Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe

  • Peanut Goes for Gold – Jonathan Van Ness. Pictures by Gillian Reid

    Harper Collins Australia May 2020 ISBN: 9780062941008 ISBN 10: 0062941003 Imprint: HarperCollins – US List Price: 24.99 AUD It has been very reassuring in recent years to be able to review a number of picture books which embrace diversity in children but particularly those who may be struggling or feeling isolated due to their gender/sexual self-identity. There would be Read more

  • Let’s Go Under the Sea – Petr Horacek

    Walker Books Australia April 2020 ISBN: 9781406388800Imprint: WalkerAustralian RRP: $12.99New Zealand RRP: $14.99 I’ve had the joy of some truly lovely board books recently and this one is another that will prove a favourite with any tiny human with whom you share it. While very simple in its text the vibrant illustrations accompanied by the ‘peep through’ interaction will Read more

  • The One and Only Bob – Katherine Applegate

    Harper Collins Australia For all of us who fell in love with the story of Ivan and his friends, this is such an exciting new release – and all I can say is if you haven’t read The One and Only Ivan – what are you thinking?! Get to it now before the long-awaited movie Read more

  • Top End Girl – Miranda Tapsell

    Hachette Australia APR 28, 2020 | 9780733642432 | RRP $32.99 A deadly memoir about being bold, black and brave in work, life and love As Reconciliation Week closes for another year how timely is it that I can share this impressive and inspirational memoir from the pint-sized dynamo Miranda Tapsell. Many will know her from The Sapphires and more Read more

  • The Jane Austen Society – Natalie Jenner

    Hachette Australia MAY 26, 2020 | 9781409194118 | RRP $32.99 Wow! This is certainly one impressive debut novel and well worth putting on your TBR list, particularly if you love books like The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and others of its ilk. Beautifully articulated characters who drive this narrative, which has some basis in historical fact Read more

  • What Zola did on Monday – Melina Marchetta. Illustrated by Deb Hudson

    Penguin Australia June 2020 ISBN: 9781760895150 Imprint: Puffin RRP: $12.99 This is certainly a departure from Looking for Alibrandi and Melina’s other novels for YA but what an absolute joy it is! From start to finish it ticks every box I love! Zola lives with her mum and Nonna Rosa in a little house in the suburbs, with Read more

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