Just So Stories

Walker Books

June 2023

ISBN13: 9781760655860

Australia RRP: $15.99

New Zealand RRP: $17.99

Dianne Wolfer’s books are always so full of heart I find, there is a ‘feel good’ thread to them that is warming and reassuring. This new title is certainly no exception.

Scout has been struggling to fit in at her new boarding school, and is grieving deeply for her mum, who has sadly died, leaving Scout and her dad, Bill, to cope without her – hence the boarding school, as Bill is a long-distance truckie.

But now it’s the summer holidays and Scout is going on the road with her Dad, heading home for Xmas, but delivering pallets of dog food to rescue centres along their route. Scout is very impressed with this act of philanthropy (and that word, which is new to her vocabulary), and she is certainly delighted to be meeting so many dogs. She and her mum had been planning on a dog for Scout’s birthday, but that plan has been put on hold. Scout realises it’s not just herself who needs a friend. but dozens of dogs across the state.

Luckily, this is a little girl with a huge amount of compassion who comes up with a great plan to match dogs in need with truckies who could use a travel companion. That, in itself, is a great basis for a plot, and Scout’s achievement of her goal is both admirable and rewarding.

But there’s more to this story, as it is set in the horror that was the 20/21 bushfires season, the aftermath of which is still being felt today. At the same time, we started to hear news of a unknown flu strain coming out of Wuhan, China. There was a lot going on, and Scout and her dad are right in the middle of it.

There is true generosity of spirit woven throughout this book, which echoes that which happened in real life as dozens of volunteers sewed dressings for burned animals, communities rallied to help neighbours, truckies delivered hay, creators from near and far donated their talent and funds and so much more.

Just as they support each other in their terrible loss, Scout and Bill are supporting others who are facing so much danger, destruction and devastation. Scout truly understands not only the meaning of philanthropy, but the joy and healing that comes with giving. And as she gives, she also receives – a new friend, her own special dog, and an understanding of what it means to give without expecting return.

Your kiddos, mid/upper primary, will love this – especially all those animal lovers. One of the things I particularly love is that Scout’s hobby is an interest in science, and in particular geology- seeking out and then polishing rocks. It’s not a common hobby for a lot of girls, but The Kid was fascinated when she was younger, and I know another little girl who is similarly interested, and who has her own tumbler. It would be wonderful to encourage such an interest in young ‘uns, I think. And of course, I can’t leave out Tony Flowers’ terrific cover art and illustrations throughout – those doggos certainly showed their personalities with his expert handiwork.

Highly recommended for readers from around 9/10 upwards.

By the way, just as I’d finished this book – along came this fabulous news story – fitted right in!! WA Police help stray pup Elvis make 3,000km journey from Halls Creek to Perth to new home