it to be found by animal-loving Evie.
At the beginning of the story Evie is mute; unable to speak since her parents died in a shipwreck. She lives with her grandfather who is also grieving the loss of his son (Evie's dad) and daughter-in-law. This story is jam-packed with animals - set on a farm- and is full of lush descriptions of Breamlea and surrounds. Living, as I do, a stones-throw from where the story is set was an added bonus. Highly recommended.
At the beginning of the story Evie is mute; unable to speak since her parents died in a shipwreck. She lives with her grandfather who is also grieving the loss of his son (Evie's dad) and daughter-in-law. This story is jam-packed with animals - set on a farm- and is full of lush descriptions of Breamlea and surrounds. Living, as I do, a stones-throw from where the story is set was an added bonus. Highly recommended.
July 17, 2025
This was such a delightful read. I cried, laughed and gasped - I was also so pleasantly surprised that this based on a true story! I loved the historical references, and the location being not far from home. The characters were so well rounded, even the animals all had personalities and the beautiful Lunar House. Having been a zookeeper myself, having had the great privilege of being able to pat a rhino (and shovel their very heavy poo), of being a bird keeper and an adventurer - this book has become an all time favourite.
I’m also so so glad zoos of times past found a way to become an important part of education and preservation. No longer a place for pure entertainment and a lack of husbandry. Granted not all zoos have gotten the memo, and a lot should be closed, however I do think Zoos Victoria have done amazing work over the years to become a beacon of hope for our animal counterparts.
All in all this book was brilliant and I cannot recommend it more!
I’m also so so glad zoos of times past found a way to become an important part of education and preservation. No longer a place for pure entertainment and a lack of husbandry. Granted not all zoos have gotten the memo, and a lot should be closed, however I do think Zoos Victoria have done amazing work over the years to become a beacon of hope for our animal counterparts.
All in all this book was brilliant and I cannot recommend it more!
November 22, 2022
Pulsing with goodness, adventure and untamed spirit as wild as the wind that whips Australia’s southern coastline, this unique tale incites more than just two incongruous relationships. It highlights how connections between creatures not too dissimilar to ourselves may form from the most extraordinary of circumstances if we are just quiet and observant enough to recognise and allow them. It’s a tale of growth through understanding, of finding your voice and inner strength when you thought they’d gone forever.
Evie and Rhino sparks tears and laughter often at the same time thanks to McMullin’s poignant narrative and Astred Hicks’ deft line illustrations which support readers’ imaginative input with just the right degree of comedy and cuteness.
Highly recommended.
Read my full review over at: DIM'SreVIEWS: https://dimswritestuff.blogspot.com/2...
Evie and Rhino sparks tears and laughter often at the same time thanks to McMullin’s poignant narrative and Astred Hicks’ deft line illustrations which support readers’ imaginative input with just the right degree of comedy and cuteness.
Highly recommended.
Read my full review over at: DIM'SreVIEWS: https://dimswritestuff.blogspot.com/2...
June 26, 2024
This is a fictionalised "alternative" to a shipwreck event that happened off the coast of Victoria where a ship carrying exotic animals to the Melbourne Zoo ran aground.
In this story, the rhino and other animals escape to shore. Rhino is found by a young girl suffering mutism after her parents' death. She lives on a farm with her grandfather and smuggles rhino into the barn.
People from the zoo come looking for the rhino, but in the end the sensitive young man leaves rhino where he is, saying he hasn't seen any rhino.
In the meantime, Evie overcomes her mutism.
This is very much a story about relationships, the power of animals to heal, being kind, etc.
For the length of the book, there really isn't much that happens and some parts feel a bit drawn out. It is a sweet story and young readers will enjoy it, though.
In this story, the rhino and other animals escape to shore. Rhino is found by a young girl suffering mutism after her parents' death. She lives on a farm with her grandfather and smuggles rhino into the barn.
People from the zoo come looking for the rhino, but in the end the sensitive young man leaves rhino where he is, saying he hasn't seen any rhino.
In the meantime, Evie overcomes her mutism.
This is very much a story about relationships, the power of animals to heal, being kind, etc.
For the length of the book, there really isn't much that happens and some parts feel a bit drawn out. It is a sweet story and young readers will enjoy it, though.
May 14, 2023
This is a story about a girl becoming best friends with a rhino after she finds it washed up on the beach following a shipwreck. It’s told from Evie and Rhino’s POV, and has a somewhat aged writing style to it, reminiscent of classic children’s stories written in the era it’s set.
I can see children engaging with the simplistic narrative and characterisation of rhino and the other animals. There’s a lot of gas flowing around in this book.
It’s got some animal welfare issues explored in it, and a bit about grief and healing that could have used a little more depth. I think kids will miss the clues with appetite etc and the mutism is resolved without any real explanation of build-up. But overall it’s a very sweet story of friendship and empathy.
I can see children engaging with the simplistic narrative and characterisation of rhino and the other animals. There’s a lot of gas flowing around in this book.
It’s got some animal welfare issues explored in it, and a bit about grief and healing that could have used a little more depth. I think kids will miss the clues with appetite etc and the mutism is resolved without any real explanation of build-up. But overall it’s a very sweet story of friendship and empathy.
August 4, 2023
The south-west coast of Victoria is called the Shipwreck Coast for a reason, with more than 600 ships wrecked along its treacherous shores. ‘Evie and Rhino’ is based on the true story of the 1891 wreck of the unfortunate SS Bancoora, travelling from India with a cargo of exotic animals bound for captivity in the spartan, cement enclosures at Melbourne Zoo (very different in that era). Discovered and cared for by ten-year-old Evie, struggling herself with grief, Rhino is not the scary animal many expect. Evie and Rhino form a special, healing bond and search for ways to stay together. I recommend ‘Evie and Rhino’ for students from Years 4-7 who enjoy reading about animals, family and friendship and other times in history.
April 23, 2023
Evie finds a rhinoceros on the beach, and it follows her home, but trying to keep such a large animal hidden turns out to be impossible. They form a tight bond based on their understanding of grief. Her grandfather understands the closeness but is worried about when Rhino must go.
Evie knows she can't possibly keep a rhino and is distressed when she reads about some zoos' practices. How does this all work out?
I enjoyed this story's 'what if quality'. The mix of fact and fiction is powerful. It adds to the actual grounding of the SS Bancoora off the Victorian Coast in 1891.
Recommended for readers ten years and more.
Evie knows she can't possibly keep a rhino and is distressed when she reads about some zoos' practices. How does this all work out?
I enjoyed this story's 'what if quality'. The mix of fact and fiction is powerful. It adds to the actual grounding of the SS Bancoora off the Victorian Coast in 1891.
Recommended for readers ten years and more.
June 15, 2023
Oh my heart - what an absolutely beautiful story. It so deserves being short-listed for the CBCA Book Awards and I truly hope it receives further recognition. This is a book about love and loss set against a magnificent background and surrounded by the healing power of animals. It was interesting to read in the author’s notes that the premise of this book was indeed inspired by a true event and I love that the amazingly talented Neridah McMullin - has taken facts and mixed with the wonderful question - ‘what if?’ This book will warm your heart and encourage you to give those you love, an extra big hug!
July 8, 2023
Beautiful…just beautiful. Evie is a poignant and relatable character whose past tragedy has left her unable to speak. She is both gentle and gently wild, more at home with the animals surrounding her than with people. She lives with her aging grandfather; a noted ornithologist and Cook, who love and care for her as she is, without pressure, but certainly with concern. Their acceptance allows her to herself and nurtures her intelligence, perception and wisdom to grow and blossom. When she appears with Rhino, while they are understandably taken aback, they trust Evie to lead the way in this most unusual circumstance. And they do what they can for her when reporting the shipwrecked rhinosaurus leads to inevitable…the zoo insists on reclaiming him. Through worry, heartbreak and extreme weather, love and friendship carry all of them…and, the twist of a surprise ending brings relief and happiness, not only to Evie, Rhino and the rest of our cast of characters, but to the reader as well. Magical writing, wondrous story-telling, an inpeccably described landscape, intriguing, intertwining relationships…and a marvelous, joyous ending. This book lends a real sense of quiet freedom, justice and love. Extraordinary!
August 7, 2023
Neridah McMullin has an amazing ability as a writer. This new story about exotic animals, particularly Rhino, a shipwreck, a beautiful place in Australia, and a 10-year-old girl named Evie, is a joy to read. I love reading kids books, especially before I recommend them to my daughter, a teacher, and my 10 year old grandson. Evie and Rhino has shortish chapters, great for bedtime, and is full of emotions, love mainly, which kids and adults will love to share. I borrowed this book from the library but will be buying it to gift to others. I have finished reading, and I feel all calm and happy inside. Discover this with the young ones in your life.
July 25, 2023
Lovely and sweet fable about a girl in 1891 who heals after grief and loss through a connection with a shipwrecked rhino. Little 10 year old Evie was rendered mute after the loss of her parents, the feelings too big for her words to manage. Rhino was a victim of shipwreck straits, but made their way to Evie and her grandfather’s isolated home, and her uncompromising love for all animals in her silence heals them both… charming junior fiction, and a celebration of the humanity we can find when we befriend the animals around us…
July 28, 2023
What a sweet book right from the first page. It had me hooked (in a sad way) but I immediately fell in love with the characters of Evie and the Rhino.
The author does a great job of allowing us to love rhino as a friendly, smart and caring rhino. And he quickly becomes Evie's best friend who hasn't spoken a word since her parents died.
You can imagine the farm with the cook and the farm hand and the grandfather all working together on the farm and trying to stop anyone from coming and taking rhino away
Great book for all ages - JS and MS
The author does a great job of allowing us to love rhino as a friendly, smart and caring rhino. And he quickly becomes Evie's best friend who hasn't spoken a word since her parents died.
You can imagine the farm with the cook and the farm hand and the grandfather all working together on the farm and trying to stop anyone from coming and taking rhino away
Great book for all ages - JS and MS
January 5, 2025
This heartwarming historical novel is set in 1891 on the Victorian coast of Australia. As a ship sails for Melbourne, carrying precious cargo bound for the zoo, it encounters a storm and sinks off the coast of Victoria. A rhinoceros swims ashore, with 2 rhesus monkeys on his back. The next morning, Evie discovers Rhino washed up on the sand and so begins an extraordinary friendship.
This was such a beautifully written story that will stay with me for a long time.
Highly recommend for ages 7+
This was such a beautifully written story that will stay with me for a long time.
Highly recommend for ages 7+
July 21, 2022
Very cute junior fiction novel, set in the late 1800's, about young Evie who comes across a shipwreck around Cape Otway, and whilst searching for survivors, chances upon a rhinoceros. What ensues is an endearing friendship between the 2 as they help each other deal with their own losses.
Read by Suzie
Read by Suzie
December 5, 2022
This beautiful story of the bond between a girl and an animal is as beautiful and heartwarming as Charlotte's Web. I can picture this as a movie, set against the rugged Shipwreck Coast of southern Victoria - think Storm Boy meets Life of Pi. This is a great book for tweens seeking a well written story with animals, adventure, suspense, drama and even humour.
July 4, 2023
A lovely, feel good, tugs at the heart strings, easy read book. Such a vibrant lovable main character in Evie with rogue Rhino. All the characters come into their own. A great story with little twists here and there. For animal lovers of any age but will appeal to children in mid to late primary school.
March 14, 2024
This was a CBCA 2023 short listed book. I read it so I would know which of my students I could recommend this book to. I enjoyed it very much and I know that as a child I would have loved it. It was a fun and entertaining read but I can see why it didn't win. Like the judges I much preferred the overall winner
July 8, 2022
Very cute junior fiction novel, set in the late 1800's, about young Evie who comes across a shipwreck around Cape Otway, and whilst searching for survivors, chances upon a rhinoceros. What ensues is an endearing friendship between the 2 as they help each other deal with their own losses.
July 11, 2023
Such a beautiful book about the relationship of a child who experienced trauma and a gentle, loving Rhinoceros, which creates a bond that changes the courses of both of their lives. I really loved this book and think it's so far my favourite of the CBCA short-list for younger readers.
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