Children’s and Young Adult book reviews.
Magic Fish Dreaming, June Perkins (author), Helene Magisson (illus.), Gumbootspearlz Press, 2016. “Listen to the fish. Listen to the water. Listen to the moonlight. Watch the twinkle, twinkle of the stars.” “If you ever found a fairy’s tooth what kind of magic do you think it would do?” If that description doesn’t stir up evocative […]
Pumpkin: The Raccoon Who Thought She Was a Dog, Laura Young (author), Pan Macmillan 2016 Synopsis: When Laura Young found an injured baby raccoon in her back garden she didn’t know what a big part of the family she was about to become. Laura and her husband, William, named her Pumpkin and her bond with […]
Every year I, together with my two girls, reflect on our year in books – the ones that made us laugh, cry, connect, ponder and encourage affection. I also usually review my statistics on books borrowed, received for review and bought, but this year let’s just say, it’s hugely extensive, and still counting. So, […]
Meet… Nellie Melba, Janeen Brian (author), Claire Murphy (illus.), Random House, 2016 Synopsis: Dame Nellie Melba was Australia’s first classical music star. The beauty of her singing was celebrated around the globe. She was appointed Dame Commander, OBE for her enormous fundraising efforts during World War One and today she is commemorated on Australia’s hundred […]
One Photo, Ross Watkins (author), Liz Anelli (illus.), Penguin Books, 2016 Dad came home one day with one of those old cameras, the kind that use film. But Dad didn’t take photos of the regular things people photograph… Created by Ross Watkins (who you may know as the illustrator of The Boy Who Grew Into […]
Oh, Albert! Davina Bell (author), Sara Acton (illus.), Penguin Books, 2016 Synopsis: Albert can’t help getting into mischief when no one is around. But one day he goes too far… Oh, Albert! A perfect story about a family and their not-so-perfect (but loveable!) dog. Oh, Albert! is an adorable picture book perfect for animal-loving families […]
Primary teacher and language specialist, Amelia Trompf, is now the debut author of gorgeous picture book, Who is Fitzy Fox? (see my review). We are excited to be included on the Fitzy Fox blog tour as Amelia introduces us to the world of her curious four-legged friend. Thanks for sharing your experiences of creating your book […]
One thing I love about the creative industries is that several people can have a similar idea yet express it in totally different ways. This was brought home to me the other evening when attending a talk by CBCA judge, Cathie Tasker. Cathie pointed out that two of the books shortlisted for awards this year […]
Guest Post by Robert Vescio Connecting Friends Oceans Apart It is with great pleasure to welcome children’s author Robert Vescio to share his inspiration for writing his latest, heartwarming book, Jack and Mia – a story on everlasting friendship and long-distance connections. ————————————————————————- I wrote Jack and Mia to show how friendships (rich in imagination) […]
It’s that glorious time again where teachers, parents, children, literacy creatives and advocates raid the bookshelves (and craft cupboards) in honour of the annual Book Week celebrations! Hosted by the Children’s Book Council of Australia and running from August 20th to 26th, this year’s theme is inspiring; it’s ‘Australia! Story Country’. Last year I wrote […]
