Just So Stories

Harper Collins Australia

July 2024

• ISBN: 9781460762745
• ISBN 10: 1460762746
• Imprint: HarperCollins AU
• RRP: $15.99

Your junior readers who have been gobbling up the Little Ash series are going to go nuts when they see this and realise that a whole new series, another step up the reading ladder, is happening!

Ash is very excited that she’s been chosen to go to her first tennis camp even though she’s only 10 – and mostly it’s kids 12 and older. Even though she’s so thrilled to be on the camp for two weeks, she’s also very nervous. For one thing, she’ll be the youngest by far. For another, she’s neveer been away from her family for more than one night before and two weeks is a LONG time. And lastly, because she really doesn’t know anyone else at the camp.

But then, she’s paired up with Zia, who she has met at tournaments so sort-of knows and it turns out the two girls actually have quite a bit in common. Then at the very first breakfast, they make a couple of other new friends, and pretty soon Ash is feeling much more comfortable.

And really, the camp is lovely with beach and activities and great coaches – and the thought that some of the top tennis players also attended when they were kids, is a real buzz for Ash. All is terrific except for finding out that the end of camp tournament will be doubles matches not singles because it’s a bigger group than usual.

Ash doesn’t like doubles at all and neither does Ollie with whom she is partnered. They each have very different styles and approaches. How will they ever get it together enough to play well in a doubles match?

But day by day as she writes in her diary Ash realises that each day she is learning something new whether it’s about her own attitude, skills or teamwork. It’s another great feel-good narrative which will give kiddos a great deal of pleasure, is the sort of everyday adventure to which they can relate and focuses on one of their most favourite role-models.

As well as that, if you are looking for some modelled diary writing, this would be the perfect option to use with a class. Well done to Ash and Jasmin, along with Jade on another great collaboration! It always gives me pleasure to review and promote Ash’s work. She really is an inspiration not just for First Nations jarjums but for all kiddos. Huge recommendation with 5 🎾🎾🎾🎾🎾 for readers from around 7/8 upwards.