Mia's world by Amelia Donnelly. Illus. by Jennifer Bouron

Mia and her classmates are asked to find out more about their cultural background. Mia is confused as to whether she is Spanish or Australian. Her mother responds to her question with 'You are divine.' This adds to Mia’s confusion and she and her mother visit a rabbi, a guru, a monk, an imam, a nun. Each person gives their version of what being divine is. And the answers of action, duty, stillness, mystery and charity leave Mia feeling she is still missing understanding what being divine is. A First Nations elder carefully and gently explains to Mia what she has learnt from the other religious people. Mia finally grasps the meaning of divine and is able to respond to her teacher’s question. On the final page the author has provided a section for adults in how to use this book. The colourful illustrations complement the text and add visual interest to the narrative.

Themes: Divinity, Religions, Cultural Diversity, Ancient Teachings, Journey.

Kathryn Beilby