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Tangara (novel) facts for kids

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Tangara
Author Nan Chauncy
Country Australia
Language English
Genre Children's fiction
Publisher Oxford University Press
Publication date
1960
Media type Print
Pages 180pp
Preceded by Devil's Hill 
Followed by Half a World Away 

Tangara is an exciting children's novel written by Australian author Nan Chauncy. It was first published in 1960 and features beautiful illustrations by Brian Wildsmith. This book won a special award, the Children's Book of the Year Award: Older Readers, in 1961. In America, it was known by a different name: The Secret Friends.

Discovering Tangara: A Children's Novel

What is Tangara About?

The story of Tangara follows a young girl named Lexie. She discovers an old necklace that once belonged to her great-great Aunt Rita. This discovery leads Lexie on an amazing adventure. She meets a new friend, Merrina, in a very special way.

Through her friendship with Merrina, Lexie learns about the history of the Tasmanian Aboriginal people. The book explores how people from different times and cultures can connect. It helps readers understand the importance of respecting different ways of life.

The novel is a mix of two exciting types of stories. It is partly a fantasy, meaning it has magical or imaginary elements. It is also partly historical fiction, which means it tells a story set in the past.

Meet the Author: Nan Chauncy

Nan Chauncy (1900–1970) was an important Australian writer. She was born in England but moved to Tasmania, Australia, when she was a teenager. Many of her books are set in the beautiful Tasmanian wilderness.

Chauncy loved to write stories for children. She often explored themes of nature, adventure, and understanding different cultures. Her books have won many awards and are still enjoyed by young readers today.

Why is Tangara Special?

Tangara is special because it combines adventure with important lessons. It teaches about friendship and empathy. The book also introduces readers to the history of Australia's First Peoples in a thoughtful way.

The novel's blend of fantasy and history makes it unique. It allows readers to imagine themselves in Lexie's shoes. This helps them learn about the past through an engaging story.

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