Just So Stories

July 2024

ISBN:9781761180019

Publisher:A&U Children’s

Imprint:A & U Children

RRP: $24.99

You know when you see these creators’ names on a cover, that you are going to get something quite special, and indeed, we do with this gorgeous new picture book. For many of us, an unexpected black-out is a trial… an annoying inconvenience…….a genuine frustration but not so for everyone. Some will see it as a respite – a break from the mundane; cooking, TV, homework or an opportunity for an early night.

For lots of children, the dark is confronting and creepy and their anxiety can take over. That trepidation is evident in the small person in this narrative, so what clever parents to turn the whole experience into an adventure as they hunt for candles! And then, even more fortuitously, their entire small street comes alive as everybody gathers outside and there are greetings and music and dancing.

This book made me instantly recall those Covid times when lockdowns were frequent – and sometimes very unexpected and short-notice (I remember the time The Kid and I were just walking to the annual Food & Wine Festival as it was about to open, and met a couple coming from the gates who told us that it had been cancelled as the Premier had just announced a snap lockdown!) and while there were people who railed against the precautions and took every opportunity to carp and criticise, there were more, thankfully, who thought of ways to bring cheer to people (my favourite was my FB group – My Bin Goes Out More than I Do): neighbours singing from balconies across streets, children on their front porches practising their musical instruments, teddy bears in windows and so many more.

Yes that was a particularly worrying time, it was all so unknown, but there were ways to lighten our spirits. (PS Sometimes I astonish myself really, even in early morning. I wrote all the above before I’d read either blurb or notes and pleased I nailed the actual intent of the story without them.)

And that’s what this book is all about. Allaying the fears and uncertainties in times of high anxiety and stress, whether it’s a blackout or a lockdown, a family member being sick or a new school (or in The Kid’s case – going to TAFE in the city starting next week. Stressful for us both). Lian’s text is simple but eloquent and Jonathan’s illustrations are nothing short of sensational – those colours!! (I particularly love the unusual perspective and angles, something I tend to do when I take photographs).

Highly recommended for your readers from around 4 years upwards well into upper primary when you could have some really rich conversations ensue. I’m giving it a fully lit (see what I did there?) 🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️ rating! And there’s some teaching notes as well – winning!