Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe

  • Blog Break

    It’s been a pretty full-on six months and aside from the writing I’m doing, there’s still a lot happening. The Kid starts a new course, family visiting, and the need to really sort the ever-increasing pile of review books. I’ve also been getting myself into a routine of fitness and health, finally spending ‘me time’. Read more

  • Goodnight Daddy – Gregg Dreise

    Scholastic Australia July 2025 This second title from Gregg Dreise for this year’s NAIDOC showcase, is essentially a complete departure from his usual style both textually and artistically. While it is still easy to recognise his deft hand, this is no updated Dreaming story with lots of very discernible First Nations art iconography. This is Read more

  • Heads up on these two

    To conclude this week of NAIDOC posts, I want to bring your attention to these two titles for adults. Contrary to my usual practice of only reviewing what I’ve read, I’ve just not had time to get to these [though I certainly intend to!]. But for your benefit, I’m giving them a plug now. Deep Read more

  • Indigenous Literacy Day

    Indigenous Literacy Day 2025 Indigenous Literacy Day is a celebration of First Nations stories, cultures and languages.  Indigenous Literacy Day 2025 will be held on Wednesday 3 September and will celebrate the theme Strength In Our Stories: For Now & Future Generations.  More information to come shortly. Organise your own event – book swaps have been my go-to, Read more

  • Beyond the Shore – Kirli Saunders. Illustrated by Mark Chester Harding.

    I had the great pleasure of listening to Kirli Saunders speak about her work, back in May so had special interest in seeing this new title. I was also particularly interested to see the illustrations from debut picture book illustrator, Mark Chester Harding. There is an elegant simplicity about both text and illos that has Read more

  • Prayer for a River -Uncle Glenn Loughrey and Andrew Kelly. Illustrated by Uncle Glenn Loughrey.

    Wild Dog Books October 2025 ISBN: 9781742036915 RRP: $24.99 This book is truly special. Completely aside from the Wiradjuri close connection [from my own perspective], this is a book that you will use multiple times with classes for multiple reasons, aside from its innate beauty, both visually and textually. Wiradjuri writer, speaker and artist, Uncle Read more

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