Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe

  • Woof woof! Double the Dog Delight

    Today (as I write this) is International Dog Day and many of my friends with doggos are sharing their pals. I thought it would be a good opportunity to write these two reviews to go up after the last of the Birdie Num Num titles this week. So here we go! My Name is Jemima…

  • Ava Spark: Hello, I’m here! – Alex Field. Illustrated by Joanna Bartel.

    New Frontier Publishing May 2025 ISBN : 978-1-923145-92-4 PRICE : $16.99 Meeting Ava Spark will be something quite different for most of your readers, I think. While they may already be aware or even familiar with some methods of communication, especially AUSLAN/sign language, which many schools are incorporating into their programs, not so many will be aware…

  • A Lemon for Safiya – Jemima Shafei-Ongu. Illustrated by Nisaluk Chantanakom.

    Hachette Australia May 2025 Imprint: Lothian Children’s Books | 9780734422224 | RRP $24.99 When Safiya spots an old lady sitting on the kerb, she feels worried for her. Her parents sense something is amiss as well. The family are quick to see that the old lady is confused, also that she has no English, and it is apparent by…

  • Emma Memma: Twirly Tuesday

    Penguin Australia February 2025 Honestly, every Emma Memma book is just pure joyfulness! I defy anyone, no matter how staid and grumpy, to ignore Emma’s natural exuberance and zest. You only had to see her in her former role as Yellow Wiggle pouring sunshine and happiness over Grey Wiggle, Simon Cowell, to raise a smile.…

  • Dylan Alcott: Game On! – Dylan Alcott/Fiona Regan. Illustrated by Nahum Ziersch.

    Harper Collins November 2024 What an absolute honour it was for me to be asked to write the teaching notes for this book – the first in a series – from sporting legend, disability advocate, radio host, actor, founder of his self-named foundation, film-maker, motivational speaker, Australian of the Year and, dead-set larrikin, Dylan Alcott.…