Just So Stories

Random Reviews and Ramblings from Redcliffe


  • Getting Dusty: Uncle Xbox #2- Jared Thomas

    Magabala Books February 2025 Hachette Australia 9781922777546 | RRP $17.99 Just over a decade ago I reviewed Dr Jared Thomas’ YA novel Calypso Summer, which was quite the wild ride showing two sides of young urban Indigenous culture, particularly young men. Over the intervening years Jared has continued to go from strength to strength, award to award…

  • The Lucky Shack – Apsara Baldovino/Jennifer Falkner

    Harper Collins July 2023 This is essentially a simple story but there is a depth to it that many will find both heart-warming and thought-provoking. Written from the PoV of the shack (being a great introduction to the idea of personification), this humble little dwelling goes through changes wrought by time and circumstances, and through…

  • Down by the sea…

    It may be winter but living near the sea does have its advantages especially when you are in Queensland so my mood today is for those things that are of the ocean. Tropical Terry – Jarvis Walker Books ISBN: 9781406376425 Imprint: Walker Release Date: July 1, 2018 Australian RRP: $24.99 Terry is a very plain little fish who lives…

  • Seahorse – Bruce Pascoe

    Magabala Books August 2015 ISBN:9781921248931 RRP $16.95 Both boys and girls in middle primary or thereabouts will enjoy this exciting story set on the beach of Seahorse Bay. Camping, fishing, snorkelling and a sunken boat are all the makings of a terrific family adventure. Jack is making real progress with his snorkelling with his dad,…

  • Crabbing with Dad – Paul Seden

    Magabala Books April 2016 ISBN:9781925360158 RRP $17.95   As our summer merges into autumn with no abate to the warm weather seemingly, this will be a great read aloud for your smaller humans especially those who live near the water. Paul Seden’s picture book is chockfull of colour and activity as a family goes up…