Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe

  • The First Third – Will Kostakis

    Penguin Australia Published:24/07/2013 Format:Paperback, 248 pages RRP:$17.99 price:AUD $17.99 ISBN-13:9780143568179 ISBN-10:0143568175 Yes, ok, I admit it. I may well be one of the last few teacher-librarians in Australia who hadn’t read The First Third – until the past couple of weeks.  I knew, from all the glowing recommendations and recognitions that it must be a… Read more

  • Love and Other Perishable Items – Laura Buzo

    ISBN: 9781760112424 Australian Pub.: January 2015 Publisher: Allen & Unwin Imprint: A & U Children Subject: Young adult fiction Suitable for ages: 14-18 Originally this debut novel from Laura Buzo was published as ‘Good Oil’ and commended in the CBC Older Readers offerings of 2011.  It was further shortlisted in the 2011 Prime Minister’s Literary… Read more

  • Holier than Thou – Laura Buzo

    Before I started this blog, I wrote this review of Laura Buzo’s second novel. I am reposting here as I’m about to review another of this terrific author’s books. Stay posted! Allen and Unwin, 2012. ISBN 9781741759983. Recommended for Year 11/12 students. Wonderfully funny, heartbreakingly poignant, undeniably bursting with life, Laura Buzo’s second novel Holier… Read more

  • Six lessons on young adults’ literature from a 13-year-old

      To publishers, there are two kinds of young readers: children, and young adults. But in that extremely fluid period between 12 and 18, it is probably necessary to further separate young young adult readers from the the now-legendary YA segment. Welcome, then, to YYA readers. Whose brains and bodies are both changing furiously almost… Read more

  • Behind and running to catch up……..

    Have got several reviews to write – but have a family crisis happening – which involves a small person whose mummy is in hospital so Gran is being a working mum and juggling a whole heap of *stuff*!!! Maybe on the weekend…………Thank you to new followers – I promise I will catch up asap!! Read more

  • Sea Dog – Claire Saxby/Tom Jellet

    June 1st 2013         Random House Australia                           ISBN13: 9781742756509 With impeccable timing this delightful picture book arrived in my review parcel just as Small and I were impatiently awaiting the arrival of one small black toy poodle (anything better than being with Gran? Yes, being with Gran AND a lively little pup!). We pounced on… Read more

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