Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop

Title:"Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop" ISBN:9781921042706 Author:Hazel Edwards Illustrator: Pat Reynolds Publisher;  New Frontier  & distributed via Scholastic.  *Included in 'Anzac Stories:Behind the Pages' travelling exhibition 2017-18

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The issue of what makes a hero makes this book especially relevant for young readers to discuss with their families who may remember 'Weary' personally.

'Weary' explores why this wartime surgeon  and rugby-player , is so well regarded. Melbourne born, farm boy 'Weary' was fascinated by medical science and sport. 'Weary' was his nickname. He was a very energetic man who took risks, but was compassionate.

In November 1939, after the outbreak of World War Two, Weary signed up for the Australian Army. In April 1942, Weary and his men became prisoners of war.

P.O.W.s (prisoners of war) regarded Weary's leadership against the Japanese prison guards  as heroic, because he saved lives through his medical skills but also by taking risks. Weary was stoic about his own health, but negotiated on behalf of his men, persuading the Japanese it was in their interests to have a healthier prisoner workforce to build the railway. On his childhood farm, Weary learnt to make-do, so he became an excellent  problem-solver, scrounging parts to build vital medical equipment in the prison camp or finding ways to build better latrines (toilets) to reduce infection. Later, he pioneered new types of surgery.

He didn't blame. After the war, Weary returned to the former war zones, to teach medicine.

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Buy your own copy of "Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop"

Visit your local bookshop or these online retailers have copies available - and you can purchase online:

Scholastic New Frontier  Publisher

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The Aussie Heroes Series

The Aussie Heroes series introduces junior readers to heroes who have made an important contribution to Australian society. Aimed at readers 10 plus

What Makes a Hero? Discussion Activity Use these points to discuss your hero.

Hazel's book will be included in a  2017-18  'Anzac Stories: Behind the Pages' touring exhibition 

The Weary Statue 

  

   The second sculpture is in the Benalla Gardens.

Educational Resources for Teachers

• ANZAC Behind the Pages Exhibition  touring 2017-8  'Weary' included.
• You can find more resources and classroom ideas for all of Hazel's Books by clicking through to the Teachers Resources Page.
• Check the Interviews with Hazel for background on writing recent books including 'Weary'.
• Hazel's other historical books include 'Antarctic Close Up' about the Mawson expedition.
• How To Write History for Kids, in Non Boring Ways 
• Writing about Weary for 8-13 year_olds. 
• From Hippos to Histories:  Blog Interview about the 'Weary' research process
• Discussion: What Makes a Hero? 
• The Looking Glass: Writing Non Boring Junior History & Heroes activity. 

Premier's Reading Challenge

Hazel's books are  listed as approved reading on Premiers' Reading Challenges throughout Australia:

• NSW Premier's Reading Challenge
• Victorian Premier's Reading Challenge
• South Australians Premier's Reading Challenge
• ACT Chief Minister's Reading Challenge

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Reviews and Feedback

Have you read 'Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop'? Why not send Hazel a comment? You can email Hazel, tweet Hazel or post a message on her Facebook Page.You could also write your own book review. Here are some of the comments online. 

• abc_radio_krista_bell_reviewing_weary.doc 'written in child-friendly mode'.
• Weary' write up a ripping read - Herald Sun Weekender, March 26, 2011
• Buzz Words Review 'This series allows young children to access information.'
• Leader newspapers 'tale of a man of great courage'
• Need to Read This!: featured authors & books such as our 'Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop'. 
• Kids Book Reviews  Anzac Day recommended reading
• Aussie Reviews.com  'A well rounded summary of a remarkable man.'
• KidsBookReview 'This is the essence of educational adventuring and it's addictive'  Jo Burnell
• The Book Chook: "Boys in particular will enjoy reading about Dunlop's sporting prowess.'
• New Frontier Publisher Blog  Relative Heroes and sharing an author's  poignant moment.
• Read Plus: child friendly
• My Little Bookcase  recommended junior history book list
• NSW Assoc for Gifted & Talented reminds readers that heroes were once children. A very readable account.

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