Pan Macmillan, 2023. ISBN: 9781529070514. (Age:Adult - Senior secondary) Recommended.
A stand-alone first published in 2001 and now republished with an attractive cover, The sleeping and the dead has stood the test of time. Detective Peter Porteous is called to Cranwell Lake where the body of a young man has been uncovered due to sinking waters in a drought. Porteous is a meticulous police officer who enjoys examining files and when sorting through records of missing persons, discovers that the murdered teenager is Michael Grey, a secretive boy who disappeared twenty years previously. Meanwhile Hannah Morton is shocked to hear of the discovery of his body. Michael had been her boyfriend and she had seen him on the night he disappeared and long suppressed memories come to the surface.
Cleeves brings together connections from the past and the present, to give the reader a suspenseful psychological thriller. There are numerous red herrings and suspects and the finale was surprising. As with her Vera and Shetland books, the characters are well drawn and The sleeping and the dead could well have been the first in a series. Porteous is quiet and methodical, making sure that the correct procedures are in place. Hannah Morton is a librarian in a prison and this setting adds colour to the story. Her home life coping with her divorce and rebellious teenage daughter Rosie are easy to relate to while Rosie’s experiences are vividly described.
Ann Cleeves is a CWA Gold Dagger award-winning writer, and her early work is very readable.
Themes Murder, Detectives.
Pat Pledger
Elizabeth of York: The last white rose by Alison Weir
Alison Weir has created a fascinating and riveting story of the English Royal families, beginning in 1470 and taking us through to 1503.p Weir begins her narrative in a time of rivalry and anger, a time when unwanted upstarts, according to certain other royal families, should be taken prisoner, even simply killed to prevent their taking over the throne of England. Outstandingly vivid, thoughtful, and richly developed as a narrative, this gripping novel plunges us into what life would have been like in these unsettled times.
Elizabeth was expecting to be Queen of England, but the death of her father does not lead into her claim of Queen, and rather she flees the capital, seeking sanctuary for a time, hiding in an unexpected place, and planning how to ensure that her reinstatement as Queen is done in a proper and royal manner. In fact, it is her uncle who plans to marry this claimant, but Elizabeth decides instead to marry Henry Tudor. Life does not settle down to any sense of normality, but Elizabeth acts wisely, seeking to rule as the rightful heir, but ensuring that her country returns to something like normal, run by a person of intelligence. Indeed, her marriage keeps her as the Queen in an unexpected way, with both her husband as King and she as Queen, ruling calmly and thoughtfully to make England a safe and good country.
This narrative is brilliantly constructed to enable readers to consider how the ‘royals’ could be fair and decent people, running the country in a considerate and thoughtful way, seeing themselves as people who are royals, thus exploring how such a political situation could be decent and considerate of all who lived in these times.
Themes Great Britain - Kings, queens and rulers, Great Britain - History -1485-1603, Tudor period, Queen Elizabeth.
Fans of Wakefield’s YA fiction will be excited to read her first adult novel, a gripping psychological thriller. How far would you go to find your missing child? Abbie, a single parent, is exhausted and releases 6-year-old Sarah’s hand in a busy market. Sarah disappears and six years later Abbie is finally trying to get her life back together with marriage to an older man when she gets a phone call. The caller appears to know what has happened to Sarah, but Abbie must follow his instructions and let no one know what is happening.
Told in three time frames, Before, Now and After, the reader is taken on a trip through Abbie’s life as a rebellious young teen, an exhausted single parent and a traumatised woman wondering what has happened to her daughter. The thought of losing a child is a nightmare one that Wakefield explores deftly and with empathy.
The story is as much about family relationships and friendships as it is about a dreadful crime. It is easy to relate to Abbie and the difficult feelings she has with her mother, which left me thinking about what makes a perfect mother and how difficult mother/daughter bonds can be. If Abbie is ever going to find her child, how will that relationship end? Is finding out what happened to her child worth losing everything in her life - marriage, reputation and sanity?
Vikki Wakefield is the author of several outstanding YA novels, including the award winning This is how we change the ending and she has made a successful and unforgettable transition to the world of adult crime writing with After you were gone. Fans of The lost man by Jane Harper will find this just as hard to put down.
Themes Child abduction, Family relationship, Single parents, Crime, Psychological thriller.
Rosie Raja is a feisty half English, half-Indian Princess who is lonely and upset with her father. Her mother has recently died in India and her English father has taken her to live in his childhood mansion in the English countryside. He is concerned that her aunt, (the queen) Rani-K is becoming too involved with the independence movement in India which was led by Gandhi at that time. Rani is bored and frustrated by her father’s frequent absences and so when she overhears a conversation that reveals his true identity as an English spy, she is determined to follow him on his next mission. She finds herself in Nazi occupied France during World War II where she tries her best to help him with his mission. The book does not shy away from the harsh realities that would have been faced by the resistance movement in France at that time and the risks they faced in opposing the Nazis. Smart and capable, Rosie launches herself into learning all she can about being a spy while facing the tragedies that befall her father’s unit as they move around France. There are some brilliant discussion points regarding the role of women in war, the Indian independence movement, the actions of those in British empire, and the WWII conflict itself. It would be perfect to read alongside a study of WWII for pupils in Year 5 and above. An additional inclusion could have been some suggested reading material about these issues. There is another book, also set in Nazi occupied France, called Mohinder's War by Bali Rae, featured on the back pages of this book.
Themes World War II, India, Gandhi, Spies and spying.
Gabrielle Anderson
Dawnshard by Brandon Sanderson
Titan Books, 2022. ISBN: 9781803361321. (Age:15+) Recommended for fantasy devotees.
When a fantasy world is so different from your own there are large imagination hurdles to overcome before you can gel with the text. That was the case when I began this book by an author that had previously been recommended to me. I was impressed with the complexity of the imagined world and the way humanity interacted with the characters from different magical realms, who regularly morphed and displayed intensely unique qualities utilising powers that were beyond the workings of my mind. The intricacies of political and magical rules created complications to the quest story involving Rysn, an intelligent human who some years before had lost the use of her legs. Her rise as ship-owner and expedition leader is woven with her own need to restore to health her companion pet (a magical creature) named Chiri-Chiri, and to resolve issues in the entire Cosmere. Rysn’s self-confidence grows as she learns to trust her judgement even against opposition. Perhaps she is more capable than she thinks.
With the complications of the plot and the magical world’s features also comes a unique language for these magical intricacies. Consequently, this is a book that should be read in big chunks, rather than as a pick-up and put-down book. The uniqueness of the language and the magical characters and their skills means it is hard to rely on an assumed knowledge of the world and it can be confusing. But capable devotees of the fantasy genre will see the richness and complexity as an attraction rather than a distraction. This author has written other books in the Stormlight Archive, and this book falls between two other books (Oathbringer and Rhythm of War). It can be read as a stand-alone story, but I am sure that enthusiasts of Brandon Sanderson’s writing will be happy to read this book in sequence. The complexity of the fantasy world means that this can be recommended for readers aged 15+ with an appetite for sophistication in their imaginary tales.
Themes Fantasy, Fantasy creatures, Overcoming difficulties, Disability, Magical powers.
Carolyn Hull
Letting the summer go by Alice Teasdale and Julia Both
Summer was a heat haze of fire, burning all in its wake, but a young girl and her mother enlisted the help of friends to replant their hidden garden. The earth had been depleted of all colour, and they wanted green, the green of plants and trees, of shoots, growth and flowers, to remind them of what had been and show the possibility of life anew. Their friends brought small plants and seeds, countless packs of seed and these were scattered and left to fend for themselves over the following months. When it rained and rained the girl fashioned a coat out of an old bag and braved the storm to see the hidden garden. Green shoots of all sizes could be seen. And her hen added some poo to the soil to enrich the growth.
Soon pumpkins and corn were growing well, and flowers hung around contrasting with the vegetables. Picked they were shared by one and all, especially the friends who gave them the seeds. Green could once more be seen. The awful summer was put behind them.
A homage to the gardens and gardeners who replanted after the Black Summer bushfires, this book, based on a true story, shows just one family, their land devastated, living in a caravan, dependent on the charity of others, replenishing their land, planting anew, awakening the soil around them. It is in tribute to those involved in the bushfires which saw so much devastation to so many around Australia. But it also shows just how resilient people can be in joining forces and renewing the land.
A newcomer to the publishing of children’s books, Stormbird Press (Kangaroo Island) aims to be read around campfires and hearths, across tundras, or under the shadow of mountains, as they all whisper where we have been and where we are going. More can be found here.
A conscious effort to show how people survived the bushfires, Letting the summer go is a well illustrated tale of resilience and starting again.
Allen & Unwin, 2023. ISBN: 9781761180095. (Age:11-14) Highly recommended.
I loved A different land by Paul Jennings and was thrilled to receive a copy of The lorikeet tree, a heart-rending story with many intertwined themes. A sister and brother, Emily and her twin Alex, are devastated when they hear that their father has been diagnosed with a terminal illness. They live on a bush property that their father has painstakingly begun to reforest. It abounds with native animals, especially the rainbow lorikeets, which Emily loves. Alex refuses to accept his father’s diagnosis, and tries to cope by adding increasingly elaborate additions to his treehouse, believing that will keep his father alive. Emily is the one who must be sensible and when Alex adopts a feral kitten that threatens her beloved lorikeets, she finds life very difficult.
Told in four parts, with an epilogue, as a school assignment by Emily, complete with teacher’s comments and grades, it is easy to relate to the tensions and grief that all the members of the family face. Emily has always been strong and capable, looking after Alex, and her journey as she grapples with her father’s illness and the introduction of a cat into the family dynamics is handled sensitively by Jennings through the medium of her memoir. The different ways that a family copes with a terminal illness are described with Alex pouring his emotions into making intricate buildings and loving a cat, while Emily tries to be the competent one keeping the bushland pristine, writing about her feelings in her memoir.
The theme of conservation is gripping. Both sides of cat ownership are vividly described by the author. It is heart-breaking when the cat Ditto escapes the house and kills a rainbow lorikeet, but Emily also can see the joy that her father has as he pets the purring kitten. The importance of keeping cats contained so that they can’t harm the wildlife is emphasised and the family’s dilemma is solved in the end.
Although the story is easy to read and relatively short, (182 pages), the themes of family relationships, grief, sibling differences and protecting the environment are complex. This would make a thought-provoking class novel or literature circle read and teacher’s notes are available from the publisher.
Grandparents for hire is the third book in a series for middle primary readers about a very enterprising 8-year-old girl called Willa and her large, albino wolf hound, Woof. The series started with Mimi is missing, followed by Birthday business in 2022. In this story Willa is concerned about the many children who are upset when their school principal announces that they are having a Grandparents Day. Many of them do not have grandparents nearby and Willa decides to help. She comes up with a plan to match some of the residents of the nearby retirement village to the children in need of grandparents for the day. Her scheme will also help the retirement village residents by providing an income to support their outings and afternoon teas, something the nasty director Mrs Wilson wants to get rid of. During her organisation of Grandparents for hire her four-legged friend Woof seems to be up to something and keeps mysteriously disappearing, especially when her teacher’s dog Lola is nearby. These easy to read, adventurous stories, from the author of the Alice Miranda and Kensy and Max books, are perfect for those readers ready to tackle slightly longer novels. The characters will appeal to most children and will be positive role models for this age group.
Anora can see the dead, is even able to turn the spirits she meets into gold coins. Moving to a new school, this is something she is keeping to herself, and needs to convince her mother that she isn't crazy - therefore, no more spirits into coins. But, by the end of her first day, she has managed to turn a spirit into a coin, and somehow lost the coin - which has never happened before. On top of this, Anora mourns the passing of her Poppa, and is fielding the advances and attention of two very interesting guys at the school. One of them is even in a secret society, whose sworn duty is to protect humans and guide the dead to the next part of their journey. Navigating all this in amongst the school gossip app and dealing with overly eager students, and the constant threat of being sent to an asylum if her mum gets any whiff of ghost talk, things aren't looking great.
This supernatural fantasy has an almost Twilight meets Wednesday (Netflix show) vibe. With interesting characters, drama and intrigue, the novel moves between the two main characters viewpoints, Anora and Shy, developing the story. The first in a new series, readers will eagerly await the next book as the series promises more twists and turns. Evenly paced with plenty of action and multiple layers to the story, Scarlett St. Clair has written a hit, which she kindly includes a trigger warning at the beginning of the book regarding suicide (suspected suicide in story).
Cicada sing song by Pat Simmons. Illus. by Katrin Dreiling
Little Steps, 2022. ISBN: 9781922358462. (Age:4+) Highly recommended.
Who doesn’t love the sound on a warm summer’s night, when the cicadas fill the air with their beautiful melodies?
Cicada Sing Song is a celebration of those special moments when you can lay back and enjoy the symphony. But is it classical, rap, hip hop, rock, country, jazz or soul? The cicadas are all very talented!
This is a lovely picture book, filled with poetic text. It celebrates the sounds of individual cicadas coming together to create a festival of music. As the winds warm with Summertime, the cicadas make their unique music. The text is filled with rhyme and rhythm, with each playful verse creating a vivid image. Adding to this are the delightful and captivating illustrations.
Pat Simmons has created a charming melodical story. Creating verse for different characters and activities, it distinguishes their skills and move through the story seamlessly. Adding to the narrative are the exquisite illustrations by Katrin Dreiling which capture the essence of the story. Each bold and colourful page brings intrigue and interest to the text.
Cute, colourful and creative… This cacophony of cicadas is clever! Teacher's notes are available.
Themes Insects, Music, Sounds, Performing.
Michelle O'Connell
The Last Firedog by Ian Boyd and Gary Luck
Spirit of the Earth Books, 2022. ISBN: 9780648905745. (Age:8-12) Highly recommended.
The Last Firedog is the second eco-fantasy novel by Ian Boyd and Gary Luck, following the popular release of Melody Finch in 2020.
This time the story follows bullied but resourceful young cricketer, Reynold, who suddenly becomes a Tasmanian devil when a terrifying bushfire breaks out in his parents’ devil refuge. He must make fast decisions and juggle competing priorities to survive and get home safely. These priorities include saving another devil who is vital for the eradication of a terrible face cancer, helping other animals escape the fire, fulfilling the dying wish of a mother quoll, and unravelling the mystery of the mythical firedog, all while navigating new and old relationships.
The story races along with plenty of humour and a cast of great characters - both human and animal. During the adventure we learn interesting information about bushfires, the environment, and a huge variety of Tasmanian wildlife. We also learn about friendships, family, and love, as well as resilience, bravery and doing the right thing even when it's tough.
The pairing of Ian Boyd and Gary Luck brings together the best of their two backgrounds. Boyd is a South Australian author with experience in children’s entertainment, gardening and landscape design. He is passionate about the outdoors and fascinated with the idea of seeing life through the eyes of animals. Luck is a wildlife ecologist with a special interest and focus on conservation and sustainability in Tasmania.
Together these two have crafted a wonderful second novel which is engaging, magical and undeniably Australian/Tasmanian.
Whispering wire: Tracing the Overland Telegraph Line through the heart of Australia by Rosamund Burton
Wakefield Press, 2022. ISBN: 9781743059609.
This story is much more than a historical recount of the expeditions leading to the building of the Overland Telegraph Line in the 1870s between Adelaide and Darwin.
The author weaves meticulously researched facts with narratives of the places visited and people she and her friend Fleur meet on their journey to retrace the steps of the explorers, first by cycling from Adelaide to Farina (800 miles!) and then by driving (with Alison) to Darwin. Her observations of the flora and fauna are amazing as are her reflections on the effects on the Aborigines of the building of the Telegraph Line.
A very readable book which would be worth studying for the changes in communication and living conditions for indigenous and non-indigenous Australians since South Australian settlement.
Themes Overland Telegraph Line (N.T. and S.A.) - History, Telegraph - Australia - History, Travel - South Australia, Travel - Northern Territory.
Ann Griffin
Grandfather Shark and the robbers by John Riviere Morris. Illus. by Hugo Shaw
Imagine a shark who looked after your town. Protected you from everything and anyone. Wouldn’t that be great! This story puts an interesting twist on our fascination with sharks and throws a different light on them entirely. It feels almost like a folktale or legend, a story John has shared with his family and now is sharing with us. The great Grandfather Shark, protecting us all from dangers.
Grandfather Shark and the Robbers is a unique and interesting picture book that many readers of all ages will enjoy. Its suspenseful storyline continues to build until the very end, leaving the audience captivated and enthralled. They will be completely enchanted and wondering what Grandfather Shark is going to do next.
Grandfather Shark is old and rather grumpy, but he loves the little town of Point Lonsdale and all the town’s folk in it. He is always listening out and looking to protect them from any dangers that may arise. So, when some robbers come to steal from the people, Grandfather Shark goes into action. How will he protect his town from these baddies?
John Riviere Morris has created a narrative to enthral. Building in suspense, the audience will be captivated until the very end, wanting to know what their hero shark will do next. Hugo Shaw’s use of pen and watercolour illustrations add detail and further engagement for the audience. Each large, full paged illustration supports the text and allows the audience great visuals which add to the storyline.
Grandfather shark is like some sort of mythical creature from the sea. Protecting the townsfolk from the dangers and saving the day to become the town’s local hero. Wouldn’t we all like to believe there is a Grandfather Shark out there in our waters!
Themes Sea creatures, Beach, Action.
Michelle O'Connell
The book that no one wanted to read by Richard Ayoade. Illus. by Tor Freeman
Have you ever wondered how books think? Well now is your chance to find out! This is an entertaining story of a shy, unwanted book written by actor, writer and director, Richard Ayoade, best known for his role as Maurice Moss in the comedy series The IT crowd. He has chosen to write his first book for young readers narrated by a book, giving them an insight into what it might mean to be a book; judged by its cover, left lying around, neglected and dog-eared by uncaring readers. Ayoade’s flippantly humorous voice comes through clearly as he covers all things book related, including how libraries organise them and what it means when a reader finds their perfect book. He then shrewdly encourages young writers to take a pen and write the story for this book themselves. The text is written partly in playscript style so could be a shared read for adults and children or an opportunity to dramatize parts of the book. The comic style illustrations support the story and extend the humour, providing much for the reader to explore and enjoy long after reading.
Themes Books, Reading, Writing.
Gabrielle Anderson
Rosie and the friendship angel by Lucinda Riley and Harry Whittaker. Illus. by Jane Ray
Mother and son team, Lucinda Riley and Harry Whittaker has created a series of books called, Guardian Angels, this being number three. Rose is starting a new school and Daddy drops her off to her new teacher Miss Marshall. All looks well but the girl Miss Marshall has nominated as Rosie’s buddy is resentful and mean to her. She does not take her role with the new student seriously and leaves Rosie on the outer. Rosie’s first day is not what she expected and lying in bed that night she says, ‘I wish I didn’t feel all by myself'.’Her cry is heard by the Friendship Angel, Frederick and he takes action. He knows just how important friends are.
The next day he swirls up the snow with his wings, making it impossible for Daddy to be on time to pick up Rosie. While waiting for him, she talks to another girl in her class Indira who is waiting for her mother. A friendship blossoms. Frederick has done his job well.
This engaging text, stunningly illustrated, will delight newly emerging readers. The large size looks like a picture book but is enticingly older with more text than usual encouraging early readers to tackle it by themselves. The vibrant illustrations are full of detail and interest. For Australian readers the image of snow lying on the ground and the brick school buildings with fenced playgrounds and a small town blanketed in snow, will be a treat. The detailed classroom will draw their interest, looking at similarities and differences from their own experience. I loved the technique used to quieten the class, and felt the cold as Rosie snuggled into her bed, and shivered at the images of the snow covering the car outside. Each page is a treat with text and image, the one supporting the other. The gentle text engaged me from the start as the idea of a Guardian Angel took shape.
Themes Angels, Bullying, School, First day, Friendship.
