Dear Mr Sprouts

Description

Dear Anke, Thank you for the seeds. We found them on Wednesday. I planted them in old trays from the shed, but ants got some. My dad says it's funny you sent mountain ash, because they used to grow here before we came. Yours faithfully, Frederick Forth When Anke launches her green balloon with an envelope of seeds attached, and Freddie finds it, they have no idea how the event will change their lives and transform the bare hills of Freddie's farm for ever. This city girl and country boy are as different as two people can be, but Freddie's first blunt letter begins a friendship that grows over the years, through all the adventures and challenges that come their way. Once you've read their letters, Freddie and Anke will be friends you'll never forget.

Errol Broome trained as a journalist with the West Australian. She has won many awards for her short stories and her books for children. Her novels are accessible and fun for a wide age range, and gently stir the reader's thoughts about relationships and questions of ethics.

'The story is one of hope and triumph over tragedy and disappointment. Ideal to read aloud to Year 5 and above.' UK School Librarian Spring 2007 issue'repays re-reading' Magpies'a wonderful story told through letters' Family Circle'an understated, reflective novel with subtly revealed characters, and themes of conservation and personal growth' Reading Time'exploits to perfection the letter form in establishing two memorable characters in a non-didactic manner the novel explores personal and social issues' Western Australian Premier's Book Awards judges report