Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe

  • Living in the Past – Ancient History with a Twist of Fun

    I’ve had a passion for ancient history since I was a nerdy kid. I still have my Ancient Civilisations book my darling mum bought me when I was around 10 years old. I snaffled all my seven-years-older brother’s ancient history textbooks when he was done with them. I aced my project in 6th class on… Read more

  • What Rhymes with Murder?Penny Tangey

    Simon & Schuster Yesterday (as of time of writing this 21/1), I was treated to a guided tour of the stunning new Caloundra library [Thank you to Karen and Fran, my exemplary tour guides and instant friends!] and, at the mention, of Rhyme Time, I happily gave them a heads-up on this great new title… Read more

  • Words Matter – Anita Fitch Pazner & Sophie Casson

    The Story of Hans and Sophie Scholl, and the White Rose Resistance The Story of Hans and Sophie Scholl, and the White Rose Resistance New South Books Publisher: Groundwood Books 9781773069708 January 2026 AUD$29.99, NZD$34.99 While I have known of Hans and Sophie Scholl for many years, as would anyone who follows groups such as… Read more

  • Newcastle: the lives and times of a city – Scott Bevan

    New South Publishing October 2025 9781742238043  RRP: $39.99 Why on earth would a Sydney girl ask to review a book about Newcastle? Growing up and all through school, I knew virtually nothing about Newcastle beyond ‘coal’ ‘dirty industry’ and of course, ‘worst of the worst convicts‘. But then, as an adult and somewhere around the… Read more

  • Board Book Bonanza!

    Mr McGee – Pamela Allen Penguin Australia February 2026 Some top-shelf board book editions with a much-loved character plus some fresh new titles for the Smallest Smalls in your circle. First up is that popular chap, Mr McGee whose last book I reviewed in 2024, the year in which Pamela Allen turned 90. How lovely… Read more

  • Are you the Easter Bunny? – Janeen Brian. Lucinda Gifford

    Harper Collins Australia January 2026 What a sublime pairing of creators here! Janeen’s rhyming text is just a delight, and especially her descriptive bilby body parts e.g. sniffer-snout, scritcher-scratchers and bottom-wiggler. Although an aficionado of rabbits in general – obviously, given the family name! – I am completely and unreservedly on Team Bilby in Australia… Read more

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