Fanny and Mina: The Fastest of Friends (Samantha Tidy, illus Hilary Cresp, Windy Hollow)

Fanny and Mina: The Fastest of Friends, written by Samantha Tidy and illustrated by Hilary Cresp, is a narrative nonfiction picture book for readers aged 5 to 8. It introduces an important moment in Australian sporting history: the first time women were allowed to compete in swimming at the Stockholm Olympic Games in 1912. The story follows two determined young swimmers whose Olympic dreams seem impossible when officials declare it “a waste of time and money to send women to the Games”. With the support of a local philanthropist who helped organise fundraising for their journey and supporters from across the country, they went on to win gold and silver medals. Tidy presents the historical material through a clear, engaging narrative that balances factual grounding with storytelling momentum, making the book an accessible entry point for classroom discussion and further learning. A concluding “Fast Facts” section provides additional historical context, encouraging curious readers to explore beyond the story. Cresp’s illustrations, developed with reference to historical photographs, are clean and unfussy in detail, giving the book a contemporary visual feel while still evoking its early-20th-century setting. Her effective use of layered composition adds depth and movement to otherwise simple scenes, keeping the focus on character and emotion. Measured rather than sentimental, the book highlights perseverance and friendship while quietly underscoring the barriers women faced – and challenged – in sport and society.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Jess Lomas is the reviews editor at Books+Publishing. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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