Illus. by Mairead Murphy. Allen and Unwin, 2019. ISBN:
9781760523558. 32pp, hbk.
Lulu is happy to live in her hutch in the backyard but one night
when she spots a hole in the fence, she is tempted through to
explore the world further. Unfortunately a hungry fox is on the
prowl and his nose smells Lulu and the chase is on. Can she escape?
Metzenthen has used the minimum of words to tell this tale because
with the exquisite illustrations in a style that might be unfamiliar
to younger readers, no more than what are there are needed. This is
perfect for encouraging the reader to look carefully, tell their
version of the story and predict the outcome. All are essential
elements of the early reader's arsenal in making sense of print and
stories and demonstrate their level of comprehension.
A delightful story that offers something new to explore each time it
is read, especially if the astute adult asks "what if . . . ?".
Metzenthen says he dreams of writing the perfect story - this is
getting close to it.
Barbara Braxton
Hollow Earth by John Kinsella
Transit Lounge, 2019. ISBN: 9781925760279.
(Age: 18+) Recommended. Themes: Dystopian fiction, Addiction,
Climate change. John's science fiction novel tells the story of
Manfred, who after a complex and difficult childhood, escapes to
Hollow Earth via a cave that takes him through the Earth's crust.
Reminiscent of Journey to the Centre of the Earth, Manfred
finds life beneath the surface. He befriends Ari and Zest and guides
them to the surface to experience another life.
This is a confronting story of addiction. Addictions come in many
forms and this book highlights these as Ari and Zest interact with
the violence and betrayal of humanity. John's work addresses the
issues of climate change, drug use, sustainability, respectful
relationships and inclusive communities. The reader is invited to
draw their own conclusions.
While not an easy read, this book offers an opportunity to consider
the lives of surface dwellers from the perspective of a new arrival.
We are left to reflect on the ethical and natural consequences of
our current cultural and political practices.
Linda Guthrie
What Momma left me by Renee Watson
Bloomsbury, 2010, 2019. ISBN: Bloomsbury, 2010, 2019. ISBN: 9781681199498.
(Age: 14+) Recommended. Themes: Family; Friendship; Abuse;
Overcoming difficulty; Resilience; Christian Faith. Renee Watson is
an Afro-American writer drawing on her own community experience to
create a story that weaves the dreadful circumstances of a murder
with the Afro-American experience of Christian life and practice
within a Baptist church family. The central character is a young
Eighth Grade student, Serenity, and with her younger brother Danny,
they have experienced the worst family tragedy. The story reveals
their need to recover after the significant family trauma, which
destroys their family and challenges their own identity and
security. Their grandparents are involved in a Pastoral role in a
Baptist church, and Serenity and Danny become reconnected with them
and make new friends, when they move to restart their lives.
Attending Christian events, volunteering their time and challenging
poor choices, and attending counselling become part of the journey
to recovery. They carry with them baggage from their past, with
attendant tears, and they must also learn how to redefine
themselves. Their new friends have the potential to lead them
astray, but the influence of their grandparents shines through.
The traumatic events and difficult circumstances that are addressed
are quite confronting for a young reader, but there are moments of
lightness scattered through the book, along with delightful pieces
of poetry and other explorations of literary devices. These are
school-based English tasks, that headline the chapters and reveal
Serenity's internal dialogue. The cultural experience of an
Afro-American experience of Christian faith in a church community
will be foreign to most Australian readers, but there are some
delightful and perhaps quirky features of the service-oriented
family life within this context. Those without any Christian
heritage will perhaps find some of this faith-based expression to be
unusual. The author has included risky behaviours for some of the
young characters that include some illegal behaviour, and in
combination with discussion about incestual abuse as well as family
violence, and the keeping of unhelpful secrets, there are some very
complex and mature issues that are dealt with within the lives of
the main characters. Resilience and character formation are woven
through these difficult issues, but sometimes the author seems to
have aged them beyond their stated age.
Recommended, with some reservations, for readers aged 14+.
Carolyn Hull.
Song of the River by Joy Cowley and Kimberly Andrews
Gecko Press, 2019. ISBN: 9781776572533. 32pp., hbk.
High in the mountains where he lives, Cam tells his grandfather that
he wishes he could see the sea and his grandfather promises to take
him there "one day."
But as winter turns to spring and the snows begin to melt, Cam
watches a trickle of water running through the pine trees, water
that splashed and sang in the voice of the snow,
"Come with me. Come with me. I will take you to the sea." And unable
to resist its song, Cam follows it and begins a journey that
broadens his horizons in so many ways.
The beautiful, lyrical words of one of New Zealand's premier authors
for children, Joy Cowley and the stunning, detailed, muted
illustrations of Kimberly Andrews which echo both the high country
of New Zealand and the Canada of her childhood come together in what
is indeed a song of the river. With a text that builds much like the
river itself, rises to a crescendo and then returns to its original
melody like a piece of music, this is indeed an aptly named story
both in content and style. It lends itself to all sorts of mapping
activities, more than just the physical journey of the trickle to
the sea. Even exploring why the author named it Song of the
River rather than Story of the River will open up the
beauty of the language and the build-up of the journey.
With a landscape very different from those of the illustrations, and
much of the country in one of the worst droughts ever, this is an
ideal book to begin an investigation of Australia's rivers and
compare their origins and uses to those of the river in the story. A
search of the NDLRN using Scootle will bring up a number of units of
work focusing on the Murray-Darling Basin such as A Sense of Place
(TLF ID R11374) (written by me for Year 3-4 but which could be
adapted for both age and situation) that could be the perfect
companions to maximise the impact of this book.
Barbara Braxton
Space on Earth by Dr Sheila Kanani
Alma Books, 2019. ISBN: 9781846884559. 1287pp., pbk.
The 50th anniversary of man stepping on the moon and the declaration
by President Trump that they will be back there by 2024 with NASA's
Project Artemis has again ignited the debate about the cost of space
exploration and whether the money could be better spent back here on
this planet.
So the publication of this new book from Dr Sheila Kanani, a British
astronomer with a particular interest in Saturn, is very timely
because it examines how the discoveries in space have been
translated back into everyday objects on Earth. It is full of
amazing facts about everyday innovations, from drills and
dustbusters to bike helmets, that have been inspired by space travel
and includes sections on the people who brought them to us,
Divided into three sections - technology, health and fashion - it
examines objects as diverse as baby blankets, artificial limbs and
skiwear, examining how their development is related to space
exploration as well as a short piece about the scientist who
imagineered the development.
Intriguing and offering much food for thought that could spark
further investigations.
Barbara Braxton
William Bee's wonderful world of trains, boats and planes by William Bee
Pavilion, 2019. ISBN: 9781843654155. 48pp., pbk.
"Once upon a time , the only way for people to get around was by
walking, or on the back of a horse, or in some sort of contraption
that was pulled by a horse. And then along came..."
Young readers who are fascinated by transport can join the lovable
William Bee as he and his dog and a collection of traffic cones
wander through the world and history of trains, boats and planes.
Part true and part imaginary, his adventures are based on actual
facts and these are woven into the narrative to make an engaging
story that educates and entertains. With its humour and bright
detailed illustrations, young readers have much to pore over and
discover and perhaps even be inspired to design their own craft.
This is one of a series of three - William Bee's Wonderful World
of Trucks and William Bee's Wonderful World Of Tractors
And Farm Machines that would sit very well within a unit on
transport and travel.
Barbara Braxton
The Flat Share by Beth O'Leary
Hachette, 2019. ISBN: 9781787474420.
(Age: 16+) Highly recommended. This book was a surprise. Initially
the story appeared to be a light read. The story begins with Tiffy
searching for a flat. She is a quirky editor for a publisher of DIY
and craft books. Tiffy accepts an offer to share a flat with Leon
Twomey, a palliative care nurse who works nights. Because of work
commitment's they will never be in the flat at the same time - and
share the one bed.
Beth's writing is impeccable as she artfully reveals the back
stories for Tiffy and Leon. Through posits and episodes of stalking
the reader begins to understand that Tiffy is recovering from
emotional abuse that includes gaslighting. The reader journeys with
Tiffy as she is supported by Leon and her friends to come to the
realisation that her sense of reality has been skewed by her
previous relationship. The supporting characters provide robust
clarifications of boundaries within relationships, cleverly
delivering a perceptive analysis of intimate relationships. This is
where the book moves from being a light romantic comedy to being an
insightful exploration of abuse and injustice presented from the
point of view of hope and compassion.
This funny and uplifting debut novel from Beth O'Leary is a must
read.
Linda Guthrie
The Gruffalo's Child by Julia Donaldson
Illus. by Axel Scheffler. 15th Anniversary Edition, Macmillan, ISBN:
9781509894475.
(Age: 2+) Highly recommended. Themes: Rhyming story, Mythical
animals. What a joy to read aloud to very young children and what a
fun picture book this is for older kids! The 15th anniversary
edition of the well-known picture book will be welcomed by all who
would like an updated version with a wonderful wrap-around play
scene that forms part of the cover, and press-0ut pictures to use as
the story is read.
It is easy to see why The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's
child remain favourites. The easy to read, rhyming story flows
along beautifully when read aloud, and the illustrations are
delightful. The Gruffalo's child is a mini version of her father,
with tiny horns, and humorous little details like the snowman that
looks like a Gruffalo will bring a smile to the faces of readers. I
loved the risk taking little Gruffalo who is not too scared to go
exploring on her own out in the wild wood, trying to find the Big
Bad Mouse. The way the clever little mouse outwits the Gruffalo's
child making a large mouse is great and would lead to much
discussion about shadows.
As well as the wrap around play scene this edition contains some
activities, 'The Gruffalo's Child Song', a quiz and information
about putting on a play.
This is a keeper for me. It will make a wonderful gift and it would
likely become a favourite book in the classroom, with its strong
read aloud aspects and valuable activities.
Pat Pledger
Dog Man: For whom the ball rolls by Dav Pilkey
Dog Man, Book 7. Scholastic, 2019. ISBN: 9781338236590.
(Age: 7+) Highly recommended. Graphic novel. Themes: Humour,
Superheroes, Villains, Dogs, Cats, Fear. Another fabulous, funny
graphic novel featuring that favourite character, Dog Man, will
delight all the fans out there, as well as making new ones. What?
Behaviour modification for Dog Man! When Dog Man becomes obsessed
with chasing a ball, rather than chasing the bad guys, his friends
have to try and break his bad habits. Then he finds himself the
target of a supervillain. Meanwhile Petey's father arrives with
funny results.
With chapter headings like 'The old man and the seafood crackers',
'The very hangry raterpillar', 'A farewell to arms' and 'The Mud and
the stars', adults and kids will find themselves chuckling aloud as
they follow the adventures of this super crew. For readers new to
the series, there is an introduction to what has happened so far,
giving them the opportunity to dive straight into the book without
reading the previous volumes. Although, of course they will want to
go back and read each one! The pictures are just so funny and the
characters so loveable, that it is always difficult when the last
page arrives. However there are notes to peruse, lots of things to
learn to draw and a super page, 'Be a Supa Buddy #DoGood', for kids
to enjoy.
This is sure to be a firm favourite in every library and home.
Pat Pledger
The art of growing up by John Marsden
Macmillan, 2019. ISBN: 9781760556723.
(Age: 16+) Recommended. John Marsden is well known for his passion
for the education of young people as well as his determination to
put his ideas into action by establishing two schools. His writing
packs a punch. Additionally, his book provides an insight into the
thoughts and beliefs that are the foundation for his schools.
More than half his book reflects on parenting styles. This is
uncomfortable reading as John relates, in detail, interactions had
with parents over decades of teaching. One can't help but wonder
about the possibility of there being communities where the parents
described will not be quite so anonymous.
A range of labels have been applied to parents in recent years
(helicopter, tiger, bulldozer, curling) and there is extensive
discussion the consequences of these styles of parenting in the book
that is not adequately supported by research evidence.
However, this book does invite discussion about parenting styles and
the kinds of supports readily available to parents and children
experiencing complex contexts. Furthermore the issues of bullying
and schooling that fosters self-regulation and creativity as touched
on in this book provide fuel for conversation and a search for
supporting research. While challenging and contentious, John,
through his book is making it clear that being a parent is an
important and life changing role.
Linda Guthrie
Shatter City by Scott Westerfeld
Imposters, book 2. Allen and Unwin, 2019. ISBN:
9781760528256.
(Age: 13+) Highly recommended. Themes: Dystopian fiction,
Rebellions, Adventure, Resistance, Earthquakes, Medical emergencies.
The exciting adventures of Frey continue in Shatter City.
After taking on the role of her sister Rafi (Imposters,
2018) Frey is determined to bring down her father and stop his evil.
After a rescue attempt she is stranded in Paz and without allies
finds herself in the middle of a devastating earthquake. The
citizens of Paz regulate their emotions using an interface on their
arms and Frey finds it increasingly easy to use, as she sees the
destruction all around her.
Westerfeld has written another exciting, fast paced novel that will
keep the readers engrossed. Each chapter is relatively short and
often has a cliffhanger so it is easy to continue reading and
forget everything else that is happening around you. Frey finds that
she has to stop being her sister's shadow and start working out what
is important as she tries to help the inhabitants of the devastated
city and then search for her sister and stop her father.
Set in the world of the Uglies
series, readers will enjoy Shatter City more if they read
the first in this spin-off series, Imposters, and people who
are fans of Westerfeld's writing, as I am, will be thrilled to have
another exciting series to follow. Not only is there action and
adventure, but Westerfeld examines themes that resonate today, like
the use of drugs to regulate moods and big brother surveillance
tools.
Lots of twists and turns and something very unexpected at the end
will ensure that readers pick up the next in the series.
Pat Pledger
You can change the world by Lucy Bell
Pantera Press, 2019. ISBN: 9781925700527.
(Age: All) Highly recommended. If your child loves practical
information about the world, is concerned about the environment, and
also wants to actually do something about it then this book is for
you. You can change the world: the kids' guide to a better
planet by Lucy Bell is one of the most relevant, interesting
and engaging non-fiction books I have come across in a very long
time.
After reading the first third of the book I found that a million
bottles of water are sold every minute, and then I read about having
a plastic-free birthday party. The party ideas were easy to
implement and also didn't sound too hard! At this point I decided to
hand it over to my 9 year old and see what happened . . . well, now
I can't get it back! He was absolutely enthralled by all the
interesting information about what is happening to our planet and
how we, as humans, are contributing to it. He kept on yelling out
'Mummy, did you know . . . ' and proceeded to tell me about how much
plastic there is in the world, how awesome it is that we have a
veggie patch and what things we can recycle.
Lucy Bell has really done a wonderful job with this book. Her
writing is easy to understand, and gives children the facts without
difficult words or reams of text.
The illustrations are simple, but super effective in portraying the
idea of each section.
The book also details the lives of young people and children who do
amazing things to morale our world a better place. There are
environmentalists, poets, teddy bear makers and eco warriors. These
stories were so great to read, they are inspiring and I feel would
really speak to the readers hopefully encouraging them to do their
bit to change the world.
I really believe that every school should have this book, so
students can access these easy to understand ideas and teachers can
implement the activities provided within their settings.
5 out of 5 from us! We are going to buy this book for lots of our
friends this Christmas!
Lauren Fountain
The safest lies by Megan Miranda
Penguin, 2019. ISBN: 9780241344408.
(Age: 15+) Recommended. Themes: Mystery and suspense, Fear,
Kidnapping, Agoraphobia. Wow, another great page-turner from
Miranda, who is fabulous at writing exciting thrillers featuring
interesting heroines. Kelsey is a young woman who has been raised by
her mother to see danger everywhere. Her mother never leaves the
house and has a safe room, fully equipped for any emergency. When
Kelsey has a car accident and goes over a cliff, and her mother's
real name is printed in the news report of the accident, what
follows makes Kelsey wonder if her mother's paranoia about hiding
and keeping safe after her abduction and torture as a teenager is
real.
With a cliffhanger at the end of the first chapter and a graphic
and nail-biting description of the car accident and resulting rescue
attempted by volunteer firefighter Ryan, the reader is hooked into
the story and it is virtually impossible to put it down until all is
revealed at the end. The descriptions of all the measures that
Kelsey's mother takes to secure their home and provide for a
possible invasion are detailed and fascinating and provide the
background to the question about fear, and whether it can be handed
down in DNA or learnt by observation. However, Kelsey may be afraid,
but she is resourceful and when faced with danger and a missing
mother, manages to think through issues and plan what to do. Ryan,
the love interest, is also adept at handling emergencies and the
pair make good partners when things get tough.
This is definitely a read for anyone who enjoys suspense, likes a
strong heroine and enjoys a book that keeps the suspense alive.
Readers who enjoyed Two can
keep a secret by Karen McManus and Broken
things by Lauren Oliver are sure to want to pick up The safest
lies.
Pat Pledger
Little Mermaid: Ten minutes to bed by Rhiannon Fielding and Chris Chatterton
Ladybird Books, 2019. ISBN: 9780241372678.
(Age: 3-6) Ten minutes to bed is a beautiful series by
Rhiannon Fielding and Chris Chatterton, aimed at young children at
bedtime. Each book follows a similar progression where the
parent/family member counts down the minutes to bedtime while the
main character flits around doing lots of fun things before bed. The
books are all based on mythical type characters and are whimsical in
nature.
Each book has a map at the beginning (daytime) and end (night-time)
of the book showing 'The land of Nod' which young children can
engage with, finding the home of the book's character and also the
homes of the other two in the series (Little Unicorn and Little
Monster).
Splash the little mermaid lives in Golden Cove, deep down below the
waves. She is surrounded by merpeople and lots of merchildren. She
feels small compared to others and in order to feel bigger and
braver she decides to go on a bedtime adventure under a big wave and
into the ocean. She meets lots of very cute sea creatures, but also
a big shark! Luckily, she finds a friendly whale to help her get
back home to the castle and into bed.
The illustrations are bright and colourful, with swishes of rainbow
fishes and pretty pink and purple palaces. The cover has some pretty
pops of tactile sparkles, giving off shimmery colours in the light.
The characters all have facial expressions, giving extra meaning to
the story.
On top of the count down from 10 to bed, children can name the sea
creatures they see and create little side stories on each page. As
with the other stories in the series, we loved this one. The rhyming
nature of the story mixed with very cute illustrations makes it a
book that will stay by the bedside for quite some time!
Lauren Fountain
The Clockill and the thief by Gareth Ward
Walker Books, 2019. ISBN: 9781760651206. 346p; p/b.
(Age: 11+) Themes: Steampunk, Spies, Secrecy, Betrayal. In this
sequel to the award winning The
traitor and the thief, spy-in-training Sin has to hunt
down an old nemesis while suffering from the side effects of a
dangerous experiment. The first book set up both the characters and
the setting so it is important to read the books in order as
character writing is not this novel's strong suit. Minor characters
are often reduced entirely to a bad accent, and even major
characters have quite inconsistent character voices.
The plot is almost entirely action based and is paced with
appropriate down time and rising action. The novel doesn't have much
to say overall in terms of themes, relying on its action for impact.
There's an undercurrent where Sin is supposed to feel bad for
'always being the hero' instead of letting Jasper improve, but it is
completely undermined by Jasper always seeming to really need the
help, shutting down in life-threatening situations.
The novel is set in some alternate version of Earth, with a
'steampunk' technology level. The original book The traitor and
the thief established the world, giving it location names that
are adaptations of the real thing. These and other fantasy
vocabulary are meant to set the world apart, but for me it only
shackles the setting closer to real life.
Vincent Hermann
