Our History: Hill End Gold

Our History: Hill End Gold by Jackie French is a gripping Australian historical fiction novel that drops readers into the risky, muddy reality of the NSW goldfields, where every day is a test of grit and luck. With a strong sense of time and place, it captures how families scraped by, and how children were expected to shoulder real work alongside the adults.

At the centre is Alfie, an easy-to-barrack-for kid whose adventures unfold against a backdrop of booming hopes, sudden dangers and shifting fortunes. As Alfie navigates the gold rush community, the story quietly builds a rich picture of mateship, family loyalty and the practical ways neighbours depended on one another.

Perfect for upper primary readers who enjoy historical tales, Australian history, and stories about resilience and community, this is a satisfying read for confident middle-grade bookworms too.

Add it to your shelf and step into Hill End’s gold-era world.