Just So Stories

Walker Books Australia
November 2023

Author: Joy Cowley

Illustrator: Hilary Jean Tapper

Imprint: Gecko Press

RRP: $27.99

At almost 90 years of age, we might reasonably expect internationally acclaimed Queen of children’s stories and NZ national treasure, Joy Cowley, to be slowing down but no, her love of telling stories and writing for children remains undiminished.

When I was small, one of the highlights of holidays was to spend some time at my paternal grandparents’ holiday ‘shack’ at Umina (NSW) often with my cousins. This beautiful evocative book recalls all those memories for me: racketing with the cousins on the beach, picking up shells, a fibro shack which was pretty basic and furnished with cast-offs from various houses, and the sound of waves to lull us to sleep.

Joy’s simple text reverberates with both visual imagery and lyrical language and fully evokes the kind of simple beachside experience that for many is an unknown quantity. It is, in fact, as soothing as that rhythm of the surf rolling in, making it a perfect bedtime story at the end of any day, but especially one spent exploring all the treasures of the seashore. And the illustrations, from Hilary Jean Tapper, are absolutely gorgeous. They are without a word of exaggeration, a perfect match for this exquisite poem.

While many families opt for flashy, often expensive, and activity-overloaded holidays, or even permanent lifestyles, the simple pleasures with no-frills are regularly overlooked. And yet, you really can’t go past those hot days, cold waves, salty skin and sandy toes kind of holidays. We know, (and yes, I know I’m repeating myself), arguably the greatest positive to come out of the pandemic, is this return to slow living, and the ‘less’ movement.

As is only appropriate, there is also a special NZ edition which uses the poem’s original title At the Bach. I did in fact, think that was the edition I was getting but it makes not one iota of difference, except in some language used, I am sure.

How blessed are we to still have the genius and passion of Joy to aid us in our work as educators? I have used her books to teach and share with kiddos for 30 years, and while I can’t claim any closer connection than that, I have espoused the value of her work in literacy and literature, around the world.

Thank you to Joy for this, another treasure for us to share with our Smalls.

Absolutely 5 🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊 recommendation without a hesitation!

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