The Memory Shed

The Memory Shed by Sally Morgan & Ezekiel Kwaymullina, illustrated by Craig Smith (Omnibus Books for Scholastic)

PB RRP $9.99

ISBN 978-1-74299-034-7

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Annie is helping her grandmother to clear out an old shed in the back yard. They sort objects for a garage sale, in order to make way for a new shed to be built. But it would seem that the old shed is not happy about this. As Annie tries to guess what is in the shed it looks as if Grandma is changing her mind about knocking it down. Will Grandma and Annie listen closely enough to hear the long forgotten, dusty old things which hold many childhood and family memories?

The Memory Shed is another title in a series of early readers chapter books based on indigenous characters. This is a familiar story with twist. It emphasises the importance of listening and the value of family histories as Grandma creates wonderful stories for Annie about how life used to be.

A touch of mystery and a sprinkle of humour make this an enjoyable story with the bond between grandmother and granddaughter forming the core of a tale about family and memories, both keeping them alive and creating new ones.

The soft illustrations on every page enhance the stories and character personalities, adding to the appeal for young readers.

It’s heartening to see the inclusion and continuing growth of indigenous culture in mainstream publishing.

A lovely read for 6 year olds and up.

Flying High

Flying High by Sally Morgan & Ezekiel Kwaymullina, illustrated by Craig Smith (Omnibus Books for Scholastic)

PB RRP $9.99

ISBN 978-1-74299-070-5

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Larni has trouble at school with her reading and writing. It makes her feel dumb and she thinks that she cannot do anything well. But these holidays she is flying north to stay with her grandparents and Larni is very excited about this visit and being away from school. While she is there, Gran teaches Larni to do something she is very good at.

Flying High is the latest title in a series based on indigenous characters, families and cultures. Each title explores familiar themes and situations which all children, not only those with an indigenous background, will relate to. These two authors cleverly create stories which are firmly based in indigenous culture, yet are still universal in theme and content.

Close and loving family bonds are central to the story as Larni slowly learns that she does have her own unique skills. Her confidence grows throughout the book. The characters are strong and appealing and the soft illustrations help to tell the story and enhance the subtle humour which makes theis story all the more unique.

Flying High is a warm and entertaining chapter book which is very readable for early primary children and contains plenty to hold the attention of the slightly older middle grade readers.