Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe



  • Being Jimmy Baxter – Fiona Lloyd

    Penguin Australia This is often a very funny book. This is often a very moving book. I ate it up in one sitting because Jimmy’s story is one that demands to be read. Jimmy is not so good with school stuff, and he has a kind of innocence in his thinking that completely reminds me Read more

  • Nanette’s Baguette – Mo Willems

    Walker Books Australia March 2017 ISBN13:9781406376210 Australia RRP:$16.99 New Zealand RRP:$18.99 Honestly, the kiddos go nuts for Mo’s books – which you probably already know. This one is my absolute favourite of all and I have used it several times. This past week I’ve been back in my happy place being teacher-librarian for a one Read more

  • This Spells Trouble – Paul Collins/Sean McMullen

    Ford St Publishing July 2023 ISBN:9781922696311 RRP: $17.95 This is just a riotous, joyful comic adventure from the very first page, and, I tell you now, your kids from middle school to upper will eat it up with relish! 14 year old Winton is apprenticed to a very dodgy wizard named Faramond – a lazy, Read more

  • One Little Duck – Katrina Germein/Danny Snell

    Harper Collins Australia July 2023 This is a sweet picture book with a fun twist on an old rhyme and illustrated delectably, which will be an engaging read for your teenies and easily segue into some useful learning activities. Mother Duck is, as you would expect, a nurturer and is quite equable about every animal Read more

  • The Bravest Word – Kate Foster

    Walker Books Australia May 2022 ISBN13:9781760654719 Australia RRP:$18.99 New Zealand RRP:$20.99 Thankfully, there is an ever-growing awareness around mental health, and a wider knowledge of help sources available. We have media focus both in information sharing, and valuable help agencies that did not exist years ago. The stats above provide some insight into the extent Read more

  • Dogs: understanding your very best friend – Dr John Bradshaw. Illustrated by Clare Elsom

    Walker Books November 2021 ISBN13:9781839130878 Imprint; Andersen Press Australia RRP:$14.99 New Zealand RRP:$16.99 In every school library you will have those kids who will borrow every dog book you have – often, many times over. This is one that will be a great little resource for those who are getting their first doggo, who want Read more