Review: Alex Rider: Secret Weapon

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.

In fact, another novel in the series is expected. And for super fans, a television series is being made of book two, Point Blanc.

Until then, we have seven stories set in and around those previously published books. Three of them are brand new. Others you might have read online, or somewhere else, before.

The stories my be short (as in not novel length), but some are more than a single chapter's worth.

The first opens in the mountains of Afghanistan.

Another features tea at the home of MI6's gadget geek, Mr Smithers -- all is not as it seems.

In yet another, Alex's suspicions are raised by a chocolate bar (you'll have to read the story called The Man With Eleven Fingers to find out why).

Whatever their driver, the stories all add to the picture readers have of Alex Rider, his experience as a spy and the impact on him. Or if you've never read an Alex Rider story before, these are a great place to start.

Alex Rider: Secret Weapon is a great way to revisit the past stories in the series, get a new perspective on them, and to whet your appetite ahead of the new book.

Just for the record, Anthony Horowitz himself thinks that Alex Rider: Secret Weapon is probably his fiftieth published book. It seems appropriate that such a milestone should be accomplished with his wunderkind character. 

Title: Alex Rider: Secret Weapon
Author: Anthony Horowitz 
Publisher: Walker Books, $16.99
Publication Date: April 2019
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781406387476
For ages: 10+
Type: Young adult fiction




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Guest Post Interview: Kathy Kozlowski

Kathy Kozlowski is the winner of ABIA Pixie O’HarrisAward 2019, which recognizes representatives from all areas of the children’s literature industry who have worked consistently in this field, have ‘demonstrated commitment beyond the call of duty and who have developed a reputation for their contribution.’ Kathy is also the recipient of the Leila St John Award 2019. After 52 years in the children’s book industry, she has been the instrument of progress and innovation in her field. She is currently Readings Kids Specialist Bookseller. 

A little overwhelmed by the awards she’s received for doing what she loves, she spoke with Anastasia Gonis about her life in children’s books.

Congratulations Kathy, on your double award!

How do you feel about winning these awards? Will this acknowledgement have any specific impact on your life?

Of course I am a bit chuffed to have won them but also surprised. I have been just a children’s book specialist with all the interesting things that brings with it! A rich life, but I have not done anything outstanding. I am just a little worried now that people will expect me to be better than I am.

Your first job in books was in 1967 as children’s librarian. What decision brought you to this point which was the beginning of a glowing career?

Sitting round with friends at university reading Winnie the Pooh to each other made me realise that working with children’s books could be desirable and studying librarianship could be a good way in. I intended to take both the archives unit and the children’s libraries one and decide between the two, but they were timetabled to clash, so I chose the latter. It’s a decision I’ve never regretted.

You have been a bookseller, a rep and a dedicated volunteer for the CBCA Victoria. What other areas connected to children’s literature have you ventured into?

I was a manuscript reader for Puffin books for some years where I was fortunate enough to work for Robert Sessions who was inspirational and had an uncanny ‘feel’ for a good picture book.

Can you share with us the story of The Bunyip of Berkeley’s Creek and how it unfolded for Jenny Wagner and Ron Brooks?

I did not have any input into its creation, but was at a conference in Sydney where I happened to sit next to someone called Jenny Wagner. In the course of the conversation she told me of a picture book she had written illustrated by Ron Brooks. It was about to be published by a small, mainly photographic publisher, Childerset, with whom she worked. When I saw it I got in touch with Bob Sessions urgently and told him how brilliant it was and that he must get in touch with them immediately. Through him it was published by Longman Young Books (Penguin’s then children’s hardbacks division) and Childerset.  It was, of course, a huge success. In fact that first edition had a mistake none of us picked up. The female wallaby, joey clearly visible, 'finished his drink and hopped off'.

What about your valuable input in Zana Fraillon’s work, No Stars to Wish On? Would you like to share that with us?

Zana used to come to storytime at Readings with her young sons and one day told me of this book she was writing about a young boy in a Central Victorian children’s home. I read it and was hugely impressed with her talent though I didn’t like everything about the book. So I put her in touch with Sarah Brenan at Allen and Unwin where I knew she would get good editorial advice and nurturing. She is a brilliant writer and lovely human being and has gone from strength to strength.

You’ve travelled the world on book-buying trips and have been effective in making available to migrant children in Australia, books in other languages. Can you expand on how this came about?

I was talking to Ron Thomas from the Education Department one day (I think he was in Curriculum Development) when he told me how hard it was for migrant children who could not share stories with their parents at home, as there were no children’s books available in their family languages. I had been thinking of going to England to catch up with friends so I paid my fare there and back and The Little Bookroom sent me to the Bologna Children’s Book Fair and then through Italy, Greece, Turkey, and the then Yugoslavia finding children’s publishing houses and buying books.

I relied heavily on any advice I could get in Bologna and then plunged in with the bravado of youth making contacts wherever I could, including some invaluable advice from some quietly cultured older women I met on a beach near Delphi! It was all pretty challenging as I couldn’t speak any of those languages so had to rely on advice given, which was occasionally through a mixture of sign language, single words and laughter. But the outcome was pleasing.

As judge for the 1995 Human Rights Awards, what did that role entail? How did you utilise your knowledge in that capacity?

I knew the then Australian Disability Discrimination Commissioner Elizabeth Hastings who was a fierce human rights champion, and in a wheelchair herself. So I was able to talk to her about the awards and I hope bring her human rights insights and my literary assessment to the process.

Currently in your term as judge for the CBCA Crichton Award, now known as the CBCA Award for New Illustrator, what criteria do you look for when judging a debut illustrator?

Actually I am just completing my third year as judge. It is normally a two year term but I did three as part of the changeover process. The panel was made up of three judges, an illustrator, a member of the CBCA committee and a professional working with picture books, so we all brought our particular skills to the process. One looks for illustration and text that work together well, where the illustrator has not just restated the text in visual form but interpreted it. Layout and use of space is important as is variation and interest in perspective. Those sort of things. I found it invaluable having an illustrator there as he or she can judge technique and the craft of illustrating in different medium with a creator’s eye.

You have worked at a job you love for a long time. From the opinion of a highly successful Specialist Bookseller, what makes a good children’s bookseller?

A love for reading children’s books of course and, particularly with picture books, an ability to see the book and ‘read’ the pictures from a child’s perspective and not just for one’s own pleasure. Listening is also very important. A lot of people who come in to a children’s book section are way out of their own field and need help. Both children and adults need to be able to talk about what their looking for and know they are understood. Whether it’s a child trying to explain their favourite type of book, or an adult wanting you to know their child is so rambunctious he can’t sit still to listen well or is over sensitive, for example, they need to know they are heard.

Your ability to choose the right book for the right child is monumental. What do you look for in a book to offer to a child? Or is it the child you match to the book? If so, how?

Oh, thank you but I’m just average. I envy the lovely breezy warmth of some of my young colleagues.

I think listening is important. Also working out whether this particular child just needs encouragement in the skill and fun of reading or whether they are ready to be surprised, mystified, and stretched in their thinking. Being emotionally engaged is hugely satisfying and sometimes a child will read well above their normal level being so caught up in the story. But others really want the safety of something familiar and undemanding. You have to try and pick who’s who. Sometimes I get it wrong, but I am inclined to suggest the tried and true rather than the latest thing which can be surer ground! But it is important to support new exciting books too.

What changes have you seen in the children’s literature industry in the last five years and how do you see the future of printed children’s books?

Children’s books are an important part of the publishing industry now. I hope profit chasing doesn’t detract from the importance of the young minds that are being fed by them. Books about strong girls and the achievements of women are dominating at the moment. It probably has to tip a little too far towards the ‘girls are the best’ message before it balances out and settles down. As the grandparent of a young boy I want him to know boys can be wonderful too. Wonderfully kind, wonderfully considerate, energetic and resilient. Just like girls!

Retirement is near. What are your plans for the future and how will you, if you can, let go of a life in children’s books?

Yes, I shall miss my young colleagues at Readings Kids. They keep me in touch and stop me from ossifying. Apart from a trip to Indonesia when I first retire I am not sure what next. I do a little volunteering now and will probably do more. Also lots of coffee with friends!

Thank you Kathy, for sharing your rich life in children’s books with us.

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2wl0Iyh

Review: Snoozette

Meet the delightfully kooky Snoozette. This endearing new character from Red Paper Kite publishing lives in a land where clouds are 'always in season' and spends her days speaking French to her cat, boiling the kettle for endless cups of tea and, of course, snoozing.

Snoozette's snoozy days are pretty much the same, giving her a good shot at the Speed Napping World Champion Title. That is, until she sets out on a fantastical journey across the sky.

What follows is a fabulously nonsensical tale of raindrop perfumes, woolly sheep, fairy floss clouds and teacup baths.

Snoozette, with her red knee-high socks, pinafore dress and smattering of freckles, is a sweet, bespectacled character to gladden the heart.

Adults will warm to her tea-drinking, nap-taking ways, and children will delight in her eccentricities and unexpected wayfaring through the clouds.

This large-format book allows readers to pore over the deliciously quirky and colourful illustrations, searching for whimsical details, from clocks and kettles to cakes and creatures.

The endpapers are a fascinating insight into the development of a character, the chosen colour palette and the progress of a picture book. And, in keeping with Red Paper Kite's style, readers are invited to add their own colour and captions to a range of black-and-white illustrations at the end.

Snoozette is a fanciful celebration of imagination, of dreams and daydreams, and is sure to make perfect sense to anyone who loves spending each day with their head in the clouds.


Title: Snoozette
Author: Valentine Paradis
Illustrator: Caterina Metti
Publisher: Red Paper Kite, $26.99
Publication Date: June 2019
Format: Hard Cover
ISBN: 9780648485209
For ages: 4+
Type: Picture Book

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

Review: Barefoot Bea

Beatrice Jones refuses to wear shoes, there is simply no need for them.

 This rhyming, hilarious story looks at why convention is not always the best way and how you can be an individual who stands out for all the right reasons.

Beatrice or better known as Barefoot Beathinks nothing of wearing shoes, they slow you down, stop from you from climbing trees or washing your feet by jumping in the rain puddles. It seems Bea has an answer for everything much to the dismay of her parents.

They decide something must be done, Bea must be made to wear shoes, just like everyone else. Worried about their daughter and her safety they come across a special shoe shop that proclaims to have shoes that suit every taste. At their wits end, her parents leave Bea in the shopkeepers’ capable hands, surely Bea will find a shoe that she will like here?

Hours drag by, until finally Bea emerges victorious! Her parents can no longer be mad at her and Bea is extremely happy.

Author Heather Neilly and Illustrator Ruth de Vos have created a book that makes you appreciate Bea’s independence and celebrate her uniqueness. The story is great to read aloud to an audience and children can relate to not wanting to wear shoes. 

The vibrant illustrations add to the delivery of the story and create the character Bea, who enjoys life and her freedom and who doesn’t need to be like everyone else to be happy.

Title: Barefoot Bea
Author: Heather Neilly

Illustrator: Ruth de Vos

Publisher: Yellow Brick Books, $24.99
Publication Date: 1 June 2019
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9780994557087
For ages: 2 - 5
Type: Picture Book

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2HLM7Bp

Review: Bat vs Poss

A delightfully rhythmic story about sharing and making friends set in branches of a sprawling paperbark tree.

Bat vs Poss caught my heart in the very first scene, beautifully illustrated with an Australian native tree; the home of a possum family and other creatures, surrounded by terrace houses, wheelie bins and city lights in the background. Everything about it felt familiar to me, as it would for many people who have lived in urban Australia.

Meek the possum and her sisters are happily living in their home when a stubborn bat named Squabbles moves abruptly in. Squabbles is noisy, messy and rather rude. Unhappy with the intruder, the locals have a neighbourhood meeting where Meek has a clever idea. Will the possums and this uninvited bat ever live in harmony?

My kids and I enjoyed the clever rhyming and upbeat text while exploring important topics such as teamwork, problem solving and standing up for yourself. The stunning illustrations work in unity with the text and perfectly set the homely Australian environment.

Alexa Moses is the author of Slave Girl and other stories, she is also a children’s television screenwriter. Anil Tortop has illustrated over 30 books including The Great Zoo Hullabaloo!, Where's Dad Hiding? and Digby and the Yodelayhee... Who?

Title: Bat vs Poss
Author: Alexa Moses
Illustrator: Anil Tortop
Publisher: Hachette Australia, $16.99
Publication Date: 29 January 2019
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780734418395
For ages: 3 – 6
Type: Picture Book




from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2YH6GpC

News: 2019 National Simultaneous Storytime

Wednesday 22 of May 2019 marks the 19th National Simultaneous Storytime event, an annual advocacy campaign, hosted by the Australian Library and Information Association.

Each year, one picture book is selected for a simultaneous read-aloud event held in libraries, schools, pre-schools, family homes, childcare centres, bookshops, children’s hospitals and communities across Australia and New Zealand, where two nations read together as one.
 

Last year we saw over 1 million kids join in the campaign. This year we aim to drive the numbers of participants even higher, to help promote the importance of reading and literacy for children.

This year, the selected story is Alpacas with Maracas by Matt Cosgrove, published by Koala Books for Scholastic Australia. Alpacas with Maracas is the sequel to Australia’s best-selling picture book, Macca the Alpaca. It is a beautifully illustrated book and is a cheerful tale that promotes friendly competitive behaviour along with the idea that having fun and ‘giving your all’ are as important as winning.

Creator Matt Cosgrove, will be at the State Library of New South Wales (Macquarie Street, Sydney) on Wednesday the 22 May at 11:00am to read Alpacas with Maracas.

'I’m so honoured that my book Alpacas with Maracas has been selected for National Simultaneous Storytime for 2019,' says author Matt Cosgrove. 'It’s truly incredible that last year there was over one million registered storytimers across Australia and New Zealand, all celebrating books and literacy together. I hope we can maintain that remarkable momentum and, with the help of all those fabulous librarians, teachers, parents, grandparents and carers out there, once again get just as many (if not more!) kids excited about reading!'

This very special event will be FREE and open to the public. Bookings are essential – www.sl.nsw.gov.au/events/national-simultaneous-storytime

 

Scholastic Australia is proud to support ALIA and this wonderful initiative, which promotes reading and children’s literacy.

Last year Scholastic Australia and ALIA worked together to stream the National Simultaneous Storytime event live over Facebook from the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne and over 1,062,230 children in more than 8,255 event locations registered to read Tony Wilson’s Hickory Dickory Dash.

To help celebrate this massive literacy event, Scholastic Australia will be gifting children who attend the participating hospitals a copy of Alpacas with Maracas. The aim is to connect as many children as possible, who are currently undergoing hospital treatment, through the power of storytelling.

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

Review: Leonard Doesn't Dance

When Leonard first hears about the Big Beaky Bird Ball, he is eager to join his feathered friends as they practice their dances for the big event. Every bird seems to have their specialty, from waltzing magpies to chickens who cha-cha. But no matter how hard Leonard tries, every step seems to go wrong and soon Leonard declares he is 'never going to dance again.' 

France Watts' alliterative text joyfully rolls of the tongue. Judy Watson's illustrations are vibrant, with rich deep blues, reminiscent of an evening sky, illuminated by the setting sun and a display of fireflies. The landscape feels like the Australian bush, but each spread is populated by an array of birds from all over the world, each with their own distinct plumage and personalities.

As Leonard discovers more and more birds are grooving, rocking and reeling, he steadfastly decides he cannot dance. The heart in this picture book is revealed when Leonard's friends decide they will not go to the ball without Leonard. Because he also cares for them, Leonard does not want them to miss out. A comical encounter leads to a funny resolution in this witty tale.

In Leonard Doesn't Dance, the words and images combine together to create a colourful, exciting dance.

Title: Leonard Doesn't Dance
Author: Frances Watts
Illustrator: Judy Watson
Publisher: ABC Books, $24.99
Publication Date: 20 May 2019
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 978073333040
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book




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

12 Curly Questions with author Jessica Sanders

1. Tell us something hardly anyone knows about you.
I was born in Japan and lived there for the first two years of my life. My parents were teaching English over there and I was a happy surprise. My middle name is actually Kyoko.

2. What is your nickname?
I don’t really have one. Although, my sister calls me Joobi sometimes. I couldn’t tell you why.

3. What is your greatest fear? 
Being stuck somewhere without snacks. If you ask anyone that knows me they will tell you how hungry I can get.

4. Describe your writing style in 10 words. 
Scribble something down, write it again, and again and again.

5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Personable, friendly, kind, uplifting, relatable.

6. What book character would you be, and why?
Elizabeth Bennet, from Pride and Prejudice. Because she values herself, stands up for what she believes, and is also kind and compassionate. Fun fact: I did a personality test, which told me that Elizabeth Bennet had the same personality type as me.

7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
That’s such a hard question… Maybe 1965, because I’m a hippy at heart and the second-wave feminist movement was in full swing. I would have loved to be a part of those protests. Also, the Great Barrier Reef and other environmental wonders would still be largely untouched by humans and climate change.

8. What would your 10-year-old self say to you now?
‘I did not see this coming!’ 10-year-old Jess thought she was going to be the No.1 female trumpet player in the world.

9. Who is your greatest influence?
Probably my mother. Her passion for preventative education, gender-neutral parenting/teaching and female empowerment can be seen in everything I do today. She is also an author and has published over 100 books for kids. My parents run Educate 2 Empower publishing so you could say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

10. What/who made you start writing?
I was not really a writer growing up. I read a lot but I was very visual. Photography and painting were my preferred mediums of creativity. However, my mother has always encouraged writing as a form of expression and activism, so I’d say she planted the idea long ago.

11. What is your favourite word and why?
Right now, it’s ‘nuance’. The more I learn the more I realise nothing is black and white, everything and everyone has shades of grey.

12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?  
Jessica, by Bryce Courtney. I can’t help but become immersed up in the narrative every time I read it. Plus, it’s a big book so it would take me longer to get sick of.

Jessica Sanders is an author, advocate and social worker. She has volunteered for several women’s rights organisations, supported women and children fleeing family violence, climbed Mt Kilimanjaro in alliance with African women fighting for their rights to land, and lectured at schools teaching the importance of acceptance towards self and others. For more information, see www.fivemile.com.au.

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2JY2z4t

Review: Tigers On The Beach

If it’s a book by Doug MacLeod, you are pretty much guaranteed a chuckle. Okay, so I admit to being a fan. Although lacking the same punch as his masterful The Life Of A Teenage Body Snatcher (A CBCA Honour Book in 2012), or of the tragedy within The Shiny Guys (shortlisted for a CBCA award in 2013), Tigers on the Beach is nevertheless is an authentic portrayal of the burdens and embarrassing glitches of adolescence.

This light-hearted novel tells the story of thirteen-year-old Adam. His family run a crumbling holiday park. A vulture-like property developer is circling, digging up the dirt to blemish the site’s reputation to scare away guests. And with Adam’s eccentric grandmother taking up residence at the park, the opportunities run thick and fast.

On top of that, Adam is dealing with both the grief over his beloved grandfather’s sudden death and the complications of having to live with an autistic younger brother. Oh, and he’s also trying to impress the sophisticated Samantha. Not an easy thing to do considering his more pedestrian sense of humour and unintended bouts of public nudity.

MacLeod intersperses his trademark moments of hilarity in a story that deftly weaves many serious threads together into a satisfying read. My only quibble is that the title, referring to a joke that Adam takes the entire novel to get (probably because it’s not very funny) is only tangentially related to the plot and does not do the story justice.

Title: Tigers On The Beach

Author: Doug MacLeod

Publisher: Penguin books, $17.99

Publication Date: 1 March 2014

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9780143568520

For ages: 13+

Type: Young Adult Fiction  

 



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Review: Sticker World: Farm

Lonely Planet’s Sticker World: Farm, is a brilliant activity book which allows the child to become the architect and designer of their own farm. 

40 pages of colour and learning and over 500 stickers, offers the opportunity for children to explore life on a farm by mapping out and building up their own surroundings as they choose.

Marco and Amelia are guides that participate in the creation of the farm. 

They assist with their directions, the structure and form chosen for the farm. This is done through suggestions about choice, and questions that must be considered from the various possibilities. This helps the creators make decisions about what, why and where they plant their preferred produce and situate their animals’ structures.

Valuable background information about each area is fed through the text. Primary consideration is given to safe-guarding the growing produce from animals that see it as food, and assuring that the animals have safe pens positioned appropriately.

What to expect from farm life and the machinery that is essential to sustain it, is also addressed. How to maximise the use of produce derived from animals and the earth, blends in with the importance of bees to our food chain, harvesting fruit, and the reward in being self-sufficient.  There is also the issue of being able to repair things that may break down or wear out.

This is not only a sticker book. It is fun-filled and entertaining. The stickers are the building blocks that fill the empty spaces and slowly form a working farm. Pens and other drawing equipment are encouraged to add variety and self-expression to the project.

It is also a useful learning tool for children in the area of language and knowledge about a subject that they may never personally experience. It will certainly assist children’s decision-making skills, broaden their horizons, and offers a sense of independence and achievement when they complete the tasks and challenges of choice they encounter.

Title: Sticker World: Farm

Author: Kait Eaton

Illustrator: Aviel Basil

Publisher: Lonely Planet Kids, $9.99

Publication Date: February 2019

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9781788680264

For ages: 5+

Type: Activity Book

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

Review: Our Little Inventor

In the countryside, young Nell finishes her invention.

She travels into the big and polluted city to show the people in charge what she has made. But the cranky old men dismiss her. She’s just a child. What would she know?

Nell returns home in despair. She just wanted to help. 

In the face of rejection, can Nell find the courage to fight back, to work harder, to never give up and save the city?

Our Little Inventor is a unique, thought provoking and heartstring pulling picture book. With lots of dialogue and full colour — and amazingly detailed — illustrations, it reads like a movie on a page. 

Many of the pages are also divided up like a comic and are wordless, letting the illustrations tell the story. This has a big effect on the reader, allowing the messages of the story to work their way into brains and hearts and providing time to really explore what the pictures are saying and to ponder meaning in silence. 

It’s one of those special books that can transcend age. Young children will love the beautiful illustrations, slightly older children will engage with questions the reader can ask and engage with the message of determination, and older kids again will understand the underlying messages about the environment and standing up for what you believe in. 

Our Little Inventor is a picture book you read and think about for many hours afterwards. It touches you in your head and in your heart, and it makes you think deeply about our world, what we’ve done to it and what that means for the children of the future. 

Powerful stuff from a stunningly powerful and engaging picture book.

Title: Our Little Inventor

Author/Illustrator: Sher Rill Ng

Publisher: Allen and Unwin, $24.99

Publication Date: April 2019

Format: Hard Cover

ISBN: 9781760523565

For ages: 3 - 9 

Type: Picture Book

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2LRV8hw

Giveaway: Australia Map Puzzle

This 252-piece Australia map puzzle is perfect for adults and kids alike.

The beautifully illustrated map and accompanying 12-page booklet created by KBR's very own, Tania McCartney showcases more than 300 illustrations of flora, fauna, landmarks, attractions and other Australiana, with details that will keep anyone enthralled for hours.

Fact bubbles and keys for the various illustrations of flora, fauna, attractions, shipwrecks and Indigenous rock-art sites will also help you learn more about this country.
 
This amazing gift idea will be avaiable next month but for one lucky reader, the good people of Hardie Grant Books and Kids' Book Review have a copy to giveaway.

To enter, simply tell us in 25 words or less, what your favourite Australian landmark is and why.

The 12-page booklet accompanying this puzzle has a page dedicated to each state and territory with additional facts and figures to further enrich your knowledge of Australia's states and territories.

The puzzle comes in a durable box for easy storage, and the booklet is attached directly to the front of the box, ensuring the puzzle and information booklet will all stay together. Perfect for busy jiggly little hands!

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 28 May 2019.

Competition runs from 5 pm 18 May 2019 to 5 pm 26 May 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/2JqRold

Review: Oink

The almost wordless book, Oink by David Elliot is both delightful and humorous.

The story is told using only sounds and illustrations. The characters' body language and facial expressions are divine.

Pig is looking forward to a nice relaxing bath, naked. Just as pig lies back in the tub there is a knock on the door.


At the door is baby sheep, in her pink ruffled bathing suit briefs, carrying her boat. Maaa?
Before waiting for pig's response, lamb jumps into the tub and splashes pig.

Soon they are joined by cow with her beach ball and donkey with his floaty ring. Poor pig just wanted to relax rather than have a noisy playful bath with lots of company.

What is pig going to do to make them go away? The solution will have your children in fits of laughter.

Oink is a great book for pre-readers. The visual language used by Elliot is all that is needed to read the story, while still teaching children about print concepts. 

Title: Oink
Author/Illustrator: David Elliot
Publisher: Gecko Press, $22.99
Publication Date: 1 April 2019
Format: Hard Cover
ISBN: 9781776572144
For ages: 2 - 5
Type: Picture Book




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

Review: Love Your Body

When was the last time your saw a book depicting cellulite and stretch marks, let alone celebrating it?

This is a book for every bookshelf. It's the one you'll wish you had when you were growing up and the one you'll definitely want for your own children.

Melbourne author, advocate and social worker Jessica Sanders has written Love Your Body to help stem the tide of negative body images in young women.

Speaking directly to the reader, her voice is reassuring, comforting and empowering.

She takes us through all the amazing things our bodies can do and all the different shapes, sizes, abilities and colours that they come in, with the constant message: Every body is a good body.

But this is not just a pep talk for young girls. It's a practical guide for self-love and self-care. There are fabulous ideas for when you're finding it hard to love your body, inspiring tips on self-care, and advice on embracing your body and who you are. And there's a great list of resources at the back of the book for support and help.

Carol Rossetti's illustrations are joyful and refreshing, depicting a diverse group of girls as they move through to womanhood. They are real and relatable, with the aim of helping normalise so-called imperfections and celebrating bodies as instruments rather than objects.

In a world where women are still lauded for their beauty and are heavily Photoshopped for magazines, where seven out of 10 girls will stop themselves from eating when they don't like the way they look, where body-shaming is rife, this book is a must-have for all boys and girls, for all families and schools. Highly recommended.


Title: Love Your Body
Author: Jessica Sanders
Illustrator: Carol Rossetti
Publisher: Five Mile Press, $24.99
Publication Date: May 2019
Format: Hard Cover
ISBN: 9781760683962
For ages: 6+
Type: Picture Book

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/30oTXcJ

Review: Kindness Rules!

Kindness Rules! is a funny board book about manners.

The central character is Magic the elephant. His friends include a crocodile, unicorn, and hammerhead shark. There's also a koala, rabbit, turtle, and many others.

Magic sets a good example for his friends in how to meet new people, be welcoming, and sharing.

He demonstrates how it is polite to say please, and not to shout when you're angry, but to use words to explain how you feel.

Other concepts in Kindness Rules! include being gentle and aware of personal space, taking turns to speak, and saying sorry when you hurt someone.

In robust board book format, this is a bright and colourful book. The characters fill the page, with text prominently fitted at the top, supported by appropriate speech balloons.

Colourful and quirky, Kindness Rules! sets out the rules of basic etiquette in a way that children will understand. And at the end Magic sums up all the etiquette in 'the golden rule: treat others the way you want them to treat you!'

This book is one of a series created by sisters Eunice Moyle and Sabrina Moyle who started Hello!Lucky as a way of 'using creativity to spread joy, fun and kindness.' Kindness Rules! is a success at doing that.

Title: Kindness Rules!
Author: Eunice Moyle
Illustrator: Sabrina Moyle
Publisher: Abrams Appleseed, $13.99
Publication Date: April 2019
Format: Board book
ISBN: 9781419734267
For ages: 0--5 years
Type:  Picture book




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

Review: Stand Up For The Future: A Celebration Of Inspirational Young Australians

In recent times we have heard young voices expressing their views over world issues, climate change and politics – raising concerns about the future and the impacts decisions can have.

This book is a celebration of inspirational young Australians, all of whom are making an impact on Australian society. Some of these young people are just starting to make their mark on the world, whilst others are established advocates and role models.

One thing you will learn reading this book, is that the future is bright – filled with talented, compassionate and determined young people. They might not be famous yet, but they soon will be. 

While their stories may be diverse, their innovations and passions cover all aspects of our lives. Issues such as sustainability, equality, freedom and safety are just some of these important areas.

You will discover amazing young Australians such as Lucas Patchett and Nicholas Marchesi. Their charity Orange Sky Laundry first started in Brisbane in 2014 and offered free clothes washing services and a chat – this provided a connection for the homeless community to access several different services. Lucas and Nicholas were named 2016 Young Australians of the Year.

There is Caitlin Figueiredo who campaigns for global equality. While studying at University, she manages two businesses and works with several worldwide organisations including World Vision, The Alannah and Madeline Foundation and United Nations Task Forces - Former First Lady Michelle Obama has recognised her work. Caitlin was the youngest to win the Young Leader category of the Australian Financial Review 100 Women of Influence Awards.

Other life-changing people featured in this book include inventor Amelia Fox, fitness entrepreneur Kayla Itsines and racial justice advocate Tim Lo Surdo. 

With over 40 stories shared, the reader will also be inspired, as it will empower people to be brave changemakers and to make the world a better place.

Title: Stand Up For The Future: A Celebration Of Inspirational Young Australians

Author: Various

Illustrator: Various

Publisher: Puffin Australia, $29.99
Publication Date: 2 April 2019

Format: Hardback
ISBN:  9780143794394
For ages: 8+
Type: Junior Non Fiction

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

Meet the Illustrator: Nichole Wade

Describe your illo style in 10 words or less: Endearing, relatable, heart-felt watercolour creations in traditional and layered piece style.

What items are an essential part of your creative space? I use my laptop to pull up inspirational images, my desk--which is so spacious I can spread out all over it, and my lamp--which is adjustable on every level. A good pencil and paper--and a cat laying on it. I love the natural light in here as well as being surrounded by fun treasures.

Do you have a favourite artistic medium? Yes, watercolour and pencil

Name 3 artists whose work inspires you: Its so hard to pick just 3 but I would say Marie-Louise Gay, Holly Hobbie and Emily Gravett.

Which artistic period would you most like to visit and why? I would have to say Impressionism. Things begin to loosen up here and weren't so focused on exactly copying their subject but rather giving the "impression" of the whole concept. I like that. I feel I can relate to that in some ways! I like the look and feel of the style and this was really when paint became portable allowing artists to take it with them on holidays and trips. I think its the earliest version of "sketchbook" painting we see. And how fun would it be to go out for a picnic and bump into an artist painting flowers or his children in the middle of a park because he could!

Who or what inspired you to become an illustrator? Three years ago I succumbed to watercolour. I had been curious about it for many years and really wanted to learn how to do it. When I finally gave in I quickly realised I had not drawn for years and I kind of needed to draw so I would have something to paint! I watched Anita Gadzinska on Youtube along with many others and started diving in. The world of illustration and my connections to it built rapidly from there as I started participating in Tania McCartney's 52 Week Illustration Challenge and then finding Nina Rycroft and her Picture Book Illustration Workshop. Being a writer first--but that also was on the back burner of life--I realised that picture books lived deep inside me and I could now bring this long suppressed dream to reality. The turning point for me was when I realised I was no longer just messing around. I knew that creating art was what I was meant to be doing and so that is what drives me. The stories themselves are now what inspire me the most as well as the deep longing to see meaningful stories in the hands of kids who need them!

Can you share a photo of your creative work spare or part of the area where you work most often? Talk us through it: When I first started painting I was in a tiny little office space downstairs in my home. It was a walk-through area with too much stuff in it. Both of our kids left home this year which led to a complete flooring re-do of the upstairs and then that led to me stealing the biggest of the rooms for my new studio space. I have to say it was the best thing I have ever done for myself! I could finally spread out and take over and create--yet at night shut the door and keep the cats out when there is wet paint. Its a joyful space full of colour and light and I never get tired of being up there! Plus it is literally 4 x the space! Norman (aka the best cat on the planet) is my sidekick and usually he is always at my feet, on the desk or taking a nap on the couch. I almost can't work without him!

1. My work desk. I actually had this desk built special for me. The top is laminate counter top material (white with gold sparkles). It fits perfectly over a plastic folding table. It is often used downstairs for game nights or large holiday meals. It is easy to move and store. It literally withstands water, colour, marker and cats. Yes it does! It measures 2.5 ft wide and a little over 6 ft long. It is where I sit all day long and create art.

2. Comfy couch and inspiration board: I bought this bright sunny yellow couch and made pillows and a covering for it because my 3 cats love to lounge around up here with me. They are not always nice to the furniture--bad kitties. But I found that when my kids were home they would often come and hang out with me in my creative space and we would have our best talks late into the night because there was a place for them to sit and talk. So it was essential to have something comfy in the new space. If I need to sit back and take a break it is actually a perfect fit for me too. The inspiration board changes once a year. Everything comes off and I start fresh with inspirational sayings, cards and sketches from friends or like now a few family photos and larger pieces I am trying to figure out where to store.

3. Drawers and bins: I have all of my supplies stored in bins and drawers and there is a separate desk where I do my cutting and have my t.v. I like to have a movie on in the background while I am working--it keeps my brain active and I can work longer without getting sleepy.

4. Picture wall: I have started buying prints from friends who are artists. Some of the work was art that was in my children's nursery! It is going to grow for sure. I love being inspired by others and it makes my space feel happy and energised. I just moved all of the art behind my desk to this one area because I needed a place to be able to storyboard and tack up finished illustrations to check for flow and colour.

5. Printing closet: You can see my antique studio door that I had to cut down and paint and find glass for. It was a real pain! But I love how it turned out. Behind that is the closet where I have more supplies as well as all of my larger items and a place to do printing. Its still a work in progress but how nice to not have that all in my creative zone.

What is your favourite part of the illustration process? I love the spark of an idea and then researching, pulling inspirational images and finally getting it started on paper. Its that moment when you see what you envisioned finally coming to life and you say to yourself, "there you are".

What advice would you give to an aspiring illustrator? Know that this is a creative process and journey and can take some time. But while you are waiting for your first book deal to come along don't forget to just have fun and enjoy making art! Do what speaks to you. Work on the projects that you've been thinking about for some time. Build up your portfolio and keep putting yourself out there. I am always looking for ways to improve myself and my art and so I ask lots of questions from those you admire or want to learn from. Having a mentor or a group that is willing to critique your work is a must! As artists we simply can't be objective enough. If we can take those insights that are well placed and do something with it we will be better artists and produce better work in the end.

Nichole Wade is an author/illustrator living in the Golden Valley region of Missouri, USA. She creates watercolour illustrations for children that are endearing, heartfelt and elicit a sweet relatable connection. When not creating art she enjoys being in nature smelling flowers, brushing the pony and listening to birdsong. She adores animals--especially her cats. She often dreams of the sea and secretly believes herself to be a mermaid.
You can follow Nicole on instagram and facebook or visit her website for more information.

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2WK6TI7

Review: Snow Sisters: The Crystal Rose (Book #2)

Princess triplets, Hanna, Magda and Ida are back in the second instalment of the Snow Sisters series.

In The Crystal Rose, the girls must travel through snow and ice to find the second secret treasure they’ll need to stop their evil aunt, the Shadow Witch.

With a better handle on their powers and their pet polar bear cub by their side, they sneak out of the castle and journey into the night, determined to find what they need to save their parents and defeat the Shadow Witch.

But the Evil Witch is spying on them, and she’ll do whatever it takes to stop them. 

This is a magical adventure young fantasy lovers will adore. 

It’s got action, adventure, magic and bold and daring princesses. 

Easy to read with lovely black and white illustrations throughout, it’s a great novel for young readers just starting out.

And don’t forget to check out book one, The Silver Secret.

Title: The Crystal Rose

Author: Astrid Foss

Illustrator: Monique Dong

Publisher: Nosy Crow, $12.99

Publication Date: January 2019

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9781788000154

For ages: 7 - 9 

Type: Junior Fiction

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2Q2W7tU

Guest Post: Encouraging a Growth Mindset Through Picture Books

Growth mindset theory is a simple idea discovered by world-renowned Stanford University psychologist, Carol Dweck through her research on achievement and success.

Her research on how both adults and children interacted with the world and solved problems brought to the forefront the idea that intelligence is malleable instead of something innate and fixed.

Not surprisingly, there is a lot of enthusiasm surrounding this breakthrough discovery, especially when it comes to young children.

As an example, a recent national survey in the United States showed that 98% of teachers feel that growth mindset approaches should be adopted in schools. Nevertheless, there is also a lot of frustration when it comes to practical steps on how to implement the strategy effectively.

Strong voices such as Carl Hendrick the co-author of What Does This Look Like in the Classroom? Bridging the Gap Between Research and Practice (2017) state that it’s increasingly unclear whether attempts to change students’ mindsets about their abilities have any positive effect on their learning at all.

I may be biased but I am not alone in my belief that wordless picture book art illustrations (increasingly popular even among older and/or sophisticated readers) are ideally suited to foster a growth mindset by presenting children with rewarding opportunities for interpretive discussions. In other words, by allowing children to take ownership of the story, wordless picture books gift readers with the unique opportunity of transforming into storytellers in their own right instead of simply probing the book pages for clues on the author’s intentions.

It is precisely this sense of creative freedom through self-directed engagement with book illustrations that present young readers with a transformative teachable moment in a way that feels meaningful to them and relevant to their worldview while simultaneously expanding their understanding of it. This is how the seeds of growth mindset and playful engagement are planted organically thus enabling children to expand their cache of intellectual, emotional and cultural knowledge using age appropriate concepts.

Picture books can be used in myriad ways to further hone children’s ability to navigate through their life in a spirit of constant learning. Open ended picture books, especially, do a great job in acknowledging that children thrive when they create, experiment and discover things they enjoy.

Books such as, Here Comes Ingo present a unique opportunity to let the imagination soar by adding to the story via painting, drawing and writing ON the page thus encouraging kids to appreciate and include process art in their daily lives in order to search for and create new meaning, test their comfort zone and take risks.

By Odeta Xheka


Odeta Xheka is a NYC artist and busy mum in a quest to connect people with art in truly meaningful and enriching ways starting from early childhood. You can find her work at Odeta Xheka Visuals.

 

from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2VI1aGl

Review: One World, One Day

Across the world, every morning, children wake to greet the new day, in all sorts of places, in so many ways. In this beautiful book, One World, One Day, we see that despite our differences, we are all part of one global family.

Barbara Kerley's text carries readers across divides to reveal similarities shared by children across the globe, such as travelling to school, whether it be by bus, or bike, or walking a very long way.

The book contains a series of incredible photographs, showing children at home, at school, at play and doing their daily work. When the sun begins to set, we see snapshots of a range of families and various evening routines.

This beautiful picture concept book captures the joy of children across the world and ends with the universality of dreams and the possibilities within one day.

Title: One World, One Day
Author: Barbara Kerley
Publisher: National Geographic Society, $19.99
Publication Date: 1 April 2009
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9781426304606
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book




from Kids' Book Review http://bit.ly/2Yo55Vq