Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe

  • How to Write a Poem – Kwame Alexander & Deanna Nikaido. Art by Melissa Sweet.

    Harper Collins Australia October 2023 I really think this is one of the ‘prettiest’ picture books I’ve seen this year. I actually received it months ago but it was far too early to post a review so I’ve had it sitting in drafts for yonks! So then I decided I should save it for Picture Read more

  • Busy Betty & the Circus Surprise – Reese Witherspoon. Illustrated by Xindi Yan.

    Penguin Australia October 2023 Busy Betty is back in her second fun story, still bursting with questions and ideas, and still getting into pickles. In this story, Betty is keen to do something special for her mum and after a few ideas, she comes up with a fantastic idea. A circus!! When you have clever Read more

  • Say My Name – Joanna Ho. Illustratated by Khoa Le.

    Harper Collins Australia October 2023 Another one I’ve been saving with anticipation for this month! We have come to expect sheer lyrical text accompanied by stunning illustrations, along with the cross-cultural themes, from Joanna Ho’s picture books. This one continues with a wonderful exploration of rich traditions, language and customs. Beginning with herself, six children Read more

  • The Bill Dup – Zewlan Moor & Simon O’Carrigan

    Windy Hollow Books September 2023 ISBN: 97819211364366436 RRP: $27.99 Any of us with children or working with children, very often find ourselves chuckling over malapropisms (though this figure of speech is not confined to kiddos!). Just the other day, I was reminded of one time when The Kid was small, and still having great difficulties Read more

  • Picture Book Month Bonus #7: Friendly Bee and Friends: Woe is for Worm! Sean E. Avery

    Walker Books Australia October 2023 ISBN13:9781760654382 Australia RRP:$15.99 New Zealand RRP:$17.99 This is my first encounter with Friendly Bee and Friends, but hopefully not the last. As many or most know, I’m not a huge fan of graphics – they just don’t do it for me. But this is exactly the kind of absurdist humour Read more

  • Madame Badobedah and the Old Bones – Sophie Dahl. Illustrated by Lauren O’Hara.

    Walker Books Australia October 2023 Imprint: Walker Books Madame Badobedah Series ISBN13:9781406384420 Australia RRP:$27.99 New Zealand RRP:$29.99 In case you haven’t yet met Madame Badobedah and Mabel who live at the Mermaid Hotel, you are in for a fine treat. And, in case you didn’t know, author Sophie Dahl has quite the pedigree. She is the Read more

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