Just So Stories

Allen & Unwin

October 2024

ISBN:9781760526061

Publisher:A&U Children’s

Imprint:A & U Children

RRP: $35.00

Honestly, it is a little hard for me to define this sumptuous book, but I am putting in here as a picture book – although, it is patently so much more than that. Really, it is an illustrated journal with these two hugely talented and lauded creators collaborating on their shared journey (not their first) to Antarctica.

More than that, there are insertions of quotes and information from historical and contemporary sources including those names we know so well such as Shackleton, Amundsen, Scott and Bellingshausen along with others.

It is a glorious mix of reflections from both Alison and Coral, interspersed with anecdotes, quotes, wonderful illustrations, historic photographs and panoramic vistas. It is one of those books that will greatly appeal to both children and adults. For grown ups, this is a ‘coffee table’ book par excellence. However, be warned that your visitors will neglect you (although probably not your beverages) as they become completely engrossed in it.

This could very easily be used within a unit of work for HASS or Science, but for me the beauty of it lies in the firing up of ambitions, imaginings and a lust for adventure. We have not too many uncharted areas to explore these days and while much of Antarctica has been documented, the very lure of it still calls to many, both scientists and tourists.

Difficult as it is to define genre-wise, it is also tricky to put a suggested age range on. Your astute and able readers from Year 4 would easily lap it up, I believe but it is very possibly your upper primary, lower secondary kiddos who would get the most from it – and, of course, adults.

If you are looking for a special Xmas gift for either child or adult, who has some kind of interest, I suggest you go no further. It is truly a remarkable book which, I have no doubt, will be featured in non-fiction award lists in the coming year.

I’m hoping to have a Q&A with either or both of the creators upcoming so do keep posted, but in the meantime – this gets a solid as ice 🐧🐧🐧🐧🐧 rating.