Review: I Would Dangle the Moon

The bond between mother and child is a powerful and beautiful one. In I would Dangle the Moon, a mother and daughter ponder the moon and all the things it could be. 

If I was a farmer, I would plant the moon in the middle of my field so you could watch it crack the earth as it grew.

Set in a sparkling ring, placed in a nest to keep eggs warm, cooked into moon cake, the possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

This is a loving and lyrical picture book about love and possibilities. 

The words really do warm your heart as you read, and I love that it encourages kids to use their imagination — to really push it to its limits and not let anything stand in the way.

I Would Dangle the Moon is a story to inspire brilliant and creative thinkers.

Title: I Would Dangle the Moon

Author/Illustrator: Amber Moffat

Publisher: Midnight Sun, $29.99

Publication Date: June 2019

Format: Hard Cover

ISBN: 9781925227529

For ages: 3 - 6

Type: Picture Book

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Review: WOW! the visual encyclopedia of everything (New Edition)

Revised and updated for 2019, this encyclopedia really does have a 'WOW!' factor. There are over 300 visually stimulating pages, with detailed photography, realistic illustrations, charts, maps, sketches and other imagery from across the world, the solar system and beyond.

A vast range of topics are covered, with enough detail provided to give an introduction and preliminary understanding of each topic, whilst not becoming overly didactic. The information presented is succinct, relevant and will spark further interest and investigation.

The topics are divided into eight distinct sections: nature; the human body; science and technology; space; Earth; people and places; history; art and culture.

Each section has multiple subsections, including the branches of the animal kingdom, genetics, magnetism, space travel, gems, minerals, volcanoes, historical civilizations, cultures, language and dance.

There is a reference section at the back, which has a condensed collection of facts and figures, for those readers seeking more detail. There is also a comprehensive index, allowing readers to search for topics of interest, plus a list of acknowledgements and photography permissions for use, including many museums and galleries from across the world.

In a digital era, when seemingly everything is available at the end of a fingertip, one might question what role an encyclopedia such as this has to play? Whilst there is a plethora of information available in the online world, and much of it is reliable, young readers do not always have the skills to recognize fact from misleading fiction. A book with such a wide variety as this is large, and, yes, it is a little bit heavy, but there are no pop up advertisements, no online trolls, no live chats with unknown members, no links to online games and no false news.

Reliable fact-checked information, presented in a fun and engaging manner, which appeals to visual learners as well as theoretical learners, will always have a place.

Title: WOW! the visual encyclopedia of everything (New Edition)
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley, $39.99
Publication Date: 16 July 2019
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9780241364352
For ages: 5+
Type: Junior non-fiction




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Review: Skyward: The Story of Female Pilots in WW2

Skyward: The Story of Female Pilots in WW2 is the story of women in aviation. 

It is built around three girls with a dream of becoming female pilots. 

When Hazel, a Chinese-American first saw the Curtis Jenny, she told her father that she would fly one in the future.

Marlene, in Great Britain, took her first ride in a plane with her brother. At the start of WW2, she joined the ATA (Air Transport Auxiliary).

Lilya saw her first plane when it crashed on the outskirts of a town in Russia. That night she told her parents she was going to be a pilot. They laughed, for she spent all her time drawing and dreaming. When war came, she was given the chance to fly by the most famous aviatrix in the Soviet Union, Marina Raskova.

As there weren’t enough male pilots to fly the shifts needed during WW2, a call-out came for females to join the WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots), a civilian group of the women’s aviation unit. They were inundated with volunteers.

The success of female pilots created a climate of sexism and antipathy against the women who were accused of stealing men’s jobs. In actual fact, their extreme bravery saw them take on the dangerous roles piloting planes through flight patterns men refused. This book reveals an era in aviation history that glows in the light of women’s heroic choices at a time of dire need.

Well-researched, beautifully designed and presented using the artistic style of the war years, we witness the stout-heartedness of women who answered the call. Through elegant and detailed illustrations, the contrasts in history, with reference to women and how they were measured, are exposed.

We are gifted with clear depictions of clothing styles of the early 1940s, the medical and physical demands made on candidates during training and preparation for their specific roles, and fantastic images of the various aircraft, tanks, machinery and equipment.

The focus of the book is directed at the important role women played in aviation. Their courage and passion during war time to contribute what they knew they could do equally as well as men, is reflected in every scene. The pages are filled with gorgeous coloured illustrations on the progress of women’s roles at that time. These are complemented by informative text that relays the hardships and ridicule they endured trying to get into a domain that was governed by and for men.

Skyward…comes highly recommended for readers with interest in aviation history, women’s fight for rights and equality, or the unknown facts about women and aviation.

Title: Skyward: The Story of Female Pilots in WW2

Author/Illustrator: Sally Deng

Publisher: Walker Books,  $27.99

Publication Date: September 2018

Format: Hardcover

ISBN: 9781911171515

For ages:  7+

Type: Non Fiction

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12 Curly Questions with author Heather Neilly

1. Tell us something hardly anyone knows about you.
I was a high-school champion discus thrower

2. What is your nickname?
I don’t have one! Unfortunately, nothing has stuck.

3. What is your greatest fear?
That the damage we are doing to the planet is irreparable

4. Describe your writing style in 10 words.
Irreverent and lyrical, finding inspiration in the wonder of nature.

5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Sweet, zesty, driven, funny and fun

6. What book character would you be, and why?
Pig the Pug, he makes no excuses

7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
I would love to see Australia before Europeans arrived in 1788. Since that time, 27 species of unique Australian mammals have gone extinct! Imagine glimpsing a Tasmanian tiger, a toolache wallaby or a pig-footed bandicoot in the wild. Unfortunately, once these species are extinct, they are gone forever.

8. What would your 10-year-old self say to you now?
Keep practising the guitar! You will be a much cooler adult if you can play an instrument.

9. Who is your greatest influence?
My kids’ author idols are Roald Dahl, Dr Seuss and Aaron Blabey.

10. What/who made you start writing?
I felt like I had something to say. I love seeing a story come to life. For me, it’s like fitting together the pieces of a puzzle.

11. What is your favourite word and why?
Serendipity, because what could be better than a happy accident?

12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?
The complete works of Kafka? It would probably take me a lifetime to ponder and explore the myriad interpretations.

Heather Neilly is a writer, scientist and lover of the wild. She is the author of Who’s Making That Noise?, with Anil Tortop. She works as an ecologist, studying the relationships between native plants and animals, and working to restore degraded ecosystems. She currently lives in the Riverland region of South Australia with her husband, two daughters and red dog Cliff. Her new book is Barefoot Bea. For more information, see neillywrites.com.

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Winners: Alex Rider

And our lucky winners are...

Julie Murphy, VIC
Kirsty Polujan NSW

Congratulations!

You have each won an Alex Rider prize pack each containing signed copies of the first three titles in the series plus a signed copy of the latest release Alex Rider by Anthony Horowitz, Secret Weapon.

We hope you get a real thrill out of this prize!

Thank you to ALL who entered.

Be sure to keep an eye out for the next exciting installment of the Alex Rider series, coming soon.



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Review: Arthur and the What-Ifs

Arthur lives next to lots of noise: a train station and a noisy restaurant.

But Arthur doesn’t mind. He quite likes noise — particularly the noise of his violin. And he likes the fact the noise around him means no one notices his own music playing. 

Arthur is incredibly shy about his talent. He doesn’t want anyone to know he can play because what if no one liked it? What if he made a mistake? What if people laughed?

So Arthur doesn’t tell anyone he can play, and he keeps his violin a secret. Until…

Arthur hears about a community jam session. The sign says everyone is welcome, but Arthur is just not sure if he’s brave enough to put himself out there. 

Arthur and the What-Ifs is a story about courage and learning to take good risks. Kids will really connect with Arthur. They’ll ask questions and ask for repeat reads because they understand the struggles Arthur experiences and relate to his fears and reservations.

This is a brilliant picture book for children. It will show them that worrying what people will think about them — worrying about all the what-ifs — is completely normal, but, also, on most occasions it’s unfounded. 

We worry and worry that we might be judged, but when we hide from the world we are only robbing ourselves of opportunity, and in most cases the opportunity leads to good things.

It’s a powerful message, but it’s brilliantly disguised within a charming story about the power of music and a community coming together.

And then there’s McKenzie’s superb illustrations! Colourful, detailed and filled with emotions, the story reads like a movie as you turn each page.

A beautiful picture book about finding the courage to step out into the light, Arthur and the What-Ifs is a winner!

Title: Arthur and the What-Ifs

Author/Illustrator: Heath McKenzie

Publisher: Affirm Press, $24.99

Publication Date: 23 July 2019

Format: Hard Cover

ISBN: 9781925870398

For ages: 3 - 6

Type: Picture Book

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Review: Fashionista

Review: Detention

Sima lives in a detention centre with her family. All she wants is to have a normal life — to have a home, to go to school, to join a community.

Dan lives in a caravan park with his mum, who often isn’t there. Times are tough, food is scarce, and all he wants to do is to escape his life — his school, his home, his town.

When Sima’s family discover they are about to be deported back to danger, they try to escape, fearing for their lives. In the chaos, Sima loses her family and ends up hiding in the local school in town, where Dan finds her.

Dan’s heard all the stories about people from detention centres. He knows aiding an escapee means big, big trouble if he gets caught. But he also knows that Sima has done nothing wrong. She just wants to find her family and be safe.

Dan wants to listen to what his heart is telling him is right. Sima desperately wants to trust Dan, but doesn’t know if she can. Together, they work to evade the armed police hunting them and get Sima to safety, but it’s no easy task with patrol cars circling and officers scouring the town for escapees.

Detention is a heart-breaking, thought-provoking junior novel about courage, fear, friendship and empathy.

Bancks delivers real and raw drama and adventure that will get kids thinking about important issues. It’s a book that explores right and wrong, good and bad, and every grey area in between. It’s about learning to listen to that important voice inside you, when it tells you to do something when others might do nothing.

The novel is action packed and fast-paced, but teamed with brilliant and authentic characters, the story is deep and real. It’s a story that won’t be easily forgotten.

Title: Detention

Author: Tristan Bancks

Publisher: Penguin, $16.99

Publication Date: 2 July 2019

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9780143791799

For ages: 12+

Type: Middle Grade

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Review: The Art of Taxidermy

Review: Goodbye House, Hello House

With previous collaborations on The Midnight Gang, Lucy Goosey, Little Humpty and Jenny Angel, it is wonderful to have Margaret Wild and Ann James create Goodbye House, Hello House.

From the start Emma embraces the changes that are upon her, moving house from the country to the city.

Once all the boxes are packed Emma spends her final moments in the country side saying goodbye to things she loved to do, like fishing in the river and swinging on the farm gate.  She then says farewell to the rooms in the house and changes the writing on the wall from Emma lives here to  Emma lived here.

Upon the arrival at the new house in the city, Emma celebrates her firsts, like climbing a specific tree for the first time or patting this cat.

Once inside her new home she says hello to the rooms and settles onto the comfy window seat and changes the writing on the wall left by the previous child, Kim.

Wild has written a story depicting the experience of parting with one's family home and all the things that you loved about living there. She shows Emma bravely accepting the changes that come with moving house. Showing that while the landscapes are vastly different one can still find many familiar experiences with a new outlook.

Wild's words are supported by James' illustrations. There are very subtle messages in the illustrations showing the emotions that Emma experiences during this change; sadness, resignation, uncertainty, excitement and acceptance. Many of these feeling are shown though Emma's body language; slumped shoulders, tilt of her head, to out stretched arms, uncertain eyes and smiles.

James' has explored a new style of illustration. I can see the influence of her playful exploration from I'm a Dirty Dinosaur combined with other abstracted techniques. There is a young, reminiscent and familiar feeling of a child's first painting though the use of broad brush strokes and lines of fingertips in paint. This abstract painting recedes into the background as the black and white line drawings pop forward, making it all about Emma, her emotions and experiences rather than the landscape or house. 

Goodbye House, Hello House is a wonderful story to add to the collection of moving house stories.

Title: Goodbye House, Hello House
Author: Margaret Wild
Illustrator: Ann James
Publisher: Allen & Unwin, $24.99
Publication Date: 1 July 2019
Format: Picture Book
ISBN: 9781743311103
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book




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Review: Special Forces Cadets: Missing

Review: Animals Up Close (Animals as you've never seen them before)

Tiny noses, bright eyes, snapping pincers and slippery tongues almost leap out of these colourful pages. Animals Up Close: Animals as you've never seen them before is a visual feast, filled with intriguing facts.

Containing a combination of amazing close-up photography, complemented by realistic illustrations, this hardback book is easy to dip in and out of, selecting any page at random, or can be read for hours, poring over every fascinating page.

Each double page spread features an extraordinary animal, with interesting facts, such as why geckos lick their eyes, which fish can walk on land, how toucans play games and why flamingos have bright pink feathers.

This book features animals who live underwater, such as crabs, clams and crayfish, animals who live on land, including mammals and reptiles, and animals in the air, such as bats, birds and butterflies.

Title: Animals Up Close: Animals as you've never seen them before
Editor: Sophie Parkes
Illustrator: Xiao Lin
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley, $19.99
Publication Date: 6 July 2019
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9780241327395
For ages: 4 - 8 years
Type: Junior non-fiction




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Review: The Astrid Notes

Taryn Bashford has a way of hooking you on the first page and drawing you in with each new chapter.

In this latest book, she focuses on Jacob, a character from her debut novel, The Harper Effect. Jacob, a trust-fund kid with ever-absent parents, has an immense talent as an Indie singer but feels unable to sing again. We also meet Astrid, a rising opera star and dutiful daughter with a serious case of stage fright.

At first, they seem like complete opposites, but both are going through similar life-changing experiences, struggling to overcome tragedy and parental expectations.

Set in the world of elite music, we follow their journey through grief and guilt as they try to establish themselves in the competitive music industry.

Astrid, desperate to please her father and live up to her dead mother's reputation as a classical singer, would rather be writing pop songs. The revelation of a shocking family secret throws her into further turmoil.

Meanwhile, Jacob, unable to deal with a tragic loss and his recent break-up with girlfriend Harper (yes, that's right!), is refusing to sing again and turns to self-destructive behaviour — until his father issues an ultimatum that brings the two teenagers together.

Bashford's characters are authentic and intriguing, and she builds the plot with finesse to a beautiful crescendo. Her portrayal of the elite music world and her balance between the teenagers' burgeoning romance, family struggles and internal conflict are finely tuned and make for a heartrending and gripping read.

Title: The Astrid Notes
Author: Taryn Bashford

Publisher: Pan Macmillan Australia, $18.99
Publication Date: July 23, 2019
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781760552213
For ages: 14+
Type: Young Adult Fiction

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Meet The Illustrator: Sona Babajanyan

Name: Sona Babajanyan

Describe your illustration style in ten words or less.
Poetic. Textured. Sometimes dreamy. Sometimes funny. Sometimes mysterious. Well, it’s still less than 10 words, even with all these 'sometimes'.

What items are an essential part of your creative space?
My bed, where I think and doodle. My graphite pencil and my Mac with the Wacom tablet.

Do you have a favourite artistic medium?
It changes over time. I love experimenting. And it depends on what I am working on. Pen and ink is my all time favourite, but for the illustration projects I mostly use Photoshop recently.

Name three artists whose work inspires you.

Ohhh… It’s so difficult to name only three. Well, if we are talking about illustrators, I’ll just name the first three names that come to my mind – Rebecca Dautremer, Shaun Tan, Gabriel Pacheco, but there are so many others…

Which artistic period would you most like to visit and why?
Can I please first be sent to some medieval Armenian monastery to learn the art of illuminating manuscripts? Then I’d love to visit Europe during the Renaissance to learn some secrets of the trade from the great masters. And then we can go to Paris of the beginning of the last century, to learn how to forget what I learned and how to break rules. Then it would be super cool to visit year 2052, to see what’s happening with art…. Ok, enough, I guess, I am getting overexcited.

Who or what inspired you to become an illustrator?
My Dad. He wasn’t a professional artist, but he was a great drawer and an incredibly creative person and was constantly involving me in various projects. And my Mom, who was reading to me a lot, making sure I pay attention to the illustrators. I was actually dreaming about becoming an illustrator since I was a kid, because I just fell in love with the books illustrated by an amazing Russian artist Viktor Pivovarov. 

Can you share a photo of your creative work space or part of the area where you work most often? Talk us through it. 
My work space consists of three parts. One is my bed, as I already mentioned, (that’s very important), the other might seem rather messy, (but actually is surprisingly ordered) – that’s where I paint and draw. And the other one is quite neat. That’s my desk with the computer and Wacom tablet.

What is your favourite part of the illustration process?
I enjoy every part of the process, but probably the most exciting stage for me is the the very beginning, when I have to think about my general approach to the style, composition, and characters. That’s basically when you try to see the finished book with your inner eye. You can end up with something quite different, so the very end is also quite exciting, when you look back at the whole journey and can see how the book comes together. 

What advice would you give to an aspiring illustrator?
Learn about other artists and their processes, get inspired, but never try to do the same. Be free, experiment, try to find your own voice, but don’t stress about it too much, because if you do what you really want to do, it will show anyway.
Then it’s always helpful to find like minded people, fellow illustrators, who will support you, help with advice, share their own experience. I am really happy that I’ve found my own gang here in Brisbane. BIG people you are great! (BIG – Brisbane Illustrators Group)

Sona is an artist and illustrator from Armenia, living in Brisbane since 2008. She has been working as a translator, editor, and designer, and it was not until moving to Australia, when she finally decided to become a full time artist and illustrator. She works on her own personal projects and enjoys illustrating children’s picture books. 

Please visit Sona's website for more information or follow her on facebook or instagram.
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Review: Sick Bay

It’s easy to walk down a hallway and make assumptions about someone.

We have no idea what’s going on in other people's lives, if they’re having a bad day, if they’re struggling through hard times and challenges.

Meg and Riley are both keeping secrets about their lives from the people around them. 

Both are walking the hallway with classmates having no idea about the things they must deal with.

Two very different girls — the same age but with different friends — who probably never would have interacted much at all. 

And then they both end up in sick bay at the same time, and things change.

Sick bay is a very different place for each of them. Meg is going through things at home and needs somewhere to escape. Riley has diabetes and has to go there at times to manage her condition. 

At first they think they have nothing in common, but as they get to know each other, they learn that while their struggles are different, they have more in common then they thought. The learnt they are both trying to discover who they are and who they want to be.

Sick Bay is a story if friendship, courage and life. The plot is gritty, complex and so, so real. This is the kind of book kids can really see themselves in. They will connect with the struggles, understand the challenges and relate to the characters on a deep, deep level. 

This book is all about the characters — their feelings and thoughts, actions and reactions — and to say Nova Weetman brings Meg and Riley to life on the page is an understatement. 

Weetman doesn’t shy away from the real and raw emotions and situations kids experience. It’s all in here: crushes, friendship battles, family struggles, disability, sickness, school pressures.

This really is a story about life and everything it entails from a 12-year-old’s perspective. But at its heart, for me, the story is about discovering your identity and finding the courage to stand up for what you believe in. This isn’t an easy thing to do, and I love that the story shines a light on the benefits of following your heart/soul/gut instead of following the crowd. 

This is the perfect book for young girls on the verge of becoming young adults — a novel to reassure them that the chaos is normal and there are solutions to every problem.

Title: Sick Bay

Author: Nova Weetman

Publisher: UQP, $16.95

Publication Date: 4 June 2019

Format: Paperback

ISBN:  978 0 7022 6032 2

For ages: 11+

Type: Middle Fiction, Young Adult Fiction

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Review: Around the World Craft & Design Book

The Around the World Craft & Design Book celebrates many cultures and traditions.

It brings together thirty different craft activities for children (and adults) to enjoy. Each is connected to a particular culture or tradition.

Around the World Craft & Design Book is bright and colourful, just like the crafts it promotes, and will appeal to a range of readers. 

The crafts are grouped into regions, each of which has an introduction featuring a map and summary of the activities to come.

You'll be able to explore: North America, Central and South America, Europe, Africa, East Asia, Australia and South East Asia.

All the crafts have photos and step by step instructions. Lists of materials you will need and craft and design notes are also provided.

There are some templates included in the book for you to draw your own designs (e.g. for a quilt, Peruvian-style beads, or Welsh love spoon).

You can also learn from a variety of facts scattered throughout. One piece of trivia is related to the horse hair woven crin dolls and jewellery made in Chile. The hair is cut from horses' tails where it will grow back, though local legend says the weaving originally used fine tree roots.

Cultural crafts are a fun way to experience the world without getting on a plane. From origami, painted eggs and mosaics, to fabric printing, kites, and up-cycled toys, there is something for everyone to try in Around the World Craft & Design Book.

Grab a copy of the book, and a box of materials, and get crafting!

Title: Around the World Craft & Design Book
Author: Kait Eaton and Laura Baker
Illustrator: Eva Byrne
Publisher: Lonely Planet, $14.99
Publication Date: June 2019
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781788681131
For ages: 6+
Type: Junior non-fiction




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Review: Dave the Lonely Monster

A rhyming story about a big purple, lonely monster named Dave, friendship and being kind.

Dave was once a young, obnoxious monster, so unruly that the town he lived in banished him to Echo Rock where he lived for 60 years with only his guitar for company. These days, Dave takes bubble baths and strums his guitar rather than cause any chaos, alas local knights tease and poke Dave in attempt to make him fight. When Dave stands up to one of the young knights he gets an apologetic response and an unlikely friendship blossoms, the two have a lot in common.

Later, as a true friend would, six-year-old Percival defends Dave when mean town folk throw rotten vegetables at him because they are bored; they seem bully like, not thinking of Dave’s feelings or considering that he has any. Embarrassed after Percival’s defence, the town folk understand their mistakes and soon discover a much better way to have fun, of course, with Percival and Dave included.

I enjoyed getting to know Dave’s endearing, humble character through both text and illustrations of his pink guitar, music posters, knitting and other details. There is definitely more than meets the eye when it comes to Dave, adult readers may relate to him in someway just as kids may relate to or be inspired by Percival and his brave actions.

Fabulously bright coloured illustrations which firstly drew me to this book, work perfectly with the rhyming text and stand out on the high quality cover. The story delivers a great message about friendship, kindness, judgement and considering others' feelings.

Anna Kemp and Sara Ogilvie are also the author illustrator team behind The Worst Princess, and Sir Lilypad.

Title: Dave the Lonely Monster
Author: Anna Kemp
Illustrator: Sara Ogilvie
Publisher: Simon & Schuster, $25.00
Publication Date: 4 October 2018
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781471143670
For ages: 3 – 7
Type: Picture Book




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10 Quirky Questions with author Pip Harry

1. What's your hidden talent?
I can swim long distances in the ocean and I’m not even afraid of sharks.

2. Who is your favourite literary villain and why?
Alison Ashley from Hating Alison Ashley by Robin Klein, though I think she turned out to be super nice!

3. You're hosting a literary dinner party, which five authors would you invite? (alive or dead)
Stephen King, JK Rowling, Jane Austen, Haruki Murakami and Carrie Fisher.

4. Which literary invention do you wish was real?
A time machine.

5. What are five words that describe your writing process?
Haphazard, occasionally inspired, immersive, slow.

6. Which are the five words you would like to be remembered by as a writer?
She never missed a deadline.

7. Picture your favourite writing space. What are five objects you would find there? 
Chocolate, air conditioning, writing pals, coffee and my laptop.

8. Grab the nearest book, open it to page 22 and look for the second word in the first sentence. Now, write a line that starts with that word. (Please include the name of the book!)
Sophie was terrible at going to bed. (Roald Dahl’s The BFG. Incidentally, Sophie is the name of my own daughter, who incidentally is terrible at going to bed!)

9. If you could ask one author one question, what would the question be and who would you ask?
Hey, Shakespeare – do you really think teenagers should be studying your plays in 2019?

10. Which would you rather do: 'Never write another story or never read another book'?
Never read another book.

Pip Harry is a writer and editor. Her YA novels include I’ll Tell You Mine (2012), winner of the Australian Family Therapists Children’s Literature Award (2013). Head of the River, longlisted for the Gold Inky award (2015) and shortlisted for the Adelaide Festival Literary awards (2016) and Because of You, shortlisted for the CBCA Children's Book of the Year Awards, Victorian Premier's Literary Award and Queensland Literary Awards (2018). Pip lives in Singapore with her family and currently works as Editor for the Australian and New Zealand Association (ANZA). Her latest book, The Little Wave (2019), is a middle-grade verse novel. For more information, see www.pipharry.com. You can also read Pip's 12 Curly Questions interview here.

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Review: Enola Holmes Mystery: Book 4 - The Case of the Peculiar Pink Fan

The story opens on Sherlock and Mycroft Holmes having a heated argument about their sister Enola and her ability to remain undiscovered. 

She continues to go out at night, serving the poorest people of London with life’s basic necessities, all funded by the money her mother has left her. This time she is disguised as a midden-picker.

Lady Cecily, who had gone missing in The Case of the Left-Handed Lady, and was tracked down by Enola, enters the picture again.  

Their strong friendship forged then due to their connecting free-spirit, independence and strong mindedness, reignites at a glance. 

Cecily is been dragged by her two aunts through the newly created Ladies’ Lavatory during a shopping spree for a trousseau. She is in danger and cannot speak. Her pink fan becomes her voice.  The clever Enola is familiar with fan language. But Cecily is whisked away before any detailed exchange can be made.

Enola sets out to find and save Cecily for the second time. As always, she meets up with dangers, obstacles, and experiences adventures that keep the reader on the edge of their seat. She discovers Sherlock is on the same trail as she is. Can they work together to discover the mystery surrounding Cecily?

We see a shadow of change in Sherlock. Admiration for his extremely bright sister is evident. Her success in cases where he has failed, has forced a shift in his view of, and attitude to, her and her intended life. There is also a change in Enola towards Sherlock whom she has always loved dearly but stayed distant toward. For to reveal weakness would put her freedom in jeopardy. Are they moving towards a meeting place somewhere in the middle?

We follow Enola through the intricate maze of her mind as she winds her way towards a solution to this new challenge.  

London life of the late 1800s is presented vividly through descriptions of the divide between the rich and poor. Through Nancy Springer’s excellent use of common language and Enola’s many disguises, the reader is treated to a journey through dress codes and styles of the classes, surroundings, food and daily routines, entertainment and modes of travel of the era.

The role of women, which is a strong theme in this series, is defined as being valid only if under the care of a man, and then, obedient, servile and silent. Enola is a heroine with a voice and mind of her own, which she is determined to keep.

I love this series for its intelligence, and the blending of mystery and adventure with spectacular themes that educate and inform while offering entertaining reading.

Title: Enola Holmes Mystery: Book 4 - The Case of the Peculiar Pink Fan

Author: Nancy Springer

Publisher: Allen & Unwin, $14.99

Publication Date: 5 February 2019

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9781760637408

For ages: 12+

Type: Middle Grade Fiction

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Review: The Boy Who Steals Houses

The Way I Love You

In 2004 David Bedford wrote The Way I Love You, for and about his daughter. Readers can now enjoy sharing this heartwarming story in a  board book version.

Bedford's story captures the friendship between a girl and her dog in a delightful way.

The pair are perfect companions that care for each other. When the little girl falls over dog comes to check on her.

They play and share together, holding a dress-up tea party, with biscuits, yum.

Ann James' warm, gentle and dynamic illustrations clearly show that dog is the little girl's best friend.

They understand each other. Dog asks to play fetch by dropping the ball at her feet.  He listens to her when she tell him that he cannot jump in the bath with her.

The duo are inseparable. They romp together, sharing hugs and kisses. Then as the day winds down they share quite time together; drawing, reading and at bed time they sleep together.

Dog is adored by girl. They make my smile as wide as one their smiles. 'That's the way I love you.'

If you want to share more stories about dogs and pets see the Kids Book Review label, pets.

Title: The Way I Love You
Author: David Bedford
Illustrator: Ann James
Publisher: Little Hare, $14.99
Publication Date: 1 January 2019
Format: Board Book
ISBN: 9781760503383
For ages: 1 – 4
Type: Board Book, Picture Book




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Giveaway: Alex Rider

'One teenage spy. Seven adrenaline-charged, detail-filled short stories. That's Alex Rider: Secret Weapon.

Anthony Horowitz previously declared he was finished with the adventures of Alex Rider, but found himself drawn back to Alex's world.' KBR review of Howrowitz's latest Alex Rider release, Secret Weapon by Sara Steed.

Allow yourself to be drawn back into these thrilling tales, too 

Thanks to the dynamic people at Walker Books Australia, we have two incredible prize packs to giveaway each featuring signed copies of the first three books in the series plus a signed copy of Secret Weapon!

To enter, simply tell us in 25 words or less what your dream adventure activity is.

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 July 2019.

Competition runs from 5 pm 20 July 2019 to 5 pm 27 July 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.

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Review: Gary's Banana Drama

A laugh out loud story of a gorilla named Gary whose love for bananas lands him in a spot of bother.

Gary loves bananas, in fact I’d say he's obsessed. One day when there are no bananas left, he sets off in search for some and a fabulously funny journey begins. It doesn’t take long before he finds some barking bananas, only to realise they are actually dogs, next thing we know Gary sees bananas everywhere but unfortunately it’s all just his wild banana loving imagination. Surely he will find more bananas, or will he? Either way, you will have a good giggle.

Written with short sharp sentences, pauses, excitement and anticipation Gary’s Banana Drama really feels dramatic and can easily be built up further with reader excitement and engagement.

Jane Massey has done a wonderful job of suiting her humorous text and bright bold illustrations to each other, and although seemingly simple Gary’s expressions and movements deliver an endearing character who you feel hopeful for the whole way through.

Jane has illustrated over 50 books including Daddy is My Hero, Gary’s Banana Drama is her first author illustrated title and I hope it’s the first of many.

Title: Gary's Banana Drama
Author/Illustrator: Jane Massey
Publisher: Simon & Schuster, $16.99
Publication Date: 31 May 2018
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781471147845
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book



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Review: A Mouse Called Julian

Guest Post: Taryn Bashford: Life Begins At The End of Your Comfort Zone

Taryn loves to write about elite teens, focusing on how they may excel at one side of their life, but socially and emotionally, they’re fairly flawed. While her first book The Harper Effect explored the world of professional tennis, The Astrid Notes delves into the world of elite teen musicians. 

Here’s what she has to say about why she writes these sorts of books.

I recently had a chat with a writer friend about why I cannot read crime fiction. The friend explained that he writes crime because he likes to explore the darker side of human nature.

That’s when I had a lightbulb moment. 

I prefer to pretend that humanity does not have a darker side – I only want to explore the good, the inspiring, the lighter side of human nature. 

This clarifies why I write the books that I write: I want to inspire, give hope, lend a helping hand at the difficult coming-of-age stage of life, and encourage readers to dream big.

Anyone who knows me will say I’m a ‘glass is half full’ type of gal, but what they don’t know is that as a teenager I was an aspiring Olympic athlete and a hopeful concert pianist (and I wanted to be a novelist on the side). This illustrates my optimistic nature – why can’t I have all three careers? – but it’s also a source of ideas for my books.

One of the big issues a teenager faces is peer-pressure and the need to be accepted. I was never that cool teenager. Faced with the fact that classical music was not cool, I had to decide what type of music I would play. This is the dilemma that Jacob faces in The Astrid Notes – his love is indie pop, but without giving away any spoilers, he’s suddenly unable to be part of his band. That’s when Astrid helps him discover that sometimes there’s a difference ‘between the music you’re mad about and the music your voice was meant to sing.’

I believe it’s very important to write stories of hope, stories that inspire teens to go after their dreams. Whether it’s because of a new style of parenting or a more dangerous world, teachers and librarians tell me we live in a world where fear of failure has numbed teens into not trying at all. They’re afraid to follow their dreams and don’t realise that life begins at the end of their comfort zone.

I sincerely intend that both my novels inspire teens to do what they love and to never quit. There’s a reason why we all love TV series like The X Factor, or why we watch movies like The Karate Kid, Eddie the Eagle and Soul Surfer. We want to be inspired, we love to see others grab hold of their dreams, we live vicariously through their joy. But what my writing tries to show is that their joy can be your joy too.

Having met many gifted teens, it’s inspiring to know that they are not born superheros. They have no special superpowers. They are ordinary teens who worry about their weight and pimples. They have boyfriend and friendship issues. They argue with their parents. They struggle at school. They seek to fit in with their peers. The only difference is that they choose to never give up what they love doing, be that sport or music, art or cooking ... that’s what makes them elite. And if that’s the case, then everyone can be elite at something.

Taryn Bashford’s YA novel The Astrid Notes is due out next Tuesday, 23 July.

Follow Taryn via her social media channels: website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

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Review: Lizard's Tale

Guest Post: Jeanne Chemla on Jolie Galerie

Guest Post: Story Box Library Reflects on NAIDOC Week Theme: Voice. Treaty. Truth.

Cover reveal: Little Puggle's Song

Little Puggle’s Song is an enchanting picture book about finding your place, chasing your dreams and overcoming fears.

Puggle wants to sing. But when he tries, no sound comes out. 'I wish I had my own sound, like all the other animals.'

But Puggle knows that echidnas cannot sing. Can Puggle find his voice in time to join the bush choir?

Australia’s stunning bush landscape and its most lovable animals come together in this delightful lyrical narrative. Brought to life through the brush strokes of renowned illustrator Helene Magisson, this beautifully visual story captures our country’s natural world in a delicate and wondrous way.

Little Puggle’s Song takes the reader on a heart-felt journey as Puggle struggles to be something that he can never be, but then discovers his ‘song’ in the most unexpected way. It is a celebration of those moments when you fulfill your dreams in ways never imagined.

The magical Little Puggle's Song is due out with New Frontier Publishing on September 1, but we couldn't wait to give you a glimpse of this gorgeous book. So, put your hands together for the great cover reveal...

For more information on Little Puggle's Song, or to pre-order your copy, visit New Frontier Publishing.

Vikki Conley has worked as a professional writer, with diverse communities in Africa, Asia and Australia, for over 20 years. She is an intrepid traveller, nature lover and creative all-rounder. Vikki writes and shares stories that celebrate the spirit of wonder, freedom and adventure that she wishes every child could enjoy. She is one of the fastest emerging children’s writers, with five picture books being released within the next 18 months. Vikki is also the creator of the popular children’s literature social media pages, CourageousPages.

Helene Magisson started her artistic career as a painting restorer in Paris, where she was also trained in the art of medieval illumination.Helene has lived in Africa, France and India. She is now settled down in Australia with her family. Her travels both inspire and enrich her work. In 2013, she started a new career in children’s book illustration. Since then, she has illustrated several books including classics like The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams Bianco and more contemporary stories like Slowly! Slowly! by TM Clark, CBCA 2018 Notable Picture Book of the Year.

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Look What I'm Reading! Dianne Wolfer Children's Author

Hello, I live on the south coast of Western Australia but love travelling across Australia to visit readers.

Six weeks ago I broke my foot while walking the dog. That’s slowed me down with school and library visits, but I’m a bookworm and so have enjoyed the extra reading time...

Which children’s book are you currently reading?

I’ve just finished Shine Mountain by Julie Hunt.

Can you tell us in two sentences what the book is about?

It’s a quest story about a girl called Ellie who needs to return a magical button box to mystical Gleam Mountain. Her companions are a brave horse and a talking nanny-goat.

How much did you enjoy/are enjoying this title?

I loved this story, especially the chatty goat character. I spent five years researching anthropomorphism for my PhD and love quirky animal stories. 

What made you choose this title? Was it a review, advertising, the cover, the blurb, the author/illustrator, or the subject/genre?

Last month (on the day of my foot surgery) two of my books were listed as CBCA Notables. The next day The Dog with Seven Names was also shortlisted for the NSW Premier’s award – what a week - and so I’m now reading the books of my fellow shortlistees before the announcement on April 29th. Fingers crossed.

What other titles are on your bedside table /To Read Pile?

Maya and Cat by Caroline Magerl, Dingo by Claire Saxby and Tannya Harricks and Leave Taking by Lorraine Marwood. I’ve already read and enjoyed the other shortlisted title, Jessica Townsend’s Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow. After I finish these I’m keen to read Black Cockatoo by Carl Merrison and Hakea Hustler and finally, Megsy Caddy’s new book, Devil’s Ballast. Phew! 

How did you come by these titles: personal choice/request, publisher’s review copy, or other?

Personal choice.

Do you have a favourite genre? If so, what is it, and why do you prefer it?

I have two favourite genres; historical fiction and animal stories. Historical fiction because it’s a fun way to learn about the past, and animal stories because animal characters can give unusual and deeper insights into human behaviour. Some of my own books like The Dog with Seven Names and Light Horse Boy combine these passions. 

Do you read from printed books or some other medium? Please expand a little on the why of your choice.

I definitely prefer printed books, turning the pages and flicking back and forth is part of the joy for me, but when I’m travelling I sometimes read on kindle.

If you’d like to find out more about me and the backstories to my books, my website is www.diannewolfer.com. Hope to see you there!

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Review: Puffin Nibbles Blast Off

Review: Ella May Does It HER Way!

From the first pages it is clear that Ella May is a girl who loves to do things differently. In a world of legs all heading in the same direction, Ella May is walking backwards and even climbing a tree upside down!

Mick Jackson has created a feisty character, with heart and determination, who notices the tiniest details in the world around her. Andrea Stegmaier's illustrations show Ella May and her mum living in a houseboat, moored beside a town full of unique and interesting characters. Each page contains visual details that readers will love and Ella May would approve of. 


The story begins when Ella May discovers how much she loves trying new things.  Ella May takes that idea to a whole new level and starts doing everything backwards. Ella May's determination to see things through leads to inventions and some tricky situations.

When Mum realises Ella May is not going to stop walking backwards, Mum turns around too, just to see how it feels, and before long everyone is having a go. Then, just as suddenly, Ella May turns around. While walking forwards, Ella May sees a poster on a wall of someone doing something she has never tried before. Ella May does like to try new things.

Title: Ella May Does It HER Way!
Author: Mick Jackson
Illustrator: Andrea Stegmaier
Publisher: words & pictures, $21.99
Publication Date: 18 June 2019
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9781786039040
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book

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12 Curly Questions with author Weng Wai Chan

1. Tell us something hardly anyone knows about you.
I took my first puff on a cigarette when I was five years old. Our old gardener lived behind our house in Singapore and I asked to try his cigarette one day and he let me. I only told my mother recently, and she looked as if she wanted to discipline me, then realised that it had happened decades ago... guess I got away with that one! I never bothered with cigarettes after that.

2. What is your nickname?
Beebs.

3. What is your greatest fear?
Lizards.

4. Describe your writing style in 10 words.
Striving for engaging characters, heart, humour, action, jeopardy and depth.

5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Daydream, problem solve, research, fun

6. What book character would you be, and why?
Maddy from Maddy West and the Tongue Taker, by Brian Falkner, because she can speak any language in the world. I would love to be able to communicate fluently in any language, as each one would give you another perception of the world, which would be completely amazing.

7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
I would go back to 1940 and see what Raffles Hotel and Chinatown looked like back then, and maybe take a surreptitious selfie with Lizard, the main character in my novel.

8. What would your 10-year-old self say to you now?
You mean reading so much is actually a good thing? Groovy!

9. Who is your greatest influence?
My mother, for fostering a love of reading by giving us kids comics when we were little: Beano, Dandy, Whizzer and Chips, Casper and Wendy, Richie Rich, Mickey Mouse etc. She said she didn’t mind what we read as long as we were reading. I had to remind myself of that when one of my kids wouldn’t read anything except Archie comics.

10. What/who made you start writing?
I used to draw a lot when I was young, but eventually found making story worlds with words more interesting and chose to focus on writing. When my kids were little, I couldn’t find many books that reflected their heritage so I thought I would try to write one.

11. What is your favourite word and why?
Weltering, because it’s old fashioned and funny. It means to wallow in something.

12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I was told not to say the Bible, even though it’s 66 books in one, so I’ll say My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell. His warm, funny, inclusive view of the world and his care for the environment continues to be inspirational.

 

Weng Wai Chan was born and grew up in Singapore. She now lives in Auckland with her husband and three children. Lizard’s Tale is her first book. For more information, see www.textpublishing.com.au.

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