The Crossing
By (Author) Ernie Rijs
Brolga Publishing Pty Ltd
Brolga Publishing Pty Ltd
19th October 2022
Australia
Children
Fiction
823.92
Paperback
306
Tim is nearing the end of his final year of secondary school and all he wants is for it to finish. Against his better judgement he agrees to the Principals request for him to buddy up with Gabriel, a refugee from South Sudan. Two months and itll be done, he tells himself. But when both Tim and Gabriels father each make one simple, but momentous decision, they are propelled in directions they never imagined theyd go. Murph doesnt get it, Cat is shocked and angry, and Gabriel is in a coma. Tim must re-evaluate his relationships with his mother and estranged father and ultimately decide if hes got everything all wrong, and if theres any coming back.
What a ... very insightful and thought-provoking work! It touched on some real issues encountered by Africanyoung people. I could not stop reading it. -Dr William Abur, PhD and South Sudanese Australian.
This is an intriguing and gripping tale of African migration, coming of age, the consequences of our decisions and the journey to redemption. The highly relatable characters grapple with what it means to fit in and the meaning of friendship and family. This story is highly suited to a senior secondary English classroom, especially boys, as well as an adult audience.
Tara Sherlock - SeniorEnglishTeacher, Literacy Leader
The Crossingis told with grace, dignity and respect. It is very readable and the charactersfeel real. It is one of thosecrossover stories that will engage both YA and adult readers alike. -Julie Capaldo, Editor and award winning author.
Ernie is an educator of long standing. He has performed in and directed a range of stage theatre, writes 10-minute plays (seven of which are up for production) and short stories and creates a blog of eclectic topics (opinion, reflection and fiction). He is in the middle of his second novel and has plans for a third (a sequel to The Crossing). He lives on the edge of Melbourne.