12 Curly Questions with author/illustrator Peter Cheong

1. Tell us something hardly anyone knows about you.
When I was very little in school, to go to the toilet you had to have a ‘buddy’ to walk with you to and from the toilet. I was chosen as a buddy for another kid, walked her to the toilet and waited outside for maybe 30 minutes. I finally came back to class by myself and discovered she had been back for ages. I was convinced for the longest time she could teleport. She probably still can actually.

2. What is your nickname?
Bababababa. My son is nine months old.

3. What is your greatest fear?
When the nappy leaks.

4. Describe your writing style in 10 words.
Chaotically, with a lot of Nutella, tea and hot showers.

5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Sometimes it’s actually all right.

6. What book character would you be, and why?
Charlie from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator. Because he has access to Wonka-Vites and Vita-Wonks, so everyone could live forever. Also he has a chocolate factory.

7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
The future! A thousand or ten thousand years. I’d love to see the technology.

8. What would your 10-year-old self say to you now?
My disappointment is immeasurable and my day is ruined. No, not really. He’d actually be pretty stoked that he would get to make books for a living. He wouldn’t say anything though, he’d be too shy.

9. Who is your greatest influence?
There are so many artists I’m influenced by, but Bill Watterson would be the biggest one. Calvin and Hobbes is just too good.

10. What/who made you start writing?
I’ve always loved creating characters and stories. But I had been focusing on illustration as a career and thought I was not good enough as a writer yet. But after seeing my portfolio, an editor said they’d love to see any of my own stories I had been working on. And I realised that, much like with illustration, I would just have to go for it and learn as I go. So I did.

11. What is your favourite word and why?
I’ve never thought about it. Probably ‘actually’ actually. It feels and tastes delicious.

12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Is this hell? Why can I only read one book? What have I done to deserve this? Can I have my Kindle? Is there a chance of parole? I’m imagining a prison where inmates are given one single picture book and told to read it out loud over and over again. When they ask why, they are told, ‘this is your life now’. Wait. Will this be my life when my son can choose his own bedtime story? Oh no. Oh dear.

Peter Cheong lives in Perth with his very understanding wife and less understanding cat. He is the illustrator of I’m a Hero Too and the Pow Pow Pig series. Every Night at Midnight is his first book as both author and illustrator. Peter unfortunately cannot turn into a wolf himself but is still trying. For more information, see www.petercheong.com.


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Review: Guinness World Records 2024

Guinness has been regularly publishing books about world records since its first edition in 1955. 

Fastest, tallest, first ... you'll find lots of them, and more, in Guinness World Records 2024.

This year's book has the theme of 'blue planet' and features records related to subjects like the earth and sea, and their landmarks and animals, along with many new world records. There are more of them than you could count.

In keeping with the theme, one of the featured records is the largest octopus, the Giant Pacific Octopus, also known as the GPO, which can travel at up to 40km/hr. The largest GPO on record weighed in at 71 kg and was 4 metres in length.

As well as the world records themselves, there are also 'explainers' in each chapter, like a fabulous labelled diagram of the octopus, and a range of additional information, including the name of a new octopus species.

Many records are wild and wacky. Records like 'Most Smarties eaten with chopsticks while blindfolded in one minute' (the answer is 25). There are twelve records involving pogo sticks (including the highest back flip), records about collections (like the largest collection of Pokemon cards which stood at 32,809), and records about robots (the fastest bipedal robot can run 100 metres in 24.73 seconds). World record sporting achievements are included, and historical records are a special feature. There's also a special double-page spread highlighting some of the people aged under sixteen who set records.

Photos and diagrams provide an important illustrative element of Guinness World Records books and make for a busy visual experience. The cover and end papers for the 2024 edition are bright and beautiful, incorporating some of the record holders.

Guinness World Records 2024 is packed full of enough trivia, facts and figures to keep most readers entertained (and recounting what they learn) for a good long while.

Title: Guinness World Records 2024
Author/Illustrator: Guinness World Records
Publisher: Guinness, $ 46.99
Publication Date: September 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781913484408
For ages: 8+
Type: Non-Fiction

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Review: The Observologist

If you've ever wanted a book for kids who are curious about the small creatures easily found in the backyard, on a walk around the neighbourhood, or even inside your house, then this is it.

The Observologist is a 'handbook for mounting very small scientific expeditions'. It's packed with interesting and useful information and well-labelled diagrams and illustrations galore.

There are five main sections to dip into. The first is all about 'observology', or as the book explains, the study of looking. It can brighten up any number of situations including when waiting for your turn at something, or when there's a power cut.

When observing the natural world, you can look in all kinds of places, and that's where the principles of observology come in handy. In just one example, always be careful, but look carefully at and turn over leaves on the ground and you might discover a stink bug, or ladybird, or see that a caterpillar has been having lunch.

The Observologist will take nature explorers through a variety of concepts such as taxonomies and how they work, scientific names, life cycles, and the anatomy of invertebrates (because that's what many of the creatures found in your backyard will be). 

Other sections discuss different places you can be a good observologist: a damp corner, the pavement, a weedy patch, and behind the curtains. These are the places to uncover things like slugs and snails, fungi and lichen, ants, worms, butterflies, and many other creatures. There's information and diagrams about droppings, larvae, and a whole bunch about bees, plus lots more.

It's not all about animals, though. Plants are important as food and homes for them, too. Learn about seeds and leaves, as well as getting advice on how to look after nature, including how to save a worm that's in danger from human feet, helping an exhausted bee, and relocating a spider. There's also humour which will appeal, like how to sneak up on a bug.

Giselle Clarkson has done a marvellous job with this informative and inspirational visual book. The Observologist is fabulous for kids of all ages and I can't wait to share it with the younger readers in my family. Highly recommended.

Title: The Observologist
Author/Illustrator: Giselle Clarkson
Publisher: Gecko Press, $ 37.99
Publication Date: October 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN:  9781776575190
For ages: 7+
Type: Junior Non-Fiction

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Review: The Observologist

If you've ever wanted a book for kids who are curious about the small creatures easily found in the backyard, on a walk around the neighbourhood, or even inside your house, then this is it.

The Observologist is a 'handbook for mounting very small scientific expeditions'. It's packed with interesting and useful information and well-labelled diagrams and illustrations galore.

There are five main sections to dip into. The first is all about 'observology', or as the book explains, the study of looking. It can brighten up any number of situations including when waiting for your turn at something, or when there's a power cut.

When observing the natural world, you can look in all kinds of places, and that's where the principles of observology come in handy. In just one example, always be careful, but look carefully at and turn over leaves on the ground and you might discover a stink bug, or ladybird, or see that a caterpillar has been having lunch.

The Observologist will take nature explorers through a variety of concepts such as taxonomies and how they work, scientific names, life cycles, and the anatomy of invertebrates (because that's what many of the creatures found in your backyard will be). 

Other sections discuss different places you can be a good observologist: a damp corner, the pavement, a weedy patch, and behind the curtains. These are the places to uncover things like slugs and snails, fungi and lichen, ants, worms, butterflies, and many other creatures. There's information and diagrams about droppings, larvae, and a whole bunch about bees, plus lots more.

It's not all about animals, though. Plants are important as food and homes for them, too. Learn about seeds and leaves, as well as getting advice on how to look after nature, including how to save a worm that's in danger from human feet, helping an exhausted bee, and relocating a spider. There's also humour which will appeal, like how to sneak up on a bug.

Giselle Clarkson has done a marvellous job with this informative and inspirational visual book. The Observologist is fabulous for kids of all ages and I can't wait to share it with the younger readers in my family. Highly recommended.

Title: The Observologist
Author/Illustrator: Giselle Clarkson
Publisher: Gecko Press, $ 37.99
Publication Date: October 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN:  9781776575190
For ages: 7+
Type: Junior Non-Fiction

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Review: The Fortune Maker

Twelve-year-old Maud is poverty stricken and lives in a tiny house near the bog with her father. 

It is 1913, when urchins fight for survival in rat-infested surroundings on the streets. 

Seers ply their trade to the poor and rich, who try to manipulate into being, the things they are foretold.

Suffragettes march for women’s rights with frequent arrests, while the split between rich and poor, grows wider.

Maud and her dad save their pennies to realise their dream of escaping out of Silvertown and their present condition.

Their house sinks into the bog and all is lost with the pennies.

Her father dies in a freak accident and Maud is now destitute, sleeping in the closet of a large family as needy as she.

Escaping to the tunnels where all sorts of Seers gather to scratch out a living, Maud swaps her mother’s shawl for a foretelling, but is told something she already knows.

Abducted off the street after she picks up a yellow ribbon which falls from a girl’s hair, she is thought to have special powers due to a foretelling from a seer for the wealthy.

Life takes many twists and turns for Maud. So does this magical novel with its delicious sub-stories that keep the reader enthralled.

While Maud wrestles with the Alfords whose business is quickly losing money through incompetent handling, she meets people who stand up for the poor, that believe and fight for equality using their own methods, and who take Maud in and protect her.

This is a mystical adventure about strength, determination and changing times. Full of optimism even in the most desperate of situations, it shows how survival can be achieved through the worst or best experience, depending on the strength within to face whatever you are dealt.

A stunning, eye-catching cover equals the fantastic read.

Title: The Fortune Maker
Author: Catherine Norton
Publisher: Harper Collins, $22.99
Publication Date: 2 August 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 978146715727
For ages: 10+
Type: Middle Grade Fiction

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Meet The Illustrator: Cherie Dignam

Name: Cherie Dignam

Describe your illustration style in ten words or less.
Wow, I guess I would say that it is……” lively and expressive illustrations in a simplistic wobbly line style!” (I have never tried to summarise my style in ten words or less actually).

What items are an essential part of your creative space?
Pencil and plain old copier paper.

Do you have a favourite artistic medium?
Pencil, although I love a dip pen, but my ‘go to’ tool is always a pencil.

Name three artists whose work inspires you.
Hard to pick just three but my initial choices would be Ronald Searle, Quentin Blake, Sara Ogilvie

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

I would probably like to have visited the Modern Period which had Impressionists like Monet and Degas, or perhaps the Art Nouveau period, I do love Gustav Klimt.

Who or what inspired you to become an illustrator?

Initially Ronald Searle and Quentin Blake, but now I have lots of favourite illustrators, far too many to mention!!

Can you share a photo of your creative work space or part of the area where you work most often? Talk us through it.
Although I am very fortunate to have a designated art room at home I still manage to work in a very small cluttered area, I do tidy it regularly but it inevitably becomes chaotic again, that’s how I roll. I lose or misplace my pencils all the time and I have more than one favourite ‘2b’ on the go. If it gets too hot during the summer I move to my local library and use my iPad but I need my earphones as libraries can be very noisy nowadays!

What is your favourite part of the illustration process?

The initial rough process and researching characters and background settings. I love searching for objects in the library, online, even on walks in my neighbourhood.

What advice would you give to an aspiring illustrator?
Practice, Practice, Practice, be inspired by your favourite artist but don’t let their success deter you. Try not to look at too many fabulous artists as this can prevent you from even trying, so just be you and keep turning up and churning out your ideas.

Cherie Dignam has always loved drawing, nature, and all animals, especially cats. Cherie enjoys working with various mediums, including colouring pencils and watercolours. Still, she is happiest with a pencil and paper or an old-fashioned dip pen and ink. Cherie creates from her home, a short walk from the beach in sunny Perth, Australia.

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

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Review: These Little Feet

A precious celebration of beautiful babies will warm your heart in this new picture book stunner.

These little feet, so tiny and new. The places they’ll go, the dances they’ll do.

The mountains they’ll climb, the dreams they’ll pursue. These little feet, so tiny and new.

Written in delightful rhyme by author Hayley Rawsthorne, the story connects readers to five beautiful babies and explores the wonderful things they might do, see, hear, say, taste and touch — the wonderful people they’ll become.

Each baby and the family surrounding them is different, and each potential future highlights a different life that may be, brought to readers through the gorgeous illustrations by illustrator Briony Stewart.

And truly gorgeous these illustrations are. Stewart’s soft and loose style brings the characters alive. The details she has added make them so real and the diversity she has injected makes this a book inclusive and welcoming.

Rawsthorne has captured all the emotions of new babies coming into the world in this book. And the hopes and dreams (and curiosity) their loved ones have for their future. Add Stewart’s beautiful illustrations and you get a picture book that will be treasured by families for many years.

This is a perfect picture book for new babies and makes a very special gift for new mums. There’s also a lovely spot to put baby’s name at the front of the book.

This little one, so perfect and mine. The things you will feel, the way you will shine.
The life you will live, the love you will find. This little one, so perfect and mine.

Title: These Little Feet
Author: Hayley Rawsthorne
Illustrator: Briony Stewart
Publisher: Albert Street Books, $19.99
Publication Date: 3 October 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781761069017
For ages: 3 - 8
Type: Picture books

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12 Curly Questions with author/illustrator Bex Parkin

1. Tell us something hardly anyone knows about you
I failed my Art A level and got a U, which is basically unmarkable. I was the only one studying the subject at school and had a terrible time with an awful art teacher. I did, however, go on to re-sit it at a different school and got a B.

2. What is your nickname?
I don’t really have one although Bex is a bit of a nickname I suppose and a lot of my friends also call me Becca. My kids call me Madre - I have no idea why as none of them speak Spanish.

3. What is your greatest fear?
I think my greatest fear is not being able to fulfil my potential. I started my illustration career in my late forties having not picked up a paintbrush since school, so I now have an underlining panic that I won’t be able to explore my creativity to the maximum. Oh, and stick insects, which luckily, I don’t encounter every day!

4. Describe your writing style in 10 words.
Wondrous worlds of nature and colour filled with curiosity and fun.

5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Quirky, heartfelt, whimsical, inquisitive, disciplined.

6. What book character would you be and why?
I was never a Jo in Little Women kind of person and have always been much more interested in characters such as Daphne De Maurier's Rebecca. Her glamour, power and drama is bewitching. I’ve always been drawn to complex female characters such as Madame Bovary and Anna Karenina - they’re usually rule breakers too.

7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
For the glamour and fashion, it would be the late 1920s to the early thirties. Specifically, the avant-garde, bohemian world of art and dance. I would have been a dancer in Diaghilevs' Ballet Russes. 

8. What would your 10-year-old self say to you now?
My 10-year-old self would be very happy to see I had made a career out of my creativity and hopefully would be saying: 'Wow! You wrote a book!' As a child, I loved all things artistic - music, dance, writing, painting but as I became a teenager, I didn’t know how to make a living out of it. I hope these days it is easier for young people to find opportunities to live a happy creative life.

9. Who is your greatest influence?
In terms of artistic influences, I have been drawn to the Pre-Raphaelites since I was a child, as well as being fascinated by the work of the botanical illustrators Marianne North (1830-1890) and Maria Sibylla Merian (1647-1717). These days, I wouldn’t say I am particularly influenced by any one person but more of a constant stream of art, design, music and culture. I have a very visually absorbent mind and see inspiration literally everywhere. One day, it’s the silk work of Spitalfields in the 18th Century, the next day its 1990s club culture. On a personal note, I am influenced by the positive energy of those around me - my friends , my partner and my children. My kids are young adults now and watching them carve their path in life inspires me every day, which is why my book is dedicated to them.

10. Who/what made you start writing?
It was a happy accident really! Years ago, I did a painting of a tiger swimming in the jungle, which is still one of my most popular prints. From that design grew the idea of a tiger floating on his back in the jungle instead and this became the starting point to the story. When my agent Jehane suggested creating a synopsis based on this one image I came up with the story of Bertie and The Ginger Cat. That spread can now be seen in the book.

11. What is your favourite word and why?
The first one that came to mind was brave, which is also the underlying theme of my book. It takes a real strength of character to be courageous and admire those who are enormously.

12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I can’t pick one. Can I have three? Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and a giant anthology of poetry please!

Bex Parkin is an artist and author based in the UK. Working mostly in gouache and watercolour, Bex is known for her love of colourful wildlife and botanicals with a vibrant colour palette and playful details. She has collaborated on many exciting illustration projects with clients all over the world. For more information, see www.bexparkin.co.uk.

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Review: Nightshade Revenge

Nightshade Revenge is the latest Alex Rider adventure, taking readers into the teenage spy’s dangerous, roller coaster world. It would certainly help if you’ve read Nightshade (the previous book in the series), but it’s not essential. 

Doing well on exams is the main thing on Alex's mind, that and skateboarding. When his mate Tom disappears, Alex discovers it’s because a criminal organisation wants to manipulate him. 

Alex is determined to help find Tom, and is also drawn into the search for answers in relation to something strange going on in the gaming community.

Gamers around the world are immersing themselves in an augmented reality game. But this isn’t any augmented reality game. 

Some players are also taking part in a gaming arena wearing a haptic suit and headset which lets you see, feel, hear and smell what’s inside the game. What's real and what's not?

Is there a connection between Tom's abduction and the deaths of the gamers? Will Alex manage to solve both mysteries and come out alive? 

Anthony Horowitz is a prolific writer, and Alex Rider is one of his most successful series. The action-packed, outrageous plot of Nightshade Revenge will reel you in.

Title: Nightshade Revenge
Author: Anthony Horowitz  
Publisher: Walker Books, $ 17.99
Publication Date: September 2023
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781529517422
For ages: 13+
Type: Young Adult Fiction

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Review: Shearer

This is the true story of one Australian shearer’s life, his determination, and fearless character.

In 1892, Jack Howe, in seven hours and forty minutes, sheared 321 sheep to create a world record.  

 It remains unbeaten.

Born in Darling Downs in Queensland, the remainder of his interesting biography can be found at the end of the book with an original photo of Jack.

A big man in many ways, his greatest love was shearing, and he perfected this craft.

Challenged by the other shearers for the gold medal, Jack as ringer, was unfazed. Confident and quick, the others said he couldn’t shear 300 sheep in one day.

That’s all Jack needed to spur him on further.

Every type of sheep farmer turned up to watch and cheer him on.  

There were those that tried every trick they knew to distract him, but there was no stopping Jack Howe.

Neridah McMullin’s text brings to life, the story of this impressive and important, outback Australian hero. She has in the limited text, given readers a magnificent overall view of Jack’s life, his jovial character and impressive accomplishments.

Michael Tomkins is to be applauded for his stunning depictions of the scenes in the shearing sheds, of the distractors, and efforts to hold him back which are hilarious! 

Every page has a full-page illustration; large and commanding like Jack.

Shearer is Tomkins’ first illustrated children’s book.

This title is ideal for the Australian history section in schools. There isn’t an age limit to the storyline, in my opinion, therefore even adults will thrill to read this excellent picture book.

Title: Shearer
Author: McMullin
Illustrator: Michael Tomkins
Publisher:Walker Books, $ 26.99
Publication Date: September 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781760653163
For ages: 4 – 8
Type: Non Fiction Picture B

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Review: Bedtime Stories

If you're looking for some brilliant stories to read aloud at bedtime, or for independent reading, then Bedtime Stories by RA Spratt is a great go-to book.

It's a spin-off from the popular weekly podcast, Bedtime Stories with RA Spratt (check that out here).

In Bedtime Stories the book, you'll find 25+ short stories to enjoy.

There are tales shared by RA Spratt's character Nanny Piggins, and featuring another of her characters, Friday Barnes (in the case of the purloined pudding). 

Re-tellings of myths and legends (Medusa) are mixed with fairy tales (The Ugly Duckling), contemporary stories (A Tall Tale About Bees ... And Alien Invasion), and history (The True History of Marie Curie).

There's also a short pronounciation guide which can be checked before, during or after reading aloud (words like Sheherazade). Plus a map and a couple of recipes.

Reading at bedtime has multiple benefits for children of all ages. It supports having a bedtime routine, helps with relaxation and sleeping, and to reduce stress and anxiety. Reading together at bedtime is also a great joint activity for adults and children, and this is a great book for this purpose.

Bedtime Stories is packed with humour and inspiration for the imagination. Keep a copy handy for bedtime reading and anytime reading.

Title: Bedtime Stories
Author: RA Spratt
Publisher: Puffin, $ 22.99
Publication Date: August 2023
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781761340017
For ages: 7+
Type: Junior Fiction

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Meet The Illustrator: Cherie Dignam

Name: Cherie Dignam

Describe your illustration style in ten words or less.
Wow, I guess I would say that it is……” lively and expressive illustrations in a simplistic wobbly line style!” (I have never tried to summarise my style in ten words or less actually).

What items are an essential part of your creative space?
Pencil and plain old copier paper.

Do you have a favourite artistic medium?
Pencil, although I love a dip pen, but my ‘go to’ tool is always a pencil.

Name three artists whose work inspires you.
Hard to pick just three but my initial choices would be Ronald Searle, Quentin Blake, Sara Ogilvie

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

I would probably like to have visited the Modern Period which had Impressionists like Monet and Degas, or perhaps the Art Nouveau period, I do love Gustav Klimt.

Who or what inspired you to become an illustrator?

Initially Ronald Searle and Quentin Blake, but now I have lots of favourite illustrators, far too many to mention!!

Can you share a photo of your creative work space or part of the area where you work most often? Talk us through it.
Although I am very fortunate to have a designated art room at home I still manage to work in a very small cluttered area, I do tidy it regularly but it inevitably becomes chaotic again, that’s how I roll. I lose or misplace my pencils all the time and I have more than one favourite ‘2b’ on the go. If it gets too hot during the summer I move to my local library and use my iPad but I need my earphones as libraries can be very noisy nowadays!

What is your favourite part of the illustration process?

The initial rough process and researching characters and background settings. I love searching for objects in the library, online, even on walks in my neighbourhood.

What advice would you give to an aspiring illustrator?
Practice, Practice, Practice, be inspired by your favourite artist but don’t let their success deter you. Try not to look at too many fabulous artists as this can prevent you from even trying, so just be you and keep turning up and churning out your ideas.

Cherie Dignam has always loved drawing, nature, and all animals, especially cats. Cherie enjoys working with various mediums, including colouring pencils and watercolours. Still, she is happiest with a pencil and paper or an old-fashioned dip pen and ink. Cherie creates from her home, a short walk from the beach in sunny Perth, Australia.

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

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Review: Our Country: Bk 2 - Where History Happened

From Our Country series, comes Book 2: Where History Happened. It covers sixteen major historical events that Australia was built on.

Lessac’s gouache, full page illustrations in striking colour are stunning.

The miniature ones, spread across the front, end papers, introduce the contents addressed in the book. 

The back, end papers display additional areas to explore, accompanied by their historical connection.

The impressive collection of entries includes Kakadu’s ancient rock art,

Dirk Hartog and the Cape Inscription, Port Arthur, Captain Cook, and explorers Burke and Wills, the massacres at Myall Creek, Gold Strikes, and the uprising at Eureka Stockade.

Very interesting to read about is the little-known, courageous rescues from the SS Georgette that ran aground on the south-west coast of Australia, and the background on the Afghan cameleers. Ned Kelly is included with Jandamarra and the Bunuba Resistance, Federation, Anzacs, and the Japanese attack on Darwin. It ends with the Eddie Mabo court case.

Mark Grenwood encapsulates the information in three parts.

Simply and briefly, the theme of the double spread is introduced. This is followed by the historical point, where it takes place or is to be found, and ends with a short, thought-provoking comment, with Lessac’s artwork complementing every word.

The talented team of Greenwood and Frane Lessac have again created a stunning book of value on the history of our country. It is accessible in language and visuals to a young and older age group, even adults, interested in extended study. A must-have for school, public, and home libraries.

Title: Our Country: Bk 2 - Where History Happened
Author: Mark Greenwood
Illustrator: Frane Lessac
Publisher: Walker Books, $26.99
Publication Date: 1 September 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781760653576
For ages: 7+
Type: History Non Fiction

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Review: Nightsong

Lewis and his mum are on the bus home from the city when a wheel POPS. Everyone must get out and wait on the side of the country road.

Lewis is bored… until the sounds of the night start calling to him. He follows a firefly to discover a whole world of interesting night sounds.

Nightsong is a stunning picture book about sounds and curiosity. 

The book is filled with honks, hoots, creaks, zings, rustles, burbles and beeps. Each is made a feature in big and bright font, allowing kids to focus on the sounds and call them out. It’s a true celebration of sound wrapped up in a joyful story about finding something new when you just stop for a moment and listen.

This book is so ‘kid’. Everything about it. From the frustration Lewis feels to the curiosity that pulls him into the night. Kids will connect with it all.

There’s also some great humour in here for adults, which makes it one of those picture books both kids and adults will LOVE.

Sally Soweol Han is an extremely talented creator. Her illustrations, like her words, are something really special. Her sketchy, scribbly style is so inviting, and her targeted use of colour in this book is unique and engaging. 

Most of the illustrations are black, white and grey, but colour explodes from the sound-creating objects like the bus, the onomatopoeia and the glow of the firefly that so intrigues Lewis. It draws the eye and is a really powerful use of colour in storytelling.

Nightsong is a magical picture book. One I suspect will be adored by kids, parents and teachers everywhere.

Another great picture book by Sally is the award-winning Tiny Wonders. 

Title: Nightsong
Author/Illustrator: Sally Soweol Han
Publisher: UQP, $24.99
Publication Date: 3 October 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780702266188
For ages:  3 - 8
Type: Picture Books

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Review: The Daring Tale of Gloria the Great

The Daring Tale of Gloria the Great is a rhyming adventure about a unique chicken who goes missing at Christmas time.

Gloria isn’t exactly a normal chicken. She stands out. She enjoys non-chickeny activities. The other hens don’t really connect with her. 

So when she goes missing just before Christmas, the other chickens don’t really spend that much time caring. They blame each other instead of trying to find her.

But since Gloria isn’t your average chicken, if the other hens won’t save her, well… she’ll just have to save herself.

This is a fun, silly, action-packed picture book for fans of chickens and chuckling from Australia’s much-loved author Jacqueline Harvey. It’s all about good family times on the farm and embracing your uniqueness even if others don’t care for it.

I love that it’s a Christmas story without being completely focussed on the holiday. It brings a different kind of Christmas tale to the bookshelf and highlights the everyday family aspects of that time of year — dragging the tree from wherever it’s been stashed, untangling lights and digging in boxes of decorations.

Kate Isobel Scott’s illustrations bring the zing! Oranges and purples pop on the page and her funky chickens are expressive and joyful. Keep an eye out for a sneaky snail that slides onto the pages, too!

It’s good fun and giggles galore with Gloria the Great!

Title: The Daring Tale of Gloria the Great
Author: Jacqueline Harvey
Illustrator: Kate Isobel Scott
Publisher: Puffin, $19.99
Publication Date: 29 August 2923
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781761043284
For ages: 4 - 7
Type: Picture Book

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Review: A Christmas Present for Roo

From the creators of The Great Aussie Egg-And-Spoon Race comes A Christmas Present for Roo. 

Stunning covers give way to gorgeous star-filled end pages that make the entrance divine. A name plate exists for a personal gifting message. 

Kookaburra peeks from a branch in the corner opposite the title page. Australian bush babies enter the scene. 

Full-page illustrations show Wombat, Bandicoot and Kangaroo preparing their presents for Christmas.

They look for Echidna. 

The puggle is sleeping but not for long, for Kookaburra gives a great shout.

Echidna hasn’t got a present for Roo yet. There’s not much time! She collects lots of things from nature, but none seem right for her friend.

She decides to make herself a crown of wildflowers. It inspires her to make Roo’s present herself.

Collecting lots of coloured flowers, Echidna joins the stems together. It isn’t right, so she must start again. Night is falling and time is running out.

Can Echidna make her friend Roo’s gift in time to put beneath the tree?

It is a labour of love. What will Roo think of Echidna’s present?

A warm, delicate story of friendship and the importance of what goes into a gift. Often, we think things aren’t good enough, yet, they turn out to be just right!

Full of Australian flavours – fauna, animals, trees, and the spirit of giving at Christmas.

Ideal for overseas visitors, particularly children, to familiarise themselves with Australia’s natural surroundings and wildlife.

Title:  A Christmas Present for Roo
Author: Sophie Sayle
Illustrator: Daron Parton
Publisher: Hachette, $19.99
Publication Date: 30 August 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780734422248
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book

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Review: Coco and the Christmas Beetle

Coco the cat is looking forward to Christmas in her hometown. A Christmas carol concert, the lighting of the Christmas tree, and other celebratory activities.

Then Coco discovers that Christmas won't be the same this year, and takes herself off to mope. 

When shimmering, green and gold Christmas beetles suddenly appear, Coco's fascinated. She's never seen Christmas beetles before.

Christmas beetles used to be ubiquitous during Australian summers, but it's become rare to see them in such numbers as we used to.

It's lovely to see a picture book, Coco and the Christmas Beetle, bringing these beetles to life for kids who may have not seen one in real life. It also subtly teaches them about the caring for the environment.

Coco is upset to hear of the beetles' plight and asks questions about what life as a beetle is like. Motivated to help the beetles and create some Christmas magic, Coco begins Operation Save Christmas and enlists her friends and neighbours to help with a 'meow-gical Christmas'.

This is the fifth book in the Coco series by Laura Bunting and Nicky Johnston, following on from other stories that put a spotlight on nature, including Coco Big City Kitty, Coco and the Butterfly, Coco and the Spiderling, and Coco and the Bee.

Coco and the Christmas Beetle is a story to encourage nature observation, and a great book for the whole family to enjoy.

For kids who love Coco you can also download printable activities for them to make.

Title: Coco and the Christmas Beetle
Author: Laura Bunting
Illustrator: Nicky Johnston
Publisher: Omnibus Books, $ 19.99
Publication Date: October 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781761207853
For ages: 4+
Type: Picture Book

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12 Curly Questions with author/illustrator Blake Nuto

1. Tell us something hardly anyone knows about you.
I always loved art, but I completely bombed out in my art studies throughout high school and didn’t touch a paintbrush again until I turned 27.

2. What is your nickname?
Blakey Boy.

3. What is your greatest fear?
Going too fast.

4. Describe your writing style in 10 words.
An earnest sunbeam that dreams to be a Catherine wheel.

5. Tell us five positive words that describe you as a writer.
Ecstatic. Delicate. Interested. Buoyant. Humbled.

6. What book character would you be, and why?
I would be Snufkin from the Moomintrolls because he is a wandering ponderer without much interest in owning things. He is content to play his harp, pay attention and promote forest bathing, and in doing so, holds up a mirror to the crazy ways of the world. On top of that he wears a sweet green cloak and a fantastic hat, and seems to associate exclusively with mythical creatures.

7. If you could time travel, what year would you go to and why?
I would say sometime way back, so I could check-out the megafauna, but I realise I might be eaten. So instead, 1968 and I would see all the live music I could.

8. What would your ten-year-old self say to you now?
That’s a cool picture. Now, let’s play Donkey Kong Country, drink some Milo and then go for a swim!

9. Who is your greatest influence?
I think my greatest influence is the Australian wilderness. I feel most inspired when I’m outside and wandering. Everything has something to teach you.

10. What/who made you start writing?
My Year 10 English teacher was the first one to stop and notice. She also gave me a book of poems, leant me a Jeff Buckley CD and introduced me to Joni Mitchell. That was important too, because reading poets and songwriters made me start writing.

11. What is your favourite word and why?
Trousers is my favourite word. The way it sounds, the images it conjures. If you haven’t said it lately, have a go. Say it low and slow.

12. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Don’t make me choose! But okay, if we’re talking kids literature, Winnie the Pooh. If we’re talking grown-up literature either Devotions by Mary Oliver or Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman.
Did you notice how I didn’t actually choose?

Blake Nuto is an award-winning writer living in lutruwita (Tasmania), Australia with his wife and three children. He is a trained teacher with a deep love of literature and a desire to integrate philosophy and mindfulness into education.His books, A Day That’s Ours and Child of Galaxies are currently available through Flying Eye Books, and When You’re A Boy through Affirm Press. For more information, see www.blakenuto.com.

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Review: The Quest for the Galleon of Time

Tobias is eleven years old in 1738, when his father signs him up as cabin boy on a trading galleon, the Merry Maiden. Having no choice, as his wages have already been paid to his father, Tobias accepts his fate.

He learns map reading and navigation while journeying across the Atlantic.

Not far into the journey, the Maiden is attacked by pirates and forced to dock for repairs.

Tobias doesn’t realise that this journey will be a life-changing adventure. 

He proves to be an excellent navigator and while at the helm with his instructor, learns the story of the ghostly galleon, the Majestic Maria, and the family of its captain, Lisbon, who, without Tobias knowing, will play a pivotal role in his future.

Seafaring tales of revenge and questions without answers haunt Tobias, for he is told that his father has kept secret, a decision made for which he must account.

Tobias and best friend Quinn are forced to abandon ship together after a severe storm. Here the story shifts and the setting changes. The characters are placed in life-threatening situations where there are many reveals.

Pirate attacks, the time-travelling ghostly galleon and fantastic, interesting characters, are elements that shine throughout this exciting debut novel. Its vivid descriptions of life on board a galleon, shipwrecks, and other disasters experienced, plus the personal secrets kept by each person, keep the pages turning.

The Quest for the Galleon of Time is a fast-paced read with many riveting sub-stories. I consumed it in one sitting.

This middle grade novel launches a list of forthcoming, stand-alone books by Tanya Hunter.

Title: The Quest for the Galleon of Time
Author: Tanya Hunter 
Publisher: MidnightSun Publishing, $17.99
Publication Date: 1 August 2023
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781922858191
For ages: 10 – 14
Type: Middle Grade Fiction

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Review: Plume: Christmas Elf

Plume: Christmas Elf is a bright and busy festive celebration. It's the fourth book in the series about the curious penguin who loves to travel.

Of course, it all starts in Antarctica in the enormous library where Plume lives with his friends. 

They're busy cooking and decorating when Ava the albatross arrives with dreadful news. Santa is sick, and so are the reindeer! 

Will Plume and Ava be able to save Christmas? It's all aboard the Albatross Express if you want to find out.

Tania McCartney is an author and illustrator who really knows how to take something from her imagination and lay it all out on the pages of a book. Plume's Christmas is a visual feast for the eyes. From Santa's workshop with toy-filled conveyor belts, to a magical sleigh ride through the starry night, and sharing gifts in Antarctica, colours and patterns and joyful characters, bring it all to life.

The glittery cover features Plume in his Christmas elf outfit. End papers offer a world map to follow Plume's trip. As he travels the world in one night, Plume takes part in the celebrations and makes new friends. The story is packed with details including cultural foods, decorations, activities, and greetings in language. Lighting candles, ringing bells, exchanging gifts, singing carols, and playing cricket on the beach. See how many you can spot. 

Plume the penguin is a cultural ambassador and travel guide. I love how his adventures showcase the unique characteristics of different countries and cultures, and encourage harmony and friendship. Plume: Christmas Elf is a treat for all the family. 

Title: Plume: Christmas Elf
Author/Illustrator: Tania McCartney
Publisher: Hardie Grant Explore, $ 24.99
Publication Date: October 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781741177923
For ages: 4+
Type: Picture Book

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Review: Sunshine: How one camp taught me about life, death and hope

Sunshine: How one camp taught me about life, death and hope is a memoir in the form of a graphic novel.

Created by Jarrett J Krosoczka, Sunshine is the story of a memorable summer in his teenage years. It's an experience that changes his life.

When he was sixteen, Jarrett spent one week as a student leader at Camp Sunshine, a holiday camp for children with life-threatening illnesses, and their families.

At Camp Sunshine Jarrett meets people like thirteen-year-old Diego who has a brain tumour and uses a wheelchair. Jarrett's interest in art and his drawing abilities provide an opening for developing a friendship with Diego, and the other kids.

He learns some of the challenges, frustrations and impacts of cancer and its treatment. And he discovers that when you're faced with a life-threatening illness, personally or by close association, the way you look at life changes.

Sunshine raises some big questions and covers a raft of subjects including illness, life and death, grief and loss, ability and disability, growing up, family and friendship. The visual storytelling of the graphic novel format enhances the experience of this window into the life of the author/illustrator.

For personal reasons, I approached this book with some trepidation, but found that despite the sometimes confronting subject matter, it also offered hopeful moments. Filled with the emotional ups and downs of real-life, Sunshine is a powerful memoir.

Note: Anyone keen to try their hand at drawing in general, or creating their own graphic novel, should visit Jarrett's website for some helpful free resources, including guides and video tutorials. You can also watch and listen to Jarrett's TED Talk 'How a boy became an artist'.

Title: Sunshine: How one camp taught me about life, death and hope
Author/Illustrator: Jarrett J Krosoczka
Publisher: Scholastic, $ 22.99
Publication Date: May 2023
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781338356311
For ages: 13+
Type: Graphic Novel

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