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The Wattle Island Book Club
Is it ever too late to rewrite your own story?
COURAGE
In 1950, teenager Anne flees Wattle Island for the big city, where she learns that establishing the life she's always dreamed of isn’t as easy as she thought. When a secret she’s been keeping is discovered, she has no choice but to retreat home and live a quiet life. But when tragedy strikes, establishing the Wattle Island book club is the only thing that offers her solace.
PASSION
In 2018, spirited librarian Grace has been writing bucket lists since she was a child, and is ticking off as many challenges as she can now that life has handed her a hefty dose of perspective. Heading to Wattle Island on one of her adventures, she is determined to uncover a long-held mystery surrounding the town’s historic book club, unlocking a buried truth that has been trapped between the dusty pages of secrecy for years.
HOPE
All too aware of how fragile life is, Anne and Grace must come together to help the residents of Wattle Island find the bravery to move beyond the trauma that tore the book club apart. Budding relationships offer new hope, along with a library project for the town’s future – but it will take more than a few lively literary debates to break the silence and heal the past.
Welcome to the Wattle Island Book Club, where some chapters may end, but others are just beginning...
COURAGE
In 1950, teenager Anne flees Wattle Island for the big city, where she learns that establishing the life she's always dreamed of isn’t as easy as she thought. When a secret she’s been keeping is discovered, she has no choice but to retreat home and live a quiet life. But when tragedy strikes, establishing the Wattle Island book club is the only thing that offers her solace.
PASSION
In 2018, spirited librarian Grace has been writing bucket lists since she was a child, and is ticking off as many challenges as she can now that life has handed her a hefty dose of perspective. Heading to Wattle Island on one of her adventures, she is determined to uncover a long-held mystery surrounding the town’s historic book club, unlocking a buried truth that has been trapped between the dusty pages of secrecy for years.
HOPE
All too aware of how fragile life is, Anne and Grace must come together to help the residents of Wattle Island find the bravery to move beyond the trauma that tore the book club apart. Budding relationships offer new hope, along with a library project for the town’s future – but it will take more than a few lively literary debates to break the silence and heal the past.
Welcome to the Wattle Island Book Club, where some chapters may end, but others are just beginning...
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
About the author
Sandie Docker
6 books220 followersAustralian author, Sandie Docker grew up in Coffs Harbour, and first fell in love with reading when her father introduced her to fantasy books as a teenager. Her love of Women’s Fiction began when she first read Jane Austen for the HSC, but it wasn’t until she was taking a translation course at university that her Mandarin lecturer suggested she might have a knack for writing – a seed of an idea that sat quietly in the back of her mind while she lived overseas and travelled the world.
Now back in Sydney, Sandie writes about love, loss, family and small country towns. Her debut novel, The Kookaburra Creek Café, was released in 2018, The Cottage At Rosella Cove in 2019, the German edition of The Kookaburra Creek Cafe - Das kleine Café der großen Träume, was released in Jan, 2020, The Banksia Bay Beach Shack in 202O, The Wattle Island Book Club in 2021 and The Redgum River Retreat in 2023. Her new novel, The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir, will be released in June 2024. Sandie is also the founder and director of The Northern Beaches Readers Festival..
Now back in Sydney, Sandie writes about love, loss, family and small country towns. Her debut novel, The Kookaburra Creek Café, was released in 2018, The Cottage At Rosella Cove in 2019, the German edition of The Kookaburra Creek Cafe - Das kleine Café der großen Träume, was released in Jan, 2020, The Banksia Bay Beach Shack in 202O, The Wattle Island Book Club in 2021 and The Redgum River Retreat in 2023. Her new novel, The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir, will be released in June 2024. Sandie is also the founder and director of The Northern Beaches Readers Festival..
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
September 12, 2023
Two time lines -Anne in the 1950's and Grace in 2018 -come together to create a moving and heart warming story. It follows the rise and fall and rise again of the Wattle Island Book Club and shows the ways in which close friends and good books can help us through the worst of times.
I enjoyed the many different characters and the relationships between them. Anne's love for a Japanese man so soon after the end of WW2 was always going to be fraught with problems, but was very precious to her and gave her her son, Sam. Grace has a more personal battle to fight but still is able to experience great love.
This is a very emotional book which deals with some serious issues. In the end love, friendship and a book club win the day.
I enjoyed the many different characters and the relationships between them. Anne's love for a Japanese man so soon after the end of WW2 was always going to be fraught with problems, but was very precious to her and gave her her son, Sam. Grace has a more personal battle to fight but still is able to experience great love.
This is a very emotional book which deals with some serious issues. In the end love, friendship and a book club win the day.
September 5, 2021
In 2018 when librarian Grace received a phone call from Anne, an elderly resident of Wattle Island, Grace had no idea the changes that were ahead of her. Grace loved her work at the local library in Port Maddison and knowing her best friend Linh always had her back. But when she learned Anne wanted to start the book club up on Wattle Island after a seven year hiatus, she was intrigued. Sending the first box of book club books to the island via the weekly supply boat, then waiting to see how the first meeting went, kept Grace on her toes. Grace had always had a bucket list, ever since she was ten. Now, after joining the Madison Adventure Warriors, the bungy jump she’d done with the team had been exhilarating – scary, but exciting. What would she do next?
After Anne had lost her parents, she’d joined her Aunt Bess on Wattle Island. She was a teenager, and the small school was enough for Anne to excel in her endeavors to leave the island for Sydney and move ahead with her life. But first she needed an education. Her return to Wattle Island after some time in Sydney felt like coming home. Now, she knew her time was limited – the book club was something she missed and would be happy to see start up again. But would the rest of the islanders?
Grace decided a holiday on Wattle Island would add nicely to her bucket list, so she joined Anne and the group for their second get together. Meeting Anne was a pleasure for Grace, and she also met her grandson Sam and his eight-year-old daughter Addie. One of Grace’s long-held bucket list items was ‘solve a mystery’. Well, she had one right in front of her on Wattle Island – but could she solve it?
The Wattle Island Book Club is another exceptional read by Aussie author Sandie Docker – in fact, in my opinion it’s her best yet! Emotional, heartwarming yet heartbreaking, the plot is perfect, the characters special, especially Addie and her best friend, Emmeline Harris (a cow). Each of the author's four books have divine covers, including this one, and I’ve loved everything Ms Docker has written. In fact, The Wattle Island Book Club will stay in my mind for a long time to come. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Penguin Random House AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
After Anne had lost her parents, she’d joined her Aunt Bess on Wattle Island. She was a teenager, and the small school was enough for Anne to excel in her endeavors to leave the island for Sydney and move ahead with her life. But first she needed an education. Her return to Wattle Island after some time in Sydney felt like coming home. Now, she knew her time was limited – the book club was something she missed and would be happy to see start up again. But would the rest of the islanders?
Grace decided a holiday on Wattle Island would add nicely to her bucket list, so she joined Anne and the group for their second get together. Meeting Anne was a pleasure for Grace, and she also met her grandson Sam and his eight-year-old daughter Addie. One of Grace’s long-held bucket list items was ‘solve a mystery’. Well, she had one right in front of her on Wattle Island – but could she solve it?
The Wattle Island Book Club is another exceptional read by Aussie author Sandie Docker – in fact, in my opinion it’s her best yet! Emotional, heartwarming yet heartbreaking, the plot is perfect, the characters special, especially Addie and her best friend, Emmeline Harris (a cow). Each of the author's four books have divine covers, including this one, and I’ve loved everything Ms Docker has written. In fact, The Wattle Island Book Club will stay in my mind for a long time to come. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Penguin Random House AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2022
Grace Elliot worshipped her Uncle Craig and it was he who encouraged her from a young age to create a bucket list. He told her it was good to have dreams, big ones to chase your whole life and little ones you can easily conquer. So from the age of seven Grace got busy with her yellow crayon and on a piece of blue paper, she wrote her first bucket list.
Over the years Grace changed her bucket list, some things were ticked off the list and some were removed as she wasn’t interested in doing them anymore. One of the things on her list was Bungee Jumping, but it had taken her quite a while to build up the courage and when her best friend Linh Tran talked her into finally doing it she was a nervous wreck.
Five years ago Grace bought a 1930’s home which she was excited about as it was a home full of potential. Grace worked at the Port Maddison Regional Library and after dealing with her recent diagnosis of cancer this was her one constant. When Grace started running the library’s book clubs six years ago there had only been eight of them and management had been ready to get rid of the program entirely. But Grace fought hard to keep the book clubs and through all her hard work the library serviced fifty-three book clubs.
When Grace takes a phone call from an elderly lady by the name of Anne Sato she soon finds out that Anne wanted to resurrect the Wattle Island Book Club and wanted some help getting it off the ground again, and sourcing some decent material to read. Grace was in her element and she was more than capable of matching people with books, but getting books over to Wattle Island could be a challenge and she knew it would take some planning. Grace was so invested in this book club that she ended up taking a trip to Wattle Island. Joining in on one of their meetings and meeting Anne and some of the other group members was such a special time for Grace. After chatting with Anne, Grace quickly learns that people on this Island were hiding something, but what could it be? One of the items on Grace’s bucket list was to solve a mystery will she be able to solve the mystery on Wattle Island and tick this item off her list.
One more thing I’d like to add in this long review is something Grace said which was, I believe in the power of books. Not only for education. They bring people together, they allow you to escape, allow you to heal.
Aussie author Sandie Docker is fast becoming another favourite author of mine. I LOVED everything about this book from the setting, the characters, the well thought out plot and of course I must not forget to mention the beautiful cover. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Over the years Grace changed her bucket list, some things were ticked off the list and some were removed as she wasn’t interested in doing them anymore. One of the things on her list was Bungee Jumping, but it had taken her quite a while to build up the courage and when her best friend Linh Tran talked her into finally doing it she was a nervous wreck.
Five years ago Grace bought a 1930’s home which she was excited about as it was a home full of potential. Grace worked at the Port Maddison Regional Library and after dealing with her recent diagnosis of cancer this was her one constant. When Grace started running the library’s book clubs six years ago there had only been eight of them and management had been ready to get rid of the program entirely. But Grace fought hard to keep the book clubs and through all her hard work the library serviced fifty-three book clubs.
When Grace takes a phone call from an elderly lady by the name of Anne Sato she soon finds out that Anne wanted to resurrect the Wattle Island Book Club and wanted some help getting it off the ground again, and sourcing some decent material to read. Grace was in her element and she was more than capable of matching people with books, but getting books over to Wattle Island could be a challenge and she knew it would take some planning. Grace was so invested in this book club that she ended up taking a trip to Wattle Island. Joining in on one of their meetings and meeting Anne and some of the other group members was such a special time for Grace. After chatting with Anne, Grace quickly learns that people on this Island were hiding something, but what could it be? One of the items on Grace’s bucket list was to solve a mystery will she be able to solve the mystery on Wattle Island and tick this item off her list.
One more thing I’d like to add in this long review is something Grace said which was, I believe in the power of books. Not only for education. They bring people together, they allow you to escape, allow you to heal.
Aussie author Sandie Docker is fast becoming another favourite author of mine. I LOVED everything about this book from the setting, the characters, the well thought out plot and of course I must not forget to mention the beautiful cover. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
July 27, 2022
This is a lovely book about friendship, love and hope and the power of books to bring a community together. I loved all the main characters. Anne, the little orphan sent to live with her aunt in the 1950s on tiny Wattle Island who discovered the importance of love and home. Also, her grandson Sam who has suffered a great tragedy and has withdrawn into himself, and his little daughter Addie who loves books and has a pet cow called Emmeline Harris. And then there is librarian Grace with her bucket list and indomitable spirit who is determined to find out what happened seven years ago to cause the Wattle Island book club to disband. The novel touches on many topics including racism, cancer, suicide and mental illness and although this was balanced with charm and humour, it made for a heartwarming but occasionally heartbreaking read.
February 11, 2022
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**4.5 stars**
The Wattle Island Book Club by Sandie Docker. (2021).
In 1950, teenager Anne flees Wattle Island for the big city, but it isn't ready. When a secret she's been keeping is discovered, she has no choice but to go home. But when tragedy strikes, establishing the Wattle Island Book Club is the only thing that offers solace. In 2018, spirited librarian Grace has been ticking off challenges on her bucket lists she's been writing since childhood. Heading to Wattle Island, she is determined to uncover a long-held mystery around the book club. Both women are aware of how fragile life is, and just come together to help the residents find the bravery to move being the trauma that tore the book club apart...
I was really looking forward to reading this book after loving the author's last novel (The Banksia Bay Beach Shack). I can happily confirm that this book is also a truly excellent read. With a cast of intriguing characters and primarily set on a little island, it would be hard to not be engrossed by the storylines. The book moves between Grace and Ann's perspectives, as well as shifting through time to explain each woman's history. Both women have suffered greatly in different ways, as have many people in their lives. I will admit that at the end I was openly crying because it honestly tore at my heartstrings.
Overall: 100% recommend this fabulous book, and I really need to read all of the author's previous novels ASAP.
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**4.5 stars**
The Wattle Island Book Club by Sandie Docker. (2021).
In 1950, teenager Anne flees Wattle Island for the big city, but it isn't ready. When a secret she's been keeping is discovered, she has no choice but to go home. But when tragedy strikes, establishing the Wattle Island Book Club is the only thing that offers solace. In 2018, spirited librarian Grace has been ticking off challenges on her bucket lists she's been writing since childhood. Heading to Wattle Island, she is determined to uncover a long-held mystery around the book club. Both women are aware of how fragile life is, and just come together to help the residents find the bravery to move being the trauma that tore the book club apart...
I was really looking forward to reading this book after loving the author's last novel (The Banksia Bay Beach Shack). I can happily confirm that this book is also a truly excellent read. With a cast of intriguing characters and primarily set on a little island, it would be hard to not be engrossed by the storylines. The book moves between Grace and Ann's perspectives, as well as shifting through time to explain each woman's history. Both women have suffered greatly in different ways, as have many people in their lives. I will admit that at the end I was openly crying because it honestly tore at my heartstrings.
Overall: 100% recommend this fabulous book, and I really need to read all of the author's previous novels ASAP.
August 22, 2021
The Wattle Island Book Club is the fourth novel by Australian author, Sandie Docker. Now in her eighties, Anne Sato has lived most of her life on Wattle Island. Her decision to restart the Wattle Island Book Club will, she is sure, meet with criticism, but it is born of a desire heal the hurting that ensued after their last meeting, seven years earlier. Her deepest desire is for her grandson to begin properly living again before she departs this life.
Anne’s call to the Port Maddison Regional Library is taken by Grace Elliott, who expertly manages the many clubs for which the library caters; she efficiently sends out a tub of books on the supply ship. When, on her follow up with Anne, the reaction is somewhat equivocal, Grace proposes attending their next meeting to facilitate. A visit to an island will fit nicely into the bucket lists that Grace is determinedly attempting to tick off.
As an artist, Anne finds her go-to for relaxation and de-stressing is to paint, but lately her imagination takes her to long-ago memories: when thirteen-year-old Anne Webb arrives on Wattle Island in 1947 to live with an aunt she’s never met, she’s clutching the one book she managed to grab from her mother’s bookshelf: Anne of Green Gables. There are no books in Aunt Bess’s spartan little cottage, nor does the island school’s library boast an extensive range.
Anne is grateful when Jeremiah Allen, the deckhand on the Seafarer, agrees to bring books from the mainland library to feed the voracious reading appetite that is her parents’ legacy. It’s not something other islanders of her age share. It sets her apart, as does her befriending of the new deckhand, Tadashi, whose love of literature matches her own. But what she wants most is to return to the city.
Grace is completely enchanted by Wattle Island and its residents, a little destabilised by Anne’s gorgeous, brooding grandson but eagerly anticipating the book club gathering. Solving a mystery has been on Grace’s bucket lists ever since she was seven, and she can’t help being drawn in to the mystery surrounding the seven-year hiatus in the Wattle Island Book Club’s gatherings: an empty book shop, and a pervasive sadness amongst the townspeople. But it’s clear from the reactions of some that her interest is not entirely welcome…
This is a wonderfully romantic story that champions libraries and reading, and it is difficult not to fall in love with these characters from the outset, and become invested in their fates. Docker easily captures both the island’s village atmosphere and the post-war mindset of the Australian public: the rampant sexism, xenophobia and homophobia characteristic of the era.
Her descriptions of the art and sculpture will have readers craving a peek into the studios, and she gives her characters some wise words and insightful observations: “Life was what it was. Always had been. No one was in control, despite the human race being rather adept at fooling itself into believing it was” and “We can’t move on from our scars. They are part of who we are. It’s only when we accept that, that we can be whole again” are examples. From Sandie Docker the reader is always guaranteed a superb Australian-flavoured feel-good read.
This unbiased review is from a copy provided by the author.
Anne’s call to the Port Maddison Regional Library is taken by Grace Elliott, who expertly manages the many clubs for which the library caters; she efficiently sends out a tub of books on the supply ship. When, on her follow up with Anne, the reaction is somewhat equivocal, Grace proposes attending their next meeting to facilitate. A visit to an island will fit nicely into the bucket lists that Grace is determinedly attempting to tick off.
As an artist, Anne finds her go-to for relaxation and de-stressing is to paint, but lately her imagination takes her to long-ago memories: when thirteen-year-old Anne Webb arrives on Wattle Island in 1947 to live with an aunt she’s never met, she’s clutching the one book she managed to grab from her mother’s bookshelf: Anne of Green Gables. There are no books in Aunt Bess’s spartan little cottage, nor does the island school’s library boast an extensive range.
Anne is grateful when Jeremiah Allen, the deckhand on the Seafarer, agrees to bring books from the mainland library to feed the voracious reading appetite that is her parents’ legacy. It’s not something other islanders of her age share. It sets her apart, as does her befriending of the new deckhand, Tadashi, whose love of literature matches her own. But what she wants most is to return to the city.
Grace is completely enchanted by Wattle Island and its residents, a little destabilised by Anne’s gorgeous, brooding grandson but eagerly anticipating the book club gathering. Solving a mystery has been on Grace’s bucket lists ever since she was seven, and she can’t help being drawn in to the mystery surrounding the seven-year hiatus in the Wattle Island Book Club’s gatherings: an empty book shop, and a pervasive sadness amongst the townspeople. But it’s clear from the reactions of some that her interest is not entirely welcome…
This is a wonderfully romantic story that champions libraries and reading, and it is difficult not to fall in love with these characters from the outset, and become invested in their fates. Docker easily captures both the island’s village atmosphere and the post-war mindset of the Australian public: the rampant sexism, xenophobia and homophobia characteristic of the era.
Her descriptions of the art and sculpture will have readers craving a peek into the studios, and she gives her characters some wise words and insightful observations: “Life was what it was. Always had been. No one was in control, despite the human race being rather adept at fooling itself into believing it was” and “We can’t move on from our scars. They are part of who we are. It’s only when we accept that, that we can be whole again” are examples. From Sandie Docker the reader is always guaranteed a superb Australian-flavoured feel-good read.
This unbiased review is from a copy provided by the author.
May 19, 2023
2018 and Grace Elliott is working her way through the bucket list challenges she has been setting herself since she was 10 years old. Over the years as hse grows older the lists change. Some things get ticked off, others not so much. One of her long held bucket list challenges is to solve a mystery. In the end it emerges through Anne Sato, an artist living on Wattle Island. Anne wants to revive the book club which had been started many years earlier and stopped inexplicably seven years ago. Grace views this as a chance to restart and help the book cub, encourage the reading habit, and solve a mystery at the same time.
What she hadn’t counted on was how attached she would become to Anne and the other Wattle Island community members, including Anne’s grandson Sam and his eight year old daughter Addie.
What was the tragedy that halted the book club in its tracks? And can she help them move on from it? But at what cost?
Told in time frames starting from the 1950s when Anne is a teenager as well as 2018, this
story is heartbreaking, sad, beautiful and ultimately filled with hope. It is also thought provoking and covers some sensitive issues, which I won’t go into here. Read it and fall in love with Grace, Anne and the inhabitants of Wattle Island and spare a tender thought for Grace’s loving mother June.
Good luck getting through this book without tears. I couldn’t. Filled with endearing characters, a beautiful setting, lots of info about reading, books and stunning pieces of art, there is just so much to enjoy within its pages. I have loved every one of this author’s books and this was no exception. Highly recommended as a book to fall in love with and treasure.
What she hadn’t counted on was how attached she would become to Anne and the other Wattle Island community members, including Anne’s grandson Sam and his eight year old daughter Addie.
What was the tragedy that halted the book club in its tracks? And can she help them move on from it? But at what cost?
Told in time frames starting from the 1950s when Anne is a teenager as well as 2018, this
story is heartbreaking, sad, beautiful and ultimately filled with hope. It is also thought provoking and covers some sensitive issues, which I won’t go into here. Read it and fall in love with Grace, Anne and the inhabitants of Wattle Island and spare a tender thought for Grace’s loving mother June.
Good luck getting through this book without tears. I couldn’t. Filled with endearing characters, a beautiful setting, lots of info about reading, books and stunning pieces of art, there is just so much to enjoy within its pages. I have loved every one of this author’s books and this was no exception. Highly recommended as a book to fall in love with and treasure.
September 23, 2021
Wonderful!!
This book is Magic!
It shows you the power and the magic behind books.
It guides us through the building and growing of several different characters, their trials and tribulations, and their relationships to each other, which are made cohesive through their individual and collective love of books and the written word.
We get an intimate look into the lives of a small island community and their long, woven history to one another.
One in particular is the protagonist, Anne, who is suddenly orphaned at a young age and sent to live on Wattle Island … some 500 or so miles from the mainland…with her only remaining living relative, an aunt she has never met.
Anne has meagre belongings in tow as her home and all of it’s contents were sold to afford her fare and upkeep at her new home with her aunt Bess, until she is old enough to leave and make her own way.
Alone, and with just a small suitcase of few clothes and, after her last minute dash to grab her favourite book from under her bed…Anne of Green Gables, her most beloved possession…Anne waits at the dock on a wet and windy day for the small provisions boat which sails weekly, to take her to her unexpected new life.
We follow Anne’s eventful life and experiences as she grows up on Wattle Island and beyond, as she navigates the often difficult lessons and trials of finding an independent way in life and love, in post war Australia and into the 1950’s.
This is a truly beautiful book, one that you want to make last but find hard to put down. The sentiments and emotions are palpable, and characters convincingly portrayed.
It teaches us by example that the beauty of books is….their magic, their ability to transport a reader into other realms, into other states of mind or being.
To an avid reader, a good book is like a mood altering drug…sometimes the effects are temporary and sometimes more lasting, depending on the topic and the intention.
A book can effectively convey fear, passion, sadness, compassion, empathy, humour, wellbeing and much more, only limited by the authors’ ability to express such emotions in words.
An awesome talent indeed when such effects are achieved through the arrangement of words on pages. It is like magic!
But it takes a special kind of author to be able to weave such magic, and I believe Sandie Docker has done just that with this lovely book.
I have read only one of her books previously and am now compelled to buy the other two immediately…because I want more Magic!
The power of books can be healing.
The cohesive nature of books….bringing people together by sharing their love of reading or through the stories they read, through clubs, libraries, reading groups, cafe book shops, etc…
Such is the magic of books…“they can turn strangers into friends.”
I believe this is one such book.
I’m very much looking forward to reading my next two waiting books from Sandie Docker!
5⭐️s
This book is Magic!
It shows you the power and the magic behind books.
It guides us through the building and growing of several different characters, their trials and tribulations, and their relationships to each other, which are made cohesive through their individual and collective love of books and the written word.
We get an intimate look into the lives of a small island community and their long, woven history to one another.
One in particular is the protagonist, Anne, who is suddenly orphaned at a young age and sent to live on Wattle Island … some 500 or so miles from the mainland…with her only remaining living relative, an aunt she has never met.
Anne has meagre belongings in tow as her home and all of it’s contents were sold to afford her fare and upkeep at her new home with her aunt Bess, until she is old enough to leave and make her own way.
Alone, and with just a small suitcase of few clothes and, after her last minute dash to grab her favourite book from under her bed…Anne of Green Gables, her most beloved possession…Anne waits at the dock on a wet and windy day for the small provisions boat which sails weekly, to take her to her unexpected new life.
We follow Anne’s eventful life and experiences as she grows up on Wattle Island and beyond, as she navigates the often difficult lessons and trials of finding an independent way in life and love, in post war Australia and into the 1950’s.
This is a truly beautiful book, one that you want to make last but find hard to put down. The sentiments and emotions are palpable, and characters convincingly portrayed.
It teaches us by example that the beauty of books is….their magic, their ability to transport a reader into other realms, into other states of mind or being.
To an avid reader, a good book is like a mood altering drug…sometimes the effects are temporary and sometimes more lasting, depending on the topic and the intention.
A book can effectively convey fear, passion, sadness, compassion, empathy, humour, wellbeing and much more, only limited by the authors’ ability to express such emotions in words.
An awesome talent indeed when such effects are achieved through the arrangement of words on pages. It is like magic!
But it takes a special kind of author to be able to weave such magic, and I believe Sandie Docker has done just that with this lovely book.
I have read only one of her books previously and am now compelled to buy the other two immediately…because I want more Magic!
The power of books can be healing.
The cohesive nature of books….bringing people together by sharing their love of reading or through the stories they read, through clubs, libraries, reading groups, cafe book shops, etc…
Such is the magic of books…“they can turn strangers into friends.”
I believe this is one such book.
I’m very much looking forward to reading my next two waiting books from Sandie Docker!
5⭐️s
September 26, 2021
This is a heart-wrenching, heart-warming beautiful story, a story of passion, courage and hope, a story that opens up so many emotions through books and stories it shows how they can bring people together, it shows that friends are there for each other when most needed and how books can help to bring people together so easily this is a must read book, one that I loved so very much.
It is 1950 and young teenager Anne has been living with her aunt for many years now on Wattle Island and she wants nothing more than to leave and get to Sydney and make a life for herself. She soon discovers that it is not so easy and when it is discovers that she is involved with someone who society deems not the right type, she and he are soon back on Wattle Island finding happiness and peace, that is until tragedy strikes and Anne’s life changes again.
It is 2018 and librarian Grace is struggling with health but has kept positive and has had a journal since she was seven, a bucket list that she is doing her best to tick off, Grace is a big reader and very invested in book clubs when she receives a call from Anne on Wattle Island requesting help to resume the Islands book club which stopped seven years ago. Grace is more than happy to help and decides that visiting the Island is the best way to help and discovers a mystery that she needs to uncover which will aid the book club and change Grace’s life as well as a few of the residents of Wattle Island.
Grace and Anne make friends instantly and work together to do what they can to get this book club going strong but first Grace must get to the bottom of the mystery as to why it stopped and doing so finds her opening up emotions that had been buried deep. Grace is getting very close to Anne’s son Sam and his young daughter Addie and with a new project to start a library on the island in full swing secrets are uncovered that sees darkness left behind.
This really is a gorgeous story, oh there were many tears shed by me, but there were lots of smiles as well, getting to know the characters who live on Wattle Island was pure joy they are beautiful people I love Addie’s pet cow, and then there are the art works and pottery descriptions wow and of course the books talked about all of this added to make this a brilliant story, thank you MS Docker for another keeper. This is one that I would highly recommend to any booklover.
It is 1950 and young teenager Anne has been living with her aunt for many years now on Wattle Island and she wants nothing more than to leave and get to Sydney and make a life for herself. She soon discovers that it is not so easy and when it is discovers that she is involved with someone who society deems not the right type, she and he are soon back on Wattle Island finding happiness and peace, that is until tragedy strikes and Anne’s life changes again.
It is 2018 and librarian Grace is struggling with health but has kept positive and has had a journal since she was seven, a bucket list that she is doing her best to tick off, Grace is a big reader and very invested in book clubs when she receives a call from Anne on Wattle Island requesting help to resume the Islands book club which stopped seven years ago. Grace is more than happy to help and decides that visiting the Island is the best way to help and discovers a mystery that she needs to uncover which will aid the book club and change Grace’s life as well as a few of the residents of Wattle Island.
Grace and Anne make friends instantly and work together to do what they can to get this book club going strong but first Grace must get to the bottom of the mystery as to why it stopped and doing so finds her opening up emotions that had been buried deep. Grace is getting very close to Anne’s son Sam and his young daughter Addie and with a new project to start a library on the island in full swing secrets are uncovered that sees darkness left behind.
This really is a gorgeous story, oh there were many tears shed by me, but there were lots of smiles as well, getting to know the characters who live on Wattle Island was pure joy they are beautiful people I love Addie’s pet cow, and then there are the art works and pottery descriptions wow and of course the books talked about all of this added to make this a brilliant story, thank you MS Docker for another keeper. This is one that I would highly recommend to any booklover.
October 10, 2021
The Wattle Island Book Club is the fourth novel by Australian author, Sandie Docker. The audio version is narrated by Taylor Owynns. Now in her eighties, Anne Sato has lived most of her life on Wattle Island. Her decision to restart the Wattle Island Book Club will, she is sure, meet with criticism, but it is born of a desire heal the hurting that ensued after their last meeting, seven years earlier. Her deepest desire is for her grandson to begin properly living again before she departs this life.
Anne’s call to the Port Maddison Regional Library is taken by Grace Elliott, who expertly manages the many clubs for which the library caters; she efficiently sends out a tub of books on the supply ship. When, on her follow up with Anne, the reaction is somewhat equivocal, Grace proposes attending their next meeting to facilitate. A visit to an island will fit nicely into the bucket lists that Grace is determinedly attempting to tick off.
As an artist, Anne finds her go-to for relaxation and de-stressing is to paint, but lately her imagination takes her to long-ago memories: when thirteen-year-old Anne Webb arrives on Wattle Island in 1947 to live with an aunt she’s never met, she’s clutching the one book she managed to grab from her mother’s bookshelf: Anne of Green Gables. There are no books in Aunt Bess’s spartan little cottage, nor does the island school’s library boast an extensive range.
Anne is grateful when Jeremiah Allen, the deckhand on the Seafarer, agrees to bring books from the mainland library to feed the voracious reading appetite that is her parents’ legacy. It’s not something other islanders of her age share. It sets her apart, as does her befriending of the new deckhand, Tadashi, whose love of literature matches her own. But what she wants most is to return to the city.
Grace is completely enchanted by Wattle Island and its residents, a little destabilised by Anne’s gorgeous, brooding grandson but eagerly anticipating the book club gathering. Solving a mystery has been on Grace’s bucket lists ever since she was seven, and she can’t help being drawn in to the mystery surrounding the seven-year hiatus in the Wattle Island Book Club’s gatherings: an empty book shop, and a pervasive sadness amongst the townspeople. But it’s clear from the reactions of some that her interest is not entirely welcome…
This is a wonderfully romantic story that champions libraries and reading, and it is difficult not to fall in love with these characters from the outset, and become invested in their fates. Docker easily captures both the island’s village atmosphere and the post-war mindset of the Australian public: the rampant sexism, xenophobia and homophobia characteristic of the era.
Her descriptions of the art and sculpture will have readers craving a peek into the studios, and she gives her characters some wise words and insightful observations: “Life was what it was. Always had been. No one was in control, despite the human race being rather adept at fooling itself into believing it was” and “We can’t move on from our scars. They are part of who we are. It’s only when we accept that, that we can be whole again” are examples. From Sandie Docker the reader is always guaranteed a superb Australian-flavoured feel-good read.
Anne’s call to the Port Maddison Regional Library is taken by Grace Elliott, who expertly manages the many clubs for which the library caters; she efficiently sends out a tub of books on the supply ship. When, on her follow up with Anne, the reaction is somewhat equivocal, Grace proposes attending their next meeting to facilitate. A visit to an island will fit nicely into the bucket lists that Grace is determinedly attempting to tick off.
As an artist, Anne finds her go-to for relaxation and de-stressing is to paint, but lately her imagination takes her to long-ago memories: when thirteen-year-old Anne Webb arrives on Wattle Island in 1947 to live with an aunt she’s never met, she’s clutching the one book she managed to grab from her mother’s bookshelf: Anne of Green Gables. There are no books in Aunt Bess’s spartan little cottage, nor does the island school’s library boast an extensive range.
Anne is grateful when Jeremiah Allen, the deckhand on the Seafarer, agrees to bring books from the mainland library to feed the voracious reading appetite that is her parents’ legacy. It’s not something other islanders of her age share. It sets her apart, as does her befriending of the new deckhand, Tadashi, whose love of literature matches her own. But what she wants most is to return to the city.
Grace is completely enchanted by Wattle Island and its residents, a little destabilised by Anne’s gorgeous, brooding grandson but eagerly anticipating the book club gathering. Solving a mystery has been on Grace’s bucket lists ever since she was seven, and she can’t help being drawn in to the mystery surrounding the seven-year hiatus in the Wattle Island Book Club’s gatherings: an empty book shop, and a pervasive sadness amongst the townspeople. But it’s clear from the reactions of some that her interest is not entirely welcome…
This is a wonderfully romantic story that champions libraries and reading, and it is difficult not to fall in love with these characters from the outset, and become invested in their fates. Docker easily captures both the island’s village atmosphere and the post-war mindset of the Australian public: the rampant sexism, xenophobia and homophobia characteristic of the era.
Her descriptions of the art and sculpture will have readers craving a peek into the studios, and she gives her characters some wise words and insightful observations: “Life was what it was. Always had been. No one was in control, despite the human race being rather adept at fooling itself into believing it was” and “We can’t move on from our scars. They are part of who we are. It’s only when we accept that, that we can be whole again” are examples. From Sandie Docker the reader is always guaranteed a superb Australian-flavoured feel-good read.
September 9, 2021
The Wattle Island Book Club, the fourth book from Australian author Sandie Docker, is a bittersweet story about love, loss, courage, passion and hope.
Seven years after the last meeting of the book club on Wattle Island, octogenarian artist, Anne Sato, is determined to revive it, hoping in part that it will provide her grandson, Sam, with the impetus to move past the tragedy that haunts him. Reaching out to a library on the mainland, Anne is put in contact with Grace Elliot who is happy to help, despite the logistical challenges. When Anne reports a lacklustre participation in the first book club meeting, Grace proposes attending the next gathering. Not only is she eager to encourage the success of book club, but visiting the island will fulfil an item on her bucket list, which Grace is running out of time to complete.
Anne is a delightful character with a little of the sass that comes from no longer worrying much what others think of you. A recent stroke is her motivation for reviving the book club, which she hopes will not only bring the community together, but also help her grandson. Further insight into her character comes through Anne’s reminiscing about the past, from arriving on the island as an orphan to be placed in the care of her aunt, through to her unconventional (for the times) courtship and marriage to Tadashi Sato.
Grace is initially a bit of an enigma. When we are first introduced she seems to be like any twenty something year old, indulging in adventures like bungee jumping and skydiving with her best friend, though there are early hints that not all is as it seems. I liked the idea of Grace’s evolving bucket list (I’ve never put together one of my own, suspecting it would just say ‘Read more often’) and her determination to live on her terms. Grace is a character that garnered both my admiration and sympathy.
Docker touches on some serious issues in The Wattle Island Book Club including misogyny, racism, mental illness, suicide and cancer, but the power of literature to change lives is a theme that unifies the characters, as well as the past and the present. Readers will no doubt enjoy references to cultural classics such as Anne of Green Gables, Bridget Jones Diary and Jane Austen’s oeuvre.
Combining history, romance, literature, art, and a touch of mystery, there is plenty to engage with in The Wattle Island Book Club. However, It would be remiss of me not to mention there is a fairly major element of the story I have mixed feelings about, and though I was somewhat mollified by the epilogue, it would definitely be something I’d raise for discussion in a book club.
The Wattle Island Book Club is a captivating, wistful, and poignant novel, and would make a wonderful selection for your next book club meeting.
Seven years after the last meeting of the book club on Wattle Island, octogenarian artist, Anne Sato, is determined to revive it, hoping in part that it will provide her grandson, Sam, with the impetus to move past the tragedy that haunts him. Reaching out to a library on the mainland, Anne is put in contact with Grace Elliot who is happy to help, despite the logistical challenges. When Anne reports a lacklustre participation in the first book club meeting, Grace proposes attending the next gathering. Not only is she eager to encourage the success of book club, but visiting the island will fulfil an item on her bucket list, which Grace is running out of time to complete.
Anne is a delightful character with a little of the sass that comes from no longer worrying much what others think of you. A recent stroke is her motivation for reviving the book club, which she hopes will not only bring the community together, but also help her grandson. Further insight into her character comes through Anne’s reminiscing about the past, from arriving on the island as an orphan to be placed in the care of her aunt, through to her unconventional (for the times) courtship and marriage to Tadashi Sato.
Grace is initially a bit of an enigma. When we are first introduced she seems to be like any twenty something year old, indulging in adventures like bungee jumping and skydiving with her best friend, though there are early hints that not all is as it seems. I liked the idea of Grace’s evolving bucket list (I’ve never put together one of my own, suspecting it would just say ‘Read more often’) and her determination to live on her terms. Grace is a character that garnered both my admiration and sympathy.
Docker touches on some serious issues in The Wattle Island Book Club including misogyny, racism, mental illness, suicide and cancer, but the power of literature to change lives is a theme that unifies the characters, as well as the past and the present. Readers will no doubt enjoy references to cultural classics such as Anne of Green Gables, Bridget Jones Diary and Jane Austen’s oeuvre.
Combining history, romance, literature, art, and a touch of mystery, there is plenty to engage with in The Wattle Island Book Club. However, It would be remiss of me not to mention there is a fairly major element of the story I have mixed feelings about, and though I was somewhat mollified by the epilogue, it would definitely be something I’d raise for discussion in a book club.
The Wattle Island Book Club is a captivating, wistful, and poignant novel, and would make a wonderful selection for your next book club meeting.
August 24, 2021
Thank you Penguin and Sandie for sending us a copy to read and review.
It’s always a privilege to read an early copy of a favourite author’s work and it’s even better when the story has heart, soul, emotion and pulls the heart strings.
Sandie has gifted readers a most momentous novel and it’s en route to be a successful bestseller.
Grace is a librarian who loves bucket lists and gets a buzz out of ticking off her achievements.
On one of these experiences she ends up on Wattle Island wanting to unravel why the island book club disbanded and a secret that was buried.
In 1950, Anne escapes the island to live a life she’s dreamed of.
But before too long her secret is discovered and has no choice but to return home, finding comfort in the local book club and living a peaceful life.
In the present Grace and Anne strike a friendship and soon the past is impacting with the now.
An exceptional, very special and magical narrative that will simply take you away on a marvellous adventure of hope, courage, love, passion and friendship.
Where the past and present collide in a charming setting, full of enigmatic characters and a captivating plot.
A tale that takes you through a full range of feelings and turns around and does it again.
Sandie is a authentic, honest and intelligent storyteller and has a real flair to grab you and pull you into the story, almost to the point that your there amongst the pages being a shadow amidst the characters and experiencing all the drama.
You will laugh, you will cheer, you will smile and you will shed a tear but most of all you will go away feeling contented and knowing you have just read an amazing, emotional and fantastic family saga.
I loved this book and I hope it gets the same response from bookworms far and wide.
It’s always a privilege to read an early copy of a favourite author’s work and it’s even better when the story has heart, soul, emotion and pulls the heart strings.
Sandie has gifted readers a most momentous novel and it’s en route to be a successful bestseller.
Grace is a librarian who loves bucket lists and gets a buzz out of ticking off her achievements.
On one of these experiences she ends up on Wattle Island wanting to unravel why the island book club disbanded and a secret that was buried.
In 1950, Anne escapes the island to live a life she’s dreamed of.
But before too long her secret is discovered and has no choice but to return home, finding comfort in the local book club and living a peaceful life.
In the present Grace and Anne strike a friendship and soon the past is impacting with the now.
An exceptional, very special and magical narrative that will simply take you away on a marvellous adventure of hope, courage, love, passion and friendship.
Where the past and present collide in a charming setting, full of enigmatic characters and a captivating plot.
A tale that takes you through a full range of feelings and turns around and does it again.
Sandie is a authentic, honest and intelligent storyteller and has a real flair to grab you and pull you into the story, almost to the point that your there amongst the pages being a shadow amidst the characters and experiencing all the drama.
You will laugh, you will cheer, you will smile and you will shed a tear but most of all you will go away feeling contented and knowing you have just read an amazing, emotional and fantastic family saga.
I loved this book and I hope it gets the same response from bookworms far and wide.
July 24, 2021
It’s no secret that I am a Sandie Docker fan. For me her books have always had the perfect combination of relatable, but flawed characters, idyllic small-town settings along with long-held secrets that unravel with well-timed precision guaranteed to deliver an emotional gut-punch.
“The Wattle Island Book Club” was certainly no different. Set on a remote island some 300 km off the coast of New South Wales, our two characters Anne and Grace are each battling their own demons.
As a young woman in the 1950s, Anne wants nothing more than to make a life for herself away from the Island she was forced to live on when her parents were tragically killed. But life in the city is not what she thought it would be. Bigotry and post-war attitudes forces her to keep a secret which endangers her life. Fleeing back to the island is her only option and starting the Wattle Island Book Club gives her the comfort she so badly needs at that time.
Years later, the bookclub is disbanded when tragedy strikes the town. Determined to help heal the wound occasioned by this event, Anne reaches out to mainland librarian, Grace.
Harbouring secrets of her own, Grace comes to Wattle Island to tick off one of the many items on her evolving bucket list and help Anne re-establish the bookclub only to learn that not everyone in town is thrilled by the idea.
Slowly Grace uncovers the secret at the heart of the disbanded bookclub and, with Anne, helps the residents of Wattle Island move forward by establishing the Island’s very own Community Library - in the process winning over a few hearts.
But little does the Island know what lies in wait for them at the end of that process.
If you want to know what that plot twist is, you’ll simply have to go out and buy the book. But be warned: have a box of tissues handy. 😭🤧
I loved this book and I know you will too.
“The Wattle Island Book Club” was certainly no different. Set on a remote island some 300 km off the coast of New South Wales, our two characters Anne and Grace are each battling their own demons.
As a young woman in the 1950s, Anne wants nothing more than to make a life for herself away from the Island she was forced to live on when her parents were tragically killed. But life in the city is not what she thought it would be. Bigotry and post-war attitudes forces her to keep a secret which endangers her life. Fleeing back to the island is her only option and starting the Wattle Island Book Club gives her the comfort she so badly needs at that time.
Years later, the bookclub is disbanded when tragedy strikes the town. Determined to help heal the wound occasioned by this event, Anne reaches out to mainland librarian, Grace.
Harbouring secrets of her own, Grace comes to Wattle Island to tick off one of the many items on her evolving bucket list and help Anne re-establish the bookclub only to learn that not everyone in town is thrilled by the idea.
Slowly Grace uncovers the secret at the heart of the disbanded bookclub and, with Anne, helps the residents of Wattle Island move forward by establishing the Island’s very own Community Library - in the process winning over a few hearts.
But little does the Island know what lies in wait for them at the end of that process.
If you want to know what that plot twist is, you’ll simply have to go out and buy the book. But be warned: have a box of tissues handy. 😭🤧
I loved this book and I know you will too.
September 5, 2021
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
4.5 stars
‘But that was the magic of books. They turned strangers into friends and when that happened, there was no limit to the possibilities.’
A bittersweet tribute to life, love, death, courage, passion and hope, The Wattle Island Book Club is the fourth novel from Australian author Sandie Docker. With a strong link from the past to the present, Sandie Docker’s latest release has plenty of talking points to consider. A life affirming and highly rewarding tale awaits the reader once they step into the lives of the wonderful folk that inhabit The Wattle Island Book Club. This proved to be another victorious read from an author that I hold in very high regard.
Beginning in the year 1950, we meet a teenage girl named Anne who decides to depart from her safe and comfortable home on quaint Wattle Island, for the bright city lights of Sydney. Anne hopes to create a new life for herself in the capital of New South Wales, but she finds it hard to say goodbye to a special someone. As Anne struggles to gain employment and recognition in her workplace, she is drawn back to the comforting arms of Wattle Island. When Anne returns home, she is faced with a difficult set of circumstances and to cope with this setback, she kick starts a new book club on the island. Moving forward in time to 2018, we meet a Grace, a woman with a big love of books. Grace cherishes her books but she also enjoys creating bucket lists. Grace has been plagued with illness since a young girl and as a direct result Grace values every day she is still alive. Grace is aware that she may be on borrowed time, so she ticks items off her bucket lists in an effort to overcome her hardship. Grace embarks on a trip to Wattle Island in her effort to tick off an item from her bucket list, but she ends up connecting with the remaining threads of little book club on the island. Grace is motivated to find out what happened to this tiny book club and in the process, she connects with a mysterious member of the book club and her grandson. Anne and Grace work in unison to settle the wounds of the past and move forward in the present towards a more promising future. The Wattle Island Book Club is about creating new opportunities and recasting the direction of your life for the better.
Tender, gentle, heartwarming and reflective, The Wattle Island Book Club is a book that encourages you to take a big deep breath and smell the roses. I loved how life affirming and contemplative this powerful book proved to be, it sure was another stunning piece of literature from Sandie Docker.
Linking present day times in the year 2018, with our not-too-distant past in the 1950s, The Wattle Island Book Club successfully melds together these two time periods. Sandie Docker is confident in her approach to both time pockets included in her novel and what emerges from this book is an authentic, rich, moving and meditative set piece. The Wattle Island Book Club travels very easily from one decade to another, pulling out the main issues that influence both time frames. Within the 1950s past narrative, we are presented with a myriad of conflicts surrounding love, personal choices, employment, working conditions, gender relations, opportunity and prejudice. While in the present-day thread, Docker explores themes of family, protection, health, truth, suppression, trust, love and ageing. Each theme is well advised so it carries a great deal of significance to the story at large. However, the most resounding subject line that links the two timelines to together is the literacy focus and the idea that books are an essential part of our social fabric. We witness this directly through the highly engaging book club and literary aspects of The Wattle Island Book Club.
Sandie Docker has produced a memorable set of characters to feature in her fourth novel. I developed a very firm and early connection to Grace. Grace’s journey just seemed to click with me from the opening of the novel. I was soon invested in Grace’s very emotional pathway to achieving health and happiness. Grace is placed under a great deal of pressure and I felt this almost instantly. Docker conveys Grace’s emotional ties really well. Likewise, the character of Anne is delicately woven into the central fabric of this novel. It is hard to not get lost in Anne’s very personal journey. Anne’s pathway really touched my soul and her difficult experiences broke my heart, particularly in regards to prejudice and following your heart. The background cast all work to add further interest and intrigue to the unfolding story.
The Wattle Island Book Club is set to a wonderful and very memorable backdrop, which is bestowed upon the reader with passion. I often felt like an extra or a visitor to the beautiful island featured in the novel. This suited me just fine as I was very keen to escape my mundane working week to a much more agreeable location! Docker has truly outdone herself yet again with The Wattle Island Book Club by producing a well-situated novel that celebrates the weight of the written word. I adored the literary references in this book, they were fantastic! I made a special note of all the stories featured in this novel and I hope you do too!
The Wattle Island Book Club is a wistful story that sparkles with care, review, reflection, understanding, pure truth and hope. If you are feeling down, this one will lift you up high, so make sure you pick it up to read as soon as you can!
*I wish to thank Penguin Books Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Wattle Island Book Club is book #80 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
4.5 stars
‘But that was the magic of books. They turned strangers into friends and when that happened, there was no limit to the possibilities.’
A bittersweet tribute to life, love, death, courage, passion and hope, The Wattle Island Book Club is the fourth novel from Australian author Sandie Docker. With a strong link from the past to the present, Sandie Docker’s latest release has plenty of talking points to consider. A life affirming and highly rewarding tale awaits the reader once they step into the lives of the wonderful folk that inhabit The Wattle Island Book Club. This proved to be another victorious read from an author that I hold in very high regard.
Beginning in the year 1950, we meet a teenage girl named Anne who decides to depart from her safe and comfortable home on quaint Wattle Island, for the bright city lights of Sydney. Anne hopes to create a new life for herself in the capital of New South Wales, but she finds it hard to say goodbye to a special someone. As Anne struggles to gain employment and recognition in her workplace, she is drawn back to the comforting arms of Wattle Island. When Anne returns home, she is faced with a difficult set of circumstances and to cope with this setback, she kick starts a new book club on the island. Moving forward in time to 2018, we meet a Grace, a woman with a big love of books. Grace cherishes her books but she also enjoys creating bucket lists. Grace has been plagued with illness since a young girl and as a direct result Grace values every day she is still alive. Grace is aware that she may be on borrowed time, so she ticks items off her bucket lists in an effort to overcome her hardship. Grace embarks on a trip to Wattle Island in her effort to tick off an item from her bucket list, but she ends up connecting with the remaining threads of little book club on the island. Grace is motivated to find out what happened to this tiny book club and in the process, she connects with a mysterious member of the book club and her grandson. Anne and Grace work in unison to settle the wounds of the past and move forward in the present towards a more promising future. The Wattle Island Book Club is about creating new opportunities and recasting the direction of your life for the better.
Tender, gentle, heartwarming and reflective, The Wattle Island Book Club is a book that encourages you to take a big deep breath and smell the roses. I loved how life affirming and contemplative this powerful book proved to be, it sure was another stunning piece of literature from Sandie Docker.
Linking present day times in the year 2018, with our not-too-distant past in the 1950s, The Wattle Island Book Club successfully melds together these two time periods. Sandie Docker is confident in her approach to both time pockets included in her novel and what emerges from this book is an authentic, rich, moving and meditative set piece. The Wattle Island Book Club travels very easily from one decade to another, pulling out the main issues that influence both time frames. Within the 1950s past narrative, we are presented with a myriad of conflicts surrounding love, personal choices, employment, working conditions, gender relations, opportunity and prejudice. While in the present-day thread, Docker explores themes of family, protection, health, truth, suppression, trust, love and ageing. Each theme is well advised so it carries a great deal of significance to the story at large. However, the most resounding subject line that links the two timelines to together is the literacy focus and the idea that books are an essential part of our social fabric. We witness this directly through the highly engaging book club and literary aspects of The Wattle Island Book Club.
Sandie Docker has produced a memorable set of characters to feature in her fourth novel. I developed a very firm and early connection to Grace. Grace’s journey just seemed to click with me from the opening of the novel. I was soon invested in Grace’s very emotional pathway to achieving health and happiness. Grace is placed under a great deal of pressure and I felt this almost instantly. Docker conveys Grace’s emotional ties really well. Likewise, the character of Anne is delicately woven into the central fabric of this novel. It is hard to not get lost in Anne’s very personal journey. Anne’s pathway really touched my soul and her difficult experiences broke my heart, particularly in regards to prejudice and following your heart. The background cast all work to add further interest and intrigue to the unfolding story.
The Wattle Island Book Club is set to a wonderful and very memorable backdrop, which is bestowed upon the reader with passion. I often felt like an extra or a visitor to the beautiful island featured in the novel. This suited me just fine as I was very keen to escape my mundane working week to a much more agreeable location! Docker has truly outdone herself yet again with The Wattle Island Book Club by producing a well-situated novel that celebrates the weight of the written word. I adored the literary references in this book, they were fantastic! I made a special note of all the stories featured in this novel and I hope you do too!
The Wattle Island Book Club is a wistful story that sparkles with care, review, reflection, understanding, pure truth and hope. If you are feeling down, this one will lift you up high, so make sure you pick it up to read as soon as you can!
*I wish to thank Penguin Books Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Wattle Island Book Club is book #80 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
September 13, 2021
The Wattle Island Book Club by Sandie Docker set in the 1950's to present day is a novel primarily about setting up a community library 'Bookclub' on Wattle Island and the love and friendships that can be formed by reading books with community get togethers.
It's the perfect book to escape into with a mix of tragedies, love and hope with the promise that reading brings.
I particularly loved the way the author, Sandie interweaves Japanese art painting, pottery and history into the story. It was very interesting hearing about Kintsugi ~ Japanese broken pottery and how it can all be put together and mended in 'gold'.
It was also interesting hearing about the birdlife on the island ~ the Wattle Island Gull.
I like the way the author, Sandie always brings the Australian element into each book incorporating Wattle this time, previously Rosellas, Banksias and Kookaburras.
If you are looking for a good, contemporary read, look no further than The Wattle Island Book Club by Sandie Docker.
Put this on your Bucket List! (as that's what it's all about) ~ Bucket Lists and Journals we try to tick off and read.
It's the perfect book to escape into with a mix of tragedies, love and hope with the promise that reading brings.
I particularly loved the way the author, Sandie interweaves Japanese art painting, pottery and history into the story. It was very interesting hearing about Kintsugi ~ Japanese broken pottery and how it can all be put together and mended in 'gold'.
It was also interesting hearing about the birdlife on the island ~ the Wattle Island Gull.
I like the way the author, Sandie always brings the Australian element into each book incorporating Wattle this time, previously Rosellas, Banksias and Kookaburras.
If you are looking for a good, contemporary read, look no further than The Wattle Island Book Club by Sandie Docker.
Put this on your Bucket List! (as that's what it's all about) ~ Bucket Lists and Journals we try to tick off and read.
November 16, 2021
Such a beautiful novel x I could definitely be president of the Sandie Docker fanclub, but this still exceeded everything expectation x it wasn’t just the beautiful island it’s set in, or the book loving characters that so quickly became lifelong fiends, the mystery to be solved, the bucket lists to be drawn...it’s the whole package, the Anne references; there’s a cow called emmeline harris even!! The sense of community here is just so special and all the book love…when can I move to Wattle Island?
September 7, 2021
Within the first few chapters, I had to message my friends to tell them that there were mentions of Anne Shirley and Bridget Jones in this book which surely made this a winner. My friends and I loved these 2 characters deeply and have had themed events based on them. Hence I found myself immediately liking our protagonists.
...that was the magic of books. They turned strangers into friends and when that happened, there was no limit to the possibilities.
There are 2 perspectives in this novel, Anne & Grace, who began by being in their own separate spheres but soon enough, Grace was drawn into Anne's and found herself to be Anne's hope to bring light and hope to her currently cloudy island existence. With Anne's perspective and memories, we became witness of a section of life in Australia post WWII and it was not a pretty one. Her memories make up her character and provide a background to her current situation and predicament.
Grace, on the other hand, is young and knows life to be utterly precious. She has been making bucket lists since she was a child and revising and ticking them off as she goes. Some of them are your usual ones like bungee jumping or learning another language but some of them are really cute ones like having tried 100 flavours of ice cream!! I can so totally get on board with this item. One of her items was to investigate a mystery like Nancy Drew and that was one of the reason she was drawn to Wattle Island. I must say that despite loving mysteries, I found this particular trait of her to discover this secret of Wattle Island annoying. A little bit hypocritical of me but she made up later on when she saw just how much pain she was bringing up with her 'snooping'. And finally, her own secret must also be exposed to the light.
'Take happiness when and where and how it comes.'
'But what if it comes with pain?'
'It always does.' Linh never sugar-coated things. 'But that's why you have to embrace it tightly, unapologetically, when you can.'
I didn't really want to read the last few chapters because I was really enjoying this heartwarming novel and I knew that the ending was going to hurt. In a good way. Last night, I thought that I could probably draw a comparison of this novel to K-drama. And yes, that did mean that I sobbed my heart out and that is also one of the reasons that I loved this novel. The Wattle Island Book Club is a beautifully uplifting life-giving story of love in the face of tragedy and the magical powers of books.
My thanks to Penguin Random House for this paperback copy of book in exchange of my honest thoughts
...that was the magic of books. They turned strangers into friends and when that happened, there was no limit to the possibilities.
There are 2 perspectives in this novel, Anne & Grace, who began by being in their own separate spheres but soon enough, Grace was drawn into Anne's and found herself to be Anne's hope to bring light and hope to her currently cloudy island existence. With Anne's perspective and memories, we became witness of a section of life in Australia post WWII and it was not a pretty one. Her memories make up her character and provide a background to her current situation and predicament.
Grace, on the other hand, is young and knows life to be utterly precious. She has been making bucket lists since she was a child and revising and ticking them off as she goes. Some of them are your usual ones like bungee jumping or learning another language but some of them are really cute ones like having tried 100 flavours of ice cream!! I can so totally get on board with this item. One of her items was to investigate a mystery like Nancy Drew and that was one of the reason she was drawn to Wattle Island. I must say that despite loving mysteries, I found this particular trait of her to discover this secret of Wattle Island annoying. A little bit hypocritical of me but she made up later on when she saw just how much pain she was bringing up with her 'snooping'. And finally, her own secret must also be exposed to the light.
'Take happiness when and where and how it comes.'
'But what if it comes with pain?'
'It always does.' Linh never sugar-coated things. 'But that's why you have to embrace it tightly, unapologetically, when you can.'
I didn't really want to read the last few chapters because I was really enjoying this heartwarming novel and I knew that the ending was going to hurt. In a good way. Last night, I thought that I could probably draw a comparison of this novel to K-drama. And yes, that did mean that I sobbed my heart out and that is also one of the reasons that I loved this novel. The Wattle Island Book Club is a beautifully uplifting life-giving story of love in the face of tragedy and the magical powers of books.
My thanks to Penguin Random House for this paperback copy of book in exchange of my honest thoughts
September 9, 2021
“The Wattle Island Book Club” is set primary on a remote Island off the coast of NSW, Sandie has crafted a wonder dual timeline story.
Anne Sato one of the main characters was sent to the island at a young age, and even though she had a strong desire to leave, it became a home. She is desperate to reignite the Wattle Island Book Club so she engages a Librarian called Grace to assist.
Grace, the other main character in the story, has a been keeping bucket lists and updating them for years. I love how her lists change the older she gets!
This book is full of absolutely wonderful characters and has such a wonderful community vibe to it. There were some twists that I really enjoyed piecing together throughout.
Being a story about a book club there were a lot of books mentioned in the story, one especially really tugged at my heart strings, Anne of Green Gables, it was one of the very few books my late mother gave me, it holds a precious place in my heart as does it in this story for Anne.
I totally recommend this book or any of Sandie Docker’s books for that matter.
Her books hold pride of place on my shelf and look forward to filling it with more of her work in years to come.
Anne Sato one of the main characters was sent to the island at a young age, and even though she had a strong desire to leave, it became a home. She is desperate to reignite the Wattle Island Book Club so she engages a Librarian called Grace to assist.
Grace, the other main character in the story, has a been keeping bucket lists and updating them for years. I love how her lists change the older she gets!
This book is full of absolutely wonderful characters and has such a wonderful community vibe to it. There were some twists that I really enjoyed piecing together throughout.
Being a story about a book club there were a lot of books mentioned in the story, one especially really tugged at my heart strings, Anne of Green Gables, it was one of the very few books my late mother gave me, it holds a precious place in my heart as does it in this story for Anne.
I totally recommend this book or any of Sandie Docker’s books for that matter.
Her books hold pride of place on my shelf and look forward to filling it with more of her work in years to come.
September 9, 2021
Every now and then, along comes along a book that I simply fall in love with from the first page and that love lasts right up to the end and, in some cases, after the end. This, the fourth book by Sandie Docker, is one such book. I love a book that will teach me something else or something new and this book has both.
Set just after the WWII in Sydney and later on Wattle Island, this story follows the life of Anne Sato who travels from the city to the island as a child. When she can, she returns to Sydney to face a very different life. After a time, she returns to the island.
In 2018 we meet Grace, a librarian with a bucket list, who goes to the island to help the residents revive the book club that had been in existence since the 1950s.
Secrets and trauma are a part of all their lives.
I love the characters in this story, some of them will remain with me for a long time to come. Parts of this story should be told.
I love this story and highly recommend it to other readers, you will love it too. Thank you Sandie Docker, each one of your books has given me much to think about...as this one has.
Set just after the WWII in Sydney and later on Wattle Island, this story follows the life of Anne Sato who travels from the city to the island as a child. When she can, she returns to Sydney to face a very different life. After a time, she returns to the island.
In 2018 we meet Grace, a librarian with a bucket list, who goes to the island to help the residents revive the book club that had been in existence since the 1950s.
Secrets and trauma are a part of all their lives.
I love the characters in this story, some of them will remain with me for a long time to come. Parts of this story should be told.
I love this story and highly recommend it to other readers, you will love it too. Thank you Sandie Docker, each one of your books has given me much to think about...as this one has.
June 21, 2024
First book I have read of Sandie's and I am delighted..
A bit of mystery, romance and intruige all rolled into one.
I love, that through one person, that person can bring about change, bring back happiness, restore friendship bring back hope and help others live again.
How a bookclub renews itself and brings a spark back into a little community, where books and friendships are reunited and a community grows and learns to not only grieve but to keep living.
I will be definately reading more of Sandie's books!
A bit of mystery, romance and intruige all rolled into one.
I love, that through one person, that person can bring about change, bring back happiness, restore friendship bring back hope and help others live again.
How a bookclub renews itself and brings a spark back into a little community, where books and friendships are reunited and a community grows and learns to not only grieve but to keep living.
I will be definately reading more of Sandie's books!
Read
August 30, 2021Sandie Docker is the queen of bittersweet endings. I had the pleasure of reading an early copy of the Wattle Island Book Club, which was full of literary references (I especially loved the Anne of Green Gables references sprinkled throughout), and the thoughtfully considered themes of illness, secrets, racial prejudices, grief, hope and fresh beginnings. If you've ever dreamed of packing your bags and moving to an island, this might just nudge you in the right direction. As usual, Ms Docker kept me reading past my bedtime, made me reach for the tissues as I turned the final chapters, and enriched my understanding of post-war attitudes to migrant populations. Another winner!
December 26, 2023
A lovely easy read.
April 21, 2024
Not a fan of the “let’s solve a mystery” element of the plot, noting the subject matters with which the narrative deals. The story could stand on its own without it being constantly hit over the head with “the mystery”. Lovely characters and setting description, sad stories, and a good audiobook performance
August 26, 2022
‘That was the magic of Books. They turned strangers into friends and when that happened, there was no limit to the possibilities.’
A wonderful read with all my favourites embedded in the story. Islands, books, friendships, family, romance, and most of all love that overcomes every obstacle.
A wonderful read with all my favourites embedded in the story. Islands, books, friendships, family, romance, and most of all love that overcomes every obstacle.
September 7, 2021
I’m exhausted! Loved it ... a 3 tissue book.
June 25, 2022
A book about a book club which is actually about a book club for a change! I liked that the books mentioned within it were all ones I've read too. Characters were likeable, but the ending was a bit predictable.
October 6, 2023
The Wattle island book club | Sandie Docker
>Wow! Two 5🌟 reads in a row!! I absolutely adored this one. The whole book was like a warm hug from start to finish. The characters start off mysterious and just like a book, with each chapter more of the mystery unfolds of Anne, Sam and Grace’s story. Post stroke, Anne’s last wish is to see Sam happy and heal the past. In her heart of hearts she feels restarting the book club is the answer. Sam is a shell of his former self and lives hidden away behind his pain. The past haunts him and he is more often than not locked away in his thoughts. Grace seems to have found a new lease on life and is addicted to adventure and spontaneity. When she hears from Anne she jumps at the idea of holidaying to wattle island, especially being that it’s about books. It is just the change of scenery she needs. What starts off as Grace helping another book club get up and running though, turns out to be so so much more. When Anne reached out to Grace, she instantly felt she wasnt telling the full story.. but she had no idea the whole island would be effected by this. The secret of what happened 7 years ago appears to be trapped between the dusty pages and the closed book shop and it takes this determined librarian living on borrowed time to uncover the secrets of the past. It is written by Anne and Grace’s perspective in ‘real time’ and paired with Anne’s past memories too giving the book added context along the way. All characters have their own pain and trauma giving them this sense of unspoken connection. Almost as if they each have the power to heal one another, and in a way they kinda do. I LOVED the book references.. this was an extra touch that made the story feel more special. I found myself overwhelmed with emotions towards the end.. one minute I’m reading, the next im sitting there with tears rolling down my cheeks! The storyline literally took my breath away! The magic of books turns out to be not only an escape, but a shared connection and a community saviour. From bucket lists to town secrets, the wattle island book club continues to live on thanks to Grace, some chapters have ended, and others are just beginning.. and some are not yet written. For that is for little miss Addie to do in her new sparkly pink book following her Graces footsteps. It’s her turn for bucket lists now. You will be more than touched by this one!!
>Wow! Two 5🌟 reads in a row!! I absolutely adored this one. The whole book was like a warm hug from start to finish. The characters start off mysterious and just like a book, with each chapter more of the mystery unfolds of Anne, Sam and Grace’s story. Post stroke, Anne’s last wish is to see Sam happy and heal the past. In her heart of hearts she feels restarting the book club is the answer. Sam is a shell of his former self and lives hidden away behind his pain. The past haunts him and he is more often than not locked away in his thoughts. Grace seems to have found a new lease on life and is addicted to adventure and spontaneity. When she hears from Anne she jumps at the idea of holidaying to wattle island, especially being that it’s about books. It is just the change of scenery she needs. What starts off as Grace helping another book club get up and running though, turns out to be so so much more. When Anne reached out to Grace, she instantly felt she wasnt telling the full story.. but she had no idea the whole island would be effected by this. The secret of what happened 7 years ago appears to be trapped between the dusty pages and the closed book shop and it takes this determined librarian living on borrowed time to uncover the secrets of the past. It is written by Anne and Grace’s perspective in ‘real time’ and paired with Anne’s past memories too giving the book added context along the way. All characters have their own pain and trauma giving them this sense of unspoken connection. Almost as if they each have the power to heal one another, and in a way they kinda do. I LOVED the book references.. this was an extra touch that made the story feel more special. I found myself overwhelmed with emotions towards the end.. one minute I’m reading, the next im sitting there with tears rolling down my cheeks! The storyline literally took my breath away! The magic of books turns out to be not only an escape, but a shared connection and a community saviour. From bucket lists to town secrets, the wattle island book club continues to live on thanks to Grace, some chapters have ended, and others are just beginning.. and some are not yet written. For that is for little miss Addie to do in her new sparkly pink book following her Graces footsteps. It’s her turn for bucket lists now. You will be more than touched by this one!!
October 26, 2021
It took me a couple of chapters to really get into this book, but then the momentum had me hooked. Really enjoyed it. It seems that I have read quite a few books with books as an underlying theme. I found it fascinating and disturbing the stories relating to what happened to Japanese citizens in Australia following the war. I had one main query at the end of the book … there was a whole generation missing … what happened to Anne’s son, Sam’s father?
August 24, 2021
Review to come...
September 14, 2021
Oh my goodness! One of your best Sandie, as I sit with tissues on hand, crying over Grace. Just loved her character, and gorgeous Addie. What a wonderful way to end such a poignant story 💔💖
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