It is easy to see The Ship’s Midwife is the product of much hard work and extensive research. The novel was inspired by a true story: a piece of Australian history that takes us back to 1850 when 276 passengers departed England on The Emigrant heading for Brisbane. After a month on the high seas, typhus erupted and eighteen deaths occurred. More died on arrival while waiting in the harbour to disembark and on the quarantine station of Stradbroke Island—a location that was hastily set up only two weeks before. With little preparation, the island was not ready for what followed. This lack of proper facilities posed a real challenge for the passengers and crew. Ms Miller wove all this info into her plot, in designing her characters and in creating realistic settings. The story moves smoothly from the ship, to the quarantine island and finally Brisbane.
We get a clear picture of the horrors passengers faced on the journey. Crowded conditions, poor ventilation and lack of supplies proved a recipe for ill health. Death was imminent and sea burials a necessity. This left many hearts broken not only from the loss but also with the quick and crude disposal of their deceased loved ones.
The Ship’s Midwife contains a varied cast of characters that begin together on the ship. Personalities often clash but during the outbreak of typhus, they learn to work together to save lives. The captain proves to be an excellent leader throughout the ordeal and acts as a mediator at times when required. The loss he sees and the dedication of many, fuels him on to see the end of the suffering. And sadly, when they do arrive in Australia, things are not as he had hoped, forcing him to make decisions that go against authority. But he has been on this ship of death and seen the devastation of disease and responds in a warm humane way when higher powers and systems fail. I admired him for this.
The story is centred on Sarah Hallow, a poor orphaned teenage English girl, whose only hope of a better life is to head to Australia. With her mother’s words of encouragement in her heart, and with what she learned from her as a midwife, Sarah overcomes many challenges. Also, help comes from Bridie Marley, a fiery Irish girl with midwife skills who offers her friendship on the ship. Influenced by this spirited girl, Sarah learns to draw upon her own strengths. They become close pals and, while tending to a pregnant woman on board, a dream is born between them. They aspire to have their own midwife practice in Brisbane. During the nightmares that follow, they support each other but sadly something happens that changes the course of their plans.
I must say, Sarah is an inspiring character, once she gets her feet under her. Armed with a compassionate loyal heart, she becomes an excellent carer of the sick. And when a young boy, Billy, loses both his parents and is left alone, she makes a promise to care for him. Billy clings to Sarah, now his only hope. But he also loves Will, the doctor’s son. Together these two help this boy by offering their kindness and love.
The doctor is an odd character but his personal loss has shaped him into a disgruntled man. His son, Will, has a very different personality: meek, physically awkward and fearful. But he has a kind heart. And has a crush on Bridie. But she has her sights set on another man who shares her affections. And Sarah, is drawn to Will but their relationship is more a friendship. Over time, though, after various experiences, Will blooms into a handsome, confident man. And one ready for love.
I can see how the initial title was ‘Sing Us Home’ as it is appropriate in many ways. The song lyrics and singing in the novel remind us of the value of music in how it can alleviate fears and stresses. And these poor souls experienced so much trauma that this was a way to deal with the trials. I loved how this theme is fittingly included at the end.
I fully appreciate the effort that has gone into the writing of The Ship’s Midwife. Peta Miller has done well with the volume of historical material covered. Winning the Charlotte Waring Barton Award for her unpublished manuscript, "Sing Us Home", delivered a triumphant prize. Her moving novel became a reality.
I truly recommend this poignant heartbreaking story that shines with friendship, dedication, loyalty, love and determination. The main theme of survival is the heartbeat of this story. And Peta has brought to life and light an important piece of Australian history that should definitely be remembered. 4 strong stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HQ and Netgalley for my review copy.
