Just So Stories

Affirm Press

January 2025

AUD RRP $22.99

ISBN 9781922806758

If you were to write a list of all the reasons you love someone – that is, someone you love deeply – how long would it be? Do you love them when they’re tired and grumpy? Do you love them when they make mistakes? Of course, you love them when they’re happy and sunshiney. And, probably, also when they’re being warm and snuggly.

As parents, most of us know the depth and breadth of that unconditional love for a child. It’s amazing how the power of that emotion engulfs us from the very moment we know we are growing that new life. And [I write with tears springing to my eyes] even when we are clutching our child’s hand while she slips away forever, that love is overwhelming. Ten years on, I still cry for my loss.

But, back to this darling of a book.

I had the enormous pleasure of meeting Bethany when The Kid and I did our trip to Adelaide last year, and it was certainly one of the highlights. We hit it off with a lot of laughs – with or without chickens [you had to be there!], and I was extremely sorry that I had not had the pleasure of seeing/reviewing her first book You’ve Got Yoghurt In Your Nostrils.

So it was such a pleasure to follow the progress of this new title, and now to be able to review it. This is a gorgeous book to share with new parents, especially, as it brings the joy of that love with no barriers.

Even on the days when we feel like a dishrag, from lack of sleep, sheer exhaustion or the emotional turmoil of dealing with the terrible-two-toddler, it’s a reminder that the love of a parent for their child is totally elastic. It stretches to accommodate all and very situation.

As well as Bethany’s gentle and sweet words, the illustrations from Summer Macon, have exactly the right mix of tender plus mischievous expression. All in all, this is a joy all round. This will be another one that will find its way to little Miss M, Daisy. I see how much pure joy she brings her lovely young parents, so it will be a perfect fit.

It will also be a perfect fit for anyone in your circle with a tiny human. Naturally, it’s a 5 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ rating.