Titch is determined to find the gold buried somewhere on her family’s land. It might be tapu, but that won’t put her off. Then an encounter with a creature from the river reveals there are secrets beneath its surface.
A funny, compelling insight into Maori legend and culture, Nine Girls won the Supreme Margaret Mary Award at the Children’s Book Awards in 2024.
“I don’t believe in Santa anymore. Or god. I’m twelve now. I’ve been in a plane to Christchurch twice since then, and once you’ve done that and gone over the clouds and seen there’s nothing up there…well that’s the end of god. Plus, if he’s real, then explain why children are starving in Africa.
Tapu is different. It’s not like god or Santa. Tapu is real, and dangerous, and alive. it’s in the when all around us. It’s in our blood…
Nan’s not a Maori anymore but she still believes in tapu. She says the gold is still buried there on our farm with the tapu on it. A tainted fortune lying in wait for its victims, just like King Tut and the mummy’s curse, which I did a project on for school. My nan says the gold is still there to this day. And even though we are not real Maori anymore, I know that tapu is still real. And I suppose that is where my story begins…
This is an excellent coming-of-age story filled with strong characters. It’s frequently hilarious and deeply moving; a greatly enriching and engrossing read. Te reo Māori (the Maori language) throughout the book may feel unfamiliar to readers outside of Aotearoa New Zealand, so a glossary is included and there are notes at the back to clarify the historical detail and the author’s own story, which inspired the book. Recent government changes in Aotearoa New Zealand have sparked widespread concern surrounding Māori issues and with this in mind the book feels especially relevant. Highly recommended for readers aged 11+.
Readings.com.au