The Secret World of Connie Starr

This family saga begins in Ballarat in 1934 when Connie Starr was born. Her mother knew from the start that Connie was different. Connie lived with her parents in a Baptist manse with her two step-brothers and one step-sister. Her father was a Baptist minister. By the time that Connie is five World War II has commenced and life in Ballarat changes for many families as some of the men go off to war and rationing is introduced in Australia. There are many challenges to be faced.

Connie spends much of her time in the lemon tree in the back garden. From the tree she can view, and usually hear, what is going on in the garden and in the church grounds next door. Connie knows many secrets. She also lives in her own world where she can see angels and demons and their battles.

The Secret World of Connie Satrr is a book about family relationships and the relationships between close neighbours in difficult times. Themes include the polio epidemic, the impact of war on the families remaining in Australia and the ability of people to turn their lives around when faced with challenging circumstances. It also provides a picture of life in Ballarat in the 1930s and 1940s.