Just So Stories

Harper Collins Australia

February 202

• ISBN: 9780733343131
• ISBN 10: 0733343139
• Imprint: ABC Books AU
• List Price: 16.99 AUD

No doubt there will be many young readers who will be sad to know that this is the final chapter in this entertaining series but, dare I say, knowing Katrina’s fertile imagination and creativity there is sure to be something new in the offing. Mim, Zeddy and Nat plus the assorted animals are in Norway – think trolls, beautiful mountain scenery, Vikings and gorgeous knitted jumpers.

The locals are very friendly even if some are a little eccentric. The Travelling Bookshop has excelled itself with a subterranean forest complete with sit-upon mushrooms, tall trees and high shelves and, of course, Zeddy knows exactly which book each customer needs.

The frazzled farmer whose apple trees are being stripped ruthlessly under cover of night is not convinced by his choices at all – but the right book always finds the right hands as we know.

There is the slightly wacky toymaker who delights in making objects of terror rather than playfulness, and the Viking tour operator who would rather sail away in a giant duck paddle boat. So…..nobody said everyone in the village was completely normal Norwegian style.

Naturally, all these quirks and mysteries work themselves out and best of all, the family is delighted when Mum arrives just as they are about to move on. Happy endings all round!

This has been another of Katrina’s sweet and happy series, filled with humour, some strong messages about individuality and self-belief, community, friendship and family. I have no doubt there will be more to come from this able author. Happy trails Mim & Co with a 5 ⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️⛰️rating for readers from around 7 years upwards.