Song Bird: Drought Rescue (Book 5)

 

Song Bird: Drought Rescue (Book 5) by Karen Tyrrell (Digital Future Press) PB RRP $16.95 ISBN 9780648161769

Reviewed by Kylie Buckley

During her school holidays, Rosie, aka Song Bird Superhero, visits her aunty and uncle on their drought-stricken sheep station, determined to help in some way. When Rosie arrives at the farm with her two besties, Ben and Amy, they realise the situation is far worse than expected. The sheep are starving, the waterhole is barren, the rain tanks are empty and the underground water supply is non-existent. They soon discover that not all of the devastation has occurred naturally, but a criminal force is also at play. The iniquitous Destructo has been causing havoc wherever he goes and leaving his trademark skull and crossbones symbol to taunt the community. No one knows why. It is clear however, that he doesn’t want Rosie and her friends interfering. Thanks to her superpowers, activated by song, she is able to fly and avert some of the catastrophes he has planned, but can she help when her aunty is held captive and they learn what Destructo really wants?

Song Bird: Drought Rescue is the fifth book in the Song Bird series of fantasy fiction. It is suitable for readers 7-10 years old and would appeal to those who enjoy hero and villain stories. Its themes include: drought, Australian landmarks, family, friendship and good vs evil. Teacher notes and children’s activities can be found on the author’s website (karentyrrell.com).

Song Bird – Great Barrier Reef Rescue

Song Bird – Great Barrier Reef Rescue by Karen Tyrrell

(Digital Future Press) RRP $14:95     ISBN: 9780648161745

Reviewed by Jeffery E Doherty

Something bad is happening on Green Turtle Island. Marine creatures are dying, and Rosie’s aka Song Bird superhero’s friends are disappearing. Can Song Bird find her friends and rescue the Great Barrier Reef before it is too late?

After winning a free vacation; Rosie, her parents, sister Raven and friends Ben and Amy fly to Green Turtle Island. Unfortunately, someone has sabotaged their helicopter and Rosie must use her Song Bird superpowers to save them. That is the first clue that something is wrong. A resort with no other guests, cancelled activities, missing turtles and tropical fish washing up on the beach make it clear that her nemesis, Destructo is up to his old tricks again.

Rosie and her friends must travel through a time portal to a magical aquatic land to find a way to save the reef in her own time. To foil Destructo’s evil plot, Song Bird must overcome her fears, face mechanical sharks and discover which of her friends is betraying her.  

This is a book for young readers who love a strong female hero. It is a fantastical adventure into an underwater wonderland. The story highlights the current plight of the Great Barrier Reef, one of our wonders of the natural world.  It is fast paced, and the characters are diverse and interesting. An appendix at the back of the book has some thought-provoking information and links to sites about the Great Barrier Reef.

This is the fourth book in the Song Bird series but it can be read as a stand-alone novel. I would recommend this book to 8-12-year-old readers.

Song Bird: Rainforest Rescue (Book 3)

Song Bird: Rainforest Rescue (Book 3) by Karen Tyrrell, illustrated by Trevor Salter (Digital Future Press) PB RRP $14.99 ISBN: 9780648161721

Reviewed by Nikki M Heath

In this third Song Bird series installment, Rosie’s year 6 rainforest camp starts with a near-disaster before the class even arrives at its destination, and the situation only worsens from there. The rainforest park is facing ecological disaster from an unidentified threat, students are going missing, and Rosie’s mysterious nemesis Destructo is lurking. Rosie is charged with using her singing superhero powers, and the help of her smart sidekick Amy, to save the rainforest, her friends and her family.

The story is fast-paced and focused on themes of friendship, cooperative problem solving, and environmental and cultural consciousness. While promoted as a STEM curriculum tie-in, it is much stronger in exploring traditional indigenous stories and other Australian folklore, with bunyips, yowies and other mythological creatures integrated as fantastical elements into the narrative. Tyrrell acknowledges consulting with Aboriginal elder Uncle Barry Watson as a cultural advisor in writing the book, and this is evident in the text. `

There are regular engaging twists (such as time travel and talking trees), and while at times these events distract from the narrative arc, there is no shortage of action. Tyrrell has developed strong yet flawed characters to whom readers will be able to relate, and there are several passages of evocative description which build a powerful setting. The book includes a single line-drawing, which supports a complex image at a crucial point in the story. It’s a shame that typological errors were missed in proof-reading.

Rainforest Rescue is a page-turner that will appeal to 7-10-year olds, particularly superhero fans. There are occasional slips from Rosie’s point of view, and I query the sensitivity of one subplot which involves the magical but temporary cure of Amy’s disability. Nevertheless, it is an entertaining story which encourages readers to contemplate both the environment and indigenous culture. Teacher notes and reader activities are to be made available on the author’s website (karentyrrell.com).

Ready. Set. Discover Logan

Ready. Set. Discover Logan by Karen Tyrrell, Illustrated by Aaron Pocock (Digital Future Press) PB RRP $18

ISBN 9780994302199

Reviewed by Wendy Haynes

Follow Yana as she discovers The City of Logan. This is a light-hearted picture book telling the story of Yana who has moved from her country and surrounding she knows so well, to a new country, Australia. Yana feels alone, everything is different, but with the help of Bunji, a local Indigenous boy Yana is taken on a tour of discovery. This tour highlights the many meeting places in The City of Logan, South of Queensland, bringing with it a better understanding of the rich Nature Reserves and cultural experiences available within the community. 

The essence of this book is about community, and the underlying message is one of friendship, acceptance, and merging of cultures. This story is aligned with Harmony Day, sponsored by The Logan City Council and winner of Art Queensland Grant.

It also recognises the First People of Australia and invites readers, particularly newcomers, to discover a new land, a new home, to enable them the feeling of belonging. Among other places, Yana explores Logan City Library, Riverdale Park, and Chung Tian Temple.

 Karen Tyrrell has created an avenue to help children adjust to what can be a difficult time, while Aaron Pocock has enhanced the story with a palette of inviting colours and delightful illustrations that would suit 6 – 8 year olds.

Song Bird: The Battle of Bug World (Book 2)

Song Bird: The Battle of Bug World (Book 2) by Karen Tyrrell (Digital Future Press) PB RRP $14.95   ISBN 9780994302182

Reviewed by Kylie Buckley

Weird things were happening around town. Not only had the bees disappeared, but there were storms like never before, a black tornado over the next-door neighbour’s house, a giant sink hole in the main street and, to top it off, Rosie’s sister Raven had gone missing!

Rosie is convinced that Frank, the bully next door, has something to do with the strange events and she is determined to get to the bottom of it. Rosie Bird is a school girl who can transform herself into Song Bird Superhero using her voice to fuel her superpowers. Rosie’s teacher and mentor, Miss Darling (aka Wonder Girl), convinces Rosie to go to the Bug World theme park to look for her sister - ‘Be Brave. Be Song Bird.’

Rosie decides to take on the challenge and asks her two best friends for help. With Amy and Ben by her side, Rosie sets out on a mission to find her sister and seek some answers. But, of course, it’s not that easy. Firstly, Rosie’s voice is croaky and sore, hindering her superpowers. Secondly, Frank appears at Bug World and Rosie starts believing he is somehow able to block her superpowers. What is Frank capable of? Can the trio save Raven? Can they stop the weird climate changes?

Song Bird: The Battle of Bug World is the second book in the Song Bird series of fantasy chapter books. Karen dedicates this book to ‘all those who deeply care about the Earth and the Environment’. In addition to highlighting environmental issues, this book contains themes of friendship, teamwork and diversity. It is suitable for children 7-10 years old who enjoy hero and villain stories. Teacher notes and children’s activities can be found on the author’s website (karentyrrell.com). Song Bird (Book 3) is due for release in 2018.

Song Bird Superhero

Song Bird Superhero by Karen Tyrrell (Digital Future Press)

PB RRP $14.95

ISBN 9780994302137

Reviewed by Kate Simpson

In a world where Supergirl and Wonder Woman are real, Rosella “Rosie” Bird dreams of being able to fly. And she’s not short of ideas that might help her to achieve her goal. Unfortunately, a series of dangerous engineering failures has left her parents less than supportive and with her neighbour Frank contriving to make her life miserable, Rosie feels attacked on all fronts. Only her love of singing sustains her – and that is where the fun begins. With the help of a supportive teacher, Rosie discovers that her voice is the key that will finally let her take flight.

In Song Bird Superhero, Karen Tyrrell tackles again the subject of bullying that she has explored in previous books. Children aged 7-10 will relate to Rosie and her struggle with school bully Frank Furter, who is also her neighbour. Through the book, Tyrrell allows her protagonist Rosie to solve her own problems while also demonstrating to her readers the importance of having a trusted adult to confide in – in this case, teacher Miss Darling.

Although Tyrrell promotes her book as being aligned with STEM science, it is much more science fiction than science fact. Nevertheless, Rosie’s enthusiasm for science and invention is certainly infectious and who knows how many young readers will have new engineering aspirations after reading this book?

Jo-Kin vs Lord Terra

Jo-Kin vs Lord Terra by Karen Tyrrell (Digital Future Press) PB RRP $14.95                                                                                                           ISBN 978-0-994-30213-7

Reviewed by Elizabeth Vercoe

The second book in the Super Space Kids series sees reluctant hero and erstwhile Super Space Kid Josh (aka Jo-Kin), called upon to step up and save not only his Commander’s younger sister and other Super Space Kids, but the whole of planet Earth. It’s a bit of a bummer though because it’s only recently that Josh has FINALLY been seen as a cool kid at school, and he doesn’t want to leave for outer space. The timing’s pretty terrible for a face-off with the evil Lord Terra and his stinking sidekick, Prince Poison…

This inter-galactic romp has everything: tough choices, talking cars that fly, heroic boys and girls, kidnapping, battles with formidable foes and dissention among internal ranks. There’s action-a-pace, annoying siblings, dodgy friends, heart-stopping adolescent moments of infatuation and, of course, planets made entirely of food.

Jo-Kin vs Lord Terra contains a smattering of many issues that will be familiar to its 7-12 year old readership, touching on ideas of doing the right thing, standing your ground, teamwork, friendship, problem solving and resilience. There’s a lovely light, humorous touch throughout and although one or two rogue words have escaped the editorial process, overall it’s a happening and pacy read (although I have to personally admit finding it hard to get into – middle-aged woman that I am!). With enough computer game terminology to engage both boys and girls, it’s also appropriate for reluctant readers. 

Jo-Kin Battles the It

Jo-Kin Battles the It by Karen Tyrrell, illustrated by Trevor Salter

PB RRP $14.95

ISBN 9780994302106

Reviewed by Ashling Kwok

Blast off on an exciting adventure with Josh Atkins (aka Jo-Kin) and his trusty sidekick, nerdy Sam Jones (Sam-Wich). The adventure begins when the fearless duo win the Super Space Kid contest and set off on a mission to save the galaxy from a deadly alien called the IT.

The battle is on when the IT kidnaps Captain Astra and Jo and Sam must find a way to save the galaxy before it’s too late.  Along the way, they must survive entry challenges, successfully master high tech gadgets and battle creatures trying to destroy them.

This excellent book is perfect for middle grade readers aged 7 to 10 years. The storyline is creative and will hold the read’s attention from the moment they pick up the book. The characters are well-developed and likeable. Readers will relate to them and enjoy going on this journey with them. 

Jo-Kin Battles the It is the latest release from award-winning resilience author-teacher Karen Tyrrell. Over the years Karen has released a number of empowering books dealing with issues that affect us all.

This book embodies many of the elements required to produce a great story but it also deals with important topics such as resilience, team building, bullying, self-esteem and friendship.

The cover of the book is graphically enticing as it is brightly coloured and features interesting images that will appeal to young readers. The illustrations inside the book add a nice touch and break up the text.

This is a brilliant book and is definitely worth a read. It is action-packed and humorous, and will leave the reader wanting more.

Harry Helps Grandpa Remember

Harry Helps Grandpa Remember written by Karen Tyrrell, illustrated by Aaron Pocock (Digital Future Press)

PB RRP $15.95

ISBN 978-0-98727-408-3 

Reviewed by Peta Biggin

Harry and Grandpa love to play hid-and-seek together.  However, Harry starts to notice changes in Grandpa.  He’s become grumpy, confused and forgetful – even forgetting Harry’s name.  Harry is hurt and sad but decides that he will do whatever he can to help Grandpa remember the things he’s forgotten.

Harry Helps Grandpa Remember is the latest book by Australian author Karen Tyrrell.  It is an uplifting story about the important, supportive role family can play in the lives of those suffering from Dementia.

Harry is hurt and distressed at the decline of his grandpa, feeling the loss of a friend and playmate.  However, rather than withdraw from the relationship, Harry comes up with lots of wonderful ways he can both reconnect with his grandpa and help him to reclaim his lost memories.

Harry Helps Grandpa Remember tackles a confronting topic in a positive and encouraging way.  The focus is always on what can be gained and enjoyed from such a difficult situation; activities that can easily be undertaken by most children to ensure a continued participation in their relative’s life. 

It is the little things that we sometimes take for granted – a walk through familiar surroundings, a song – that are presented here as the important tasks anyone can enjoy with a relative suffering from Dementia.  In doing these, we see Harry not only bring something back to his grandpa but also take the first steps in adjusting to what will be a constantly changing relationship. This is a very hopeful book, however there is no unrealistic happily-ever-after on offer.  Grandpa does not recover; however, his recollection of Harry’s name is celebrated as the blessing it is.

Aaron Pocock’s illustrations are fun and energetic.  With lots of colour and detail, they are a beautiful accompaniment – reflecting the optimism and positivity of the story.

Karen Tyrrell is an Australian author of both adult and children’s books.  Her books for adults include Me and Her: A Memoir of Madness and Me and Him: A Guide to Recovery about her own battles with mental illness.  Her children’s books include Bailey Beats the Blah (a coping skills picture book) and STOP the Bully (a bully prevention mid-grade novel).  She can be found online at http://www.karentyrrell.com/.

Aaron Pocock is an English artist/illustrator who is based in Brisbane.  He illustrates children’s books, book cover, CD sleeves and almost anything else.  He also works in a find art capacity producing watercolour, acrylic and oil paintings.  In 2011 he was chosen to illustrate the Australia Post stamp set ‘Mythical Creatures’ (for Children’s Book Week).  He can be found online at http://aaronpocock.weebly.com/. 

STOP the Bully

STOP the Bully by Karen Tyrrell (Digital Future Press)

PB RRP PBL $13.95, e-Book $2.99

ISBN 97809872740

Reviewed by Dianne Bates

First day at a new school with his younger sister Tara is an unmitigated disaster for eleven year old Brian. For a start, this self proclaimed geek, a stammerer with curly red hair and wearing second-hand clothes, is made to sit alongside a girl (also a geek). Within moments Brian is bullied by a boy he describes as having ‘massive shoulders’ and ‘an enormous body… like an ape.’ As a result water spills on Brian’s shorts and they need to be changed – another embarrassment. His new teacher, Miss Bliss, is in her first year of teaching and has no control of the class. On this first new day Brian’s bag goes missing, his cap is thrown into a toilet and he’s made to stand up in assembly. After school the bully trips him up on the bus and he loses his house key.

Brian’s life is certainly falling apart. To add to his woes, Dad has abandoned his family. Naturally the boy hates his new school with the bully, Cody Fletcher, attacking him every day, and one day his sister, too. Even Brian’s home is a wreck – and an anonymous caller keeps phoning. Brian wants to go into the school’s Super Race, but he doesn’t have runners and his school shoes are falling apart. Mum won’t sign the permission note to race, either. The only positives in Brian’s life are two classmates – Peter and the geek girl Amelia -- both of whom help him with strategies to overcome the bullying.

There are many issues raised in STOP the Bully: as well as those already mentioned there is poverty, self-esteem, friendship, coping with change, and eventually forgiveness and reconciliation. Towards the end of the book there are several unexpected twists and the story ends happily for Brian, especially when Dad makes a surprise appearance.

Often children’s novels are written about bullying and this one suggests preventative strategies that could possibly help. Five percent of sales of STOP the Bully go to Kids Helpline to help Kids in Crisis. Free teacher Notes and free kids’ activities are also available from www.karentyrrell.com. The author Karen Tyrrell presents interactive story telling sessions, creative writing workshops, seminars and author talks in schools, libraries, festivals and conferences. She speaks out about bullying on TV, radio and writes for magazines.