Remember Triple Zero Heroes J.E. Miller (Hawkeye Publishing) PB RRP $19.99 ISBN 9780643309973
Reviewed by Karen Hendriks
J.E. Miller loves writing inspiring stories from the heart. She joined the SES in 2009 and began volunteering to help others. She has won numerous medals in her role including a state Meritorious Service Medal, and a National Emergency Medal for significant service. She wrote Remember: Lest We Forget and now Remember: Triple Zero Heroes. And another Remember book is coming soon.
This story
follows a young child stepping into the different shoes of triple zero heroes. Including
stepping into an Anzac march, police officer, paramedic, fire fighter, mounted
police officer and an SES flood boat operator. Some of the stories shared are
based on real life experiences. The themes of ‘mateship’ and ‘courage’ are
woven throughout the book.
J.E. Miller has written from
experience, and it shows in every word. She draws the reader into the story with
an ANZAC march, where a soldier speaks not of heroes from wars, but of young
men and women wearing yellow, orange, green and blue. The strong opening
introduces the idea that heroes come in many forms - and each page turn reveals
a hero. Miller allows the visuals to speak as much as the text. Each emergency
services role shared offers depth and insight, helping readers understand the
bravery behind each uniform. Her use of language enhances the story message. Sizzling
flames and crashing walls can’t keep me from my course. Readers can easily imagine
themselves in each role, learning how these heroes help make our world a safer
place. This book ensures all emergency responders feel valued, respected
and acknowledged. The glossary at the back is a handy reference titled Unfamiliar
Words & Sayings. The thoughtful last page is about the author and her
connection to this story.
The
illustrative style is creative and unique because each emergency responder’s
page has its own illustrator. Although each illustrator has their own visual
voice, the illustrations go together cohesively. The cover is eye-catching and
immediately conveys that the story is about triple zero heroes. The realistic
images and fire fighter boots and hat are quite powerful. The endpapers feature
the triple zero heroes’ ribbon in a striking repeated pattern. Each
illustrator’s name is included unobtrusively and thoughtfully on their
illustration. The clever use of colour backgrounds of blues, yellow and green
tones make the book feel connected as one. I really think it is clever that
each service role has their own illustrator as each role is unique and so is
each illustrator.
Remember:
Triple Zero Heroes is a picture book with an important message, to
recognise the people in these roles and their importance. This book is a great
standalone read but also a doorway to other books in the Remember series.
Anyone that has a connection to triple zero responders will really love this book.
Children love superheroes and this book showcases real life heroes. The book is
suitable for children 4 years plus and a great resource for teachers and
librarians. It is also a uniquely Australian book.
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