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In February 1829, a ship called Parmelia left England headed for the west coast of Australia. It was packed with men, women, and children set on building a new life for themselves by the mouth of the Swan River.

Among them were young Joseph Daly, his mum, dad, and four siblings. Filled with hope, uncertainty — and cases full of pots, pans, and other household goods — the passengers were to become the first settlers to the new colony. But the promise of a new idyllic life is shattered when tragedy strikes during the voyage.

Meticulously researched and beautifully illustrated, I hope it’s pretty there recounts the drama of the historic journey through Joseph’s eyes and serves as a bittersweet tale of hope, courage, loss, and resilience.

About the Author:
Alex Kopp is a former History teacher, education consultant, and freelance writer with a keen interest in Australia’s social and cultural heritage. She spent several years working as an education officer at the Western Australian Museum, where she developed and delivered many school programs linked to the museum collections. Since leaving the museum, Alex worked as an educational writer for Seven West Media and serves as a private education consultant, primarily supporting organisations in development of programs and learning resources in the area of heritage, culture and social justice.

• Published July 2021

Ages 9 to 12