Colin Thiele's books about South Australian country life have not yet achieved the international reputation of some other Australian books, but they are sensitive and moving stories which reveal a deep understanding of boys and their nature and contain vivid descriptions of lovingly observed birds, animals and natural surroundings that deserve to be known more widely. (p. 166)

The pattern [in Blue Fin] is a familiar one, but seldom this well executed, and Snook's emotions are carefully calibrated and taut…. Thiele's view of the relationship between the sea and its disabled victims … is unabashedly poetic but never maudlin. And just as Snook is giving in to the elation of having brought Blue Fin safely home—the boat is struck by another disaster and crashes onto the rocks, destroying itself and the valuable tuna catch that would have given the family a new start. A grim but thoroughly believable ending, and a full-bodied sea adventure for all hands.