Just So Stories

Hachette

AUG 30, 2023 | 9780734421579 | RRP $24.99

Imprint; Lothian Books

To be fair, I probably should have reviewed this when it was Love Your Bookshop Day, but, of course, I have been hoarding picture books for this month. This is just a glorious expression of love for bookshops in general, and, specifically, Maxine’s own favourite bookshop.

And, while I have heard Maxine present at BWF, read some of her books and adore her poetry, I missed the memo on her artistic talent because this picture book, with her own illustrations is just absolutely beautiful. Just look at them!!! and certainly, another book that begs to have a follow-up art activity with chalk or pastel drawings.

I love her take on the local bookshop being such a special place for families, and I know that my favourite bookshop (which sadly is 45 mins drive away – we don’t have one AT ALL in Reddy, which is a tragedy) is just that. The wonderful Mad Hatters Bookshop at Manly, is regularly frequented by bookish families, and when you see it, you can absolutely see why that’s so.

The children’s imagination running amok after their weekly visits to the Ballarat St bookshop, may cause some problems in the house with trolls, dragons or other story folk roaming, but that doesn’t stop them going back for more each week. As it should be!

Do yourself a favour, seek this out and just savour its glorious design, colour and rhythmic text. An excellent choice for book-loving kiddos – or, indeed, adults, and certainly a MUST-BUY for teacher-librarians/librarians to encourage support of their own local bookshops.

Highly recommended for Smalls from around 5 years upwards.