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Beattie, Kath, 1937-

Gumdigger : Northland, 1899-1900 / Gum digger by Kath Beattie. - Auckland, N.Z. : Scholastic, 2011. - 179, [1] pages, [10] pages of plates; illustrations, map; 20 cm. - My New Zealand story. My story. .

Novel for children. Originally published as: Poor man's gold. 2008. (My story).

In the hard times of the late 19th century Reuben's father goes into debt in order to move the family to the Waipara district where he runs the local store. They stock everything from hardware to food, but the locals are not in a position to pay, and as Reuben's diary begins the family has been "booted out" by the bank. The only employment available to Mr Radcliffe is gum digging. It is hard life in uncomfortable accommodation, and brings them into conflict with the local Māori trying to retain their land. First person recount. Includes historical notes and photographs. Suggested level: intermediate, junior secondary.

ISBN: 9781775430360 (pbk.) 1775430367 (pbk.)

Subjects--Topical Terms:
Kauri gum--Juvenile fiction.
Kauri gum--Fiction.

Subjects--Geographic Terms:
Northland (N.Z.)--Fiction.
New Zealand--Social conditions --19th century --Fiction.

Index Terms--Genre/Form:
Children's stories, New Zealand.
Historical fiction.
Diary fiction.

Dewey Class. No.: NZ823.2