Blue: Dragon of the Sea

Blue: Dragon of the Sea by Aleesah Darlison, illustrated by Tamlyn Teow (Wombat Books) HB RRP $26.99 ISBN: 9781761112706

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

Blue is a small sea slug, a nudibranch. Nicknamed the blue dragon, Blue is well camouflaged while roaming the ocean. But there are hazards: tangled tentacles, ripping rubbish and pollution that ‘seeps through delicate skin’. However, when a venomous man-of-war appears, Blue is not afraid. Blue can steal the siphonophore’s toxin to use for future protection.

Aleesah Darlison brings to life a magnificent mini beast of the sea that most children aged four to eight would never have heard of, let alone seen. By infusing Blue with a charming personality, the story encourages empathy and compassion for the teeny creatures that steadily struggle to survive in the vast ocean. Engaging information about nudibranchs is entwined with evocative language, making learning lots of fun.

Tamlyn Teow’s vibrant illustrations flow across the spreads with a fluidity that matches the drift of the briny deep. Dynamic lines guide young eyes, while visible pencil strokes add splashy texture. The cute characterisation of Blue will appeal to kids, as will the comical crab that crops up in the most unexpected places.

Fact and fiction flitter through Blue: Dragon of the Sea, taking youngsters on an educational and entertaining voyage beneath the waves. With so much to dip into and discover on every page, this book is perfect for repeat readings.

Bear to the Rescue

Bear to the Rescue by Romane Cristescu and Nic Gill, illustrated by Sylvia Morris (CSIRO Publishing) HB RRP $26.99 ISBN: 9781486314904

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

When Bear was a puppy, people thought he was adorable. But when he grew up, he became ‘too much’. He had lots of energy and nothing to do – so he made up his own jobs. His owners called him a ‘bad dog’. Eventually he was taken to a new home, one where he learned to sniff out koalas for researchers. Bear enjoyed this important task, particularly when he had to locate koalas after a bushfire. He helped the koalas and made the people happy, too.

In this educative and engaging picture book aimed at kids aged five to nine, Romane Cristescu and Nic Gill tell the real-life story of a koala-detection dog named Bear. The use of first person allows youngsters to see Bear’s world and work from a unique point of view, ensuring that they are soon cheering for this canine hero. At the back of the book there is more detailed information about Bear, as well as a handful of fascinating facts about dogs and koalas.

 

Sylvia Morris’s bright and delightful illustrations perfectly match the optimistic tone of the text. Her charming characterisation of blue-eyed Bear will appeal to all readers, especially those who adore animal stories. Even the endpapers – which feature a colony of cuddly koalas sleeping in trees – are sure to bring smiles to faces.

 

With its focus on finding your purpose in life, Bear to the Rescue proves the old adage that every dog has its day. Inspiration and information are beautifully blended into a pawsome true tale about conservation that every child needs to read.

No One Is Home

No One Is Home by Mikolaj Pa, illustrated by Gosia Herba (Greystone Kids) HB RRP $29.99 ISBN: 9781778402180

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

Leo decides to visit his friend, Kimbo, for his birthday. On the way, he stops to buy his pal some cream puffs – but there’s a big line at the bakery. Leo begins to write a poem for Kimbo, but he doesn’t know a word that rhymes with ‘oranges’. At the last minute, he grabs some flowers. When he gets to Kimbo’s house, nobody is home. Kimbo is waiting at Leo’s house after having an adventurous trip through the city. They finally meet at the monkey statue in the park, and Kimbo is happy with the flowers – he eats them because he’s hungry!

There are surprises around every corner in Mikolaj Pa’s creative story. From frogs playing a game of hide and seek across the city to a buzzing bug parade and a robot dog that goes on the fritz, the book features a crazy cast of characters that kids aged four to eight will adore. Short bursts of text in speech bubbles and vignette captions help reluctant readers to dive into the action of the book.

Gosia Herba has taken inspiration from Richard Scarry in creating compelling crowds of personified animals to populate this wacky world. Bright colours and endless details will keep youngsters busy for hours – especially as they try to find all of the hidden frogs! Perhaps the most eye-catching illustration is the full spread depicting the bug parade – every creature is dazzling and different.

Fun, frenetic and fabulous, No One Is Home is the perfect book for repeat readings because there is so much happening on every page. Leo’s determination to find Kimbo and celebrate his birthday puts the importance of friendship at front and centre of the captivating chaos.

Once Upon an A to Z

Once Upon an A to Z by Amy Dunjey, illustrated by Deb Hudson (Affirm Press) HB RRP $22.99 ISBN: 9781923022089

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera 

When a trio of children open an old book, they discover that ‘alphabet magic is hidden inside’. They go on an adventure into the spellbinding sphere of stories, where they ‘dance with dragons’, ‘fly with fairies’ and ‘kiss a kraken’. Along the way, they encounter a ‘purple potion’, ‘jinxes, jewels’ and a ‘queenly quest’. In the end, they return to the library and fall into a deep sleep, dreaming of their ‘happy ever after’.

Amy Dunjey’s exuberant take on the ABCs will enchant two- to seven-year-olds who are starting to learn their letters. Rhyming couplets roll through a wealth of wondrous worlds – from crystal castles to salty seas – bringing both language and literature to life. This is the ideal text to instill a love of books from a young age.

Deb Hudson’s vibrant illustrations dazzle the eyes and delight the heart. Smiles sprinkled across sweet faces ensure that even the scariest of creatures – ogres, trolls and vampires – are fun and friendly. Youngsters will adore scanning each spread for the cute black cat that accompanies the characters on their joyful journey.

Bewitching and brilliant, Once Upon an A to Z is brimming with fantastical fairytale realms that inspire imaginative thinking. As kids explore the pages, they’ll soon become well versed in the vital building blocks of reading and writing.

My Cousins, My World

My Cousins, My World by Sharara Attai, illustrated by Michelle Pereira (Allen & Unwin) HB RRP $24.99 ISBN: 9781761180972

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

A girl has lots of cousins; some live nearby, and others are on the other side of the world. But whenever the cousins get together, they always have a fun time. They go camping and eat sushi and have sing-offs, and they promise that they will always stick together. Because cousins are ‘our first friends, our best friends, our forever friends’.

Aimed at kids aged four to eight – but suitable for anyone with one, two or even twenty cousins who light up their lives – Sharara Attai’s story is dripping with delicious moments and memories. The multicultural nature of many families is elegantly expressed in the array of names, foods and languages sprinkled throughout the text. Young readers will come away from this book with a fresh appreciation for the singular joy found within strong familial bonds.

Muted hues of mustard, crimson, indigo and olive add a nostalgic air to Michelle Pereira’s charming illustrations. The smiles of the diverse characters spread warmth across the pages and straight into readers’ hearts. With every new image, it becomes more and more clear that cousins are worth celebrating.

At once unique and universal, My Cousins, My World is an ideal book for sharing with loved ones. Every reading generates a wealth of recollections that will strengthen connections into the future.

Mumma Bear

Mumma Bear by Rory H. Mather, illustrated by Hélène Magisson (Scholastic) HB RRP $19.99 ISBN: 9781761521171

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

When a cub loses his mother in a park, he asks the other animals, ‘Have you seen my Mumma Bear?’ She is kind, graceful and protective, and she has the ‘softest fur’. Mumma Bear is the cub’s hero, and he hopes to be as strong as her one day. Eventually, the smell of roses leads the cub to the picnic that his perfect Mumma Bear has prepared.

Rory H. Mather’s simple rhyming couplets gently express the beautiful qualities of Mumma Bear that many human mums also possess. Kids aged four to eight will delight in the sharing and caring relationship between the bears, as well as the inspiring way that Mumma Bear encourages her offspring to be kind, fair and virtuous in their interactions with others.

Hélène Magisson’s bright and dreamy illustrations have a slightly fuzzy quality to them, like a snuggly bear hug. Even when night-time frights infuse the pages with the darkness of indigo, touches of warmth in rich brown leaves and fur offer visual comfort. Littlies will love the characterisation of all the animals, especially the cuddly protagonists.

Although it’s an ideal book to read on Mother’s Day, Mumma Bear is really a celebration of all the magnificent maternal role models in children’s lives. The sweet-as-honey story is sure to leave readers with a glow of gratitude for their ‘Mumma Bear’.

Cheese!

Cheese! by Felice Arena, illustrated by Beatrice Cerocchi (Affirm Press) HB RRP $22.99 ISBN: 9781922992833

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

‘Did someone say cheese? Yes, please!’ From French Camembert to Greek Feta, this is nacho average trip around the world. Cheese is made and enjoyed by people from Europe to Asia, so it’s grate for bringing friends and family together. Whether it’s stinky Stilton, verdant Sage Derby or even silly string cheese, there’s something gouda in here for foodies of all ages. 

Cheese! is the perfect second course after Felice Arena’s 2023 picture book, Pasta!. Readers aged three to seven will find it un-brie-lievable just how many different cheeses there are across the globe. Fun rhymes add a tasty layer to the text, especially when youngsters are reminded that they’re ‘never gloomy with a plate of fried Halloumi!’

Although this is a book about a food that is famously yellow, Cheese! is dripping in colour thanks to Beatrice Cerocchi’s vibrant illustrations. Delicious endpapers name the dairy delights that will make an appearance on the pages, while small eyes will relish seeking out the little mouse that is trying to nibble the cheese on every spread.

Whichever way you slice it, Cheese! is the wheel deal. It’s a bright and boisterous expedition through a creamy realm that is sure to leave kids hungry for more.

Zoom

Zoom by Dannika Patterson, illustrated by Ross Morgan (Ford Street Publishing) PB RRP $17.95 ISBN: 9781922696427

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

When Tom has a bad day at school, he thunders home with tears raining down. His mother waits patiently, plate of cookies at hand, until the tempest subsides. Tom fiddles with the camera his grandfather gave him. ‘Zooming in. Zooming out.’ His mother reminds Tom of what his grandfather taught him about taking photos: when he controls the zoom, he chooses the view. Together, they reframe the events of the day, and the ‘big picture’ chases the clouds from Tom’s troubled mind.

Dannika Patterson’s stunning story is a timely reminder to kids aged five to nine that perspective is everything. When they make a mistake, it can seem like the biggest thing in the world – until they mentally ‘zoom out’ and consider a broader panorama of the situation. A masterful use of storm imagery impresses upon the young reader Tom’s changing demeanor in a highly evocative way, while the overlying camera metaphor is genuinely clever and easily comprehended.

A flood of deep blues washes across Ross Morgan’s illustrations, reflecting Tom’s overwhelm and anguish. But a hint of the happy insight to come is evident in the warmth of Tom’s dog, whose quiet companionship nudges the boy towards calm contemplation. When the sun shines on clarity, the colours that sparkle on the pages are as light as Tom’s heart.

Presented with great sensitivity, Zoom is a picture-perfect take on resilience. It will encourage youngsters to develop their skills in objectivity and optimism and to focus on the positive rather than the negative.

The Book Star

The Book Star by Bec Nanayakkara, illustrated by Joanna Bartel (Affirm Press) HB RRP $22.99 ISBN: 9781922863843

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

Grace loves everything about space – she even owns 37 books about it. When her teacher says that she and her friends can dress up as anything for Book Week, Grace has so many ideas: the Moon, the Milky Way, the Solar System … how will she choose? Her friends tell her not to do space because it’s ‘ugly’ and ‘boring’ and ‘weird’. But her parents give her some wise advice: ‘do what you want to do’ and ‘be who you want to be’. So, Grace sets to work on her costume. And in the end, she is the ‘star’ of the Book Week parade.

Children aged four to eight will have a blast with Bec Nanayakkara’s imaginative take on Book Week, especially if they’re obsessed with space. As they orbit the pages, discovering a galaxy of space facts, they’ll also stumble on a new world – one where they feel empowered to be themselves in the face of peer pressure. Bec’s story also shines a light on girls who are interested in STEM subjects, encouraging them to reach for the stars.

Joanna Bartel’s dynamic illustrations zoom across the spreads, taking eager readers along for the ride. Small eyes will land on all of the cosmic details, from Grace’s round-as-a-planet glasses to her brother’s alien toy. For kids who want something a little more down to earth to dress up as for Book Week, Joanna’s vibrant images of princess, spy and tiger costumes will inspire and delight.

The Book Star is an ideal read during the countdown to Book Week, but its message about the importance of self-confidence will leave a mark throughout the year. Within the engaging pages, kids will find the fortitude to forge their own path through life.

Two Rabbits by Larissa Ferenchuk, illustrated by Prue Pittock (EK Books) HB RRP $24.99 ISBN: 9781922539656

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

One-night, Little Grey Rabbit and Little Brown Rabbit have an argument. Their harsh words are ‘carried along by the wind’. The two rabbits stomp away in opposite directions. In their fury and sadness, it is hard for them to find joy even in their favourite places. As loneliness sets in, the wind whispers words of harmony. The two rabbits run towards each other. They each apologise and admit that they make mistakes. Their gentle words are ‘carried along by the wind’.

Larissa Ferenchuk’s simple story features an all-too-familiar situation for many kids aged four to eight: a blow-up between best buddies. Rather than bounding blindly along the road to anger, the two rabbits soon realise that forgiveness is the best path to follow. While the wind reminds the protagonists to ‘be kind’, it is only when the two rabbits choose compassion over contempt that their friendship is mended.

Although Prue Pittock’s illustrations are largely two-dimensional, she deftly applies linework to develop density and movement across the pages. Just a few dots and dashes on the rabbits’ faces is all it takes to reveal to readers the deepest of feelings. Stormy grey skies echo the tempestuous emotions below; a warm pink dawn embraces the rabbits’ reconciliation.

Fixing a broken bond is never easy, but Two Rabbits encourages youngsters to take responsibility for their words and actions and make amends when another person has been hurt. This is conflict resolution on a small scale, a skill that no doubt will come in handy as kids hop into adulthood.

Escape from Mr Lemoncello’s Library

Escape from Mr Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein, illustrated by Douglas Holgate (Penguin Random House) PB RRP $24.99 ISBN: 9781761345685

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

The world’s most famous game maker, Luigi Lemoncello, has designed the new library, and Kyle is desperate to be one of the twelve kids invited to the opening-night lock-in. Little does he know that the whole library is a game! To win, the kids must find clues and solve riddles to locate the special exit by the 12pm deadline. They soon figure out that they need to work together to triumph over Lemoncello’s literary escape room.

This action-packed graphic novel brings to life the bestselling middle-grade book of the same name. Chris Grabenstein’s story is clever and captivating, as it encourages readers to have a go at cracking the challenging brainteasers in company with the characters. Along the way, they’ll learn a bounty of brilliant bookish facts and discover the unique power that comes from thoughtful teamwork.

Douglas Holgate’s colourful illustrations are energetic and engaging, ensuring that readers’ attention is carried from one vibrant panel to the next. The overall palette is warm, with the predominance of pale yellow adding a cheery tone to the pages. Distinctive depictions help young eyes distinguish each child in the book.

Escape from Mr Lemoncello’s Library is a perfect introduction to the wonders within literature for hesitant readers. By the end, they’ll be eager to roll the dice and jump three squares straight into their nearest library.

Here Comes a Merry Christmas

Here Comes a Merry Christmas by Justine Clark, Arthur Baysting and Peter Dasent, illustrated by Heath McKenzie (Penguin Random House) HB RRP $19.99 ISBN: 9781761049521

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

‘There’s a new star up in the sky tonight. And it’s shining oh so bright!’ Christmas is close, and the family members eagerly get ready for this special time of year. They bake cookies and decorate the tree and sing carols about ‘hope and love and light’. And, like the new star, the angel on top of the tree is ‘shining with her love’.

Based on a beloved song written by Justine Clark, Arthur Baysting and Peter Dasent, Here Comes a Merry Christmas exudes joy from every page. Rhyming text jingles like a sleigh as it slides through an array of familiar festive preparations. Youngsters aged three to six will have fun singing along with every heart-warming word.

Heath McKenzie’s stylised digital illustrations add wit and whimsy to the spreads, and kids will adore small details such as the puffed out dad and the dog wrapped up in a string of Christmas lights. The characters are both multigenerational and multicultural, reflecting the reality of many families in Australia.

A perfect gift for budding readers, Here Comes a Merry Christmas is colourful and charming. With its focus on love and light, this will be a favourite book not only at Christmas but also throughout the year.

Busy Betty & the Circus Surprise

Busy Betty & the Circus Surprise by Reese Witherspoon, illustrated by Xindi Yan (Penguin Random House) HB RRP $19.99 ISBN: 9781761047510

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

Busy Betty wakes up each day with ‘a MILLION questions and a BILLION ideas’. And today she’s had her best idea yet – creating a circus for her mum’s birthday. Along with her friends Jeffrey and Mae, Betty crafts costumes and applies make-up and erects a tablecloth tent – she even transforms her dog into a roaring lion. Then she discovers that her mum’s birthday is the following month. Not to worry – Betty decides to invite the whole neighbourhood to her ‘backyard circus’.

Award-winning actress Reese Witherspoon’s bright and bubbly book is ideal for kids aged five to nine. Betty overcomes obstacles thanks to her big ideas, pivoting with excitement and enthusiasm when her plans don’t pan out. This never-give-up attitude is resilience at its best, and encourages youngsters as they take their first hesitant steps into the world.

Xindi Yan’s colourful cartoon-like illustrations will appeal to children, especially the energetic characterisation of Betty. Enormous, round, magenta-rimmed glasses draw readers towards Betty’s expressive eyes, where kids will see every emotion that flits through her bustling mind.

Busy Betty & the Circus Surprise sweeps readers along to the sweet and spirited end. Along the way, they’ll discover the importance of adaptability – especially when the show must go on.

Sunshine

Sunshine by Jarrett J. Krosoczka (Scholastic) PB RRP $22.99 ISBN: 9781338356311

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

Sixteen-year-old Jarrett spends a week volunteering at a camp for seriously ill kids and their families. At first he worries that it will be depressing, and that he won’t be able to connect to the children in his care. But he ends up getting as much out of the experience as the sick kids: confidence, compassion and consolation.

Jarrett J. Krosoczka created this graphic novel based on his own real-life stint as a camp counsellor, and this gives the narrative both an arresting authenticity and a depth of emotion that is almost overwhelming. Aimed at readers aged thirteen to seventeen, the story does not shy away from the terrible truth of childhood cancer and death. However, the conclusion is both uplifting and inspiring, ensuring that teens are left heartened after turning the last page.

Jarrett’s greyscale illustrations feature touches of sunshine yellow, subtly buoying readers even during the darkest parts of the book. His choice to utilise the graphic-novel form is commendable, as it brings to life not only the vast cast of characters but also the comforting camp encounters in a relatable way.

Moving and memorable, Sunshine will stay with readers for a long time. And, like the protagonist, they will come away from the book with a fresh perspective on what really matters in this world. 

Mr McGee and the Biting Flea

Mr McGee and the Biting Flea by Pamela Allen (Penguin Random House) HB RRP $16.99 ISBN: 9781761340970

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

‘Mr McGee went out to play, down to the beach one windy day.’ Little does Mr McGee know that his kite-flying fun is about to be interrupted by an itty-bitty bitey flea! Layer after layer of clothing is peeled off as Mr McGee searches for the flea. Eventually, he leaps into the sea and the flea jumps free, landing on a nearby dog.

Pamela Allen’s classic tale is now in board-book form, perfect for little fingers to hold and turn the pages. Rollicking rhymes and recurring onomatopoeia will tickle the ears of three- to five-year-olds and ensure repeated requests for this spirited story.

Utilising pen and ink as well as watercolour, Pamela’s simple yet dynamic images capture every comical contortion of Mr McGee as he tries to find the pesky flea. Kids will giggle when the naked protagonist – covered in itchy red lumps – runs shrieking towards the sea.

Uproarious from the first page until the last, Mr McGee and the Biting Flea deserves a place on every preschooler’s bookshelf. The catchy rhymes exude joy and encourage youngsters to take their first tentative steps towards independent reading.

The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza

The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Shawn Harris (Scholastic Australia) PB RRP $22.99 ISBN: 9781761298608

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

Rats from another galaxy are eating the Moon, and everything is going haywire on Earth – the tides are wild, moths have the munchies, and werewolves are waddling around with duck beaks. The military sends a super-intelligent cat to the Moon to deal with the ravenous rodents. On the way to the rats’ base, he teams up with a toenail-clipping robot and the Queen of the Moon. Can this motley trio of heroes dispatch the rats before the Moon is nibbled from existence?

Perfect for children aged eight to twelve, The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza is an action-packed graphic novel with plenty of laugh-out-loud puns. Mac Barnett’s story twists and turns faster than a spaceship shooting through an asteroid belt, ensuring that kids are on the edge of their seat from the first page until the last. Bite-sized text bubbles encourage reluctant readers to launch into the book for the ride of a lifetime.

Colour beams from Shawn Harris’s illustrations, drawing readers’ eyes into their orbit, while a wealth of wacky characters –from the whip-tailed Scourge to the glove-like Zoopers – add to the absurd atmosphere. Hand-drawn panels in varying shapes lift the visual interest of the spreads and help to keep the story zooming along.

A cosmic combination of sci-fi, fantasy and adventure, The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza eclipses other comic books in the market. It is a cheesy slice of heaven for middle-grade readers who enjoy entertaining escapades.

Quiet Time with My Seeya

Quiet Time with My Seeya by Dinalie Dabarera (Allen & Unwin) HB RRP $24.99 ISBN: 9781761180286

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

A child enjoys spending time with their seeya (grandfather) and engaging in a range of activities, from stomping in puddles and preparing pittu to playing video games and riding bikes. Although they speak different languages, they can communicate through the power of love. Because of this, the twosome shares a bond that transcends age and ability. When quiet time descends and they read to one other, each might not know all the words spoken by the other – but they understand the meaning.

Dinalie Dabarera’s gentle story is an ode to intergenerational connections that cross cultural boundaries to enrich lives. Caring companionship and quality time together trump trivial chat and ensure that each memory-making moment is perceived and celebrated. Kids aged three to six will discover the joy of being in the present with those they cherish and basking in the glow of unconditional love.

Colour and texture dance across Dinalie’s pencil-drawn illustrations, delighting young eyes. There is plenty of white space so merry vignetted images project from the pages. With his snowy hair and beard, the child’s grandfather is reminiscent of Santa Claus – this visual association emphasises seeya’s kindliness and generosity.

A perfect book to snuggle into just before bed, Quiet Time with My Seeya is as soft and warm as a security blanket. Adults and children alike will adore the tender message about generational affection that emanates from the comforting tome.

The Leftover Lemon Dilemma

The Leftover Lemon Dilemma by Dannielle Viera & Paula Deuber (Loose Parts Press) PB HB RRP $28.00 ISBN 9780645532548

Reviewed by Karen Hendriks

At Mandy’s house there’s an abundance of lemons on their lemon tree. Mandy knows that there’s only so many things you can make and bake with lemons so what can she do with the leftover lemons? With help from her neighbours, Mandy discovers a unique way to turn lemons into something sweet.

This is Dannielle Viera’s debut picture book, and it works a treat. Her story is a clever multicultural celebration of food and community. She has crafted a story that shows children they too can be creators and innovators. Her characters and words are full of warmth and childlike wonder. As the reader follows along with Mandy, they are encouraged to think about what to do with all the lemons. ‘What are we going to do with all these lemons?’ asked Mandy. ‘If we don’t use them, they’ll go to waste.’

The story arc is logical and engaging as Mandy attempts to solve the lemon dilemma. The language used suits the readership and plays on the lemon theme. As Mandy munched on a bun, a juicy idea zinged into her head. Taste palettes and the flavours of food are explored. Mrs Chan cheered. ‘Now I can cook lemon chicken for my family,’ she said. Even the quiet street is called Green Place. Paper bags are used instead of plastic ones. Without giving away too much of the story, other foods and cultures are introduced. The ending is satisfying and it’s a nice to know that the message of food wastage is gently brought to attention in this story.

Paula Deuber is an artist and illustrator who focuses on nature, sustainability, and food. Her illustrations are mostly worked in watercolours and ink. Her love of nature shines in her illustrations in The Leftover Lemon Dilemma, with green and yellow strongly featuring. Deuber mixes double-page spreads with single page spreads and vignettes. This allows the visuals to share much information about the neighbourhood and the people who live there. Her images are a celebration of family life in the suburbs of Australia. She beautifully captures the bond between Mandy and her mother. I love the spreads that show Mandy gently leading her mother whose eyes are closed. Life is always sweeter with family, friends and food and Deuber’s delightful watercolours celebrate this beautifully. 

The Leftover Lemon Dilemma is a gorgeous picture book for children 4-8 years that will appeal to both children, families, communities, and schools. Children who love nature and the environment will particularly enjoy this book.

Today I’m Playing Dress-Ups

Today I’m Playing Dress-Ups by Tyger-Lee, illustrated by David Abraham Michael (Loose Parts Press) HB RRP $16.00 ISBN: 9780645532517

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

‘Today I’m playing dress-ups, I’ll wear the silliest things …’ During one creative day, a child transforms a variety of clothes and accessories into an amazing array of costumes. A dressing gown is converted into a doctor’s coat, while a raincoat changes the child into a firefighter. Feathers become bird wings, and a triangle of tin makes a superb shark fin. There is no limit to the fun thanks to the child’s imagination.

Tyger-Lee’s simple rhyming couplets will appeal to kids aged three to six who adore diving into the dress-up box to discover new characters. Light and enticing, the words will spark a sense of wonder and encourage youngsters to forgo screen time for the much more rewarding activity of imaginative play.

David Abraham Michael’s bright illustrations are reminiscent of cartoons such as Adventure Time, but the watercolour medium adds a unique texture to the images. Small eyes will be drawn across the vibrant and dynamic spreads as they seek out each whimsical detail.

A hardy board book that is the perfect size for little fingers, Today I’m Playing Dress-Ups is sure to be read again and again. Children will be inspired to come up with their own clever dress-up ideas using whatever they have at hand.

Willa and Woof: Grandparents for Hire

Willa and Woof: Grandparents for Hire by Jacqueline Harvey, illustrated by A. Yi (Penguin Random House) PB RRP $12.99 ISBN: 9781761043338

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

Willa has a lot on her plate. Her principal, Mr Newton, has announced that the school will be hosting Grandparents’ Day the following week – but Willa’s grandparents are on holiday. Her Irish wolfhound, Woof, has started running away from home, and the residents of the nearby Sunset Views Retirement Village – who all love visits from Woof – are in danger of losing their weekly outings due to budget cutbacks. Can Willa come up with a clever plan to help everyone and ensure that Grandparents’ Day is a triumph?

The third book in the Willa and Woof junior fiction series, Grandparents for Hire is aimed at six- to nine-year-olds who adore diving into stories about doggy disasters, funny friendships and perceptive problem-solving. Jacqueline Harvey’s present-tense text skips along briskly, taking youngsters on a madcap adventure through parks and playgrounds before they reach the sweet conclusion. Willa’s witty asides are sure to keep kids giggling along the way.

A. Yi’s pen-and-ink illustrations break up the chapters for hesitant readers and add a touch of visual humour to the pages. They are perfectly placed to augment rather than overwhelm the text.

Willa and Woof: Grandparents for Hire shows that thinking outside the box can deliver unique and satisfying rewards. And the intergenerational relationships in the book will inspire and delight kids in equal measure.