Just So Stories

Scholastic Australia

ISBN: 9781761720918

ISBN-10: 1761720910

Series: Bowerbird : Book 3

Published: 1st November 2025

RRP: $19.99

Watch here Teaching notes

One might be forgiven for thinking – how can Aura top the first two gorgeous Bowerbird books? – and then you see this and just go – aaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh 💜. The brood is growing up. They love being together.

I am a dancer. Flitting, floating, in the purple rain.

[okay, didn’t anyone else just hear that in Prince’s voice?].

They dance together, they collect together. At first they just collect all the colours but what happens when you only want to collect the blue colour and you think ALL the blue trinkets should be yours?

Just as human siblings will squabble over such things as collectible cards or other such trifles, in this story one would-be bowerbird king decides to take all the blue bits and pieces from his brother and sister.

And just as human siblings do, there is a falling out of major proportions. Little king realises he does not like being ostracised and alone, and reflects on his greed. With great courage he seeks forgiveness and returns the share of blue objects. Once again the dancing and play can take place to be enjoyed by all three.

It is a sweet, sweet story that will speak to your kiddos without any need for you to explain. They will recognise the motives and the emotions for themselves, and, I predict, be eager to discuss it all after the reading. And, of course, aside from the gorgeous text with so much beautiful and graceful literary language, you have Aura’s absolutely outstanding illustrations.

Sydney peeps, you lucky ducks could visit Kinokuniya to see Aura’s stunning art and textiles from the books in a special exhibition. I am most envious.

This is another one that is a must-have for your collection but that will also make a super gift for Smalls in their stocking – particularly, if you need a gentle lesson in sharing for them. Of course it’s a 5 💜💜💜💜💜rating. I just adore this series so much and if you don’t follow Aura on socials you should! She always has so much to share.