Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe



  • Tornado – Jackie French/Bruce Whatley

    Scholastic Australia April 2024 ISBN: 9781760264895 ISBN-10: 176026489X RRP: $26.99 This series collaboration between these two gifted creators has undoubtedly been one of the most successful (and extensively used in classrooms around the country), over recent years. I’m pretty sure a lot of us have been there for the ubiquitous ‘natural disasters’ unit of inquiry. Thank goodness, Read more

  • Mr McGee and his Hat – Pamela Allen

    Pamela Allen on Mr McGee and turning 90: ‘I’ve always known what I’m doing is good’ Penguin Australia RRP: $24.99 In just the last week I was remembering the furore over Mr McGee’s little penis that was barely visible in Mr McGee and the Biting Flea, and chatting about it to someone. The book was Read more

  • The Postman’s My Mate – Kelly Louise Jarris. Illustrated by Natalie Herington

    Books on Tour PR & Marketing: Blog Tour  KLJ Books June 2024 ISBN: 9760645535181 RRP: $24.95 There are two things I want to say straight up. I love the stories that are set in outback or remote areas, and while there are a few, possibly not enough. I think the kiddos in those locations love Read more

  • A Good Heart – Lucy Melo & Sandra Severgnini

    Red Back Publishing April 2024 ISBN: 9781761400247 RRP: $26.99 Just a few weeks ago, I had the absolute pleasure of a lunch with some amazing people including award-winning illustrator Sandra Severgnini, who graciously gifted each of us a copy of this adorable and very special book, which was inspired by the real-life bond between elephant siblings, Read more

  • The Riding Gallery – Sally Murphy. Illustrated by Martina Heiduczek

    Walker Books Australia July 2024 ISBN13:9781760657345 Australia RRP:$16.99 New Zealand RRP:$18.99 Yes, I said not so long ago that I’m not a huge fan of verse novels, and there are only a few exceptions. Sally Murphy’s are one of those rare anomalies. Each one is so utterly absorbing, with such beautiful narrative flow that I Read more

  • Sarah Speedie – double the fun!

    Boss Cat Harper Collins Australia June 2024 With Sarah’s bouncy text and Tom Jellet’s always humorous and distinctive illustrations, this is just pure fun – how very refreshing!! All of our circle knows well enough that our last remaining animal of The Kid’s former zoo, is Whiskers – the kitten her mother gave K in Read more