Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe

  • Be a Nature Explorer!: Outdoor Activities and Adventures – Peter Wohlleben. Translated by Jane Billinghurst, illustrated by Belle Wuthrich

    New South Books Greystone Kids/David Suzuki Institute July 2024 9781771649698  AUD$24.99, NZD$29.99 Nerdy kid me would have loved this book when I was a munchkin. I actually still love it now and really think I will try some of the suggested activities out [I wonder if I can coerce The Kid? she would also have…

  • Howzat Pat series #1 and #2 – Pat Cummins & Dave Hartley. Illustrated by Serena Geddes

    Harper Collins Australia October 2024 I admit that I’m not quite the cricket fan I once was [though, of course, I went to see the Bradman Collection when we were in Adelaide a fortnight ago!] but it was still pretty exciting, and also a lot of fun to write teaching notes for these two titles,…

  • Afloat – Kirli Saunders/Freya Blackwood

    Hardie Grant October 2024 Imprint: Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing/Little Hare ISBN:9781760505899 Price:AU$24.99, NZ$27.99Page When two award-winning creators join forces we can expect astonishing results, and here is the proof of that. Roam the water with me. We are here to learn.Here to spin wisdom, to grow … Gunai woman, Kirli Saunders, uses the traditional practice…

  • The Midwatch – Judith Rossell

    Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing October 2024 ISBN:9781761212369 Price:AU$24.99, NZ$27.99 Holy Mackerel!! This is literally just WOW! The sleek and stylish binding is sensational and I’ve not seen such an enticing invitation to open a book for some time. We may have been waiting a while for a new book from Judith Rossell, but trust me,…

  • A Wish for Baby – Caz Goodwin/Sara Acton

    Affirm Press July 2024 AUD RRP $22.99 ISBN 9781922930293 I wish you health and happiness,but even when there’s pain …I hope you see the rainbowsas you’re running through the rain. Caz Goodwin and Sara Acton have created an absolute joy of a picture book, which will make the perfect present for a new babe in…

  • Legend of the Lighthouse Moon – Helen Edwards

    Riveted Press Distributed by Simon & Schuster October 2024 ISBN13: 9781763526013 RRP: AU$ 17.99 / NZ$ 19.99 What an enchanting story Helen Edwards has created with its rich blend of history, legend, family and love! Set on Kangaroo Island in the 1970s, Mona McKenna and her little brother, Albert, live an idyllic family life in…

  • Australia’s Greatest Stories: True Tales, Legends and Larrikins – Graham Seal

    Publisher:Allen & Unwin October 2024 ISBN:9781761471131 Imprint:Allen & Unwin RRP: $34.99 This is exactly the sort of yarning book that my Father Bear and I loved to read and share with each other, so in one sense it was quite a nostalgic trip for me. It was however, fascinating to be able to explore hitherto…

  • Nanny Piggins and the Origin Story – R. A. Spratt

    Penguin Australia October 2024 My deep admiration for Nanny Piggins has never been a secret but, like so many, what did I really know about her? Of course, I know she’s the epitome of glamour, [forget Miss Piggy, who really was such a try-hard], NP is the real deal when it comes to glitz and…

  • Bamboozled: Celebrating 30 years – David Legge

    This is another happy anniversary edition that takes me right back to the start of my t-l career. If only I had a dollar for every time I’ve read this one to my kiddos! It’s another perfect example of a picture book that can be used in multiple ways as valuable adjunct to a teaching…

  • The Space Between – Jess McGeachin

    Penguin Australia July 2024 Jess’ books are always a delight [I still love Business Chickens so much especially] and this one has all the warmth of a cosy blanket and a mug of hot chocolate, with a lovely look at both imagination and enduring friendship. Max and Milo are neighbours and they spend lots of…