Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe



  • Queenie in Seven Moves – Zanni Louise

    Walker Books Australia February 2023 ISBN13:9781760655662 Australia RRP:$16.99 New Zealand RRP:$18.99 So this is another that took some time to reach me but when it did I was immediately picking it up to read. Firstly, because of that gorgeous cover art but secondly because it’s Zanni Louise. Not only is she a fine writer, but Read more

  • Evie and Rhino – Neridah McMullin. Illustrated by Astred Hicks.

    Walker Books October 2022 ISBN13:9781760654207 Australia RRP:$18.99 New Zealand RRP:$19.99 It’s no secret to regular readers of this blog that I love historical fiction. I love it even more when it has its basis in fact, and doubly so if it is Australian history. Neridah McMullen stumbled upon a curious story from the past and, Read more

  • Two Dogs – Ian Falconer

    Harper Collins Australia November 2022 RRP: $24.99 Vale Ian Falconer. 25/08/1959 8/03/2023 I think it’s actually quite ironic that I had put off reviewing this charmingly hilarious book. The news of Falconer’s death two weeks ago came as quite a shock to many and we are all the poorer for it. You may not have Read more

  • Pasta – Felice Arena. Illustrated by Beatrice Cerocchi.

    Affirm Press 28 March 2023RRP: $19.99ISBN: 9781922848604 I do wish you could see how tricky this lovely cover is, with its embossed shiny strands of spaghetti twirling with temptation. There would be very few kiddos who don’t both know and enjoy eating pasta and many of them will already know a few of the different Read more

  • Mama’s Chickens – Michelle Worthington & Nicky Johnston

    EK Books March 2023 ISBN: 9781922539458 RRP: $24.99 When the news about Bruce Willis’ aphasia condition first came out, my family and friends will attest to the fact that I was devastated – given that I freely admit, and have done for years, that he is my ‘Oh yeahhhhhh’ guy and always has been. But Read more

  • Last Man Out – Louise Park

    Wild Dog Books April 2023 RRP: $24.99 Sometimes a book comes along that just has the most profound impact on you, as a reader and, in this case, also as an avid history nerd. Louise Park’s new publication is just such a book. In the sort of way that makes one tingle – not to Read more