Just So Stories

Walker Books Australia

September 2023

ISBN13:9781760653163

Imprint:Walker Books Australia

Australia RRP:$26.99

New Zealand RRP: $28.99

Again, Neridah McMullin has delighted me by bringing another significant Australian of the past to a new generation. When I was growing up in the Boomer years, we still referred to ‘Jackie Howes’ (singlets) and I definitely knew why they were called so, and who this giant of a man was, as well as why his name was so well-known.

No doubt, this is partly down to the fact, that my Dad grew up in the country and was also a passionate reader of Colonial/Early Australiana history. But I feel that with the passing of the years, Howe’s feats were forgotten, and relegated to a lost era.

How wonderful it is then, that Neridah has taken the legend who was the greatest gun shearer of all, and created this charming tribute to his undeniable skill and his presence on the world stage. Neridah has absorbed the factual information about Jack Howe, and fashioned a lithe and lively text that underlines the man’s natural grace and ability. Your readers will love the descriptions of this larger-than-life man and his actions – I particularly loved the ‘pirouette’! And certainly, without a doubt, Michael Tomkins’ illustrations, particularly with the tones of sepia, ochre and gumleaf grey-green provide the perfect backdrop to Jack’s story – and those end papers!! well played Michael!

I am loving these picture books from Neridah, and am definitely hoping she has plans to breathe new life into other historical personages. As for ‘Jackie Howes’, now universally known as Bonds/Chesty Bonds singlets, and worn all over the world (thank you Mrs Howe), while I admit that Jack, fine figure though he was, is no Nic Cage, or even my ultimate, Brucie Willis, ***** – what an iconic legacy for us all.

Hugely recommended for your readers from Prep upwards – and I hope there is much merry making of woolly sheep to follow up!

***** {or apparently, Mr Surfer – although I have no photographic or personal evidence of this – as yet!}