Pioneers in the Australian bush, like those on America’s western frontier, had isolated, difficult lives. In this story, based on the author’s own family history, Papa goes away to work, leaving Lizzie and Mama and baby alone in their little house. Lizzie’s playful pretending turns routine chores into games and adventures. Mama calls it “Lizzie nonsense,” but Mama herself has an imaginative, lighthearted side.

Stunning landscapes and graceful, affectionately drawn characters make Jan Ormerod’s remarkable paintings an evocative counterpart to this touching portrayal of family ties in pioneer days.