What are you reading? The Oceans Between Us by Gill Thompson

Noelia's contribution

Amazon

After devouring Swimming in Paris, I was craving a lighter read and stumbled upon The Ocean Between Us by Gill Thompson. I expected something breezy, but the story’s nuanced characters and moving themes of separation and resilience added an unexpected emotional depth that truly surprised me.

The novel revolves around a lost generation of children shipped from England to Australia after World War II. The narrative follows Jack, a young orphan who loses his mother during the Blitz, is placed in an orphanage, and is eventually transported to Australia. Meanwhile, an unknown woman suffering from memory loss wakes up in a hospital, searching for something deeply meaningful to her.

One of the novel’s most powerful themes is the destruction and rupture of family life. Thompson also exposes the heartless government policy of sending orphans abroad to “repopulate” countries like Australia with so-called “pure white blood.” The care of these children was entrusted to religious orders that, instead of nurturing them, subjected them to sexual abuse and forced labor. Finally, the story explores the profound grief that follows loss—and the painful, often incomplete process of acceptance.

Amazon - About the author

Gill Thompson draws on real historical events to craft a narrative that leaves a lasting impression. She delves into the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and love in all its forms, while shedding light on the harrowing experiences of English orphaned children abused by the Christian Brothers in Bindoon, Australia. Thompson also condemns the Australian government’s long-standing inaction, which allowed these atrocities to continue unchecked for years.

The Ocean Between Us is a deeply affecting and beautifully written novel that confronts a dark chapter of history with honesty and compassion. It’s a story of loss and injustice, but also of endurance, hope, and the unbreakable strength of the human spirit.

External interesting links

> News.com.au - Royal commission told of torture, rape and beatings by Christian Brothers in WA

> Independent - Bindoon Boys Town: The sad truth behind Britain's lost children

> BBC News - The child abuse scandal of the British children sent abroad