Just So Stories

A First Nations picture book of Australian sea creatures

Fremantle Press

June 2026

ISBN: 9781760997052

RRP: AU$19.99/NZ$24.00/US$14.95

Pre-order now from your usual suppliers

This is just the cutest introduction to marine animals ever – and your little readers will love it. Who could resist that puffed-up blowfish on the cover for a start? As I am in the final stages of planning for The Kid’s 21st party in a few weeks and collating photos, it’s easy to see how she’s ended up surfing.

The beach, fossicking on the sand or observing quietly in the water has been a staple in her life since her babyhood. And now, as we spend so much time on our own little beach – her as a lifesaver, me with my walking – or up the coast on surfing days, I am always smiling as I see young parents with their Smalls encouraging them in the same way.

This little book is going to be the pearl in the oyster for those kiddos. Sea urchins and stingrays, anemone and clownfish, octopus and seahorse and more – all with some terrific action verbs and spot-on adjectives to encourage early language development.

The whole, of course, accompanied by Helen’s vibrant and striking illustrations. What’s not to love? I know little Miss Daisy, about to turn two, is going to love this one as well. Your Smalls from toddlers up to Prep will all thoroughly relish it. It’s a sparkling and salty 5 °:•.🐠*.•🪸.•:°rating for those little beach babies.