Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe

  • Hagtale: a Macbeth origin story – Sally O’Reilly

    Scribe Publications March 2026 ISBN: 9781761381430 RRP: AUD$29.99 Pre-order Macbeth would come pretty close to being my favourite of the Bard’s works [possibly because I played one of the witches in a school play – typecasting?], certainly its very creepiness is totally beguiling. And, of course, it is arguably one of the best-known right up… Read more

  • The Wolf Who Cried Boy – Mark Mupotsa-Russell

    I read several fantastic adult books over the blog break, a few of those just free-range reading and not for review, but this was one I had seen in Affirm’s catalogue and requested because it sounded intriguing. Can I just say it’s been a while since I swallowed an entire adult novel in one gulp?… Read more

  • Bertie’s Theory of Ice Cream: a 44 Scotland St novel – Alexander McCall Smith

    New South Books Publisher: Polygon 9781846977169 December 2025/Hardback AUD$39.99, NZD$44.99 My holiday reading was for pure pleasure, and not necessarily review books – just books that I had been wanting to read for my own interest or enjoyment. However, when it comes to Alexander McCall Smith, and particularly the Bertie books, that can very happily… Read more

  • The Festival you have when you’re not having THE Festival

    Unless you’ve been under a rock or locked up (some of you probably should be !) or had some other weird stuff happening in your life, you would know about the furore over the Adelaide Writers’ Festival. While there was a lot of ‘stuff’ in the media, there wasn’t much said about the kids lit… Read more

  • Living in the Past – Ancient History with a Twist of Fun

    I’ve had a passion for ancient history since I was a nerdy kid. I still have my Ancient Civilisations book my darling mum bought me when I was around 10 years old. I snaffled all my seven-years-older brother’s ancient history textbooks when he was done with them. I aced my project in 6th class on… Read more

  • What Rhymes with Murder?Penny Tangey

    Simon & Schuster Yesterday (as of time of writing this 21/1), I was treated to a guided tour of the stunning new Caloundra library [Thank you to Karen and Fran, my exemplary tour guides and instant friends!] and, at the mention, of Rhyme Time, I happily gave them a heads-up on this great new title… Read more

Archived Reviews