Giovani is a delightful Picture Book that tells more than a story. It weaves a tale of true history which I suspect is little known by many people. Giovanni is an Italian lad who lives in Veneto, Italy. His family like many at that time are struggling to make a living. The boy is the main character, and the story is told from his perspective.
In the 1880’s the whole family responded to a bulletin posted by the Marquis de Ray, telling them that a wonderful new land was being settled. They would have a house, land, and a new town to call home.
After a difficult crossing on a ship which was crude and basic, the families were deposited in Noumea, where there were none of the promised basics to begin a new life. Eventually Sir Henry Parkes took pity on the migrants and sent a ship to bring them to Australia where they worked on farms and re-established themselves.
The gentle illustrations make this an interesting read rather than a tale of disaster, and the text comforts with a happy family. Underneath the English text is a translation in Italian, which would make this a great book to share with a Nonna. Giovanni’s great granddaughter has written this story and very cleverly entertained and informed the readers of a little known snippet in history.