Review: Babies Can Sleep Anywhere

A delightful, rhyming board book, perfect for little hands and little ears, Babies Can Sleep Anywhere will warm your heart and make you smile.

The story explores all the different ways animals like to sleep: in trees, in lairs, upside down, in a den. So many different animals sleep in so many different ways, but babies… well babies can sleep anywhere. 

With soothing repetition, the story is the perfect bedtime tale for tired cherubs, but I love that it also subtly teaches about the animal world as it calms audiences. 

It also shines a beautiful light on different family members and how both mums and dads play a key role in helping babies get to sleep.

The stunning illustrations are engaging and addictive, and each turn of the page will have you smiling at cuteness overload. The colours are both bright and soothing at the same time — perfect for little ones and perfect for bedtime! 

This is a special little book for babies everywhere. With a beautiful visual narrative that celebrates diversity of our animal kingdom, as well as diversity of people, it’s the perfect board book to give as a gift or to purchase for yourself just because!

Title: Babies Can Sleep Anywhere

Author: Lisa Wheeler

Illustrator: Carolina Buzio

Publisher: Abrams, $11.99

Publication Date: 23 April 2019

Format: Board Book

ISBN: 9781419734922

For ages: 0 - 3

Type: Board Book, Picture Book

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2vkt6jF

Review: Our Jacko

Our Jacko is a poignant story, first published in 2014 as part of a compilation.

Michael Morpurgo's contribution to the anthology The Great War: Stories Inspired by Objects From the First World War, was Our Jacko, inspired by the metal helmet worn by soldiers, known as the Brodie helmet.

Four years later, Our Jacko has been released as a small, stand-alone edition, illustrated by David Gentleman, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Armistice.

The story begins with an introduction to brothers Michael and Otto, who disagree on things, one of which is war.

Through their childhood there is an old metal helmet that was once a play accessory, then an animal feeder, and later a planter. They don't know where it came from, but it has always been useful.

When the boys discover the helmet belonged to their great-grandfather, they uncover a story, and an ancestor, they never knew: Lt Jack Morris. Sherwood Foresters. Son, husband, father, actor at Stratford, soldier.

It's the story of a man who lived and walked in the same places the boys do. A man who went to war, where he kept a notebook of thoughts of home and his favourite Shakespeare poems. A man who never came home from the war, killed on the battlefields of Ypres in 1915.

For the teenage Michael, whose pacifist outlook has been in conflict with Otto, Jacko's story is a revelation, generating understanding and a shared experience with his brother that brings them closer together.

It doesn't take long to read Our Jacko, and I recommend you keep some tissues handy, because there's a good chance you will need them. 

Michael Morpurgo says his stories are not so much about war, as 'the possibilities of hope and reconciliation that are borne from war'. That is never more clear than in Our Jacko, which is a multilayered story that can be appreciated by readers young and old.

Find a copy of Our Jacko and read it. It's a story that deserves to be heard, and you won't be disappointed.

Title: Our Jacko
Author: Michael Morpurgo
Illustrator: David Gentleman
Publisher: Walker Books, $19.99
Publication Date: November 2018
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781406366136
For ages: 8+
Type: Junior fiction




from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2ZwOzUl

Review: This is Home: Essential Australian Poems for Children

I am a strong believer in the importance of poetry for children. As well as conveying the rhythm and beauty of language, it opens their eyes to different ways to perceive our world. To present truth in small, easily digestible chunks, to explore feeling and emotion, to reflect on the past and dream about the future.

This extraordinary new poetry collection for children, compiled by Jackie French, stunningly illustrated by Tania McCartney, and published by the National Library of Australia, is a true celebration of Australia.

This collection contains poignant observations on Australian life and culture through depictions of landscape, historical events, feelings and experiences of Australians from a variety of backgrounds and times. They express what has shaped us as a nation – from the challenging and heartfelt to the joyful and fun.

From famous historical poets such as Banjo Paterson and Dorothea Mackellar, to modern marvels such as Geoff Page, Libby Hathorn and Omar Musa, and future talent such as Leo Barnard, who penned his poem, A Palace of a God at the age of 14, this collection really does have something for everyone.

Tania McCartney’s gorgeous illustrations depict landscapes, animals and everyday kids, with a fun yet authentic feel that connects with the poetry to not just illustrate it but add an additional layer of intricacy and meaning.

Another remarkable feature of the illustrations is that Tania has masterfully included textures gleaned from around National Library of Australia in her artwork. This subtle connection to the heart of Australian literary culture makes the book even more special.

The collection is divided into themed sections, each with a short yet affecting poetic introduction by Jackie French. And instead of a standard table of contents, Jackie groups the poems to help her readers, for example “If you want to hear whispers from the past, listen to” or “if you love animals, then you may also love,” this is a great way to engage kids before they have even started reading!

As Jackie rightly points out, there are many more poems that contribute to the narrative of our country, but there are only so many that will fit in one book. Rest assured that with this collection, each and every one of you will be able to find at least one poem that speaks to you today. Hopefully one that speaks to you tomorrow as well, and the day after that.

This collection contains poems with heart, poems to make you think, make you laugh and make you cry. All the colours of language come together to paint a glorious picture of Australia in all its beauty and diversity (and fun!).

What more can I say, but this a very special poetry collection to buy every child you know so you can share the story of Australia through language and give them a gift they can treasure it for a lifetime.


Title: This is Home: Essential Australian Poems for Children
Author: Various Authors, compiled by Jackie French
Illustrator: Tania McCartney
Publisher: NLA Publishing, $34.99
Publication Date: 1 April 2019
Format: Hard Cover
ISBN: 9780642279385
For ages: 5+
Type: Poetry Collection




from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2W5dKvd

Review: Four Dead Queens

Just when you think you’ve unravelled the mystery, you know what’s happening, you’ve got it all worked out, Astrid Scholte throws you a curve ball you never expected and everything changes.

Four Dead Queens is a wild ride. It’s fast paced, thrilling, mysterious fantasy — fantasy at it’s best — with twists and turns you won’t see coming and a rich and detailed world that hooks you from the first page.

The novel follows seventeen-year-old Keralie, a skilled thief who lives life how she wants, taking what she wants, saying whatever she thinks without a care. 

But when she steals an important and valuable message, Keralie gets caught up in a deadly conspiracy involving four grisly murders of the queens that rule the lands. 

Teaming up with the boy she stole the message from, Keralie embarks on a dangerous and risky mission to unravel the truth. A truth I promise you will not see coming.

Scholte is a masterful writer and Four Dead Queens is the perfect example of how multiple perspective, time-hopping stories can tick all the boxes when they’re done right. 

The story dips in and out of a few different characters, including Keralie and each of the four queens. But never does the reader question whose perspective they are reading, and none of the jumps are jarring or awkward. The story plays with time as well, but the movements through time and place are just so flawless, so seamless, so perfect, you’ll close the book smiling because the whole novel is a spectacular puzzle, right to the very end. 

Then there is the world that Scholte has created. Quadara is complex and unique and interesting. Keralie’s story might (or might not) end at the completion of this novel, but I want so much more from this world. It stays with you. You’ll have questions you want answered; you’ll be curious and hungry for more. 

If you like fantasy, if you like mystery, if you like action-adventure, Four Dead Queens is a YA novel you’ll want to check out. It’s fresh, it’s daring, it’s filled to the brim with twists you won’t see coming.

Title: Four Dead Queens

Author: Astrid Scholte

Publisher: Allen and Unwin, $19.99

Publication Date: March 2019

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9781760524418

For ages: 13+

Type: Young Adult Fiction

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2XCmqti

Review: Scorch Dragons

Scorch Dragons, the eagerly anticipated sequel to Ice Wolves, is the second book in the Elementals Series, by Amie Kaufman. 

We continue the story of 12 year old orphan twins, Anders and Rayna, whose lives were thrown into great peril in Book 1, when they discovered their unexpected abilities to transform into elementals. Shockingly, they transformed into sworn enemies, Anders an Ice Wolf and Rayna a Scorch Dragon. Separated for the first time in their lives, Anders learned to survive as a wolf at Ulfar Academy, whilst planning how to rescue his sister, who he believed had been kidnapped by the dragons.

As this book begins, Anders and his friend Lisabet, are being held in Drekhelm, the Scorch Dragons' mountain stronghold, after their attempts to rescue Rayna led to a fierce battle between dragons and wolves, injuring many of their friends.

Anders is relieved and shocked to find Rayna not only alive and well, but thriving. The two young wolves have risked pack and paws to rescue Rayna, but are now exiled from their home and unwelcome with most of the dragons. They are protected at Drekhelm by a leader named Leif, because of the selfless bravery they displayed in the battle, saving his life.

Anders and Lisabet, with Rayna and several other young dragons, begin to question everything they have ever been told about dragons, wolves, and the historical battle which orphaned the twins. They realise all is not what it seems.

The world begins to grow colder, weakening the dragons, and the children learn that the wolves have found the Snowstone. As the adult dragons endlessly discuss and argue about the next actions to take, it becomes clear that the only way to prevent the dragons and wolves from destroying each other is to find a way to bring about balance, and it is up to Anders, Rayna and their wolf and dragon friends to find the way to do so.

Title: Scorch Dragons: Elementals Book 2
Author: Amie Kaufman
Publisher: HarperCollins, $17.99
Publication Date: 18 March 2019
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781460755280
For ages: 8-12
Type: Junior Fiction




from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2XCFrMq

12 Curly Questions with author Yohann Devezy

1. Tell us something hardly anyone knows about you.
I have what I call a ‘memory box’. I’ve kept it since I was 10 years old. It is a big shoe box that I fill with little bits and pieces such as photos, souvenirs and little trinkets that remind me of wonderful experiences and particular moments in my life. What would you find in it? A piece of my cousin’s wedding dress that ripped apart on the wedding day, a postcard of a first lover, a coaster from the first pub I went to, a plane ticket from my first international travel, my grandfather’s watch and many other memories that I’ve collected over most of my life.
 
2. What is your nickname?
Yoyo! I’ve been called that by my family ever since I was a kid. Now my husband calls me that to annoy me.

3. What is your greatest fear?
Loneliness. I am the kind of person that needs people around, particularly my partner, family and very close friends.

4. Describe your writing style in 10 words.
Labour-intensive translated French that is simple, clear and wondrous.

5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Positive, fun, inclusive, meaningful and imaginative.

6. What book character would you be, and why?
I would like to be Merlin, I always loved books and movies about magic, witchcraft, wizards, fairies, fantasy and mythical creatures. I found old legends and tales so much fun and interesting. Half of my family lives in Brittany in France. The culture is very Celtic and we have plenty of stories to tell. I would love nothing more than to be a druid or wizard and have insane powers!

7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
Even if my life is beautifully happy in the present and I would not change a thing, I am a very nostalgic person. I would love to go back to around 1993. Why? Because when I was a kid every single weekend our holidays would be spent at my grandparents with the entire family. Sharing long lunches surrounded by my uncles, aunties, grandparents and cousins was the best feeling for me. Remembering these moments, I realise just how happy I was. Living away from my family has been difficult, and I miss them all every day. But I am forever comforted by these beautiful memories.

8. What would your 10-year-old self say to you now?
Growing up and knowing that you’re different is hard to handle silently and alone. My 10-year-old self would have been right in the middle of that. I think he would be relieved to know that I am loved and accepted as who I am, fully. He would say he’s proud of, and probably a bit surprised by, my courage to challenge myself in all sorts of ways.

9. Who is your greatest influence?
There are many different people that have had a significant impact on my life. Mostly my family members and of course my husband. When I write a book, I often think of my nephew Hugo and I love the idea that the stories I tell will help him through his childhood and paint a picture of a better world I hope that he’ll step into, embrace and be fulfilled by.

10. What/who made you start writing?
I started writing because I felt that the stories I wanted to read as a child weren’t written yet. I know what it would have meant to me to be able to read a narrative that reflected who I was growing up. Stories of the acceptance of difference would have meant so much to me. That’s why I started to write, to fill what I think is a bit of a void in children’s literature. I want to bring comfort, open minds and educate in a beautiful and creative way.

11. What is your favourite word and why? 
'Madeleine de Proust'. I’m cheating here a bit, but let me explain why. Firstly, I love madeleine cakes. So yummy. Secondly, Madeleine is my grandmother’s name. The real and third reason is the meaning of the phrase. We call Proust's madeleine any phenomenon triggering an impression of reminiscence. It can be an element of everyday life, an object, a gesture, a song, a smell or a flavour for example, that does not fail to return a memory to someone's memory, as does a madeleine to that of the narrator of in search of time lost in Swann's Side, Marcel Proust's novel. One day Marcel Proust was plunged back into his childhood, just by the smell of madeleines. He had then a lot of memories coming back that he may have forgotten.

12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I would say Harry Potter. I started it when I was around 12 years old and it accompanied me through to my 21st. I feel like I grew up with that story, so I want to take it with me for the rest of my life.

Yohann Devezy is a debut author who seeks to create beautiful books with a message of hope, strength and acceptance. He is driven by a desire to write stories that are to be shared across generations, stories that are underpinned by the embracing of inclusivity and diversity. He is passionate about LGBTIQ inclusion and broader social justice issues. Born in France, he lives in Perth, Australia where he is a chef and works as a teacher. Hugo is his first picture book.

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2US03mX

Giveaway: Hapless Hero Henry: House of Heroes Book One

You can’t choose your family. But sometimes, you have to outrun them. As fast as you can.

Twelve-year-old Henrie is the first girl heir of the Melchior family in 200 years. When Henrie receives a mysterious note, it sets off a chain of events including a kidnapping, a fancy skateboard manoeuvre and a private jet and she discovers something rotten at the heart of House of Melchior (HoMe). 

The first book in a fun, action-packed middle-grade series for heroes in training, Hapless Hero Henrie is a fun (and funny) novel for readers who like their heroes to be smart, fearless and always ready for action! And to celebrate it's April 2019, the heroic people at Walker Books Australia are giving away two copies of Hapless Hero Henri, Book One.
 
To enter, simply tell us in 25 words or less who is your favourite female hero.

 

Email your answer along with your name and postal address to dimity. The two responses we like best will each win a copy of the book. Competition is open to anyone, worldwide, so long as they have an Australian postal address for delivery of the books. Please note, we cannot deliver to PO Boxes. Entries without a name and street address will be ineligible. Winners will be announced right here on our website on 29 April 2019.

Competition runs from 5 pm 22 April 2019 to 5 pm 28 April 2019. Adults can enter for those aged 17 and under. This is a game of skill, not chance. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

 



from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2VhhvjY

Review: Smart Snacks

Good food and healthy choices are what we all want for our families. In a time poor era, this is seldom easy. Here are over 100 delicious recipes for preparing quick nutritious snacks to accommodate school time needs for kids and teenagers, especially during exam and late night study time. It is brain and mood-boosting food which fuels the body and curbs hunger.

The book has been co-written by two professionals. Flip Shelton is an Australian writer, presenter and broadcaster, whose popular cookbooks promote fast, easy, healthy and nutritious eating habits. Michael Carr-Gregg is a highly-respected adolescent and child psychologist and author. 

His great concern for the growing obesity crisis in children and teenagers in Australia, makes his contribution to this book is extremely valuable. Here, both encourage people not to be influenced by advertising, but to seek nutritious alternatives to maximise their children’s health.

The recipes in Smart Snacks are created using over 80 readily available vegetarian ingredients full of protein, complex carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals.  They include grains, fruit and vegetables, legumes, herbs and spices. Most are gluten-free with many of them Paleo and FODMAP friendly. All can be prepared and stored in fridge and freezer.

The many options include delicious Smoothies, Dips, 14 fantastic recipes for balls to roll, fast food, sandwiches, midnight munchies and more. All are marked according to their dietary content. The layout of the information provides excellent tips on how to save on food, and utilize everything you purchase in the best possible way. It also has ingredient grading, and indicates the amount of portions per batch. Highlighted words within the text are expanded on in the generous margins along with the origins of many ingredients.

Smart Snacks is a welcome collection of interesting ideas that parents will appreciate due to the generous amount of knowledge it contains.

Title: Smart Snacks

Author: Flip Shelton & Michael Carr-Gregg

Publisher: Penguin Random House, $24.99

Publication Date: 5 February 2019

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9780143792536

For ages: All Ages

Type: Non-fiction Cookbook

 



from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2Ixy9G6

Review: Reflection: remembering those who serve in war

As we approach Anzac Day, it is important to revisit the the story, Reflection: remembering those who serve in war. It has recently been republished with a new front cover.

In 2017, Reflection: remembering those who serve in war, was a Notable Book for the Children's Book Council of Australia, Book of the Year Awards, Picture Book category.

Left! Left! Left! Right! Left!
We make our way in the dark.  

Feet march though the darkness. Readers will notice the feet of the general public on the left hand page, while on the right are the feet of soldiers and horses from the South African, Boer War.

We shiver as the rain runs like cold fingers down our collars. World War I soldiers huddle together in trenches as the family walks in the dusk and wind to the dawn service.

The words and illustrations elicit goosebumps as I turn each page. A story about a family at a commemoration ceremony  is intertwined with images that capture moments during war and peacekeeping efforts. People wear red poppies and hold a candle, symbols of remembrance.

As the ceremony progresses though to the last post, we see images of many wars and peacekeeping efforts: World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Iraq: The First Gulf War, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and East Timor.

The crowd is silent and the soldiers are now depicted in Afghanistan.

When the cannons bang, the noise shocks the crowd gathered and the soldiers are shown in Iraq's Second Gulf War. To end the story the family joins in the march and remembrance parade. And we remember them. 

Reflection: remembering those who serve in war is a story that can be shared with children of many ages, as they can see themselves in the family who attends a dawn service. It can be used to explain and discuss the symbols of remembrance and the format of a commemorative service.

The words woven in this story by Rebecka Sharpe Shelberg, are beautiful and haunting, with their double meanings. The illustrations by Robin Cowcher are appropriately muted ink with watercolour washes, giving the story the tone and respect that this topic deserves. Cowcher occasionally uses pops of red poppy colour in an effective and hopeful way.

At the back of the book is a double page spread that gives more information about each conflict that is illustrated in the story.

Reflection is an appropriate book title, as we reflect on Australia's role in war and peacekeeping efforts this Anzac Day.

Title: Reflection: remembering those who serve in war
Author: Rebecka Sharpe Shelberg
Illustrator: Robin Cowcher
Publisher: Walker Books, $16.99
Publication Date: 1 April 2019
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781760650377
For ages: 4 - 9
Type: Picture Book




from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2Dp3OVX

Review: World of Birds

First there was World of Forests.

Now, Robert Hunter is back with World of Birds.

Engaging, interactive, deliciously illustrated, it ticks all the boxes for a non-fiction picture book that will grab and engage readers. 

Each double spread takes us to a different habitat (forest, desert, ice), and features several stunning birds. 

The birds are numbered and accompanied by a lovely snippet of information, each exciting and interesting, highlighting the things that make the birds unique.

On each double spread, you’ll also find a 'press here' button that plays the sounds of all the birds on the page in numbered order. These realistic and beautiful sounds really grab your attention, and it is so much fun to pick out each bird’s call as you listen.

At the back of the book there are even more facts about birds and each of the habitats explored in the book, plus another opportunity to press all the buttons throughout the book and celebrate the beautiful song of our flying friends.

Colourful, detailed and also accurate, the illustrations are just so stunning. Every time I read this book with children, I find we must read it slowly because the kids always want to take their time exploring the pictures in detail, spotting the birds and identifying the differences between them.

I love that a book of facts can be made so interesting, engaging and interactive for kids. This book is a treat and it’s one kids will come back to again and again.

Title: World of Birds

Author/Illustrator: Robert Hunter

Publisher: Quarto, $27.99

Publication Date: April 2019

Format: Hard Cover

ISBN: 9781786030832

For ages: 3+

Type: Picture Book, Junior Non-Fiction

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2vfBKji

Review: Grandma's Treasured Shoes

We all have special objects that we keep which are precious to us; things that hold memories of our past, heritage, family and experiences. 

Coral Vass has made a relevant choice of subject. The use of shoes and what they represent based on the phrase walk a mile in my shoes, creates a moving representation of the plight of migrants and refugees. 

Vass has captured perfectly the distress at the loss of homeland, and the significance of treasured items.

It is grandma’s story and begins in her childhood, when the family had to flee from their country and home with nothing but the clothes and shoes they wore. It moves through the years and reflects on all the secrets shoes hide: frail shoes, dusty and pale shoes, hidden with secrets, remarkable tales. The grandchildren understand the value of the soiled shoes kept in a box at the back of a shelf.

Christina Huynh’s colourful depiction of all of grandma’s shoes is inspiring. The shoes walk through the book in all their glory, shiny and new; a different pair for every occasion, depicting the wealth of opportunity available to all in Australia. Juxtaposed against the one pair of shoes that were worn for every occasion by many people who migrated out of fear and desperation to our country, the images add power to the beautiful rhythmic text.

Readers will love this book as it encourages the discovery of stories about the lives of refugees and migrants, and what their lives were like before they arrived here. What made them leave their country and possessions, their loved ones and their homes, in only the clothes and shoes that they wore? Sometimes the bigger picture is easier to understand. Knowledge is power and knowing makes people, especially children, more compassionate and tolerant towards those that are different.

Meaningful and carefully considered, Grandma’s Treasured Shoes deserves a space on every bookshelf, especially those in schools and libraries, but more so, those in homes.

Title: Grandma’s Treasured Shoes

Author: Coral Vass

Illustrator: Christina Huynh

Publisher: NLA Publishing, $24.99

Publication Date: March 2019

Format: Hardcover

ISBN: 9780642279354

For ages: 3+

Type: Picture Book

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2Isn8pz

Review: Fish Kid And The Ninja Lizard

Move over Spiderman, there is a new superhero in town – it’s Fish Kid to the rescue! 
 

Bodhi is just your average boy; whose parents happen to be a marine biologist and an underwater photographer and as a family they are currently sailing round the Galapagos Islands. Trying to encourage Bodhi to share their love of the ocean, they all don their wetsuits with the intention of snorkelling and exploring.

But Bodhi isn’t so keen after seeing his mum’s shark photos. Keeping him company on the boat is the captain and his mischievous daughter Emely. 

Emely generously helps make him a delicious green smoothie, which just happens to be made from sea cucumbers and jellyfish. Reacting badly to the smoothie concoction, Bodhi accidently falls overboard.

Hallucinating and extremely sick, Bodhi washes up on an island, with no way of knowing where he is or where the boat or his parents are? Even more distressing is finding that Emely too has washed up with him after he unintentionally drags her overboard with him. With no foreseeable way off the island, Bodhi wonders how he and Emely will survive with no food or shelter and if his parents are even searching for him.

Then there is the giant mutant ninja monster that won’t leave him alone, digging his claws into Bodhi’s back just to hang on, the extreme heat that is slowly baking Bodhi in his wetsuit and Emely being a pain. Can this day get any worse? Trying to cool off and detach the mutant monster, Bodhi jumps into the ocean, only to discover his new friend is a marine iguana who thought he was a rock thanks to his wetsuit.

The two continue to frolic in the water, diving down deeper and deeper until both are sitting on the ocean floor. Thinking Bodhi was drowning, Emely swims out to save him, but soon discovers Bodhi’s new superpower – being able to hold his breath for ages under water and swimming extremely fast. Maybe just maybe, with his new superpowers and thanks to Emely’s mutant gene changing green smoothie – Bodhi along with his new sidekick Guapa the ninja lizard, there is a chance he might be able to save them from this deserted island and find their parents before its too late.

Interspersed with facts about the ocean and its sea life, this very funny story is a delight to read from start to finish. There’s danger, adventure and rollicking good fun to be had.

Title: Fish Kid And The Ninja Lizard
Author & Illustrator: Kylie Howarth
Publisher: Walker Books, $14.99
Publication Date: 5 February 2019
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781760650810
For ages: 5 - 8
Type: Junior Fiction Younger

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2XrNz1U

Announcement: Meet Katrin Dreiling

One of KBR's most popular features is our Meet the Illustrator interviews.

For the past year or more, Heidi Cooper-Smith has brought us a kaleidoscope of illuminating illustrators' insights but is now handing her paintbrushes over to the equally radiant, Katrin Dreiling.

Katrin's illustrative style has been described as quirky, fun, mischievous, original and very European. We just think it's oodles of fun, like Katrin!

Katrin was awarded the Harper Collins Illustrators Showcase Award 2019 at the biannual SCBWI conference in Sydney. 

We first met Katrin a couple of years ago in her own Meet The Illustrator interview. Today, as she prepares to take over the reins of Coordinator from Heidi, we divulge a bit more of the delightful Katrin. Welcome!

1. Tell us something hardly anyone knows about you. 
I talk to magpies so they don’t swoop me in September.

2. What is your nickname? 
Frau Dreiling (sorry it’s a bit formal).

3. What is your greatest fear? 
Werewolves.

4. Describe your writing style in ten words.
Quirky,fun, European, humorous, quiet, dreamy, unconventional, bright, unusual, undisciplined (I’m working on that).

5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer. 
Eager to learn, punctual, fast, cooperative, determined.

6. What book character would you be, and why? 
Pippi Longstockings – she is both mentally and physically strong and full of humour.

7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
Medieval ages – fascinating yet scary.

8. What would your ten-year-old self say to you now?
 Go, go, go!

9. Who is your greatest influence? 
Illustrating: Beatrice Alemagna Writing: Astrid Lindgren, Janosch

10. What/who made you start writing? 
Grade 3 – my primary school class teacher always encouraged my writing. I have then studied English and German literature at uni.

11. What is your favourite word and why?
My new favourite English word is ‘plumtastic’ (I found it at the Botanical Gardens). My favourite German word is ‘gurken’ which describes ‘moving’ in an aimless, useless way.

12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be? 
Thomas Mann Der Zauberberg (The Magic Mountain).

Katrin is a German-born language teacher but moved to Australia with her husband and three children and became an illustrator. Now she lives in a wooden house on stilts next to a creek filled with snakes and poisonous toads and hopes to spot a koala one day.

Her first picture book, The World’s Worst Pirate by Michelle Worthington was awarded as Notable Book 2018 by the Children’s Book Council of Australia and she also delivered illustrations for a highly successful video animation production on YouTube.

Katrin was awarded the Harper Collins Illustrators Showcase Award 2019 at the biannual SCBWI conference in Sydney. She is represented by Essie White at Storm Literary Agency.

Katrin also teaches art to children twice a week and conducts illustration workshops for both adults and children. In her free time she loves to spend time with her family, writing quirky stories and walking her Golden Retriever, ‘Loki’. 

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2GmUPW3

Review: Why I Love My Mummy

This is a lovely gift book for shared reading between mother and child. In creating this book, Howarth has used children’s own words to answer the statement, “I love my mummy because…”

Each page contains a heart-warming response in a child’s voice, such as “she helps me,” or “she kisses me better”, or “she smells nice.”

The illustrations are soft and warm, with each page depicting an animal mummy and child interacting together. 

The baby animals are beautifully and realistically illustrated, showing a cheekiness and personality in their loving play with their mums.

The range of animals included is also good for prompting discussions with little ones by pointing out the different animals, such as pandas, elephants and giraffes.

This book has sentimental value for me as I have read it with all three of my children and they have all loved the closeness of reading it together and reaching out for hugs and kisses as the animals do on each page. It is a great book to keep in mind for Mother’s Day, or a gift for anytime really as most Mums will love reading this beautiful book with their child.

Title: I Love My Mummy
Author/Illustrator: Daniel Howarth
Publisher: HarperCollins, $14.99
Publication Date: 26 March 2006
Format: Hard Cover
ISBN: 9780007228812
For ages: 2 - 5
Type: Picture Book




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Meet the Illustrator: Manuela Adreani

Describe your illustration style in ten words or less. Delicate, honest and gentle.

Do you have a favourite artistic medium? I only need a pencil to draw my ideas and a sheet of A4 paper, very basic items. What is essential for me, is to see what I will draw clearly in my mind and, only then, can shape it on the paper.

What items are an essential part of your creative space? I love pencils and watercolour.  Unfortunately, I don’t use them much, because I use mainly digital painting to realise the books, due to very short deadlines.

Name three artists whose work inspires you. I love Lisbeth Zwerger and the Australian illustrator Shaun Tan, who illustrated one of my favorite books The Red Tree. I also really appreciate very different illustrators, from the realistic and complicated style of Rebecca Dautremer, to the very simple and essential style of Oliver Jeffers.

Which artistic period would you most like to visit and why? I would have loved to live in Paris during Impressionism, from the 1850s until the beginning of 1900. During that time, artists have changed the direction of painting and created new ways of representing reality. I love all of them -  Modigliani, Renoir, Degas and Van Gogh, who spent just few years in Paris but still he is an important part of that changing atmosphere.

Who or what inspired you to become an illustrator? I’ve always loved drawing, but I actually did not know that illustrating could be a profession until I went to see the open day of the School of Illustration in Rome, where I studied for 3 years. And then, when I saw the books of Lisbeth Zwerger, I felt in love with her illustrations, and with children’s books in general, and I felt that illustrating for kids was what I wanted to do. Though it took me long time to have the courage to do it, I’m glad I finally did!

Can you share a photo of your creative work space or part of the area where you work most often? Talk us through it. This is my little studio - here is where I work. As you can see, there’s a nice window from which I get a lot of sun in the afternoon. It’s a new room for me since I moved into this flat a few months ago, but I love this space, and the company of my cat... when he shows up!

What is your favourite part of the illustration process? When I draw or colour, to me it’s very important to talk to the characters. For example while I was working on Hugo, which is a very delicate story, I would speak to my drawings of Hugo. I related to him as if he was a real boy. He kept me company and I had the feeling I could more easily represent what he was going through, or at least so it seemed to me!

What advice would you give to an aspiring illustrator? The main thing I’d like to suggest to aspiring illustrators is to find their own style and way to tell stories. I also would like to tell them that working as an illustrator is very demanding on the body, so I would advise to take care of it. And that this beautiful job does not leave a lot of spare time. It requires a lot of sacrifice, but doing what you like doing is the best reward we can have.

Manuela is a children’s books illustrator and animator from Turin, Italy. She started working as an illustrator thanks to a competition for the 130th anniversary of the creation of Pinocchio. Her illustrated books have been published world wide and have been translated into many languages.  Last year Manuela was nominated for the Kate Greenaway Medal.
You can follow Manuela on instagram and facebook or find out more via her website.








from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2IEAZIQ

Review: Petra

A beautifully presented book about a smooth, grey, round, solid object named Petra.

Told from Petra’s view the story follows her journey in self-discovery with amusing events which cleverly show perspective, perception and context. Petra’s inspiring confidence is shown early in the story when she announces I am strong. I’m a fearsome, fearless mighty, magnificent mountain!

But is Petra really a mountain? With such confidence and certainty Petra shows us that your belief in yourself matters more than your actual size and that your surroundings can change it all in a heartbeat anyway.

I adore the modern design of this book; it features plenty of white space, minimal text, a soft colour palette and delightful illustrations. Despite appearing simple the illustrations deliver great depth, in particular the expressions on Petra’s face—created with only a few circles and lines are brilliant.

While it’s listed for ages 6-7, I think children of all ages and even adults would enjoy Petra. My 2-year-old stayed focused and enjoyed it, while I felt joyful anticipation when turning each page.

Petra is a lovely book to read aloud, with lots of space and opportunity to discuss the scenes and topics of perception, context, perspective and confidence. With 48 pages it is a little longer than usual picture books but it certainly doesn’t feel longer.

Marianna Coppo is an author/illustrator from Italy where Petra was originally published.

Title: Petra
Author/Illustrator: Marianna Coppo
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd, $28.95
Publication Date: 1 August 2018
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780735262676
For ages: 6 – 7
Type: Picture Book




from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2IHACgi

Review: Hotel Flamingo

Anna has a lot to deal with when she inherits Hotel Flamingo from her great-aunt.

Hotel Flamingo has seen better days. It's run-down and untidy, and its only staff are a doorman who is a bear (named T. Bear) and a ring-tailed lemur receptionist (called Lemmy).

However, Anna is determined to return Hotel Flamingo to its glory days, and welcome guests once more.

She wants it to be a genuine competitor to the flashy Glitz on the hill.

Hotel Flamingo soon secures a team of enthusiastic new staff to join T. Bear and Lemmy: a giraffe, koala, mouse and hippo. There's also Madame Le Pig, the rather precocious new chef.

What Anna needs next are guests -- to add to the elderly tortoise upstairs, just awakened from hibernation.

Anyone else might turn away the family of cockroaches who asked for a room, but Anna wants Hotel Flamingo to be open to anyone. She has a big idea, too, and it involves a lot of pink flamingos.

There will be bumps along the way, but Anna is determined that Hotel Flamingo will return to being the sunniest hotel on Animal Boulevard.

Hotel Flamingo is a positive and uplifting story with appealing characters, and a plot that bounces along at a swift pace. Accompanying cartoonish illustrations by author/illustrator Alex Milway are sweet and, like the chapter breaks, are generously spread throughout.

An endearing book for beginning and newly independent readers.

Title: Hotel Flamingo
Author/illustrator: Alex Milway
Publisher: Bonnier, $12.99
Publication Date: March 2019
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781848127753
For ages: 5--7 years
Type: Junior fiction




from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2VPZOFh

Review: A Quiet Girl

Mary is quiet. She steps quietly. She speaks quietly.

This means Mary hears things many people don’t tend to notice. It also means lots of people don’t tend to notice her. 

Including her family. 

When Mary’s family suddenly can’t find her, they yell and call across the neighbourhood, making a ruckus as they search for her. 

But Mary is a quiet girl, and finding her requires a quiet solution.

A Quiet Girl is a beautiful story from Australian picture book master Peter Carnavas. It’s a story about the now — about how crazy and loud our world has become and about the joys of finding the quiet and rediscovering the beauty of the world if only we stop and listen.

It’s also a story about family and individuality. We are not always the same as the other members of our family, and this is okay. It’s okay to be different.

This is a stunning story with heartfelt and inspiring themes brought to life by Carnavas’s whimsical text and his magical illustrations. The beautifully soft colour palate will warm your heart and Carnavas’s way with perspective and character emotion with the simplest of tweaks will wow you with every turn of the page.

A Carnavas picture book is like a great big hug that makes you stop and appreciate things. His books are always thought provoking, but in such gentle ways, which I find perfect for igniting important and interesting conversations with kids in a way they can understand and relate to.

Beautiful, whimsical, engaging and heartwarming — another Peter Carnavas winner!

Title: A Quiet Girl

Author/Illustrator: Peter Carnavas

Publisher: UQP, $24.99

Publication Date: 2 April 2019

Format: Hard Cover

ISBN: 9780702260025

For ages: 3+

Type: Picture Book

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2IoxJBK

12 Curly Questions with author Juliet Sampson

1. Tell us something hardly anyone knows about you.
I have a small scar on my forehead like Harry Potter.

2. What is your nickname?
My nickname is Sunflower Lady as I grow sunflowers every year. They have become my favourite flower. People often think of me when they see this flower.

3. What is your greatest fear?
I do not like heights.

4. Describe your writing style in 10 words.
Simple, straight to the point, with a twist of intrigue.

5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Creative, curious, enthusiastic, persevering and resolute.

6. What book character would you be, and why?
Peekay, from The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay. He is courageous despite all the challenges he faces and is determined to make a difference in the world.

7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
I would not travel in time. I am happy with the year I am in and what I am doing with my life presently. I believe in living in the now.

8. What would your 10-year-old self say to you now?
I am glad you are still chasing your dreams. Keep going.

9. Who is your greatest influence? 
My mother

10. What/who made you start writing?
My mother read to me every night and I enjoyed our regular visits to the library and storytime. Also, my grandpa’s love of films and musicals allowed me to spend many hours watching different characters share their stories.

11. What is your favourite word and why?
My favourite word is inspiration, but my favourite saying is ‘spread sunshine and inspiration’. This is the motto I live by.

12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. There are so many lessons to be learned in this story, through all the different characters, their backgrounds and lifestyles. I also love how most of the story is set in a confectionery factory. This truly is a world of pure imagination.

Juliet M Sampson is an award-winning author. Dance Demons won 2016 Book of the Year in the Reader’s Choice Awards in the AusRomToday competition. Her other three books are Behind the Mask, Bon Voyage! and Outback Wonder. Her first picture book is Grace’s Mystery Seed, released through Ford Street Publishing. For more information, see www.julietsampson.com.au.

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2IuCMA5

Winners: Catch a Falling Star

And our lucky winners are...

Harlan Guziak (7),VIC
Jo Seysener, QLD

Congratulations! You have each won a copy of the magical middle grade novel, Catch a Falling Star by Meg McKinlay

Enjoy!

Thank you to ALL who entered.



from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2v3bGrT

Review: Tintinnabula

Tintinnabula is an exquisitely poignant picture book that resonates deeply. From the first touch, first look, first read, this book transports readers from dark and menacing times, through imposing but compelling doorways, to a safer, gentler world beyond.

Margo Lanagan's text captures heart-aching difficulties, then carries readers from trouble, pain, suffering and fear towards comfort, certainty, safety and self.

Rovina Cai's atmospheric illustrations majestically sweep across every page and this book was a most deserving winner of the 2018 Children's Book Council of Australia's Crichton Award.

The reader gradually moves from harsh and jagged landscapes, toned in fierce reds, blacks and browns, towards the gentle, green, wind-swept hills of Tintinnabula, where doves fly and lingering sounds of bells reverberate with peace. This book is a powerful symbol of hope.

Title: Tintinnabula
Author: Margo Lanagan
Illustrator: Rovina Cai
Publisher: Little Hare , $29.99
Publication Date: 1 October 2017
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9781742975252
For ages: 9+
Type: Picture Book




from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2VGhRhe

Review: The Year of the Pig

Charles Hope and Jess Racklyeft, the creative duo of The Year of the Dog, deliver another  Chinese Zodiac animal story, The Year of the Pig. A perfect gift for any piggy born in 2019.

This charming and captivating story reveals the character traits of all the Zodiac animals. The main character, Pig, is optimistic. Today he is hopeful about winning the school running race, even though he is usually last at everything.

During the race the other animals slowly start to fall behind Pig. They become lost, forgetful, distracted and naughty. Then just as Pig sees the finish line, he begins to worry about his friends. Where are they?

Pig shows that he is clam and responsible, as he  backtracks through the forest to find his friends. He uses his heightened senses of hearing and smell to locate them. Pig then shepherds them towards the finish line. But how will Pig win, now?

Hope weaves an dynamic, humorous and exciting story around the theme of friendship, while also exploring the characteristics of each Zodiac animal. In the character of Pig, we discover that there are many ways to feel like a winner, without coming first in any activity.

Racklyeft's soft vibrant colours and patterns, combined with her lively characters, entice the readers to explore her watercolour and digital illustrations. She has used a variety of viewpoints to help the readers understand the vastness of the forest where the race is taking place. I adore how Racklyeft uses perspective to demonstrate the size of each animal, Dragon makes Snake look as small as Slimey, the worm from Sesame Street.

At the end of the book discover your Chinese Zodiac and find out if your characteristics match your animal. I am hooked on this series and I look forward to the next story, The Year of the Rat, which will be followed by my Zodiac animal, the Ox.

Title: The Year of the Pig
Author: Charles Hope
Illustrator: Jess Racklyeft
Publisher: Wild Dog, $24.99
Publication Date: 1 February 2019
Format: Hard Cover
ISBN: 9781742034898
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book




from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2UZ3hUI

Review: Lazy Daisy

Jasper Horatio Wiggleby Clarke longs for a dog he can walk in the park.

This adorable man is rather short-sighted and extremely stuck on his dream.

So the loud noises he hears in the night can mean only one thing—a hilarious case of mistaken identity.

A dog that doesn't want to walk is unheard of, so Jasper does everything he can to inspire Daisy to get up and get moving.

The result is a heartwarming romp that includes a touch of the ridiculous.


Lazy Daisy absolutely nails both rhythm and rhyme. As a result, it's one of those rare read-aloud treats the whole family can enjoy.

But you'll have to read to the end to find out if Jasper Horatio Wiggleby Clarke ever achieves his dream of having a pet he can walk around the park.

Title: Lazy Daisy
Author: Caz Goodwin
Illustrator: Ashley King
Publisher: Hardie Grant Egmont, $
Publication Date: 1 March 2019
Format: Hard Cover
ISBN: 9781760500931
For ages: 3 years+
Type: Picture Book




from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2P9hvxc

Review: Juno Jones Word Ninja: Number 1

Juno loves repeating certain words, as much as she loves Muttonbird Bay School. 

There they let girls wear shorts. But men in suits have come to watch and report. Her school might be the one out of the three in the area that is forced to close.

Juno’s teacher tells them there may be a way of saving the school, and that’s by reading more; increasing their literacy level. 

A reading journal becomes compulsory for all the Class Fives. But Juno simply hates reading. She, is a secret Ninja, loves drawing cartoons, making jokes and climbing. She hasn’t read a book in years!

After a few attempts to read books that would bore a door, Juno decides to write her own story and things get interesting. With an imagination without boundaries, and a huge sense of humour, she manages to write a story and read a book that actually holds her attention. Will this contribute to saving Muttonbird Bay School?

Kate Gordon has created a cleverly-written beginning to the series with a story within a story, with an intimate look at the character of each cast member.

I knew I was going to love this series from the cheeky look in Juno’s eyes on the cover and reinforced by her energetic Ninja kick on the title page. The characters are on display at the start so we know what they look like before the story begins.

Juno’s jokes are interspersed through the text and they are actually clever/funny. The series will definitely draw reluctant readers of both genders due to the overall participation of terrific characters, such as Genius George, Juno’s brother, Smelly Bella, the leader of a pack of belles, Perfect Paloma, Shy Vi and their teacher Miss Tippett. Their flippant dialogue and crazy antics will keep readers laughing when not wondering what in the world is going on in Juno’s overactive mind.

Kate Gordon and Sandy Flett make a perfect match. They have built fun into every page and anticipation in the reader. I look forward to Number 2.

Title: Juno Jones Word Ninja: Number 1

Author: Kate Gordon

Illustrator: Sandy Flett

Publisher: Yellow Brick Books, $12.99

Publication Date:  30 April 2019

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9780994557094

For ages: 6 - 8

Type: Junior Fiction 

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2VCGc7n