Old Worlds New Worlds Other Worlds

Old Worlds New Worlds Other Worlds: Stories, Poetry, and Plays for Children compiled by CBCA NSW Eastern Suburbs Sub-Branch PB RRP ISBN 9780645154504

Reviewed by Dianne Bates

The funds raised by the sales of this anthology will further the work of both the CBCA NSW Branch and their Eastern Suburbs Sub-branch in fulfilling their shared purpose: to ensure Australian children have stories written for them, to support and celebrate the work of our Australian creatives, and to promote the joy of reading. Anthology contributors have all donated their stories, plays and poetry, illustrations, and production skills‑— over 70 contributors, including some of the most well-loved Australian children’s literature creatives. These include Belinda Murrell, Kate Forsyth, Susanne Gervay, Tim Harris, Sue Whiting, Patricia Bernard, Elizabeth Mary Cummings, and more.

The Foreword is from the NSW Governor, the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC and Mir Wilson, introduction from Ursula Dubosarsky the Australian Children's Laureate, and acknowledgement of Country in Dharug by Jasmine Seymour. 

The back cover sums up the book’s content: ‘Wonder at the universe. Swim through oceans. Encounter lions. Venture into space. Delve into fairytales. Travel back in time. Face danger head-on.’

Titles of stories include ‘The Red Suitcase’, ‘Dragon Days’, ‘Harriet Digs Dinosaurs’, and ‘Toilet Tales’, Poems include ‘Spooky Stuff,’ ‘The World is Waiting’, ‘Olga: The Girl from Another World’, and ‘A Step Between Two Worlds’. Plays are 'New Earth', and 'Kate, Liz and Nat's Epic Picnic'.

The book is illustrated, too, with beautiful black and white line pictures by talents such as Dub Leffler, Liz Bowring, Marjorie Crosby-Fairall, Sare Christensen, and Gemma Patience. There are even photographs (contributed by wildlife photographer Jan Latte). 

Every time a page is turned, there is a new and exciting discovery to be made. At the back of the book are blurbs about every one of the contributors. Variety is certainly a keynote of this sterling collection.

This is an outstanding compilation which is sure to be enjoyed by its readers, both young and old.

One Minute Till Bedtime

One Minute Till Bedtime: 60-second poems to send you off to sleep, Selected by Kenn Nesbit, illustrations by Christoph Niemann (Little, Brown and Company) HB RRP $41.95  ISBN: 978-0-34121-9

Reviewed by Bill Condon

This is a dipping-in kind of book, in which there is a treasure to be discovered on every page. A quality production, it’s made sturdy to last through dozens if not hundreds of happy readings and even comes with a slip-on jacket. 

The first thing that must be noted is that the poems in this collection are child-friendly. They are about mums and dads and grandparents, about lovable pets and the funny things they get up to. They traverse topics such as the school bus, the first day at kindergarten, rainbows, armadillos, bath time, and dandelions. In fact, with 164 poems, each cleverly illustrated, One Minute Till Bedtime

touches on a great many subjects that are sure to leave a smile on children’s faces as they drift off to sleep.

Several well-known writers are featured in the book while some are poets who have been around for a long time, but I’m pleased to say, are still very much at the top of their game. These include such luminaries as Jack Prelutsky, Colin West, and Michael Rosen, to name just a few of many. It is also heartening to see such a strong representation of Australian poets. I counted fifteen whose names I recognised, too many to list, but again, to name only a few, take a bow, Dianne Bates, Edel Wignell, Janeen Brian, Mark Carthew and Teena Raffa-Mulligan.

The book is divided into six sections, each one beginning with a poem by Kenn Nesbitt, America’s Children’s Poet Laureate from 2013 to 2015. While the sections are not named, Nesbitt’s opening poem ably sets the scene for what is to come. As befitting a book with this title, there are number of poems concerning sleep. It’s difficult to choose a favourite from such an impressive line-up, but to give a small example, here are the final lines from Good-Night Poem, by Ralph Fletcher:

Tuck your covers

snug and tight.

Tuck the good

into the night.

One Minute Till Bedtime is highly recommended.

Australian author Bill Condon has written several books for children and young adults including his latest novel for 8 to 12 year olds, All of Us Together (About Kids Books). Bill has always had a special affection for poetry.

Ralf

Ralf by Jean Jullien (Walker Books)

HC RRP $19.99

ISBN 9781847808189

Reviewed by Anastasia Gonis

Although Ralf the dog is small, he is quite long. At times this causes problems and his owners get a bit cross with him for taking up so much space. He gets upset when they tell him to get out from under their feet. The only place that seems to be safe is stretched out in his kennel. But it’s lonely being alone. It’s harder being a long sausage dog.

On one of the days when Ralf’s in his kennel stretched out and in nobody’s way, with thoughts flooding his mind, he smells smoke. He rushes to the house to investigate but gets his backside stuck in the dog door.  He pulls and pulls. An amazing thing happens. Ralf stretches and stretches himself through the gap. He must get help. But no one wakes although he licks and barks.

Luckily the fireman understands what he’s trying to communicate. Can Ralf, now a much stretched out dog, be the family’s saviour?

This delightful book is about the unswerving loyalty and dedication of animals for humans, even when they are chided for getting underfoot. It will resonate with readers who have pets that demand attention and love being constantly close to humans.

The illustrations in bold lines, strong colours and simple drawings resembling children’s art, will draw readers of the 3+ age. Beautifully presented, it’s another publication from Frances Lincoln, famous for their outstanding children’s books.

The Crocodolly

The Crocodolly by Martin McKenna (Scholastic Australia)

HB RRP $24.99

ISBN 978-1-74299-071-2

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Adelaide is a very busy girl. She is always making things and is very ingenious. But she is not allowed to have pets. So, when a crocodile appears from an egg she was cracking to make a cake she hatches one of her plans to keep it by disguising it as a dolly. How long will she be able to keep this crocodile under wraps?

In an amusing string of events her secret is eventually discovered. And after annoying most of the people in town, Adelaide now needs to come up with a new plan to save her crocodolly.

This bright, glossy, loud story, full of off-beat humour is great fun. The illustrations of the trail of destruction left by Ozzy the crocodile give subtle clues as to how Adelaide’s problem will eventually be solved.

Young readers will enjoy the exploits of Adelaide as Ozzy stomps, squishes and rolls his way through the book.

Three Dragons for Christmas

Three Dragons for Christmas by Fiona McDonald, Sophie Masson, Beattie Alvarez, Lisa Stewart and David Allan (Christmas Press)

HB RRP: $21.99

ISBN 9780992283896

Reviewed by Ashling Kwok

Three Dragons for Christmas is a beautiful 32-page book that is perfect for young readers. It contains three original, heartwarming stories created by different authors and illustrators and featuring everyone’s favourite mystical creatures - dragons.

Come on a journey as you discover whether dragons can really make a toymaker’s luck change or pull Santa's sleigh, or whether a dragon family will get their Christmas feast.

The book has a nostalgic feel to it and the pages are beautifully designed and presented. The style and layout of the book is reminiscent of old-time classic fairytales from years gone by.

The cover features gold-foil stamping and enticing illustrations that will appeal to anyone looking for a lovely book to share at Christmas time.

The stories are creative and well written which makes them enjoyable to read. The book also features numerous black and white and colourful illustrations that enhance the story and appeal to readers. The text is clear and easy to read, and the stories easy to follow.

With Christmas just around the corner, now is the perfect time to pick up a copy of Three Dragons for Christmas. Friends and family would love receive this precious keepsake which is great for sharing aloud or for children who like to read by themselves.

Wesley Booth Super Sleuth

Wesley Booth Super Sleuth by Adam Cece, Illustrated by Michael Streich (Omnibus Books for Scholastic Australia)

PB RRP $15.99

ISBN 978-1-74299-101-6

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Wesley Booth’s reputation at Hub Hill Primary is in jeopardy. He is a super sleuth. But if new girl, Cassidy Strong, beats him to the solution of the crime wave gripping school, Wesley may be left in her shadow. And to make matters worse, his traitorous best friend seems to like her. How’s a boy supposed to solve a case when his mum keeps confiscating his case notes and grounding him? Will his new – and incompetent – assistant be of any use? And what is going on in the family? Maybe his geologist Dad has told one rock joke too many.

Wesley Booth Super Sleuth is a fun read. Boys especially, will enjoy the antics of Wesley as he navigates his way through school, sibling disagreements, friendship upheavals and parents who just don’t understand why detective work is more important than school work!

Humorous black & white illustrations scattered throughout the chapters add to the story and appeal of the book.

This book is aimed at the 8 years plus range and I think upper primary students (or younger children with high reading skills) will enjoy it the most as, at 264 pages, it is not a quick read.