Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe

  • Mr Clownfish, Miss Anemone and the Hermit Crab – Sean E. Avery

    Walker Books Australia ISBN13:9781760654344 Australia RRP:$25.99 New Zealand RRP:$27.99 Here is another quirky tale from Sean E. Avery, whose sense of humour and subtle inferences remind me so strongly of Jon Klassen. And I LOVE it! Most children will know about the symbiotic relationship that clown fish have with anemones, but I’ll guarantee they’ve never Read more

  • Nothing Ever Happens – Heidi McKinnon

    Scholastic November 2023 ISBN:   9781761298561 RRP: $19.99 Be careful what you wish for is almost always good advice. In this instance, it most definitely is. The text is simplicity itself, but the illustrations are what tell this most hilarious story. ‘Nothing ever happens!’ ‘Every day is always the same.’ ‘Same old rock. Same old shell.’ Read more

  • Picture Book Month bonus #2: Millie Mak the Maker [Millie Mak 1] – Alice Pung. Illustrated by Sher Rill Ng.

    Harper Collins Australia August 2023 As I have said before, one positive to come out of Covid was a renewed focus on renew/repair/recycle initiatives and slow living. Millie Mak may be only 9 years old but she’s a very good example of this. I am so on board with Millie and her Scottish grandma checking Read more

  • A Friend for Ruby – Sofie Laguna/Marc McBride

    Allen & Unwin ISBN:9781761067648 Publisher:A&U Children’s Imprint:A & U Children August 2023 I know you don’t need me to tell you that this is sensational. Given the two creators how could it be anything but? The story itself is fairly simple and fluid. Ruby wants – needs – a friend, and as she walks home Read more

  • Picture book month bonus #1: Q&A with Favel Parrett

    Welcome Favel, to Just So Stories! What a pleasure it is to have you share some insights into your life and work with my readers. In 2011, you made quite the splash (sorry, had to be done!) with your debut novel Past the Shallows, shortlisted in the Miles Franklin, Winner of the Dobbie Literary Award, Read more

  • Gigantic- Rob Biddulph

    Harper Collins Australia This is just an absolute cracker whichever you turn it – both the splendid rhyming text (perfectly cadenced) and the stunning illustrations combine to make it a sure-fire winner. And, definitely, a stand-out to kick off a little series of ‘sea’ themed picture book reviews. Loads of your Smalls will be very Read more

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