Bella Grows a Bicycle

Bella Grows a Bicycle by Lellie Lopter, illustrated by Chiara Franceschetti (Five Mile Press) HB RRP $24.99 ISBN 9781923457720

Reviewed by Dianne Bates

In this warm and imaginative picture book, Bella Grows a Bicycle introduces young readers to early financial literacy concepts in a lively and fun way. Bella asks her father for a bicycle, but it’s too expensive. Instead, Dad plants a small ‘bicycle’ seed, saying, when it results in a radish, that he says is a ‘swap-berry.’

The story shows Bella’s resilience, perseverance and resourcefulness as the young entrepreneur swaps belongings and upgrades with each swap. She swaps the radish for a lemon, then swaps lemonade for a T-shirt, then makes a tote bag from the T-shirt… and so on.  Eventually, she swaps a scooter for a bicycle, which she and her dad clean and oil. The twist at the end of the tale is that Bella must now work out how to acquire a ‘helmet seed.’

In Bella Grows a Bicycle, Lellie Lopter explores the themes of creativity, sustainability and problem-solving. She demonstrates that versatility and hope, combined with proactivity and faith, can result in a desired outcome. It shows, too, that one can recognise potential in used and old items. As they say, one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. 

In her dedication, the author writes, ‘For the dreamers who say, “I want”; and the doers who make it happen.’ This wonderful book shows precisely that

Chiara Franceschetti’s bright, lively illustrations add an extra layer of delight to the story.

With its positive themes and practical lessons, this book is a valuable addition to personal, school, library, and home collections.

Ellie Phant: Perfectly Imperfect

Ellie Phant: Perfectly Imperfect by Mary Anastasiou, illustrated by Daron Parton (Five Mile Press) HB ISBN978192328690

This is an empowering and heartwarming picture book for readers aged 6 to 8 years that tells the story of Ellie Phant, a confident, and joyful elephant who radiates inner strength. Despite her playful self-assurance, Ellie begins to question her unique style and overweight body when her friends suggest otherwise. However, Ellie is not alone in questioning her body size: other animals such as the thin-armed sloth, the ultra-tall flamingo, the short-legged badger and the far-too-small mouse, all have body image problems, too.

‘Now, listen up,’ she told them. ‘This silliness must cease. Quiet down those inner whispers and give your heart some peace.’

Thus, this relatable journey explores themes of self-acceptance, body positivity, and staying true to oneself.

The illustrations by New Zealand resident, Parton, are in a limited palette with a predominance of pinks, greens and blues.

Tilly’s New Broom

Tilly’s New Broom by Mary Anastasiou (Five Mile Press), RRP $24.99 Picture Book ISBN 9-781923-091542

Reviewed by Susan Hancy

Little witch Tilly is running late for her Dark Art class and wouldn’t you know it – her broom won’t start!

Who doesn’t know that feeling?

Naturally, Tilly needs to find a new broom so she heads off to the Zoomer’s Expo to investigate the replacement options. A chair would be a comfortable mode of transport, but unlikely to have the power she needs. A vacuum cleaner would allow her to zoom, but such a noisy machine would spoil the element of surprise. Just when it looks like nothing will be appropriate, the perfect solution presents itself.

With publication timed for Halloween, my kids enjoyed the quirkiness of the broom replacement possibilities and the illustrations which convey the atmosphere of a parallel magical world. However, the rhyme faltered on a number of occasions with inconsistent meter and incorrect emphasis. Unfortunately, this detracted from an otherwise fun short story.

Suitable for a younger audience from 3 to 5 years.

A Not So Scary Visit

A Not So Scary Visit by Lee Williams & illustrated by Claudia Ranucci (Five Mile Press) PB RRP AU$24.99 ISBN 978 1 92309 178 8

Reviewed by Robyn Gillies

It’s that special time of year, Halloween, when you can expect scary visitors so it’s no surprise that two very terrifying monsters appear in the middle of the night to try and frighten a young boy. But he has been expecting them and he has a plucky plan to send them away.

This is a terrific picture book. It’s funny and entertaining, and the illustrations balance beautifully with the story adding to the narrative. It’s full of expressive characters and colour and is ideal to capture the attention of young readers. It is easy to read, and the storyline flows effortlessly, with some imaginative ideas and a great twist at the end that will no doubt make readers laugh out loud.

It’s a wonderful book for any time of the year but perfect for Halloween and a great one for educators of young children who are looking for books to create a Halloween theme. It’s ideal for toddlers and early readers as it explores early literacy skills in an amusing way.

It’s Trick or Treat Time

It’s Trick or Treat Time by Sara Biviano (Five Mile Press) ISBN 9781923359819  RRP $14.99 (BB)

Reviewed by Jude Mullen

Halloween is coming up, and the best part of Halloween is going trick or treating. That means selecting a costume to wear for the occasion, which is exactly what the little girl in this story is doing. She investigates her costume box and finds that she has so many choices. It’s hard to decide whether to be a spooky ghost, a wicked witch or a big, orange pumpkin. What will her final choice be?

This charming, seasonal, simply written story is full of fun and anticipation. The brief narrative is brought to life bold and vibrant illustrations which will delight young readers.  The story would be a great stimulus for oral language development by prompting discussions about making choices, dressing up and best friends. Add in some art and craft activities and it provides a rich educational experience for young children.

This bright and colourful board book is suitable for toddlers and young readers, aged 0-4 years.

Big Hug Books

Big Hug Books by Shona Innes, illustrated by Irisz Agócs (The Five Mile Press)

HB RRP $14.95

ISBN 978-1-76006-055-8 - Life

ISBN 978-1-76006-056-5 - Friendship

ISBN 978-1-76006-416-7 - Internet

ISBN 978-1-76006-415-0 - Playground

Reviewed by Jacque Duffy

While waiting at a local department store I peeked into a package I had collected at the post office. What I saw made me gasp. I reached in and withdrew four beautiful books, I had only glimpsed the covers, but I was in love. I held them to my chest in a hug, and when I pulled them back for a better look I laughed. Each title is part of a collection called The Big Hug Book – how appropriate.

This series of books was created by Shona Innes, a qualified clinical and forensic psychologist with many years of assisting children. Don’t be put off by her qualifications; each book is presented in a way that is perfect for the young child to grasp the meaning within. Important issues of the playground, friendship, dangers of the internet,

and death, are each approached and handled in a friendly, fun, yet delicate way that truly imparts a strong message.

The Hungarian illustrator, Irisz Agócs studied cultural anthropology and ethnography at University; thankfully she gave that away and moved on to her passion, so becoming an illustrator.

These are marvelous books for an independent reader to enjoy in a quiet moment. They are perfect for parents of a younger child to assist in explaining why things aren’t going smoothly with friends and family, or the dangers of the internet, without being preachy. They would also work successfully if read by a teacher to her class group. Young children should ask many questions as the illustrations depict body language and facial expressions in such a way the characters come to life.

The illustrations, simple and soft, show a diverse group of animals each with a definite personality. They will assist children to identify themselves and their feelings. They are inviting, and as the title of the series suggests, they are like a big hug. Children with personal issues should not find them confronting at all.

These books would appeal to teacher librarians as much as to parents. They cover important issues that children deal with every day and are presented in a very reader-friendly format.

Jacque Duffy is the author and illustrator of the series ‘That’s not a …” learn to read books used in all Queensland State Primary Schools, two picture books and one local history book. www.jacquesartandbooks.com

The Birthday Party Cake

The Birthday Party Cake by Alison Reynolds, illustrated by Mikki Butterley (Five Mile Press) HB $14.95 ISBN 9781760067236

Reviewed by Dianne Bates

Pickle is a big brown bear, Bree is a tiny girl and both are best friends who live in a double-storeyed house (Pickle in a ‘cave’ under the stairs). Like all friends, they sometimes have misunderstandings and disagreements which is the basis of this book for readers 5 to 8 years which is one in a series.

In this book, Bree is happy and ready for fun, but Pickle is grouchy. When Bree finds the big bear making a honey cake for his friend Jason’s birthday, she realises that there’s no invitation for her to the party but Pickle reassures her she’s welcome. Bree makes a three-layer chocolate cake while Pickle’s honey cake is lopsided. At the party, Pickles and the birthday boy play Bear Bump and are not really interested in Eyespy, but they give in. When Bree’s chocolate cake is not what Jason wants, Bree (who has been practicing) triple-somersaults into the cake and then pours honey all over it. Later, Bree is scorer for Bear Bump, and she teaches Pickle how to somersault.

The relationships in this book are basically about people making compromises. Sub-titled Pickle and Bree’s Guide to Good Deeds, the story reminds young readers that although people (and bears) are different, it is possible, by working hard, to find solutions when there is some kind of incompatibility. At the back of The Birthday Party Cake the author has included a list of ways in which children can settle differences with others – such as accepting others’ points of view and listening to what they have to say.

This is a lovely book with a bright and breezy text that gets its message across without seeming in the slightest didactic. The full-page illustrations with colourful backgrounds and delightful pictures set indoors -- sometimes featuring small break-out pictures (such as Bree somersaulting and the bears tummy-bumping) -- are joyful and full of fun. All in all, this is a delightful book for parents to share with their young children.

Life is Like the Wind

Life is Like the Wind by Shona Innes, illustrated by Irisz Agocs (Five Mile Press)

HC RRP $14.95

ISBN 9781760060558

Reviewed by Anastasia Gonis

‘Life is like the wind. When life goes, the body is very still’.

Coming to terms with, or understanding death is so difficult for children, and at times for many adults too. This simple, emotive, deconstructive approach to death, loss and grief, explains what happens when something or someone dies. It discusses various beliefs about where people go after death, and how a part of that person or thing remains alive in people’s memories.

In this second book in the Big Hug series by Clinical and Forensic Psychologist Shona Innes, feelings are addressed. What can be done to make loss feel less painful and how does one cope, regardless of age?

All the ideas and suggestions in these books encourage conversation and questions, and in discussing feelings, reasons and beliefs, a way of accepting death as part of life can be found.  

These exciting new and extremely well produced books are very well priced for a hardcover, and the superb watercolour paintings enhance the messages carried in the text. There is also a note to parents and teachers at the end of each book.

   

Friendship is Like a Seesaw

Friendship is Like a Seesaw by Shona Innes, illustrated by Irisz Agocs (Five Mile Press)

HC RRP $ 14.95

ISBN 9781760060565

Reviewed By Anastasia Gonis

The stunning watercolour paintings by Hungarian illustrator, Irisz Agocs have brought Shona Innes’ exciting series of Big Hug books to life and imbued her words with a subtle, meaningful glow. This first one is released simultaneously with the second, Life is Like the Wind, with two more titles due mid-year.

Sensitive and sincere, soothing and gentle, it addresses the theme of friendship and its challenges, changes, and ups and downs.  The analogy of friendship being like a seesaw is perfect. It talks about rules in friendship, taking turns and sharing, balancing everything out, and doing nice things for each other.

The most impressive thing about this book is that it’s not directly aimed only at children. Adults and older people will also welcome this series of intelligently crafted books which ‘grew out of letters sent to children and their families after their psychology sessions’.

Shona Innes is a Clinical and Forensic and Psychologist who has patients of all ages and whose books ‘aim to give children and the people who care for them, a way to talk about problems’. And that sums it all up. 

A New Friend for Marmalade

A New Friend for Marmalade by Alison Reynolds, illustrated by Heath McKenzie (Five Mile Press)
HC RRP $ 14.95
ISBN 9781743466599
Reviewed by Anastasia Gonis

After the extraordinary success of A Year with Marmalade, another new adventure is here with Marmalade the cat, and best friends Ella and Maddy, carrying themes of friendship and tolerance.

The girls decide to build a cubby house while Marmalade keeps an eye on their activities. Toby from across the road scooters over and their pink cloth is swept off its stick poles. They try again. This time they build an elaborate sandcastle city. But here comes the disruptive Toby again.

It seems that catastrophe follows where ever Toby goes, for that’s not the end of it. The incident with the tap follows, which scares Marmalade into a tree. How will they ever get him down?

Toby shows that he has good ideas and proves to be very resourceful. After finding the ideal solution to getting Marmalade down, Ella, Maddy and Marmalade discover that new friends are found when you least expect it.

The illustrations by Heath McKenzie are delightful. His impressive style of minimal colour to the pictures is very effective. It allows the characters individuality and expression, while accentuating the main features of the story.

Christmas at Grandad’s Farm

Christmas at Grandad’s Farm by Claire Saxby, illustrated by Janine Dawson (Five Mile Press)
HC RRP 16.95
ISBN 9781743463789
Reviewed by Anastasia Gonis

The popular and talented Claire Saxby has produced a magnificent picture book in verse format. Christmas at Grandad’s Farm is a warm, fun-loving depiction of family unity and holiday enjoyment. Using the Jingle Bells theme, her own Christmas song depicts a typical Aussie family barbeque, and the freedom of outdoor fun and games; swimming in the creek, too much food, over-eating, and the company of family - young and old.

Dust clouds, leaping kangaroos, tree-lined roads running besides farmhouses, travelling in an old ute through the countryside and our good old Aussie language all add flavour to the carefree scenes.

Barbeques in the country are nothing without barking dogs, kids shouting, a game of cricket, clothes strewn everywhere, and that last wonderful event of the day when all the children are in bed.

Then it’s all around the Christmas tree, presents, wrapping paper everywhere, hugs and kisses, sharing, and a house filled with love. Then it is home again in the old ute.

Congratulations to Janine Dawson on the amazing translation of the text in watercolour and pen. She’s brought words to life with her insight and talent. This book is ideal for promoting Australian country life and would do well in all areas of tourism and promotion.

The Littlest Bushranger

The Littlest Bushranger by Alison Reynolds, illustrated by Heath McKenzie (The Five Mile Press)

HB RRP $14.95

ISBN 9781743464977

Reviewed by Vicki Stanton

The Littlest Bushranger is a glorious celebration of imagination. Jack is left to his own devices when his sister Lil starts school. Lil leaves him her telescope to look after and when it is snatched from him by a ‘dark shape’, Jack’s run-of-the-mill backyard becomes a rapidly changing landscape of deserts, swamps and rainforests inhabited by giant snakes and bunyips. He rides after the ‘Outlaw’ on his trusty white steed, sword in hand. The rescue is completed just in time for Lil’s arrival home from school.

Heath McKenzie’s fun and colourful illustrations bring to life Alison Reynolds’ text as Jack’s rollicking adventure unfolds. The scene is set perfectly with the initial illustrations including the normal paraphernalia of an Australian backyard: hoses, bikes, sandpits, brooms and paddling pools. These, and his imagination, provide all that Jack needs to fulfil his adventure.

I am a sucker for a beautiful book and this falls into that category. Hardback and with fully illustrated endpapers and high quality paper, this books makes a perfect gift or is one to remain a treasured item on the book shelf for years to come. And at $14.95, it is quite a steal.