Reviews

Greta Zargo and the death robots from outer space by A.F. Harrold

Bloomsbury, 2017. ISBN 9781408869475
(Age: Middle primary) Greta Zargo is an eleven year old orphan who hopes to become famous in her chosen career as an investigative journalist. As an unpaid employee of the local paper, Greta believes that she needs a great scoop to ensure that she will finally have one of her articles on the front page. Instead, she is sent out to investigate what she deems to be the least exciting events ever, including the disappearances of several cakes. Independent, resilient and determined, Greta lives alone, receiving only the odd visit from her Aunt Tabitha to ensure that she is safe and happy.
Meanwhile, as Greta is focused on uncovering the truth behind the cake thefts, a silver death robot is plummeting towards earth, determined to wreak havoc. Who will be able to stop the destruction of earth? Will Greta be able to write her prize-winning article about the amazing creature? You need to read this book to discover the answer.
Initially, I found myself disliking this book intensely, but the more I read the more humorous I found the story. I quite liked the interjections on the sides of many of the pages and was quickly reminded of The Hitchhiker's guide to the galaxy. Double spaced type and lots of illustrations will undoubtedly make this an easily accessible title for middle primary students with a sense of humour. I look forward to seeing the finished product.
Jo Schenkel

Surrogate, a novel by Tracy Crisp

Wakefield Press, 2017. ISBN 9781743055083
(Age: Adult) Surrogate is the story of two mothers, not as you might at first expect, the surrogate and the adoptive mother, but of two women from different eras, a surrogate mother of the 1990s, and a relinquishing mother, a single woman in the 1960's, forced to give up her baby when her fiance is called up to the Vietnam War.
Rachael is a young nurse whose romantic relationships have not turned out well, and when she is befriended by an attractive doctor and her husband, the friendship starts to go much further than she expected; first she is asked by them to housesit while they go to Vietnam to pick up their to-be-adopted child, and then when that falls through, she is led into an ever more intimate relationship whereby she will become a surrogate mother and bear a child for them.
Interwoven with Rachael's story is the story of Mary, who as a single woman in the 1960's, was forced to give up her first child before she even saw it. Gradually the connection between the two stories is revealed. It is an interesting juxtaposition, and provokes questions of the difference between decisions made under coercion and those made freely in full understanding of the consequences.
Finally Rachael has to make her own decision and face what it means for all involved.
Helen Eddy

How to feel awesome every day by Elly Awesome

Random House, 2017. ISBN 9780143786085
(Age: 9-14) Despite my initial 'cringe' when this book arrived for review, I was quickly converted to see it as a positive title for young girls from the age of 9 to 14 to read. A combined activity book and journal, it was written by an author previously unknown to me. I soon did a little research and realised that Elly Awesome is prolific on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and 'Toasted TV' and discovered that the book is filled with positive suggestions as to how girls could spend their time. The book could easily have become preachy and sanctimonious but, instead, it is a rather delightful little 'how-to' for young girls wishing to keep active.
From mental health and wellbeing quizzes to goal setting, recipes, exercise suggestions, colouring and creative DIY ideas, this book ticks off a multitude of topics which would give any reader a boost. Even as an adult, I went away from reading feeling somewhat uplifted, merely thinking about some of the topics and how I would have answered the questions the author posed. Initially, I was confused as to the age of the target audience but I believe the book would hold a relatively broad appeal.
With well-being coordinators and growth mindset a big part of the curriculum, this book ticks a lot of boxes and I can see some tasks possibly being included in the classroom programme too. This is a great title for young girls to assist them with boosting their self-esteem and general well-being.
Jo Schenkel

Peter Pan and Wendy by James Barrie

Ill. by Robert Ingpen. Walker Books, 2017. ISBN 9781760650254
Over a century ago James Barrie wrote a story about a boy who could fly and who never grew up; who had adventures on an island called Neverland and introduced us to characters like Wendy, Tinkerbell, Captain Hook and the croc with the clock!
Since then it has become a classic, republished many times, made into a stage play and movies and now it has been reworked into an abridged version superbly illustrated by Robert Ingpen so that another generation can delight in it.
With its modern language and stunning pictures, new life is breathed into Barrie's words making it the perfect bedtime read-aloud story to introduce young children to the original tale, or the be read alone by the newly independent reader, and is a must for both the library's collection and the Santa Sack. Given her grandfather is named Barrie after this author because of the impact of the story on his parents, I know just whose tree this will be under.
Barbara Braxton

Dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures by Matt Sewell

Pavilion, 2017. ISBN 9781843653509
If there is one section of the library that can never have too many items, it is 567.9 - the home of the dinosaurs. There seems to be an eternal fascination with these long-ago creatures that has been the door into reading for so many children, particularly young boys who like to get the biggest and thickest books and pore over them with their mates. So this new addition by Matt Sewell that introduces favourites and familiars and also some first-read-abouts will be welcome as it is targeted at those who want to know something but not so much that it is overwhelming. Who knew there were so many - but then they were on the planet for 170 million years! Each creature has a one or two page spread dominated by the illustration, an illustration that is somewhat different from the norm as they have been inspired by new ideas from palaeontologists that the creatures were not only colourful but some may have had feathers rather than the traditional scales and hide.
Each entry includes the length and weight which can always lead to some interesting maths activities and well as the time period (delve into history and create a chart) and their diet with 'proper' descriptors like 'carnivorous' to extend the vocabulary. There are other basic facts written in a conversational tone that makes the language accessible to those early readers. Given that not every dinosaur is included, perhaps they could produce an extra page exploring and explaining their favourite dinosaur as an initial information literacy exercise.
Produced in conjunction with the Natural History Museum in the UK, this is a worthwhile addition to that critical section of the collection.
Barbara Braxton

Healthy Kids Cookbook

Dorling Kindersley, 2017. ISBN 9781740331289
So many cooking shows get huge ratings on television and so much has been written about the 'obesity crisis' amongst our students that it is clear that food is a dominating force in our lives and the interest in it has never been higher. Gradually the tide is swinging towards the healthy end of the scale as we try to nourish our bodies but still cope with the hectic lifestyle we impose on ourselves and our kids. Even the famous 'Golden Arches" is now producing healthier fast foods that are getting a nod, if not the tick of approval, from nutritionists.
But if we are going to make and have sustainable change in our diets, we need to start from the beginning and get children knowing and appreciating what they are putting into their mouths. If they are actively involved in the growing and preparation of their food (A patch from scratch by Megan Forward) they are more likely to build habits of good nutrition that will last them a lifetime. Experience has shown me that those children who are subjected to a healthy food regime imposed on them by well-meaning parents are usually the first to grab the "naughties" at parties as they seek to taste the 'forbidden fruit'.
So to have a cookbook that is directed specifically at children cooking for themselves is very appealing and as usual with DK publications, both the content and the presentation are directed squarely at the child. Beginning with a brief explanation of why a balanced diet is critical and other things that all budding cooks need to know, it is set out with lots of photos, simple captions and just the right amount of information to inform but not bore. The recipes follow a similar sort of presentation with stunning full colour photos to help understanding but also to make the most ordinary food look good - we know we eat with our eyes first. Who knew a rainbow salad could be so tempting? Or how many good things could be packed into a pita pocket? Or even that so many vegetables could be included in yummy cakes? Parents will love this book!!!
With plans for the new school year already on the horizon, this could be the centrepiece of a display encouraging our students to nourish themselves throughout the year, and perhaps even encourage the establishment of a cooking group so they can learn and hone their skills and tastes in a community atmosphere.
Definitely one for the two budding chefs in my life . . .
Barbara Braxton

The Slime Book

Finn and Puss by Robert Vescio and Melissa Mackie

EK Books, 2017. ISBN 9781925335507
When Finn, a lonely little boy, finds a lost cat it would seem their problems are solved. Finn has a friend and the cat has a home. But then Finn spots a poster advertising the cat as lost . . . Will he return it or is their friendship more important to him?
Told in a few words but with exquisite illustrations that are as gentle as the story but rich in emotion and detail, this is a story which explores the connections between a child and a pet and how hard it can be to do the right thing. But sometimes that right thing can have its own reward.
Charming.
Barbara Braxton

Witchfairy by Brigitte Minne

Ill. by Carll Cneut. Book Island, 2017. ISBN 9781911496076
(Age: 6+) Highly recommended. Fairy stories. Fairies. Witches. Growing up. Born a fairy Rosemary must put up with the expectations of her family: she must remain neat and clean, tell stories with her honeyed voice, never spill crumbs upon her clothes, and wave her magic wand about. For her birthday that is precisely what she has been given, but she would have much preferred a pair of roller skates or a boat. In fact she would much prefer to be a witch, so she packs her bags and flies off to the witches' wood. Here she is accepted without hesitation and learns to fly a broom. In her treehouse, a little lonely she looks at the moon wondering what her mother is doing. Back at the castle, mum is also lonely without Rosemary and looks at the moon. She flies off to the witch's wood with her handbag and there the two affect a compromise and all is happy once again.
This delightful tale of growing up, of expectations, of finding out what you really want to be, is an absolute treat. Written with the ambience of a fairy tale by Flemish author, Brigitte Minne, and beautifully illustrate by Belgian illustrator, Carll Cneut, the book will be read and reread by teachers, parents, carers and kids drawing the listeners into talking about what they expect of the world in which they live, and of course, looking closely at the good and bad points of being a fairy or a witch.
The illustrations are simply stunning, with the fairies in their wonderful nineteenth century smocks and delightful tall hats reminding me of the Scandinavian Santa (nisse)and his wife found in people's homes at Christmas.
Each page demands closer inspection as Cneut uses an array of media to create his images: crayon, watercolour and pencil can be seen. Faces of the fairies and the witches dot the pages and the images of the castle and the woods demand closer inspection.
Fran Knight

Maybe by Morris Gleitzman

Viking, 2017. ISBN 9780670079377
(Age: Upper primary - Lower secondary) Maybe, the sixth book in the series, is an excellent continuation of the saga of Felix, an orphan who has survived the war yet still has not found ultimate peace and freedom. This title focuses on Felix, Gabriek and the pregnant Anya as they endeavour to find a safe place for the baby to be born, away from their old enemy, Zliv. Uncertainty seems to follow the little band of travellers as they endeavour to find a new home. The reader is automatically on the side of the protagonist who continues to live in the hope that just maybe life in Australia will bring them the security they all desire.
As in the previous books, the introduction of new characters adds a new perspective and both a sense of possibility and menace to their lives and situations in which they find themselves. Throughout the story is a sense of tension as one barracks eagerly on the sidelines for Felix to find the 'maybe' of which he dreams.
With the author's non-linear progression throughout the series, each novel easily stands alone and can be read out of sequence without destroying the other books for the reader. This heart wrenching tale is most appropriate for children in upper primary to secondary students. Certainly, in my previous schools, the titles in this series have rarely been on the shelf and have been used to great effect as class novels or in literature circles as they are engaging, if somewhat confronting, reads, simultaneously depressing and uplifting.
Jo Schenkel

Gemma gets the jitters by Katrina Roe

Wombat Books, 2017. ISBN 9781925563139
"Gemma has a new camera! When she visits the mountains, she wants to get the perfect photo. But at the top of the lookout, Gemma gets the jitters. Will she let her fear of heights stop her from achieving her dream? Join Jemma, Marty and their friends as they help Gemma overcome her jitters."
From the mountains to the city tower, Gemma struggles to overcome her fear of heights. Her friends support her and provide her with a new mantra, "Just take one small step at a time." By slowly encouraging her in her efforts to climb their treehouse, escalator, jungle gym and elevator, her friends gradually help Gemma to overcome her fears and prepare for her special present, the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb. By admitting her fears and accepting the assistance of her friends, Gemma manages to complete the climb and share her excitement with them all.
Containing a simple storyline and some strong cartoon illustrations, the book sends a message to the reader that anxiety is not abnormal or something of which to be ashamed. Practice and team work are required to overcome certain fears as is depicted in this little moral tale. Although I am not a major fan of the illustrations, I appreciated the fact that the book is accessible to Australian children due to the familiar landmarks depicted throughout, particularly the bridge and Sydney Opera House in the distance.
The final pages of the book offer notes for parents and carers on how to address the issue of anxiety. These are written by Collett Smart, billed as a consultant psychologist, teacher, lecturer, writer and parent. Growth mindset is highlighted in these pages and could prove useful to parents who are uncertain as to how to best support their children.
Jo Schenkel

Fold-up Halloween fortune tellers

Bloomsbury, 2017. ISBN 9781408888629
(Age: Middle primary) To quote the blurb: "Dare to be scared with these ghoulishly gruesome fortune tellers. Can you avoid the wicked witch's spell? Can you outrun the speedy vampire with his toothy grin? Or will you get caught in the blast of the snozzle-nose snot monster's sneeze?
With colourful illustrations on every page, you can make creepy, crazy and completely hilarious Halloween fortunes for all your friends."
Despite my first glance making me wonder why this book would hold much appeal, closer investigation proved that it would be something which lots of children would enjoy. I suspect it would prompt them to create their own fortunes as some are only half written and others completely blank. There is room for plenty of creativity and imagination as children would be inclined to write the spookiest endings possible. As I looked through the pages, they brought back memories of my own childhood, creating 'chatter-boxes' to trick my friends. Given that ours were made on scraps of paper, carefully trimmed and folded, these have way more visual appeal with their colourful patterns and illustrations. The stories contained in these pages are more creative than our 'truth or dare' type fortune tellers. Linking them to the celebration of Halloween provides a certain appeal and there is a possibility that teachers could use these as a basis for story writing for any special celebration being recognised in the classroom. This publication should provide lots of fun for children in middle primary classes.
Jo Schenkel

Billy and the Minpins by Roald Dahl

Ill. by Quentin Blake. Puffin, 2017. ISBN 9780141377506
Billy's mum is always telling what to do and what not to do to be good, but all the things he was allowed to do were boring, and those he was forbidden were exciting. The one thing he was not allowed to do was to never ever go outside the gate all by himself and certainly to never go into the Forest of Sins which he could see from the loungeroom window. His mother painted a fearsome picture of the beasts that lived there - Whangdoodles, Hornswogglers, Snozzwanglers, Vernicious Knids and most terrifying of all, the Terrible Bloodsuckling Toothpluckling Stonechuckling Spittler- and told him that while many went in, none came out.
Billy figured this was just mother-talk to keep him from breaking the rules so when one day The Devil whispered in his ear, he could resist no longer and out the window he climbed, through the gate he went and into the forest he disappeared  . . .
Roald Dahl is master storyteller and he loved to write stories for children that made them not only the heroes but also in defiance of the adults in their lives, so this is Dahl at his best. While not as well-known as some of his other works, it is nevertheless just as gripping and intriguing and engaging as the others. This new edition is the first time that Quentin Blake has done the illustrations for it in his iconic style and as usual he has brought Dahl's imagination and words to life. They are liberally scattered throughout the text, breaking up both the words and the tension so that this is a perfect version for the newly-independent reader venturing into the world of "chapter books" while, at the same time, introducing fans to a not-so-familiar story.
To me, the perfect novel is one I can hear and see myself reading to my students and just as The BFG captured me from the get-go so did this. This needs to be on your read-aloud list.
Barbara Braxton

Grace and Katie by Susanne Merritt and Liz Anelli

EK Books, 2017. ISBN 9781925335545
Twins Grace and Katie like to draw but their drawings are very different. Grace's drawings are done with a variety of pens and pencils, all black and full of straight lines, angles, shapes and precision. Katie's are done with all sorts of media in all sorts of colours, and filled with patterns, squiggles and swirls and imagination.
Neither cares much for the other's style until one day they both decide to draw their home. Grace's is like a map and organised, Kate's is full of people and bright and colourful. But then both girls realise there is something missing . . .
This is an interesting exploration of the difference between twins who so often are assumed to be the same, particularly when they look so alike. Illustrator Liz Anelli has emphasised the difference between the two girls by giving Grace a straight, organised hairstyle while Kate's is more every-which-way, a bit like her. But essentially, physically they are the same. However that's where the similarities end - you can imagine that Grace would have a sensible, neat, organised bedroom and lifestyle while Kate's would be the opposite and yet outsiders would assume that because they look alike they must also be alike and think alike.
Stories about twins are not common so this is a great addition to the collection so that not only can the children read about themselves in a book but also send a message to the world that they are individuals first but lucky enough to share the special bond that twins have and which both girls discover.
Barbara Braxton

Meeka by Suzanne Barton and Anil Tortop

Bluebell Books, 2017. ISBN 9780648099307
There are lots of tantalising tastes and smells at the community food markets - crusty French bread, buttery corn on the cob, fluffy, puffy fairy floss, peanuts, walnuts, all kinds of nutty nuts... but the most tantalising of all is dad's spicy, dicey stew. Made with spices, herbs, almonds, apricots, lemons and some other secret ingredients, it not only draws in the market-goers but also a cute little bird called Meeka who samples it every day and sings with delight.
But Meeka also likes to sample all the goodies from the other stalls and is friendly with all the other cooks and sellers so when Meeka goes missing, there is great consternation. Finally found with a bulging tummy and feeling very sick from eating all the non-bird food, Meeka is placed in one of the tagines used for the spicy, dicey stew to recover and then disaster happens . . .
New author Suzanne Barton crowd-funded this charming story that gently suggests that we really should not feed our pets and wildlife human food because it is not the best for them and that Mother Nature really has a better diet for them. Anil Tortop's gentle pastel illustrations bring the busyness of the markets to life in a series of vignettes that tell as much of the story as the text. Certainly there are two crucial pictures that are not referred to in the words on which the story hangs, and which demonstrate the links between words and pictures in quality picture books. Young children will enjoy this story - you can hear them gasp when they see what the little girl does with Meeka and encourage their predictions of Meeka's fate and they will like the rhythm and rhyme of the food words. They can share their favourite foods and maybe taste each other's and then investigate why it is not a good idea to indulge our pets and wildlife as they discover just what they should be eating.
Debut story, debut author but hopefully not the first-and-only.
Barbara Braxton