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  • Published: 8 January 2019
  • ISBN: 9780143789079
  • Imprint: Puffin
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 256
  • RRP: $21.00

47 Degrees




A fast-paced and poignant novel of survival by Justin D’Ath that draws on his own experience of escaping the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires.

Zeelie wonders if they’re in danger.

When temperatures soar to 47 degrees one hot summer day, 12-year-old Zeelie hopes the nearby bushfires everyone’s talking about aren’t heading towards her family’s new home. What will they do if the wind changes direction? What about their belongings and their beloved pets? And why hasn’t her mum and brother returned from Melbourne?

Nothing can prepare Zeelie for what’s to come.

  • Published: 8 January 2019
  • ISBN: 9780143789079
  • Imprint: Puffin
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 256
  • RRP: $21.00

About the author

Justin D'Ath

Born in New Zealand, Justin D'Ath was one of twelve children. He came to Australia in 1971 to study for missionary priesthood but after three years, left the seminary in the dead of night and spent two years roaming Australia on a motorbike! Whilst doing that he began his writing career contributing pieces for motorbike magazines. He published his first novel for adults in 1989 and this was followed by numerous award-winning short stories, also for adults. Justin has worked in a sugar mill, on a cattle station, in a mine, on an island, in a laboratory, built cars, picked fruit, driven forklifts and taught writing for twelve years. He wrote his first children's book in 1996 and to date he has published over 50 books. He has two children, six grandchildren, and two dogs.

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Praise for 47 Degrees

An action-adventure that rings with truth, 47 Degrees is also a story about courage, empathy, the importance of family and communities, and how the worst times can bring out the best in people. A fantastic read for ages 10 and up. 5 stars.

Lian Hingee, Junior Books+Publishing