The Bamboo Flute

The Bamboo Flute is a 1992 children's novel by Garry Disher. Set during the depression, it is about a boy who is taught by a swagman to make and play a bamboo flute.

Reception

In a review of The Bamboo Flute, Booklist wrote "The author's thesis—aesthetic beauty is a basic need, especially during times of extreme hardship—will not escape the notice of young audiences, and the frequent touches of local color make this a fine choice for reading aloud and for classes studying Australia." Kirkus Reviews described it as "a beautifully written novella" that is "Brief and easily read, a powerfully realized moment in Australia's past." Publishers Weekly wrote "From its exquisite opening line to the moving finale, this elegantly delineated tale never strikes a false note." and "Disher's spare, evocative, emotionally charged coming-of-age story is reminiscent in style to the work of Paul Fleischman, but his voice is wholly his own, musical and haunting."
It received the 1993 Children's [Book of the Year Award: Younger Readers|CBCA Book of the Year: Younger Readers Award], and a 1994 International Board on Books for Young People Australia honour.