Deadly Waters

Deadly Waters by Helen Chapman (Omnibus Books, Scholastic) PB RRP $17.99 ISBN: 9781743835104

Reviewed by Kellie Nissen

Growing up in New South Wales, Clifford ‘Digger’ Hopping had his sights set on playing cricket for Australia. Priorities change as you grow older, however, and with rumblings from Europe, Cliff signs up to train with the Royal Australian Navy.

Then, the telegram arrives and before he knows it, Cliff finds himself at sea, being fired upon by enemy ships and aircraft, all while trying to keep his fellow Australians, allies, and himself, safe.

That’s the abridged version of Deadly Waters by Helen Chapman. But, this summary barely scratches the surface as Chapman takes readers, with Digger, into the heart of the Second World War and all the action, excitement and devastation in a way I personally have not experienced before.

Part of Scholastic’s Australia’s Second World War series, Deadly Waters becomes extra special, and poignant, when we realise that the character, Cliff, is actually Helen Chapman’s father, and that the story we’re reading was told to Chapman by her father, who completed active service as a young seaman for the Royal Australian Navy during World War II.

Nobody without the same lived experience can possibly know what it is like to be at sea for months on end, without seeing your family – save for the occasional, often censored, letter. None of us could know the raw fear of wondering if you’ll survive the next submarine attack or raid from a Japanese kamikaze aircraft. And no-one can understand the joy of reuniting with loved ones after months of wondering if you’ll ever see them again. However, Helen Chapman brings her readers as close as possible to these emotions and experiences.

Deadly Waters does not glorify war in any way; instead, it’s honest and raw and heartfelt storytelling at its very best.

The backmatter, which includes maps, a historical timeline and links to virtual experiences related to the story, is a wonderful supplement to the first person narrative. In addition, Helen Chapman’s website contains additional teaching resources from Scholastic, photos of her father and family, and images of news clippings and other relevant materials, all working to deepen the story and enhance connection and understanding.

Written for children aged 9–12 (Years 4, 5 and 6), Deadly Waters is a perfect addition to the Australian Curriculum: History, giving readers an up-close understanding of Australia’s part in the Second World War from the inside perspective. I would also suggest the story is an excellent read for adolescents and adults alike who want to gain a greater, more personal, insight into historical events such as these.

Leonardo Forever

Leonardo Forever by Richard Yaxley (Omnibus books, an imprint of Scholastic Australia, 2023). PB RRP $17.99. e-Book RRP $10.96. ISBN 9781761203258

Reviewed by Debra Williams

The enigmatic Leonardo Da Vinci continues to fascinate so many, with his brilliant, inquiring mind, artwork, and designs. He was a larger-than-life figure.

This is a tale which involves not just Leonardo, but his friend Dante, and notably, 14-year-old Annalisa de Torriano, who travels from Florence with her family to live at a new estate purchased by her influential father in the countryside village of Vinci. Anna hates the thought of leaving her hometown, and the short dalliance she was hoping to continue with a boy named Matteo. She is creative, imaginative, and artistic, and feels that she will be stifled in the countryside. It is easy to imagine a typical 14-year-old girl pouting, defying her father and wishing to rebel, even as far back as 1465.

Anna finds, however, that she is enamoured by the countryside, and even more so by the company of two boys: Leonardo and his friend Dante Bellomo. She begins to embrace the new life and friendship, matching wits with Leonardo, and realises she has a crush on him. Could it be love? After all, he is only 13. The three friends spend long hours together. When Anna’s parents decide she is a suitable age to be married off, to, of all people, Matteo (whom she has long forgotten), she is furious. The daughters have no rights and no say in their futures: the father’s wishes are supreme, and the oldest boy is the inheritor of all the family’s wealth in that society.

When her father says they will return to Vinci for a short time, Anna determines to go back to Leonardo, and declare her love. However, she isn’t prepared for the dramatic and tragic twist in the tale. What is her destiny?

Author Richard Yaxley has written an intriguing fictional work based on historical information. This is a story for the YA group, 11-14+ years.

Deadly Waters

Helen Chapman’s latest release is the historical narrative fiction Deadly Waters (Australia's Second World War). This action-packed read is sure to attract students who like a tale of adventure and drama sprinkled with humour. The storyline is based on factual accounts from the life of her father, Cliff Hopping - a young seaman in the navy.

Discover how the Australian navy played a powerful part in the war, a part that has been largely ignored in children’s books until now.

Readers will be surprised to learn that during this time German ships laid mines along our eastern coast and that both German and Japanese ships and submarines attacked ships and ports in Australia. Through Cliff’s eyes, readers will also gain insight as to life aboard the destroyer ‘HMAS Australia’ when it became the first ship in history to be targeted by a Japanese suicide bomber!

Publisher: Omnibus Books

Format: Paperback

Type: Novel

ISBN: 9781743835104

Age Level: 9+

Everything We Keep

Everything We Keep by Di Walker (Omnibus Books) PB RRP $18.99 ISBN 9781760972349

Reviewed by Dianne Bates

Thirteen-year-old Agatha has a happy home life until a tragedy slowly but dramatically changes her parents. Since then, Agatha has been in and out of foster care, but her latest new life is with Katherine, her husband Lawson (at sea for most of the book), and their dog Chief. This life has proved to be safe, and happy as Katherine is calm and attuned to routine, both of which Agatha wants and needs. However, as has happened too many times, Agatha is returned to her parents, to the home she hates, mostly because of her parents’ hoarding. Agatha has a pathological need for order, so when her social worker Nell insists that she return to her parents and her home (which has been somewhat tidied by strangers and neighbours for her return), she is so distressed she runs away, taking her bright orange suitcase which plays a key part in her life. It’s a long way to Katherine’s place, involving a bus and two train trips. However, Katherine is not home nor answering her phone, so Agatha needs to rely on strangers.

This is the start of a novel which, overall, is a satisfying read, full of complex problems, but ultimately imbued with hope. Gentle and compassionate, Everything We Keep is well-written as it explores themes of interest to young readers – family, belonging, anxiety, mental health, and friendship. Some people who come into Agatha’s life – particularly her new friend Tully’s mother Celeste -- cause her more problems, but once she overcomes her school-phobia, with kind adult help, she slowly begins to make friends and to see a future for herself.

Everything, however, is not smooth sailing, and Agatha is ultimately called on to learn to trust, especially adults who have often let her down. By the book’s end, her relationship with her grieving and mentally ill parents and what has caused their fractured life is somewhat resolved, and she has overcome her jealousy of Katherine’s relationship with Lawson who is finally home on shore leave. In fact, Agatha has so many problems with relationships it might prove confronting for some young readers who know little of fostering and mental illness. However, the author manages to write intelligently and wisely so that by book’s end all problems are satisfactorily solved.

It is a shame this moving novel is spoilt so often with typographical errors and with shifts in tense. Overall, though, it recommended for readers aged nine years and over.

Vernon the Penguin

Vernon the Penguin by Natashia Curtin (Omnibus Books) HB RRP $17.99 ISBN 9781743836972

Reviewed by Sandi Wooton

‘I wish I could fly like all the other birds, twirling and curling, swooshing and swirling in the wild west wind.’

Everyone knows that penguins can’t fly. But Vernon the penguin refuses to listen. Ever since he hatched from the egg, he has wanted to fly. So, he’s determined to find a way.

This amusing picture book from debut author/illustrator Natashia Curtin will have children (and adults) laughing out loud at Vernon’s crazy stunts as he tries to find a way to take flight.

After each failed attempt, Vernon’s family and friends rally behind him, reminding him that penguins can’t fly, encouraging him to put aside his un-penguin-like ambition, to focus on something else.  But Vernon refuses to give up. With stubborn determination, and a little help from the wise old penguin, Vernon finally discovers how to solve his problem in a most unexpected way!

A penguin’s world can be an icy and dismal world. But here we are focussing on the penguins’ activities which are cleverly portrayed throughout this story. Natashia Curtin’s illustrations are delightful and perfectly enhance the text. The snow-white background works extremely well, contrasting with the characters in the book.

 I was pleasantly surprised to discover a range of different expressions on the penguin’s faces. I also felt particularly amused by the creative and comical flying contraptions Vernon utilised to help him in his unsuccessful efforts to fly. Natashia Curtin skilfully draws us into the story, keeping us interested until the very last page.

This picture book is suitable for children aged 3 years plus.

We Are All Kind

We Are All Kind by P. Crumble, illustrated by Jonathan Bentley (Omnibus Books) HB RRP $19.99 ISBN 9781760972363

Reviewed by Nikki M Heath

This follow-up to 2018’s We Are All Equal shows its young audience the many ways to be kind, using rhyming couplets illustrated by charming animal scenes. Kindness is approached in a creative and expansive way, inviting the reader to broaden their own sense of what it means to be kind. Alongside friendliness, helpfulness and sharing, for example, We Are All Kind covers inclusion, forgiveness, and hospitality.

For those most familiar with P Crumble’s work through Kevin the custard-obsessed cat, this book will probably be a surprise. We Are All Kind is sweet and sincere, with none of the sarcastic humour and thematic subtlety of the Cat books. That said, one spread packs a punch, starkly criticising humanity’s destruction of the environment in pursuit of wealth and influence. 

The illustrations are captivating and carry the book through some spreads where the text feels forced to achieve the rhyme. From heart-warming expressions of pure love and joy to a heartbreaking portrayal of a hungry donkey, the drawings by themselves are enough to keep a reader returning to the pages.

Toddlers, pre-schoolers, and children in the early school years will adore this reassuring, calm and gorgeous book. Parents and teachers will find a wealth of ideas to explore using the text as a springboard. Be prepared to read aloud on repeat.

Beyond Belief

Beyond Belief by Dee White, (Omnibus Books), 2020, RRP $17.99 pb

      ISBN: 9781760662516

Reviewed by Pauline Hosking

Dee White’s book was inspired by the way Muslims in Paris saved the lives of many Jewish children during World War II. This unusual and generally unrecognised true story makes Beyond Belief a valuable addition to middle grade books dealing with this period. It’s also a rattling good adventure full of suspense, with easily likeable characters and a strong evocation of place.

When France is invaded, eleven-year-old Ruben’s parents take him to the Grand Mosque in Paris. They are going to find his sister who has disappeared somewhere in the south of France. Rubin must wait, pretending to be a Muslim, until the legendary Fox appears to take him to Spain where he will be united with his family.

Unfortunately, the Mosque is not safe. It is frequently visited and searched by Nazis.  Rubin escapes with two other Jewish children, Hana and her little brother Momo. Aided by the Resistance, they have several hair-raising adventures. Finally, the three reach a farmhouse in the French countryside, far away from Spain. There, by a set of surprising circumstances, he meets his sister and learns the Fox’s identity.

Rubin emerges as a gentle, kind-hearted boy who struggles to stay brave. Faced with danger, he remembers his mother’s advice: ‘You must be strong like the cedars’.

The details of life in the mosque are fascinating and informative. Jewish and Muslim faiths have many similarities (and differences) which could spark interesting classroom discussions. 

Dee White wanted ‘to write a story about kindness, humanity and hope amidst the horror of war.’ Beyond Belief is certainly that. As such it is a useful text for our time. Highly recommended.

Pig in a Wig

Pig in a Wig by Chrissie Krebs (Omnibus Books) HB RRP $16.99 ISBN 9781742762654

Reviewed by Brook Tayla

This is a delightfully funny story of a pig that finds a wig, and although he is very smitten with himself and his new look, it actually sets him up for lots of trouble and danger as the other farmyard animals do not recognise him.

Chrissie Krebs has created a fun-filled adventure that children will enjoy reading over and over again.

The text is composed of well-written rhyming couplets, in comedic but mature language that will surely engage children.  Her illustrations are hilarious - enriching the whole story with a cast of interesting and expressive characters …and the end-papers are imaginative and adorable.

Well done to the talented author-illustrator Chrissie Krebs.

P.S. Looking forward to seeing her version of The Cat in the Hat. (You’ll need to read the book to see what I’m talking about!)

Brook Tayla writes a picture book review blog at telltalestome@wordpress.com and would love you to drop by, read some reviews, leave a comment and subscribe.  Brook also offers editing services for beginning and emerging writers.

Black Sunday

Black Sunday by Evan McHugh (Omnibus Books) PB RRP $16.99

ISBN 978-1-74362-799-0

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

When Nipper is asked by his teacher to keep a diary he thinks it is a waste of time. But what emerges over the period during which he records his life is an evocative (fictional) account of the twelve month period between June 1937 and 1938 as Australia emerges from the Depression and thunderclouds of World War II appear on the horizon.

Nipper has no intention of continuing school after he turns thirteen. All he wants to do is follow in his Grandpa Jack’s footsteps and become a life saver. Living in Bondi and secretly training to achieve his goal, the beach and ocean are his whole world.

Gradually, over the year, he begins to understand more about Grandpa Jack, about himself and about the world around him. And then one hot Sunday in 1938, a day which was to become the infamous Black Sunday, he gains insight into the nature of true heroism and whether he has it inside of him.

When a novel is written in diary form you get to be right inside the head of the main character. While this gives an immediate intimacy, you also need to feel a connection or empathy with them for it to work and hold interest. Black Sunday did this incredibly well. Nipper was real for me, even though he grew up in a world very different to me.

And this world rang true. The language, attitudes and way of life were all authentic to the setting of Australia and Bondi of the early 1930s. Other characters in the book came to life too. Nipper’s family, particularly Grandpa Jack, Nipper’s childhood friend Damo and his new friend Rachel (from a Jewish family who newly immigrated from Germany), teacher Mrs Kearsley and Arthur, an elusive aboriginal man who the three children try to befriend.

The writing was in keeping with Nipper’s voice and contained wonderful descriptions of the sea, Nipper’s greatest interest.

‘The surf today was all confused. It was a bi grey and windy, and the waves were coming from about three different directions at once, all choppy and changey.’

Some days, the surf or the weather were all that Nipper wrote about in his diary, other days there were small or larger events for him to record. I loved his descriptions of the promenading on the pier which families took part in on Sunday evenings in the summer.

Black Sunday is story about a normal boy going about his daily life in the 1930s, but in capturing a snippet of Nippers life, this book also captures a slice of Australian history (and not just the history of the live saving movement) in an evocative, readable and very accessible way.

This is a thoroughly entertaining book in the My Australian Story series which will be enjoyed by boys and girls alike from the age of ten years.

Born to Sing

Born to Sing by Sally Morgan, illustrated by Craig Smith (Omnibus Books)

PB RRP $12.99

ISBN 978-1-74299-151-1

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

The holidays are here again and during a family meeting Dad announces they will all be taking a special trip. He is taking the boys to Tasmania to see the penguins and Mum will take Maddie and Nan to Shark Bay to see the whales. Maddie is a little concerned when Mum says they are taking the ratty caravan, but nothing can spoil her excitement at the possibility of seeing whales. Maddie loves to sing and her favourite music is whale songs. She is super excited!

Born To Sing tells the story of the adventure Maddie has with her Mum and Nan as they make their ten-hour journey. It also shares the fun they have when they arrive, including an encounter with the huge and magnificent whales in Shark Bay.

A humorous and happy story, it is based around an indigenous family with a lovely bond and is set firmly in the Australian landscape and culture. Where else would you see an emu walking down the main street with no-one batting an eye?

Informative and entertaining, this is a great book for those just starting to extend their reading skills to chapter books. It is well written with easy to read sentences for younger readers. Lovely black and white illustrations break up the short chapters, filling the pages and enhancing the light, fun atmosphere of the story.

Trouble and the Missing Cat

Trouble and the Missing Cat by Cate Whittle, illustrated by Stephen Michael King (Omnibus Books) PB RRP $

ISBN 978-1-74299-077-4

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Georgia’s life has become more exciting since Trouble came into her life. After all, not every young girl gets to have a dragon for a playmate, or a taxi ride to school. But unfortunately Trouble manages to leave skid marks on the school oval, scorches in the playground and tends to frighten a few students (and teachers) as well. And when the principal bans Trouble from school, Georgia is the one who has to break the news to him.

What is he going to do with his days now? Will he be lonely? Maybe Georgia can convince Trouble to spend his spare hours looking for Mrs Jones’ missing cat Tibbles.

This is the second book about Trouble and his adopted family. It is a humorous and whimsical story just right for stretching emerging readers. The chapters are longer and more involved than beginner reader chapter books, but still simple enough for the younger readership.

Stephen Michael King’s recognisable illustration style graces the pages, breaking up the text and adding character to the people and animals in the story. The pictures also make for a less daunting prospect for the intended young readership transitioning into chapter books.

Trouble and the Missing Cat will appeal to both boys and girls wanting a funny, adventurous story with a hint of mystery. It is not essential to have read Trouble at Home, but the first book in this series tells the story of how Trouble came to live with Georgia and gives insight into the personality of the dragon and his adopted family.

Princess Parsley

Princess Parsley by Pamela Rushby (Omnibus Books)

PB RRP $16.99

ISBN 978-1-74299-161-0

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Parsley Patterson’s first year of high school is not turning out as she’d expected. Targeted by Danielle and her group of ‘mean girls’ who Parsley dubs The Blondes, she is picked on for her name, her hippie family and her Possum Creek address. But just as she decides to keep her head down and try to ignore it until it all blows over (or she finishes high school, whichever comes first!) her father’s announcement causes the spotlight to rest firmly on Parsley again.

Locked in a fight with the local council over the right to hold a market day, Parsley’s parents have decided to ‘drop out of the nation’ and form their own Principality of Possum Creek. This makes Parsley and her sisters Sage, Rosemary and Thyme, all princesses. If Princess Parsley is going to survive even the first year of high school she is going to need to form a strategy.

From the title, front cover and blurb I was expecting a cute story about fitting in at high school, but what I got was much more solid and thoughtful. The storyline often went in unexpected directions and the way in which Parsley tackled the bullying problem was novel.

The serious themes of bullying and politics are balanced with Parsley’s humour. She has a unique way of looking at the world and of approaching her problems. Her drama teacher harnesses this by encouraging her to try stand-up comedy as an outlet for her frustration and embarrassment.

Princess Parsley is an entertaining and engrossing read, with a dash of interesting political information thrown in as well. There is something fascinating about Principalities, how they work, and the reasons people have for forming them. The characters are fun - even the ‘mean girl’ Danielle is portrayed sympathetically and is not just a two dimensional foil for the heroine – and this is a well written tale which is hard to put down before reaching the satisfying ending.

The Dog Emergency

The Dog Emergency by Sally Morgan, illustrated by Craig Smith (Omnibus Books)

PB RRP $12.99

ISBN 978-1-74299-135-1

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

The Dog Emergency is a new title in a series based on indigenous characters. In this story brothers Dillon and Ryan help an injured dog and hope they can keep him. Unfortunately Mum is still upset over the recent death of their old dog Buster. She has said there will never be another dog; it’s too upsetting when they die.

But the boys are determined to find a way to keep him. Maybe if they can raise the money to pay for the dog’s surgery? This plan seems to be working until, just when they think they have enough money, the dog’s owner reads the lost dog signs and comes to the nursing station to claim him.

Authentic voices and interesting characters with a hint of mischief come through the text strongly, as does the outback, small Australian town setting.

Short, with uncomplicated words, humorous illustrations, an appealing layout and light but universal themes, this is a great chapter book for early readers from the age of 8 years old.

Trouble at Home

Trouble at Home by Cate Whittle, illustrated by Kim Gamble (Omnibus Books) PB RRP $9.99

ISBN 978-1-74299-076-7

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

When Georgia’s family home was stolen – with baby brother Godfrey inside – she saw it happen. But no-one believes that she witnessed a dragon swoop down and fly off with the house and Godfrey. So Georgia and her brother Henry go in search of the dragon, following the only clues they have -- sarsaparilla and potato chip crumbs. But even if they find the dragon, can he be persuaded to give up their house and brother?

This is a fun story about family unity and a troublesome dragon. While the family can make do without the house by cooking on the barbeque and sleeping in the garden shed or car, they do miss Godfrey. And Georgia’s teacher doesn’t believe she actually did her project (or that a dragon carried it off with the house) and Mum is very weepy (being constantly worried about Godfrey).

Georgia’s voice is fresh, young and very entertaining. She is a spunky girl, determined and full of bravado when she faces the dragon. The secondary characters are well rounded, too, especially Henry and the dragon. Dragon is a huge personality; he and Georgia play off each other delightfully.

‘Now what are we supposed to do?’ I said, feeling a bit crazy.

The dragon looked thoughtful.

‘I could make you a cup of tea,’ he suggested.

‘...But you just stole our house!’

‘The cave was getting a bit dull.’

‘Our house!’ I repeated.

The dragon shrugged, his big wings shuddering. ‘I always take what I want. I have to. What else can I do?’

‘You don’t even fit inside!’ I shouted, while Henry tugged my arm.

‘Georgia,’ he whispered, ‘you’re shouting at a dragon.’

Of course, he had missed the bit where I had – possibly- vanquished the dragon in the staring contest, because he had fainted.

Enhancing this text are the illustrations of Kim Gamble, who many will recognise from the hugely popular Tashi series. These pictures show not only the action, but also give clues to the emotions and motivations of the characters.

They also help to create an appealing chapter book which is a great tale for boys and girls seven and up. Trouble at Home is the start of a new series so there will be plenty more adventures with Georgia and Dragon to be enjoyed.

One Night

One Night by Penny Matthews, illustrated by Stephen Michael King (Omnibus Books)

HB RRP $24.99

ISBN 978-1-74299-027-9

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Every Christmas Eve in many farmyards, animals come together to remember a very special night a long, long time ago.

One Night is a beautiful Christmas story told from the point of view of the animals who helped, supported and gathered around the manger the night Jesus was born.

‘The horses gave up their stall for her,’ says an old draught horse. ‘They stood on guard outside the stable door.’

It is lovely and soft in both words and pictures, the water colour illustrations instantly recognisable in Stephen Michael King’s unique style. The pictures show the animals in their surrounds and echo the calm atmosphere of the text. Words tell the story in simple language, making it feel very intimate, as if the reader were standing behind the barn door listening to the animals. ‘And if you go into a farmyard on Christmas Eve, at that magical moment just before midnight, perhaps you will hear them talking.’

This is a beautiful, gentle Christmas story for the very young without a hint of the materialism which weaves its way into many of the Christmas stories now. Preschool children will respond to and easily engage with the animals and their special duties. One Night is a perfect picture book to add to the Christmas reading list.

Underneath a Cow

Underneath a Cow by Carol Ann Martin, illustrated by Ben Wood (Omnibus Books)

HB RRP $24.99

ISBN 978-1-74299-088-0

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

The animals on the farm are out and about far from their homes when a storm approaches. As big fat raindrops begin to fall, Lally the rabbit is the first to be invited by Madge the cow to shelter underneath her broad body. There is plenty of room at first, but as extra animals join, it gets more and more squishy. Will visitors keep arriving, or will the rain stop before it gets too crowded? And is Spike the hedgehog one animal too many?

Underneath a Cow is a delight to read. The names are wonderful and the banter between the animals is gorgeous. When mother hen’s chicks get excited they bounce about like crazy little dodgem cars. This annoys the dog.

‘Madam!’ Robinson snapped. ‘Do something about your children, please!’

‘They’re only playing,’ said Cackalina. ‘Don’t you ever play?’

‘Not in somebody’s ear. No,’ Robinson replied.

There is a lovely rhythm to the story, with an animal added to the crowd under the cow each page until the storm hits it heights. Here, the calm and brave Madge encourages them all to sing, to keep their fear away.

The personalities in the story are enhanced by the fabulous illustrations, the unflappable cow, the fearful rabbit and the silly chicks – including one little black one who looks like he’d be a handful. Inside the cover – both front and back – is an aerial picture of the farm showing what they were all doing before, and then after, the storm.

This is a really enjoyable and engaging picture book. Both the words and pictures are highly entertaining and it is a story which could be read many times over with pleasure.

The White Mouse – The Story of Nancy Wake

The White Mouse – The Story of Nancy Wake by Peter Gouldthorpe (Omnibus Books)

HB RRP $26.99

ISBN 978-1-74299-091-0

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Nancy Wake was a brave, resourceful and heroic woman. An Australian journalist, she played a large part in the French Resistance during World War II. Dubbed The White Mouse by the Gestapo, she played a large part in freeing imprisoned Allies and helped many of them, along with Jewish refugees, escape over the Pyrenees to freedom with little thought for her own safety. Even after she escaped Paris, she joined the secret Special Operations Executive in England, training with them until she was ready to parachute back into France to continue her work with the resistance.

This is not a picture book for younger readers, but is an enjoyable and accessible way for middle grade and lower high school aged children to learn about history and the resistance fighters in the war. Having the Australian connections makes it even more relevant for Australian students and the study of Australian women in World War II, which is part of the new history curriculum.

The appealing layout of the book includes a map, images of the war – some in colour and some as sepia postcards – and text, printed on yellowing notepaper - it looks as if it has been torn from a journalist’s notepad.

Sticking to facts, this story is full of fast paced action - parachuting behind enemy lines, blowing up bridges and smuggling refugees across borders.

Nancy Wake was a true heroine, becoming the most decorated Australian woman of World War II and this is a fabulous and engaging book about her exploits.

Magpie learns a Lesson

Magpie learns a Lesson by Sally Morgan & Ezekiel Kwaymullina, illustrated by Tania Erzinger (Omnibus Books)

HB RRP $24.99

ISBN 978-1-74299-059-0

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Magpie and Brown Falcon are friends. Brown Falcon loves Magpie's singing, but secretly Magpie is jealous of Brown Falcon's flying abilities. This jealousy makes Magpie so cross that he decides to play mean tricks on his friend. Brown Falcon puts up with these tricks for a while until Magpie goes too far.  How will Magpie feel when he loses his friend?

This is a simple story about jealousy and friendship, told with lovely Australian flavour. The illustrator, Tania Erzinger, has depicted the animals and bush of this country beautifully. The painted pages capture the browns, greens and blues of the Australian bush wonderfully.

The word count in this book makes it more suitable for primary aged children than pre-schoolers. The concepts also, of envy, teasing and loyalty, are well suited to those beginning to navigate the school playground.

Grandma, the Baby and Me

Grandma, the Baby and Me by Emma Allen, illustrated by Hannah Sommerville (Omnibus Books)

HB RRP $24.99
ISBN 978-1-86291-873-3
Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

The day the baby came home Grandma winked and said, ‘Here’s trouble.’

Henry is having trouble adjusting to having a new baby in the house. Things are not quite the same. Routines are altered, mum’s attention is divided and even his big sister is giving the baby all her focus and kisses. If only Grandma would come back and make things better.

This is a gentle story about the change in family dynamics when a new baby arrives and it is told with such skill and simplicity. ‘...and the baby yelled until bathtime. In the bath, I yelled too.’ And although Henry’s yell is a happy one, Mum tells Henry to stop splashing and cradles the baby.

The lovely and realistic relationships are portrayed well through the text and also beautifully through the expressive illustrations. There is so much in every picture. There is the family dog, appearing on most pages with his ball, just hoping someone will throw it for him, especially Henry who completely ignores him.

There is a dinosaur theme which runs strongly throughout the story, and my favourite page is one which I think every mother could relate to: At bedtime it rained, the baby screamed, and Mum cried, ‘Oh! The washing!’ The family are standing in the kitchen. Mum is holding the baby with the phone wedged between her shoulder and ear while clearing the dinner dishes. Henry is in his bath towel tugging on her shirt and Josie is trying to give her a cupcake. Dad is washing dishes looking forlornly at the rain and the dog is licking up spilt milk under the table.

This is a lovely story about love, family and adjustment and how much a simple squeeze of Grandma’s hand can help a situation. It would be a great book for any young child, particularly those who are expecting, or experiencing a new sibling themselves.

Crossing

Crossing by Catherine Norton (Omnibus Books)

PB RRP $16.99
ISBN 978-1-74299-028-6

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

The world Cara has grown up in is unlike our world. It is a closed society with little freedoms, their city surrounded and isolated by a huge wall. Food shortages, high security and limited privacy are the norm for Cara although her family is afforded a few privileges as her parents are dedicated to the secret work of the National Security. While Lilith, Cara’s gifted younger sister, seems to be following in their parents footsteps, Cara is unsure of where life will take her but is content, comfortable even, and doesn’t really question how they live.

Then she meets siblings Ava and Leon. They feel differently about their existence in the shadow of the wall and cause Cara to begin to wonder about her parents’ views, the society in which she lives, and what life may be like beyond the wall.

Crossing is set in a dystopian society, a world of the future. But it is just as much about the past, an echo of historic East German society and the Berlin Wall.

It’s hard to do this book justice in a short review. This is a brilliant story about growing up, growing awareness of how the world operates, the struggle of torn loyalties between family and friends, and the importance of being true to one’s own feeling and values. This is a story which provides much to think about long after the pages have closed. It touches on many issues in a thought-provoking manner.

Crossing is a powerful story. The author has created a believable world and filled it with interesting and relatable people. Cara is a strong character, a young girl well on her way to becoming an independent woman. And her journey - along with Ava and Leon’s - is told in an engaging way. It is hard to put down. As a reader, I connected immediately and my emotional response was such that even though the ending is fully satisfying and completes the book, I was unwilling to let them go and would love to know what happens next.

I would highly recommend Crossing to both genders from twelve years and up, particularly those who love to read fantasy and dystopian novels.