Giveaway: Ellie's Dragon and Barkley Picture Books

From the new release vaults of our good friends, Walker Books, we have two gorgeous new picture books to giveaway: Ellie's Dragon by Bob Graham and Barkley by Rebecca Crane.

The message of Ellie's Dragon is that no friendship is imaginary, and Barkley is all about a Best Friend Dog. Both are moving stories about the powers of companionship.

For a chance to win both of these heart-warming new Australian picture books, tell us in 25 words or less, which fictional animal or mythical creature would you most like to be friends with?

Email your answer along with your name and postal address to dimity. The response we like best will win a copy of each of these fabulous new releases. 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 June 2020.

Competition runs from 5.00 pm 20 June 2020 to 5 pm 27 June 2020. 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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Video: Andy Griffiths answers children's questions

Andy Griffiths is one of Australia's best known authors for children. His books, like the 'Just' books, the 'Bum' books, and the Treehouse series created with Terry Denton, are bestsellers. In this video, complete with special effects, Andy answers questions from his young readers. Some of them are just as wild and wacky as the storylines of Andy's books, while others are about his favourite things, and serious advice on becoming an author and where to get ideas for stories.




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Review: Martin Luther King Jr. (Little People, Big Deams)

The Little People, Big Dreams series delivers mini biographies for kids. Each book provides children an opportunity to learn about important people in our world and in our history in an engaging way with simple text and lots of bright colours.

I’ve read a few of these amazing books (Maya Angelou, Stephen Hawking, Maria Montessori).

But this one — Martin Luther King Jr. — is an extremely important read.

You’ll learn about the day Martin, as a young boy, went to a friend’s house and was told he wasn’t allowed to stay and play because of the colour of his skin. You’ll learn about how Martin and his friend had to go to different schools because of the colour of their skin.

But Martin believed he shouldn’t accept these things that were happening in his life. He studied hard, he learnt many things and he spoke out about the injustices he saw happening around him.

When Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on a bus because of the colour of her skin, Martin helped inspire action against this horrible injustice, and so began the first major civil rights action in America.

Martin Luther King Jr. was a speaker of powerful words. He dreamed big and he shared his dreams with his country and the world. He inspired action, hope and belief — belief that no one should be treated differently based on their skin colour.

This is a book for kids, and it’s been written with great care. All the important messages are included, and there is additional information at the back of the book, but it is sensitive to the fact that the audience is children.

Kids need to read this book. Everyone needs to read this book. It’s a brilliant starting point for kids to find out more, to spark curiosity, leading to questions and discussions with family and classrooms.

We can’t forget our past and we can’t ignore our present if we want to change the future.

Title: Martin Luther King Jr.
Author: Isabel Sánchez Vegara
Illustrator: Mai Ly Degnan
Publisher: Francis Lincoln, $15.99
Publication Date: 7 January 2020
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780711245679
For ages: 4 - 6
Type: Picture Book

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Look What I'm Reading! Steve Spargo

Steve Spargo is Head of Marketing at Walker Books Australia. He has worked in publishing for almost 15 years and can’t think of anything better than working with kids’ books.

Which children’s book are you currently reading?

Burn by Patrick Ness

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

It’s set in an alternate 1950s USA, where Sarah and her father hire a dragon to work on their farm, unwittingly playing their part in an ancient prophecy.


Meanwhile, there are dragon-worshiping cult members closing in who are being followed by two FBI agents. All eventually meet with Sarah and the dragon, turning the story on its head.

How much did you enjoy/are enjoying this title?

I absolutely loved it! It was fast paced and fresh with some great twists. While not the main focus of the book, there was also a complicated yet touching gay story thread running through it, which is something I always appreciate in books I’m reading. Patrick Ness has a way of treating characters (and his readers) with a respect that shines though on the page. He can push characters to their limits without ever heading into contrived plot points.

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

Although it was a book I had to read for work, I was a Patrick Ness fan long before I started at Walker Books and I’ll read anything he puts out.

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

I have the unhealthy habit of stopping books part-way through, possibly never returning to them, even if I was enjoying them. I often drop something I’m reading for pleasure, to read something for work and then something shiny and new will come along and grab my attention. I’ve just started the second in the Book of Dust series, The Secret Commonwealth by Philip Pullman. Shamefully, I’ve only just read Charlotte’s Web, having loved the movie as a kid but never actually reading the book. I’ve read about half of the stories in Growing up Queer in Australia, edited by Benjamin Law; plus of course, a never-ending pile of books for work!

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

I keep a look out for new books by my favourite authors and I love getting recommendations from friends and others in the industry – but for the books I mentioned above I picked them up when browsing bookshops.

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

I have a few favourite genres.  I like to mix them up a bit. I love really whimsical junior fiction and middle grade, I’ve had a long-standing love of horror (I was a non-reader as a kid – I discovered Goosebumps, then quickly went to the Fear Street series, then on to Stephen King). I’m keen on a bit of pop-nonfiction like Jon Ronson and as I mentioned earlier, something with a strong queer storyline.

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

Print is always the first choice and I usually have an audio book on the go as well. Reading for work is usually digital.

https://www.walkerbooks.com.au/

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Guest Junior Review: Fantastic Mr Fox

Every now and then we are lucky enough to visit an old favourite. Fantastic Mr Fox certainly is one of them as reviewed by another of our guest junior reviewers, Aanya Dhariwal, aged eight.

Fantastic Mr Fox by Roald Dahl is adventurous and scary. This book is about Mr Fox trying to get food from the farmers for their family. 

The farmers find out and make a plan to kill Mr Fox. 

The book gets better and better as Mr Fox meets friends like Mr Badger who help him lead their families to food and fun. 

Mr Fox lives underground beside a tree with his wife and four children. 

Tired of being outsmarted by Mr Fox the farmers devise a plan to ambush him as he leaves his burrow, but they succeed only in shooting off his tail.

Recommended for kids ages 6 to 9 who like adventure books.

Title: Fantastic Mr Fox
Author: Roald Dahl
Illustrator: Quentin Blake
Publisher: Penguin Books, $16.99
Publication Date: April 2016
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780141365442
For ages: 6 - 9
Type: Junior Fiction

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Meet The Illustrator: Julian Charlton

Name: Julian Charlton

Describe your illustration style in ten words or less.

Humorous, cute, sometimes quirky, fun loving and simplified at times,

What items are an essential part of your creative space?

Less distractions the better. Enjoy background music and the odd cup of tea or coffee.

Do you have a favourite artistic medium?

Ipad Pro running Procreate, although would like to dabble in watercolour at some point.

Name three artists whose work inspires you.

I couldn’t possibly limit it to three, sorry. So many artists inspire me, be them professional, hobbyists or starting their journey into the world of illustration.

Which artistic period would you most like to visit and why?

To be honest, I would be more interested in seeing how art develops far into the future.

Who or what inspired you to become an illustrator?

As a child I enjoyed drawing and dreamed of one day becoming a cartoonist as not only enjoyed reading comics but also poured over the artwork. Life took over once left school and as time passed I never made time to draw. A number of years back I dipped into drawing again but only for a matter of weeks. Then in Nov 2018 due to certain circumstances in my life I realised I needed to make the time to do something for myself. This being picking back up the pencil, albeit now an Apple Pencil. I’ve been drawing daily ever since.

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 creative space is primarily the living room floor : ) often accompanied by our pet dog, Kipper AKA Mr Kipling. I actually find it more comfortable laying down drawing than I do sitting. If not the living room floor, I’ll be laid on the bed (less distractions).

                                           

What is your favourite part of the illustration process?

The blank page. At this point it can go anywhere. The initial point of creating the character(s) is what I enjoy the most, bringing them to life on the page.

What advice would you give to an aspiring illustrator?

As an aspiring illustrator myself, I’d say make the time to do what you enjoy doing. I’ve found Instagram to be very helpful to not only share my work with others and discover so many talented and creative individuals but I’ve also picked up illustration work including my first children’s book and stamp design work.
No matter how old you are, it’s never too late. Don’t be afraid to allow your style to develop and evolve. I actually don’t restrict myself to one specific style. Stay true to yourself. Never give up. Only you can make it happen, so make it happen.

Julian is self-taught and lives with his wife, son and pet dog (eldest two daughters have flown the nest). He’s currently working on his first children’s book – How Does Time Work? (Nui Nui) and creates stamp designs for Purple Onion Designs. Julian also runs a free artist promotion page on Instagram @childrensillustratorsart .

For more information, please follow Julian on his instagram.

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12 Curly Questions with author Ashling Kwok

1. Tell us something hardly anyone knows about you.
I’m a terrible skier. I actually got stuck on a mountain once and had to beg the rescue team to help me get down because I kept falling off the T-bar. I can still hear the group of five-year-old professional skiers chanting, 'Don’t give up. Don’t give up.' Let’s just say I never, ever want to go anywhere near a ski field again.

2. What is your nickname?
I usually just get called Ash or Ashes. Actually my sister calls me Cat – but that’s a whole other story.

3. What is your greatest fear?
Amusement park rides! I can’t think of anything worse than going on a rollercoaster or anything similar. The logical part of my brain just doesn’t understand why anyone would want to do that.

4. Describe your writing style in 10 words.
Sometimes emotional, sometimes funny but always straight from the heart.

5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Curious, playful, experimental, instinctual, heartfelt.

6. What book character would you be, and why?
Paddington Bear. He has a big heart but he isn’t perfect. He also gets to wear a cool outfit, go on exciting adventures, and he always has a snack on hand when he needs it.

7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
Definitely the 1980s! Great music, cool clothes, and a much simpler life in so many ways.

8. What would your 10-year-old self say to you now?
Why did you waste so much time? To which I would reply – so I could really appreciate what I have now.

9. Who is your greatest influence?
My family. My husband, for supporting me quietly from the sidelines, and my children, for being an endless source of inspiration. Without their encouragement and belief, I would never have made it to the other side.

10. What/who made you start writing?
I’ve always loved listening to people’s stories and analysing why human beings act the way they do. Writing allows me to explore this on a deeper level. It’s such an interesting way to explore the human condition.

11. What is your favourite word and why?
Perception – because it determines what we see and how we act in the world.

12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Gosh, that’s hard. I’m going to say The Heart in the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers. Reading that book changed my life. It’s a brilliant example of how difficult subjects can be tackled in a beautiful and sensitive way.

Ashling is a children’s author and freelance journalist from Sydney. She spends her days dreaming up new ideas, working on her latest manuscripts, and browsing local bookstores, marvelling at all the wonderful books created by talented children’s authors. Her debut picture book, Lola and Grandpa was published in May 2020. The Battle was released in June 2020. For more information, see www.ashlingkwok.com.au.

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Video Review: When the Whales Walked

Join Yvonne Mes for a short and snappy video review of When the Whales Walked, and other incredible evolutionary journeys, written by Douglas Dixon and illustrated by Hannah Bailey. This video includes other recommended titles for children on evolution.

Title: When the Whaled Walked
Author: Douglas Dixon
Illustrator: Hannah Bailey
Publisher: Australian Geographic
Publication Date: 2018
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781925695236
For ages: 8 - 12
Type: Nonfiction




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Review: Henry Turnip

An adorable story about Henry Turnip; a shy and peaceful panda, whose world is soon enlightened by his friendship with an adventurous rabbit named Reuben.

Henry is an endearing character, he happily eats the same breakfast and wears the same outfit each day, he likes jam sandwiches, reading and he doesn’t like crowds, loud noises or mess. Mostly, Henry seems contently introverted, but he doesn’t really know otherwise.

When Reuben Moon, a confident playground explorer, befriends Henry, things change, just a little, for the better. Both friends learn from each other and Henry discovers fun that he never knew existed before, like the joy of stomping in muddy puddles and the exhilaration of his first ride on a fabulous playground slippery-slide.

Henry’s experiences are expanded through the power of his new friendship, fears he had seem to dwindle and he learns things about himself that he may not have discovered on his own. Best of all, he has a friend by his side to share his experiences with.

I adore this book, Henry reminds me a little of myself and would be relatable to many readers. The traditional watercolour illustrations make my heart sing, they show Henry and other loveable characters amongst bright but soft, beautifully detailed scenes. The text and illustrations perfectly suit each other.

Henry Turnip feels like a classic with a beautiful message about friendship, life and the wonder of the unknown. It would be great to share with shy individuals or in a group and could lead onto discussions about friendship, personalities, unknown experiences, comfort zones and more.

Chloe Jasmine Harris is an Australian author illustrator, Henry Turnip is her second book after her debut Maple the Brave.

Title: Henry Turnip
Author/Illustrator: Chloe Jasmine Harris
Publisher: Walker Books, $25.00
Publication Date: 1 June 2020
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781760651114
For ages: 2+
Type: Picture Book




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Review: Willow The Armadillo

Guest Junior Reviewer: The Land of Stories: Beyond The Kingdoms Book 4

Review: The Great Big Brain Book

The Great Big Book series brings us the eighth title that celebrates our marvellous brain. Mary Hoffman’s clever, light-hearted and humorous text is surrounded and supported by Ros Asquith’s superb cartoon-style, watercolour illustrations.

Frame by Frame, the children’s artwork reaches its target audience in the best way possible.

Kids will see and learn how the brain develops, its role, and how it is the command centre that sends messages to the body using neurons. It features the weight of the brain, the amount of cells, brain food, and the senses. (There is more!)

Listed are the many areas the brain controls, including memory, muscles, movement and dreams.

How does the brain help us make decisions, multi-task and use language? These areas are all covered on outstanding, fully illustrated pages.

I must comment further on the illustrations that are truly fabulous! Both end pages exhibit all the areas controlled by the brain. It is a parade of colour and depicts the emotion-filled children that appear in the book.

The title page shows the two hemisphere’s of the brain and the cat that appears all over the place. Speech bubbles allow us to see what the cat is thinking – at times funny and others not. Kids will look forward to seeing it wherever it appears.

Many of the pages are decorated with miniature illustrations, forming borders around the three edges.

Many of the illustrations are presented in child-like drawings on boards. This immediately engages the reader by making personal contact with them. Pages full of small details allow kids to spend time searching, finding and questioning.

Visually stimulating, a lot of thought has gone into presenting a subject that otherwise would be seen as complex to this age group.

With simple text, easy to follow explanations and the vibrant images, it becomes an entertaining and valuable learning tool. Larger than the usual picture book size, the text is presented in bold type and a larger font.

It’s a book filled with energy and humour, and addresses the ageing of the brain as well as its growth from childhood. I loved it!

Title: The Great Big Brain Book

Author: Mary Hoffman

Illustrator: Ros Asquith

Publisher: Allen & Unwin, $24.99

Publication Date: 3 March 2020

Format: Hardcover

ISBN: 9780711241534

For ages: 5 - 8

Type: Non Fiction

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Review: Miss-Connection

Being a girl is hard. Being a teenager is hard.

But being a teenage girl? Almost impossible.

And if you’re the parent or carer of a teenage girl, how do you help? How do you support your teenager through the chaos?

Miss-Connection is the magic paper potion you need to help you help your daughter through the teenage years. 

But it’s kind of more than that.

This isn’t a book that just gives you some tips and tricks on how to help your teenage girls through challenges. It’s a window into their minds. 

This is your chance to hear from young girls, in their own words, about what they need from you.

Dr Justin Coulson is an honorary fellow at the Centre for Positive Psychology at the University of Melbourne. He also has six daughters. He also surveyed hundreds of teenage girls across Australia as he researched for this book.

The result is an insightful, honest and raw look at the views and opinions of teenage girls. What they think, what they struggle with and what they need.

Some of it is very confronting, but all of it is the truth (as evidenced by quotes from young girls throughout the book). So if you want to better connect with your girls and help them when they need you the most, you're going to want to get hold of this book.

The book covers a lot: screen time, boys, sex, drugs, pornography, anxiety, friendship troubles and school. It provide support and advice through it all, telling you how to support your teenage girls through each of the challenges they might face as they grow.

My daughters are only six and four, but I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to read this book now. A lot of the advice is based on creating a strong connection with your girls as soon as possible. The stronger the connection, the easier it is to weather the storms.

It makes perfect sense. If your girls trust you, they will talk to you, and if they talk to you, you can help them. Coulson provides brilliant ideas on how to build this trust. He gives you advice on language to use, questions to ask and ways to approach different challenges, all supported by the suggestions of young girls — their insights into what they need from their parents.

If you’re keen to better connect with your teenage daughter. If your daughter is on the verge of becoming a teenager (or even younger), I highly, highly recommend Miss-Connection.

Title: Miss-Connection

Author: Dr Justin Coulson, PhD

Publisher: ABC Books, $32.99

Publication Date: 20 January 2020

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9780733338892

For ages: Adults

Type: Adult Non-Fiction

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Review: Derek Dool Supercool: Bust a Move (Book #1)

Derek Dool thinks he’s supercool.

His friends are not so sure, but they are sticking by him.

In book one in this fun new series by Adrian Beck, Derek is on a mission to prove he is the best dancer at Rutsmell Primary School.

The school disco is coming up, and Derek is determined to bust a move and prove to his classmates he is the coolest kid in school. 

And definitely cooler than Carmichael Cruz, Derek’s archenemy.

Derek starts working on his moves, but things just keep getting in the way. Things like a principal who’s out to get him, totally unjustified detention and, well, not really knowing how to dance.

With the help of his two best friends Booger and Big Denise, Derek is positive he’s going to win the disco dance-off against Cruz. But can he do it?

Derek Dool Supercool: Bust a Move is a wickedly funny junior novel, perfect for kids who love a fun read that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

With jokes galore, stacks of silliness and funky illustrations by Scott Edgar throughout, it’s a great read for junior readers. And the start of a great new series.

Title: Derek Dool Supercool: Bust a Move

Author: Adrian Beck

Illustrator: Scott Edgar

Publisher: Penguin, $14.99

Publication Date: 3 March 2020

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9781760892951

For ages: 7 - 10

Type: Junior Fiction, Illustrated Fiction

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Review: Azaria, A True History

This year, 2020, is the 40th anniversary of the death of Azaria Chamberlain at Uluru.

When this little baby disappeared during a family camping trip, the entire nation was instantly caught up in a frenzy of gossip, prejudice and judgement.

It's a story so many of us grew up with. I can still remember it: Every grown-up had an opinion on whether Azaria was taken by a dingo or murdered by her mother. And every child in the school yard echoed their parents' opinions.

This horrifying chapter in Australia's history is sensitively captured in this evocative and heartfelt retelling of a true story. From the death of the baby taken by a dingo one night, to the mistakes and media frenzy that followed. From the infamous court case that every family watched on the television each night and the incarceration of a mother for murder, to the truth that eventually emerged decades later.

Maree's exquisite prose tears open old heartaches and shines a light on the cruel reality of the natural world, while exposing the callous court of public opinion. Her illustrations shimmer with the beauty of the desert; the rich colours of the natural world juxtaposed with the sombre darkness of society and supposition.

This is a beautiful and tragic modern-day Grimm's fairytale with powerful messages that will spark so many discussions about truth and justice, media opinion and public hysteria. It allows us to examine society's treatment of women (mothers, in particular) — Why won't she cry for the cameras? She seems 'unusual' — and of Indigenous people — Of course, there were those who knew the truth, but they were not heard.

This is a story for all ages and one that should not be forgotten. Highly recommended.

Title: Azaria, A True History
Author/Illustrator: Maree Coote
Publisher: MelbourneStyle Australia , $29.95
Publication Date: March 2020
Format: Hard Cover
ISBN: 9780648568407
For ages: 8+
Type: Non-fiction Picture Book

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Review: Lion Needs a Haircut

Review: Elizabella and The Haunting of Lizard Lake

Review: The Butter O’Bryan Mysteries #1: The Ghost of Howlers Beach

It is 1932. School holidays are dead boring. Butter is lonely and longs for something exciting to happen. And it does. When a three-legged dog digs up a skull on the beach, Butter takes it home to his dad.

Twelve year old Butter O’Bryan lives in a Very Small Castle close to the sea, built by his grandfather, one of the Jam Kings. HHe shares his life with his dad, the local GP and his three Aunts - Elephant, Cake and Peculiar. They are singular beings, as unusual as their names, modified from the originals during their brother’s early childhood speech to remain so over time.

Butter’s mother has died from Polio in the epidemic that rages through post-war Australia. Dad, being unable to save her, blames himself. Withdrawn and quiet, he none-the-less nurtures a warm, loving and generous family atmosphere.

A susso camp has slowly increased in size on the O’Bryan land. Poverty stricken families of the Great Depression have built shacks from driftwood and anything found or brought in by the tide. It is another battle; one for survival. Dr O’Bryan, compassionate and grateful for his privileged life, allows them to remain there unchallenged.

Butter (he won’t reveal his real name) encounters three children on the beach playing cricket.  Gil, Olive and Tish, are the owners of the three-legged dog. They are secretive and hostile towards him and disappear without a trace.

When the children’s Uncle dies on the O’Bryan doorstep where he goes for medical attention, Butter is determined to find out the backstory of his life and track the children down. Imaginative, curious and questioning, he also wants to know about the skull; how and why it came to be buried where he found it.

An elusive mystery unfolds around these happenings. Jackie French builds another riveting read using the hardships and poverty of the Depression years as background for this marvellous part mystery, part adventure.

The reader is drawn into the scenes; becomes part of the action. Information about the era’s society and the social structures pour into the excellent storyline and prose.

French’s mastery of historical fiction rules. She picks a time and place in Australian history, adds an incident and builds a story with a cast of outstanding characters around it that informs, educates and entertains.  I can’t wait for the next book; I long to learn what happens next with these characters.

Title: The Butter O’Bryan Mysteries #1: The Ghost of Howlers Beach

Author:Jackie French

Publisher: HarperCollins, $16.99

Publication Date: 24 February 2020

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9781460757727

For ages: 10+

Type: Historical Fiction

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Guest Post: Jennie Englund On Surfing: Thoughts from Someone Who’s Never Really Done It

Meet The Illustrator: Chloe Jasmine Harris

Name: Chloe Jasmine Harris

Describe your illustration style in ten words or less.

Retro inspired, bright, playful, naively sweet and a bit quirky.

What items are an essential part of your creative space?

Definitely my cintiq, which is a digital drawing tablet that I use for the sketching/editing part of creating an illustration. I’m a bit of a technophobe, so I was reluctant to make the switch to sketching digitally, but now I couldn’t imagine life without it, it’s completely changed my art making practice for the better!

My printer is also an essential for me as I use it to print my digital sketches out onto watercolour paper. Knowing that I can simply reprint the sketch and start again if I don’t like the way the painting is turning out, really does take the pressure off.

And finally, my sit/stand desk and drafting table. I would find drawing/painting so difficult without them, and I know my back and neck very much appreciate the set up! Especially when you’re working long days on a project, an ergonomic workplace is incredibly important.

Do you have a favourite artistic medium?

I tend to work primarily in watercolour, which is the medium I used when creating Henry Turnip. Recently I’ve been exploring gouache and digital illustration, and would love to eventually incorporate these more in my art making.

 
Name three artists whose work inspires you.

Sang Miao – I love Sang’s loose, gestural and wonderfully expressive painting style 

Adelina Lirrus – The details in Adelina’s work are mesmerising, as well as her ability to create such immersive worlds for her characters.

Katie Harnett – I love Katie’s intuitive, energetic and childlike style. (Childlike in the best way possible!)

Which artistic period would you most like to visit and why?

I’d love to visit the impressionism period. I’m so drawn to impressionists painterly approach, and their ability to capture light, energy and movement so beautifully.

Who or what inspired you to become an illustrator?

Probably my mum! She is a fantastic drawer and always encouraged expressing your creativity through art when I was growing up.

I was also inspired by the books we read together as a kid. Jill Barklems, Brambly Hedge series, and Shirley Barbers books were absolute favourites of mine. I was always in awe of the way both of them created such richly intricate worlds for their characters, Illustrations to get completely lost in. I’m sure reading these books helped inspired me to start creating my own narrative illustrations from a young age.

Can you share a photo of your creative work space or part of the area where you work most often? Talk us through it.

These are my handmade book shelves that my partner very kindly crafted for me and are my favourite part of my studio. They are home to my ever-growing... borderline out of control collection of children's books! I find it super inspiring to work in space surrounded by artwork, particularly children’s book art in every corner.

What is your favourite part of the illustration process?

The painting is my favourite part. I find it the most relaxing and fun part of the process. The sketching period often requires a lot of problem solving, brainstorming and creative thinking, so getting to see the work you’ve been drawing for months come to life through paint is always exciting!

For Henry Turnip, I was painting up to 10 spreads at one time, painting all the crocodiles in, then all the badgers etc. I did this so that the colours would stay consistent throughout the whole book, and I loved getting to see all the spreads slowly come together at the same time.

What advice would you give to an aspiring illustrator?

Be patient! It takes quite a long time to develop a style, but it will slowly evolve through lots of practice. Don’t be hard on yourself if you feel like you haven’t found it yet, or if your work doesn’t look cohesive. That’s all totally ok and it’s just part of the process.

Put yourself out there! I know it can be super daunting to share your work on a public platform for the first time, especially if you’re an introvert like me! Though I’ve found that the more you share your work with the world, the more opportunities will start coming your way.

And finally, create work that your passionate about and that fills you with joy. Try not to create work just because you feel it will be trendy or get a lot of likes on instagram!

Chloe is a Sydney based freelance and children’s book Illustrator who studied Fine Arts at the National Art school. She is a represented artist of the Illustration Room. Her debut book Maple the Brave was published in 2019 and Henry Turnip will be published 1st of June 2020.

For more information, please visit Chloe's website or follow Chloe on instagram.

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Video Review: Elephant Me

Join Yvonne Mes for a short and snappy video review of the latest feel-good picture book written by author and illustrator duo Giles Andreae and Guy Parker-Rees, Elephant Me.

Title: Elephant Me
Author: Giles Andreae
Illustrator: Guy Parker-Rees
Publisher: Orchard Books
Publication Date: 26 May 2020
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781408356524
For ages: 3 - 5
Type: Picture Book




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Review: House of Heroes: Henrie's Hero Hunt

The scintillating adventures of Hapless Hero Henrie and the goings on at theHouse of Melchoir, left us with a stronger, smarter, fearless and funnier Hero Henrie. Her life takes a positive turn after her grandfather Octavia leaves his estate to Henrie, Alex and his dad Timothy, of the Super Sleuth Agency. Timothy had been engaged by Octavia to find Henrie’s parents. He wasn’t successful in his lengthy search.

In Book 2 - Henrie’s Hero Hunt, Henrie is with aunt Ellie when she receives a call on the HoMe Hero Hotline, from an unknown girl. Someone is following Marley (who is in a wheelchair with a broken tibia) and watching her house.

Henrie’s energetic mind gathers in what information she can from her first client. A mystery unfolds with the unwrapping of Marley’s Great Aunt Agatha’s teapot.

An underlined advertisement in the newspaper wrapping sparks their interest. A quick search on the computer brings up all the background information that is needed about Aunt Agatha’s life.

A famous archaeologist and explorer, Aunt Agatha had been part of a dig in the Valley of the Kings. Her work was interrupted by the War, but Agatha returned again to the area when it was over. She left the site on the day a significant discovery was made and lived a reclusive life till her death. Agatha had been accused of stealing the rare artefact and had died under a cloud of suspicion. The group are determined to clear Agatha’s name.

Henrie and Alex follow a trail of clues that begin with a cryptic inscription on Aunt Agatha’s gravestone. This leads to a key hidden in her sewing basket. But they two sleuths uncover startling secrets about Aunt Agatha and the role she had during the War years.

How is Violetta Villarne from Villains Inc; the girl that follows them everywhere, tied to Aunt Agatha’s mystery? Who can they trust when Henrie has been taught to never trust too easily. People are seldom what they seem.

Henrie is betrayed, lied to and kidnapped, in her search to find answers and proof for Marley of Aunt Agatha’s innocence. She depends on the inexhaustible supply of tips from The Hero Handbook to guide her; a book full of pearls of wisdom (for the reader as well as Henrie). Life lessons come wrapped in creative and alternate ways of thinking, seeing and saying things that boost Henrie’s knowledge and well-being.

But the issue of Henrie’s missing parents remains a seeping wound. Will this particular mystery ever be solved? The story ends with a wholly unexpected climax!

A fantastic read for adults and children built with exceptional use of language, excellent poster and other illustrations that accompany a story that grips and entertains.

Title: House of Heroes: Henrie’s Hero Hunt

Author: Petra James

Illustrator: A. Yi

Publisher: Walker Books, $16.99

Publication Date: May 2020

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9781760650858

For ages: 8+

Type: Junior Fiction

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Review: Worse Things

Blake, Jolene and Amed are emotionally bruised individuals. They have one thing in common – sport.

Blake’s world has distorted. Life as he knew it is over due to a football injury which keeps him on the sidelines. He gets shut out by his friends now he’s not an active player. Alone and feeling discarded, all he can do is watch.

Another watcher is Amed, a refugee who lost his family as a child. It took years for his aunt in Australia to find him. He loves soccer, but is voiceless and isolated. He can’t speak English and understands very little of what he hears. 

What he observes in Blake and Jolene, when alone and watching, are feelings similar to his own. 

Jolene’s parents are doctors.

Her father is overseas saving refugees and others in catastrophic situations. She longs for him to be near to save her from a controlling mother, who only cares that Jolene excels at hockey. Jolene hates hockey. It’s her mother’s dream she’s living. Books and reading are what she loves.

The negative way Jolene is perceived by her team mates adds to her unbelonging. She is friendless. Now, her mother wants to send her to college to be finished; polished and refined, even though she loves her hometown.

But there are worse things, these three characters discover.

Jolene is put next to Blake to assist him due to his broken arm. She learns a great deal during the short time she spends with him.

Then she is allocated one day a week to converse with Amed in order to improve his English. She learns about his worse things.

Then, the worst thing happens.

Worse Things is a book I press to my heart. I was moved to tears of celebration at Sally Murphy’s ability to gift that to a reader. I experienced the same thing after reading her Pearl Verses the World.

It isn’t only Murphy’s perfect choice of words that is moving. To accentuate specific words, she introduces them with definitions. These definitions reflect the who, what and why of the characters.

Murphy’s words are reinforced by the glorious illustrations of Sarah Davis; interesting, thought-provoking images which perfectly depict the characters’ emotions, thoughts and actions with powerful expression.

Beginning from the covers, this verse novel is stunning in every way.  It is an experience not to be missed.

Title: Worse Things

Author: Sally Murphy

Illustrator: Sarah Davis

Publisher: Walker Books, $14.99

Publication Date: 1 May 2020

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9781760651657

For ages: 10+

Type: Verse Novel

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Review: In My Dreams

Close your eyes and come on a dreamy journey on marshmallow clouds, through strawberry rain and down to the ocean floor. Fly on a dragon to faraway lands, hunt for treasures and make mischief with monkeys.

In My Dreams by author Stef Gemmill is a beautiful picture book about the endless possibilities of your imagination. As a child sleeps in the quiet night, they explore the magic of dreaming and all the things that bring joy and happiness.

It’s a simple and delightful story for bedtime snuggles. It will bring warmth to hearts and smiles to faces. It will spark imagination in little minds.

And then there are the stunning illustrations by Tanja Stephani. The most gorgeous combination of greens and purples and blues star throughout the book. There are pages of vibrant pinks and oranges and others I can only describe as rainbow magnificence.

But they are very kid. They are cute and funky and filled with humour. Animals show the grandest expressions and dance and sing throughout. Fruits come alive and the moon becomes a chair to watch the universe.

If you’re looking for a picture book that's all about love, smiles and possibilities, this one is for you. It’s a hug in paper form, and the perfect book to cuddle up with and share with your little ones.

Title: In My Dreams

Author: Stef Gemmill

Illustrator: Tanja Stephani

Publisher: New Frontier, $24.99  

Publication Date: 1 April 2020

Format: Hardback

ISBN: 9781925594928

For ages: 3 - 6

Type: Picture Book

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Winner: Sally Murphy's Worse Things

Our lucky winner is...

Cate Whittle, NSW

Congratulations!

You have won a copy of Sally Murphy's riveting new verse junior fiction novel, Worse Things. We hope you enjoy it.

Thank you to ALL who entered. Choosing between the entries for this one was one of our hardest on record! Seems sporting memories are tinged with tragedy, tenacity and terrific triumphs.

For those who missed out, stay tuned for more exciting giveaway opportunities and watch out for our KBR review of , Worse Things this Tuesday!

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