A Flash in the Dust

A Flash in the Dust by Meg Caddy (University of Queensland Press) RRP: $21.99 ISBN 9780702271090

Reviewed by Rebecca Fung

A Flash in the Dust is promoted as a YA historical thriller with queer romance. It attempts to integrate several genres and switches points of view as it tells the story - an ambitious project.

The prologue is set in Mundaring where a horrific crime is perpetrated on an unnamed woman by The Whistling Man. It's a strong and gripping opening.

Then we are taken to an asylum. The narrative shifts between Gilberta Brady and Norah Devaney. The voices are very distinct: the restrained, quiet voice of Brady, contrasted with the angry, emotional voice of Norah. Norah claims she's witnessed her mother's murder, and she's been locked up to be silenced. But no one believes her.

Brady, on the other hand, is in the asylum for keeping quiet. She doesn't get along with people

When Brady and Norah break out of the asylum, two unlikely companions join forces to find the man who murdered Norah's mother. They meet up with others and form a group of bushrangers.

The strength of this story was in the enticing opening and how well the two main characters were set up. However, as the narrative develops, another point of view is introduced: a third-person voice. I didn't enjoy this as much. The story moved between action and a queer love story. The love story spent a bit too much time exploring ideas of queerness, and it felt like the author was trying to explain queerness rather than revealing the relationship in a natural way that would make it compelling.

While plenty happens, for some reason, perhaps the movement between points of view, the restraint in Brady's voice, or the love story that's more about exploring ideas than love, made it hard for me to get into the real excitement of the action.

I think the story tried to be many things. It held a lot of promise and in terms of representing queer characters and separating different points of view, it did well. The balance of romance and tension in an historical adventure that included some very bleak settings was more difficult.

Behind the Screens

Behind the Screens by Niraj Lal (UQP), RRP $19.99, Middle Grade Fiction ISBN 9-780702-268946

Reviewed by Susan Hancy

If you already knew that too much screen time, social media, online gaming, etc., etc. are bad for kids, then READ THIS BOOK – Behind the Screens – and you’ll find out that it’s all WAY WORSE than you already thought!

‘Such as?’ you might ask. For example, the average Australian checks their phone 85 times per day and spends a shocking 17 years glued to a screen connected to the internet over their lifetime! And it’s not just my kid who aspires to be a YouTuber; that and ‘gamer’ are topping the ‘what-do-you-want-to-be-when-you-grow-up?’ lists around the world. 

Hang on – this is meant to be a review of a children’s book, and here I am making comments from an adult reader’s perspective. Why? Why limit the revelations in this book to just its middle-grade target audience? From Chapter 1, I was thinking that everyone in the world who is old enough to use the internet would benefit from reading Behind the Screens themselves or reading sections aloud to the kids in their lives. The topics covered in the first few chapters are equally as eye-opening for adults and teens as they are for primary school-aged kids.

Behind the Screens is written by Dr Niraj Lal, an academic whose passion for making science work in society’s interests shines through in this book. Coupled with fun, engaging illustrations by Aśka, a visual literacy advocate, their collaboration has produced the ideal go-to handbook for navigating the good and bad of the World Wide Web. It acknowledges the benefits and advancements that global online communities and information sharing bring to our everyday lives. It lifts the covers on how the social media giants, with their well-crafted mission statements, exploit our psychological weaknesses for their monetary gain. [e.g. TikTok’s mission is “to inspire creativity and bring joy”.] And it shares tips and tools to help set boundaries and keep kids safe online. 

In conclusion? I’m still getting my head around the fact that there’s actually lingo for good ol’ fashioned catching up with friends and family – meeting in “meatspace” means you’re meeting IRL (in real life) – and I’m reminiscing about bygone days when my son wanted to grow up to be a policeman.

The Sunbird: Young readers’ edition

The Sunbird: Young readers’ edition by Sara Haddad, illustrated by Baraa Awoor (University of Queensland Press) PB RRP $14.99
ISBN 9780702271076

Reviewed by Kylie Buckley

In 2025, Nabila sits in the park with a young friend she met during recent marches for Palestine. She has promised curious 10-year-old Zane that she would share her ‘Nakba story’ (the 1948 mass displacement and dispossession of Palestinians). Nabila, now in her eighties, begins her story ‘Once upon a time, I was a little girl in Palestine, and everything was beautiful…’

Nabila recounts her early years living in a two-room stone-and-mud house in a small village. She was an inquisitive five-year-old and desperate to go to school; however, as she wasn’t yet old enough, she spent her days doing chores, dreaming, exploring the village, climbing olive trees, and playing with her animals. Her happiest memory was meeting Khalil, a boy her own age, someone she could play with.

One day, Nabila overheard talk about Palestine being divided and a new country to be formed within it. Young Nabila didn’t understand but sensed the unease. By June 1948, bombs started dropping, forcing families to flee their homes. Soon after, soldiers patrolled her village, making sure no one returned to their houses. Scared and confused, moving on foot through difficult terrain, Nabila and her family were forced out of their country with no place to go.

The Sunbird: Young readers’ edition has been adapted from Sara Haddad’s critically acclaimed debut adult novel. This middle-grade historical fiction novel is suitable for readers aged 9 years and older. Its themes include war, dispossession and displacement, resilience, belonging and cultural identity. 

The Only Branch of the Family Tree

The Only Branch of the Family Tree by Sherryl Clark (University of Queensland Press) PB RRP $14.99 ISBN: 9780702268915

Reviewed by Kellie Nissen

Imagine growing up not knowing that an important member of your family was not only alive, but living just down the road from your house?

Gemma’s teacher has given the class a project – researching and putting together their own family tree. Great – except Gemma’s only family that she knows about is her mum. It’s just been the two of them for as long as Gemma can remember, and the only thing she knows about her Nan (let alone anyone else) is that she died some time ago.

Or did she?

Through her research, Gemma discovers that not only is her Nan still alive, but she lives close enough to visit one day after school. Nervous but curious, Gemma decides to pay her Nan a visit. The older lady is pleased and concerned in equal amounts. She’s happy to finally meet Gemma – but her relationship with Gemma’s mum has been non-existent for years and neither of them know how she will react to having her secret (and lies) uncovered.

The Only Branch of the Family Tree is a verse novel, which is perfect for this story given the ability of this form of writing to probe deep into the narrator’s interior thoughts. Readers are able to understand exactly what Gemma is thinking, how she is processing the ‘return’ of her Nan and how she is feeling about her mother’s ‘betrayal’.

While readers may not necessarily relate to the return of a ‘missing’ relative – although some will relate to the family estrangement scenario – they will certainly relate to the sometimes-rocky relationships we have with our parents as we are maturing and wanting to be treated as adults, while our adults just want to protect us from harm and disappointment.

Through Sherryl Clark’s careful choice of words, we feel Gemma’s anger at her betrayal, and smile at her happiness when events start taking a turn for the better.

With themes of family reconciliation, identity, forgiveness and hope, this midgrade verse novel, for readers aged from 9 to 12, is a must-read for anyone who has to deal with family secrets and occasionally tumultuous relationships.

I absolutely loved this verse novel and could happily dive in again.  

Three Dresses

Three Dresses by Wanda Gibson (University of Queensland Press) HB RRP $26.99 ISBN: 9780702266355

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

A present of three second-hand dresses from the Lutheran Church makes a young Aboriginal girl very happy. When it comes time for her family to have a holiday from the Mission for two weeks, the girl’s mother tells her to pack ‘one to wash, one to wear and one spare’. Their break at the beach is brimming with activities, from swimming and fishing to storytelling around the camp fire. Dresses come in handy for carrying eggs and berries! The girl always keeps her precious dresses clean.

Nukgal Wurra author and artist Wanda Gibson recounts the simple joys of her childhood in this gentle picture book aimed at four-to-eight-year-olds. While the dresses are cherished and cared for as prized possessions, it soon becomes apparent that the real gift is quality time spent with kin, connecting to Country and to each other. Even non-Aboriginal children will appreciate the powerful nature of strong familial bonds.

The naive, childlike quality of Wanda’s paintings will appeal to young eyes. As the bright colours of Far North Queensland – tropical greens, distinct blues and sandy yellows – ripple across the spreads like an ocean wave, the reader can almost smell the salty sea air. This draws them more deeply into Wanda’s world.

Although it’s a blissful window on the past, the message enfolded within the fabric of Three Dresses is just as relevant to all Australian children today. Shared experiences flush with love, learning and laughter ensure that kids can survive anything life throws at them.

My Mum is a Magician

My Mum is a Magician by Damon Young, illustrated by Peter Carnavas  (University of Queensland Press, 2018) HB RRP $24.95 ISBN 978 0 7022 5994 4

Reviewed by Sylvia Forbes

Some mums gulp green tea, with bitter barley blends.

But my mum is a magician ... her cup of coffee never ends.

This is a spellbinding picture book celebrating Mums everywhere. In My Mum is a Magician, you'll meet all kinds of Mums - each of them as wonderfully diverse as the next!  Pilot mums, superhero mums, chorus line mums and sword swinging mums. But nothing (it seems) tops magician mums!

Damon Young has created a highly entertaining, energetic and frivolous text using rhyme and alliteration. The rhythmic pacing is engaging and makes it a pleasure to read out loud.

Peter Carnavas's excellent illustrations cleverly add another layer of wit and vibrancy to the text. (Like the kid being sprung by magician mum with his hand in the cookie jar ... and the chorus line mum with a prosthetic leg!) While the various animals on every page are adorable, they add tiny narratives.

Some mums light lamps that hang low on weeping willows.

Some mums stick stars that sparkle over soft pillows.

After all the boisterousness and excitement of My Mum is a Magician, I love how the mood shifts and everything quietens down over its four final page turns. Here, the text and illustrations work seamlessly to create a soothing dreamscape where mums and their children are seen tucked closely together and the light becomes softly subdued in gentle sunset tones ... then, as the book comes to a restful close, the magician mum has the final say.

'Every day' mums may not be represented in this book (the lunch makers, the missing sock finders, and the mess cleaners). But when you think about it, alongside all the tireless, often thankless little things they do for us, they are our superheroes who will stop at nothing to nurture, protect and keep us safe. Even swing swords if necessary! They are extraordinary, and they show up for us every single day, regardless of how they might be feeling. So all mums are magicians in my eyes!

This award-winning author/illustrator duo has delightfully created My Mum is a Magician, a timeless celebration of mums and caregivers everywhere. The book is a joy to read and suitable for preschoolers.   

 

 

How to Break a World Record and Survive Grade Five

How to Break a World Record and Survive Grade Five by Carla Fitzgerald (University of Queensland Press), RRP $16.99 Middle-Grade ISBN 9-780702-268717

Reviewed by Susan Hancy

Who doesn’t love a world record?

11-year-old Sam is obsessed with the Big Book of Records. He and his best mate, Vihaan, spend all their free time reading the book and joking around with their own nerdy record attempts, such as trying to apply the stickiest notes onto a face.

When Sam’s teacher announces that everyone must present to the class about their proudest moment, Sam is stumped. Vihaan wins drawing competitions and Sam’s nemesis neighbour, Cooper, is great at BMX and skateboard tricks, but Sam isn’t good at anything. Even his younger sister is constantly overshadowing him with her soccer successes. 

What can Sam talk about? Giving a piece of cake to his grumpy old neighbour, George? Running to the shops to buy milk when his sister was a screaming baby and his mum wasn’t coping? Too lame. He’d never hear the end of Cooper’s teasing. But the Big Book inspires him. If he can break a world record, then that can be his presentation and he’ll wipe the smirk off Cooper’s face. 

Sam needs to choose a record that he has a chance of breaking. He fails at a solo attempt at the most socks on one foot, and when he gets too competitive with a duo attempt at speed leapfrogging with Vihaan, they have a falling out. Shunned by the other kids, he’s surprised to find that he’s getting along with Grumpy George. 

When he finally comes up with a record-breaking idea that he has an excellent chance of succeeding at, he’s forced to make the most difficult choice of his life and learns that he doesn’t need to be a world champion to be truly proud of his actions. 

Packed with cliffhangers, humour, highs and lows, and easy-to-read chapters, the multiple story line threads are weaved together perfectly for a highly satisfying ending. And if my son’s reaction to the title – ‘Oh wow, a book about records!’ – is any indication, this book is guaranteed to be a hit.  

Leo and Ralph

Leo and Ralph by Peter Carnavas (UQP), RRP $16.99 Junior Fiction ISBN 9-780702-266218

Reviewed by Susan Hancy

‘Just because you can’t see something, doesn’t mean it’s not there.’

Leo hates school. He has difficulty communicating with the other kids in Prep and he can’t make a friend. He feels the angst from his parents who are trying to encourage him with tips and he feels even worse when he realises that his younger sister attracts others with ease. He’s only comfortable when he’s thinking about space and the types of beings that might exist out there.

One day a white balloon floats into his backyard and he hears a crash outside his house. When he returns to his room, he finds a short shaggy creature with flappy ears, stubby horns and a nose like a bulgy mushroom. Mum’s wish for him to have a friend has finally come true!

Only Leo can see the creature, who he names Ralph, and they quickly become inseparable. Ralph has come to Earth in a soccer ball-shaped spacecraft from one of Jupiter’s moons and he’ll stay with Leo for as long as he needs him.

Initially Leo’s family is accepting of Ralph, understanding what he means to Leo. But Ralph is still with Leo four years later and Leo is yet to make a “real” friend. Too often Leo gets lost in his imaginary world with Ralph and a daydreaming episode lands him hospital with a broken arm and busted telescope. This is the catalyst for his financially struggling parents to move to the country. Leo is made to say goodbye to Ralph.

Their new home, in a remote town, hasn’t seen rain for years. Every day is sweltering hot, the only public pool is closed due to lack of funds, and the kids at Leo’s new school aren’t interested in him. Secretly, Leo had made a pact with Ralph that if he doesn’t have a friend within a week, Ralph will return. When the first week passes, Leo keeps his eye out for a soccer ball-shaped spacecraft and instead recovers the missing ball of a classmate, Gus. The ball is precious to Gus – it’s a reminder of his father who has been gone for two years.

Ralph returns to Leo’s side and Leo keeps Ralph’s presence hidden from his family. But with some encouragement from Ralph (which is Leo’s inner voice) and a challenge set by his teacher to raise funds to reopen the pool, Leo finds himself breaking through his own personal barriers and bringing happiness to everyone.

Packed full of space related metaphors and references, ‘Leo and Ralph’ is a tender story that has the reader rooting for both Leo and Gus and brings all the threads together for a satisfying ending. A small number of perfectly placed illustrations, drawn by the author, compliment the visual picture created by the words. Due to the length and language used, I’d recommend this book for confident readers in the target age range noted by the publisher as 7-8+ years, as well as for middle grade readers.

Meet Me at the Moon Tree

Meet Me at the Moon Tree by Shivaun Plozza (UQP) Paperback RRP $16.99 ISBN 978 0 702286171

Reviewed by Karen Hendriks

Plozza is an award-winning children’s and YA author from Geelong, Victoria. She has won numerous awards and her writing has been shortlisted for the CBCA Book of the year. Her books include Frankie, Tin Heart, The Boy, the Wolf, and the Stars and A Reluctant Witch’s Guide to Magic.

Meet Me at the Moon Tree is a middle grade novel that is a unique, compelling, powerful read. Ten-year-old Carissa is obsessed with moon trees. Moon trees are magical and have been planted from seeds that were taken into space. Carissa believes that if she can find a moon tree in the forest of the Otway ranges she’ll be able to find a way to her dad. He recently passed away from leukemia, so the family moved house to heal but are still grappling with the raw pain. The themes of grief, change, friendship, science, nature, and healing are inside the covers of this sensitive book where science and magic meet.

Dad said everything is magic...and science is just figuring out how magic works.

Plozza has created a story that dives deep into the internal and external world of Carissa. The character and the reader can become one as they are privy to Carissa’s thoughts and feelings. The strong voice is engaging and the plot hooks in the emotional investment of a reader. I love the Australian setting which is the Otway ranges in Victoria. The secondary characters include grandparents, parents, siblings, friends and community members and they reflect family dynamics and living in a regional part of Australia very well.

Family dynamics really are at the heart of this story.  I finish the rest of the cake and I feel happy, but I feel weird too: guilty for being happy and anxious because I don’t know what’s missing. It’s not just Dad - he’s always missing. The dialogue suits each character and their age, knowledge, and interests. ‘Don’t be a drongo, Jack’ says Grandpa.

As the tension builds, so does the reader’s knowledge, yet the magical element of the story always remains. The ending is satisfying and helpful to anyone healing from trauma or grief. I love the message that often the things that remain unspoken allow hurt and pain to remain.

Meet Me at the Moon Tree is for readers aged ten years and up. It is a story that can make you cry and still believe in the power of magic. Natural places really are the best places to go to heal and connect. I can see this book helping those dealing with loss in a profound way. The book has comprehensive teacher notes available from the UQP website. It is a book that will find its way into many hearts.

The Wish Sisters: The Running Wish

The Wish Sisters: The Running Wish by Allison Rushby, illustrated by Karen Blair (UQP) PB RRP $12.99 ISBN: 9780702265945

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

Flick’s baby sister, Birdie, can make wishes come true – but they are usually twisted around in some way. Dad takes Birdie to the school sports day, and Flick is concerned about what will happen. And she is right to be worried! Birdie turns herself green to support the green team, then causes Dad’s legs to spin as fast as a bicycle’s wheels. Can Flick stop Birdie from tampering with the parent–teacher race and ensuring that Dad wins unfairly?

Allison Rushby’s enchanting chapter book is ideal for kids aged five to eight who are just beginning to stretch their reading legs. Humour and magic dash across the pages, drawing youngsters through the lively story, while familiar themes of family and friendship wave merrily like bunting in the breeze.

Karen Blair’s greyscale illustrations help the text across the finish line by adding another layer of fun to the tale. Using light and shade to great effect, Karen’s comical images bring the characters to life. They also give reluctant readers some breathing room by breaking up the paragraphs.

Bewitching from the first page until the last, The Wish Sisters: The Running Wish is sure to become a favourite with kids. They will be sprinting to the library to find the other books in the series in no time.

The Pet Wish (The Wish Sister series)

The Pet Wish (The Wish Sister series) by Allison Rushby & Karen Blair (UQP) Paperback, Junior Fiction, RRP $12.99 ISBN 9780702265952

Reviewed by Karen Hendriks

Allison Rushby is an award-winning children’s author with more than 20 books to her name. She is spectacular at writing middle grade books. Allison Rushby along with Megan Daley and Allison Tait run the popular parent Facebook group Your Next Kids Read.

The Pet Wish is the fourth book in this popular series. Flick and her little sister, Birdie, are helping a local senior’s group – The Busybodies, raise money for animals in need. Some special animals are hoping to find their fur-ever homes. Things go haywire when Birdie wishes and makes the animals even more special so that they can be adopted. How can Flick and Oli keep a rainbow cat, a dancing dog, and a puppy a secret when there’s an annoying photographer taking photos?

Allison Rushby has created a charming read. Her short well written sentences keep a young reader engaged and support those beginning to read independently.  The active verbs and vocabulary are perfect for younger readers. Rushby writes about child-relatable topics very well. Since Birdie had discovered she could wish, a lot of funny things had been happening. A unicorn party had appeared in their back garden, along with a real-life unicorn.

The dialogue is warm and friendly and suits each character and their unique personalities. Birdie is a baby and although she can make wishes, her dialogue matches her age. ‘Gah!’ Birdie nodded on Flick’s hip, ‘Gah, gah, gah!’ The text is easy to understand but it’s not predictable. Rushby allows the younger reader to anticipate, and page turn to find out more. I love that the imp remains hidden in the pages until it’s ready to unexpectedly appear. A snorty laugh came from somewhere behind them in the tent. ‘What was that?’ Mr Adams whipped around. ‘What was that snorty laugh?’

Karen Blair’s purple cover has a sparkly wish blurb and features Flick, Birdie, and a rainbow cat. Inside the book, Flick and Birdie are warm and friendly, and the imp is cheeky and full of mischief. Because the book is for children developing independent reading skills, the illustrations appear when needed. The full-page illustrations paint the scenes well and the little sprinkles of illustrations on some pages add just the right touches.

The Pet Wish (The Wish Sisters) is a great addition to any bookshelf. A child who is beginning to read independently is well supported by the text and the illustrations. The topics magic and wishes are ones children love. The Pet Wish is recommended for children aged six and older. I can see this book appealing to parents and teachers, too.

Ten Blocks to the Big Wok

Ten Blocks to the Big Wok (a Mandarin counting book) written and illustrated by Ying-Hwa Hu. (University of Queensland Press). ) PB RRP $24.99. 32 pp    ISBN9780702266072

Reviewed by Debra Williams

This picture book is printed in English but is a counting book, (up to ten), in the Mandarin language. Gorgeously illustrated, little Mia is taken by her uncle Eddie to their favourite restaurant, the Big Wok, to buy delicious dim sum. Her Grandma tells Mia and Uncle Eddie to make sure they bring back some soup dumplings.

Along each block on their Chinatown walk, they count things they see; animals, people, decorations etc. from one to ten, written in English on the page, with a fan icon in one corner that contains the Mandarin numeral and pronunciation. Also along the way, there is a kitten in each picture to find. When their order arrives, Mia counts all the food items on the table. Mia and Uncle Eddie take a different route home so Mia can get ice-cream.

The author has included two pages at the back as an author’s note, explaining the Chinese culture and food items the two have seen on their walk to the Big Wok. She has also included an illustrated page recapping the Mandarin numbers from 1-10.

New York, USA, author and illustrator, Ying-Hwa Hu has been illustrating books featuring children of many cultures for three decades. Along with her husband, Cornelius Van Wright, she created the art for numerous classic picture books, including Jingle Dancer by Cynthia Leitich Smith, Princess Grace by Mary Hoffman and Sam and the Lucky Money by Karen Chinn. This is her debut book as a solo author and illustrator. You can learn more about her at yinghwahu.com, where there are fun Chinese language activities.

This book is suitable for children from 2-5 years of age who are learning to count .

The Wish Sisters: The Big Wish

The Wish Sisters: The Big Wish written by Allison Rushby, Illustrated by Karen Blair (UQP) PB RRP $12.99 ISBN 9780702265938

Reviewed by Sarah Tegerdine

The Big Wish written by Allison Rushby and Illustrated by Karen Blair is book two from The Wish Sisters Series.

Flicks family has recently found out that Birdie, Flicks baby sister can make wishes that come true. A magical bottle was handed down from Flick and Birdies Granny Aggie. Residing in this bottle is an Imp and the Imp was meant to grant Flick and Birdie unlimited wishes. However, the Imp is notoriously tricky, and Granny Aggies original wish was twisted so that only Birdie has the wishes.

In book two, Flick briefly reflects on the loss of her wishes but after seeing how wishes can go terribly awry, she reconciles that she must help Birdie with her wishing instead.

In The Big Wish, we see Flick getting ready to leave home so she can give a book-talk at her local library group. However, this has thrown Birdies routine off kilter, and Birdie is tired and grumpy. Nervous thoughts run through the back of everyone’s minds.

Right on queue, the moment Birdie becomes upset and agitated or does not get what she wants, the wishing chaos erupts in style with froggy socks and apple snacks for all, not to mention a litter of puppies.

The Imp is at work causing mischief yet again, how will Flick and her family manage this episode?

The Big Wish speaks of courage, self-confidence, and sibling relationships with a fresh and positive outlook. Full of action and fun, readers will continue to enjoy the raucous entertainment that this series provides.

Recommended for newly independent readers.

 

 

 

 

  

The Wish Sisters: The Party Wish

The Wish Sisters: The Party Wish written by Allison Rushby, Illustrated by Karen Blair (UQP) PB RRP $12.99 ISBN 9780702265921

Reviewed by Sarah Tegerdine

The Wish Sisters: The Party Wish by Allison Rushby and Illustrated by Karen Blair is the first of a brand-new magical series, for children ready to leave early readers and leap into chapter books.

Visualise waking up one morning to discover that your little baby sister has been gifted the ability of making all ‘her’ wishes come true? Wild antics are surely to ensue and ensue they do.

Flick is big sister to thirteen-month-old Birdie and Flick wants to be the best big sister ever. Her Granny Aggie, recently passed, gifted Flick a T-Shirt that boldly emblazes these words (Best Big Sister Ever) and she takes them very seriously.

It just so happens it’s not the only gift Granny Aggie left for the sisters. A glass bottle collection one of which contains a very magical creature, called Imp. Granny Aggie bestowed a wish so that her grandbabies would have unlimited wishes. But Imps are tricky and mischievous, and the Imp has tweaked Granny Aggies wish. The Imp does not recognise Flick as a baby so therefore all the wishes fall to Birdie, as she is a baby and babies wishes are way more fun, right?

As the title of the book suggests, the first wish is for a party but no ordinary party. Birdies favourite story book is Petunia the Unicorns Super Fabulous First Birthday. As an amazing big sister, Flick has read this book to Birdie a lot and now it has become the living embodiment of the first wish. With the real Petunia the unicorn who poops cupcakes, a rainbow slide made of sour straps and a floating cloud cake.

How do they explain a flamboyant second birthday party to the neighbours? What could go wrong?

With infinite storyline possibilities The Wish Sisters Series is certainly going to provide endless enjoyment to readers.

Tiny Wonders

Tiny Wonders by Sally Soweol Han (UQP) HB RRP $24.99 ISBN 9780702263477

Reviewed by Nikki M Heath

In a grey, sterile world full of busy, rushing people, a little girl wonders where all the colour is. Gently encouraged by her grandmother, she sets out to make a difference - one dandelion seed at a time.

A commentary on pessimistic, perpetually distracted adults, the book is a testament to the power of nature to reconnect us with our world and the people around us.

The real heart of this book lies in the illustrations, which are gloriously joyful and carry the narrative and the emotional impact. The text is almost superfluous but plays an effective supporting role with repetition and call-backs.

The final spread features a flower glossary, showing that dandelions mean ‘let’s spread happiness’ - an apt description of this lovely book, which will be enjoyed by 2- to 8-year-olds.

The Way of Dog

The Way of Dog written by Zana Fraillon, Illustrated by Sean Buckingham (UQP) PB RRP $16.99 ISBN 9780702265563

Reviewed by Sarah Tegerdine

The Way of Dog is a uniquely original and tender-hearted tale written entirely in verse from a dog’s ‘point of snout’ and has an emotional depth that it’s impossible not to be moved by.

Scruffity is born into the harsh life of a puppy farm, torn from his mother. He, along with his pup siblings, huddle together in shock and confusion. As they tremble, they remind each other of their mother’s mantra, ‘Be Strong. Be Fierce. Life is more than a concrete floor’.

Scruffity’s environment is stark, and it becomes increasingly bleaker with each passing day he is not picked to be someone’s pup. The ‘shoe-legs’ who own the farm ‘GrowlManJim’ is a cruel and harsh man but it’s with his son, that a firm and unbreakable bond is formed.

In a swift turn of events, Scruffity is liberated, and he and his ‘ManPup’ flee the farm from which a true heartfelt journey ensues.

Out with the confines of a cage, Scruffity is enthralled by the world around him and revels in feelings of belonging, friendship, and discovery but when tragedy strikes, he is plunged yet again into turmoil and is equally reminded of its ever-present dangers and uncertainties.

The Way of Dog is a visually rich junior fiction experience that will captivate its readers from start to finish. It is wonderfully illustrated throughout by Sean Buckingham and is recommended for children aged between 8 to 12 yrs.

What Snail Knows

What Snail Knows by Kathryn Apel, illustrated by Mandy Foot (University of Queensland Press) PB RRP $14.99 ISBN: 9780702265464

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

For many years, Lucy’s world comprises just her and Dad. ‘We don’t need nobody else,’ he tells her. They move a lot, so Lucy finds it difficult to connect with others. But she is lonely. Then Lucy meets Snail, who knows that she doesn’t ‘like always being a new kid’. And Meihui, the caravan-park manager who gives her treats. And Tahnee, who looks out for her at the new school. In this special place, Lucy starts to come out of her shell. And help others. And make friends. What if her dad wants to move again?

Kathryn Apel’s gentle text slides across a spectrum of sweeping themes, from relationships and generosity to the environment and sustainability. However, kids aged six to nine won’t be overwhelmed by the big ideas. Witty word play, interesting imagery, and emotional energy – not to mention Mandy Foot’s delicate greyscale vignettes – combine to ensure that the young audience can easily access the book’s motifs, especially the importance of community and kindness.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of the book is the presentation of the text. Rather than a straightforward narrative, Lucy’s story is told through a series of free-verse poems – some of which also form shapes, such as a key, a car, and a heart. Youngsters will be intrigued by this unusual structure, while the abundance of white space around the words will encourage hesitant readers to dip their toe into the textual flow.

Moving and memorable, the messages in What Snail Knows will stay with children for a long time. And with every reading, the thought-provoking poems will offer up a fresh snail trail to follow.

Henry Hamlet’s Heart

Henry Hamlet’s Heart by Rhiannon Wilde (University of Queensland Press) PB RRP $19.99 ISBN 9780702263149

Reviewed by Kylie Buckley

Set in Brisbane in 2008, Henry Hamlet is in his final year of high school. He spends his time between school captain duties, debate team responsibilities, studying and hanging out with his small group of friends – Len, Ged, Harrison and Vince - otherwise known as ‘The Boiyss’. Henry is socially awkward, an overthinker, and unsure about many things. In contrast, his childhood best friend Len is confident, charming, and popular with the ladies.

Henry is just trying to get through an already big year when a game of ‘truth or dare’ changes everything. It becomes the catalyst for big change in his life and big feelings to emerge… feelings he is not sure how to deal with.

Henry Hamlet’s Heart is a coming-of-age novel written in the first person. The light-hearted narrative encapsulates LGBTQIA+ teenage love, friendship dynamics, family diversity and embracing who you are. The ‘friends to lovers’ tale also includes an intriguing list of supporting characters and interesting side stories.

Solomon Macaroni & The Cousin Catastrophe

Solomon Macaroni & The Cousin Catastrophe written by Ashleigh Barton, illustrated by Sarah Davis (University of Queensland Press UQP) PB RRP $16.99 ISBN 9780702265617

Reviewed by Sarah Tegerdine

Solomon Macaroni & The Cousin Catastrophe is a light-hearted, entertaining middle grade fiction set in a time where magic has all but disappeared.

Some magical creatures cease to exist in the traditional sense and for those that remain, their powers have diminished quite drastically. Vampires for example don’t need blood to survive anymore and can quite happily engage in a meal of cheeseburgers and pancakes. They can’t run very fast or even fly… The one thing they have retained is the ability to live for a very long time.

Solomon is a young vampire and when we say young…he is a mere 552 years old: in human terms it equates to a ten-and-a-half-year-old boy. Solomon is desperately unhappy when his parents decide to leave on a 100-year around-the-world cruise and he is going to be staying with his quirky and comical Uncle, Count Dracula, and his cousins in not so nearby Transylvania.

Solomon has six cousins, five of whom are mean serial pranksters. So, he decides early on in his stay, despite his uncle’s warmth and generosity that this arrangement will be short-lived. He just can’t stay! He has to go back home to Italy and will simply wait for his parents return. Solomon colludes with his best friend Fred, who is a spider, stowaway, and karate expert but it’s at this point his favourite cousin Lucy provides Solomon his best way out.  She will help Solomon get home but only if he helps her with something first…

That something turns out to be a quest that challenges his beliefs and teaches him that there is more to his cousins than taunts and tricks.

It’s a perfect balance of mild spookiness with bunches of humour with family at its core. Recommended for junior fiction readers ready to make their first leap into middle grade.

Excitingly, a sequel is anticipated to be released sometime in 2023.

The Calling of Jackdaw Hollow

The Calling of Jackdaw Hollow by Kate Gordon (University of Queensland Press) PB RRP $14.99 ISBN: 9780702263484

Reviewed by Kellie Nissen

‘I have to be special, somehow, to make up for everything.’

Orphaned when a lightning strike kills his parents, Jackdaw Hollow is adopted and raised by the lonely headmistress of Direleafe Hall, a boarding school for girls. Jackdaw is content with his life until, at the age of twelve, he overhears a conversation that leads him to question whether he is at fault for the death of his parents.

Despite a close friendship with Angharad, the school cook, Jackdaw starts looking for more, believing his life has no purpose – that he has no calling. He is soon befriended by Florence, Nell, and Lucy, three ghosts who reside at Direleafe Hall. They guide him towards Angeline, another orphan who, they say, will help Jackdaw find his calling.

Angeline has her own troubles, however, and soon Jackdaw finds himself in above his head – unable to ‘save’ Angeline (because she does not wish to allow anyone to save her) and still without a calling of his own.  

Readers will find themselves connecting with at least one of the characters in the story whether it’s gentle Jackdaw whose ‘brain works differently, is all’, independent Angeline who cares not ‘if you use words that wrong-about as long a person knows what you mean’, wise Angharad who believes ‘the world is positively brimming with next times’ or even one of the ghost girls who only want to help but occasionally ‘go too far’.

Kate Gordon’s enchanting and lyrical language delights at every turn of the page and is beautifully complemented by Rachel Tribout’s whimsical illustrations that serve to bring the characters and scenes to life.

The Calling of Jackdaw Hollow absolutely speaks to the needs of its midgrade audience as Kate Gordon explores the world of 8 to 12-year-olds who are beginning to express their identities and trying to understand their place and purpose in life.