Just So Stories

Harper Collins Australia

June 2025

• ISBN: 9781460766217
• ISBN 10: 1460766210
• Imprint: HarperCollins AU
• List Price: 15.99 AUD

While I’m not a big fan of ‘celebrity’ authored books in general, and always ready to be unimpressed, I have to say that this isn’t dreadful at all. And, in particular, if you have some kiddos who are reluctant or struggling readers who should be moving upwards in their reading journey, this is going to be a great one to put in their hands.

Firstly, it is completely ridiculous and absurd humour, of the sort that greatly appeals to those mid-school kiddos especially without – and I should emphasise that, WITHOUT – resorting to fart/poo or other cheap-trick ‘gags’. Secondly, it is lavishly illustrated by the amazing Andrew Joyner, which breaks up the text into very easily managed chunks.

Galileo is a horse, born and raised in a riding school, along with his family but this horse has big dreams. He yearns to be a detective, solving crimes and mysteries. He tries super-hard within his own confined situation, but it is not until he finds a missing hat that belongs to visiting police officer that his big chance presents itself. Off he goes to the city and joins the ranks of the police horses.

But much to his absolute dismay, he learns that being a police horse doesn’t mean solving crimes. It means being the conveyance for human police – that’s all. It doesn’t stop this determined nag from trying his hardest though.

Galileo’s dreams are eventually shattered altogether, but in the process, he learns so much about himself, who he is and where he belongs. So it’s a load of fun but with some wholesome themes to it. Definitely a 4 🐎🐎🐎🐎for your kiddos from around Year 2 to Year 4/5.