Girls Stuff

Girls Stuff by Sue Lawson (black dog books)
PB RRP $7.99
ISBN 9781742031712
Reviewed by Vicki Stanton

The Dream Diva contest is over and Mickey Farrell now has the gig of co-hosting Girls Stuff TV with Dream Diva winner and friend Skye. The girls' excitement is tempered with the discovery that Coco, or Mini-Freak as Mickey has dubbed her, arrives on set due to legal shenanigans.

Girls will love following Mickey and Skye through the process of recording their debut TV program. the clothes, make-up, filming at a theme park and the 'diva-ish' antics of Coco as she attempts to upstage Mickey and Skye at every opportunity.

Mickey Farrell is a wonderful heroine who loves singing and is always supportive of the other girls. This series for younger readers is fun and easy to read and comes recommended.

Rising Star

Rising Star by Sue Lawson (black dog books)
PB RRP $7.99
ISBN 9781742031682
Reviewed by Vicki Stanton

Rising Star is the second title in the popular Diva series, re-released for 2011. Mickey Farrell has reached round two of the Diva competition and things are heating up. Mickey is a very likeable protagonist who is keen to win and fulfil her dream of becoming a singing star but, unlike some of her co-contestants, is always aware of supporting the other girls. She has been reunited with her friend Erin and her nemesis Coco. Tricks abound, and friendships falter and are put right.

Lawson writes in a very easy style and telling the story first-person, present tense draws the reader into the fast-paced action immediately. Primary school girls are bound to love the Diva series and will recognise many of the characters and are sure to relate to Mickey.

It’s a Girl Thing

It’s a Girl Thing by Sue Lawson (black dog books)

PB RRP $7.99

ISBN 978-1-74203-167-5

Reviewed by Vicki Stanton

What a fantastic read for newly independent readers! No wonder black dog books is re-issuing the Diva series. In this, the first book of eight, Sue Lawson has written a fast-paced, fun and entertaining read about Mickey Farrell who dreams of becoming a singing star and when she spots the ad to enter the Dream Diva singing competition she jumps at the chance. Mickey confronts nerves and less than friendly competition from some other prospective divas with humour and good grace.

Told in first person, present tense, the reader sees the world through Mickey’s eyes. Lawson’s economical style is perfect for younger or reluctant readers. It’s a Girl Thing is a cut above many other titles for this audience with its well-written prose and commitment to providing the full picture in a simple manner. With its pink sparkly cover, this great value book will appeal to younger girls and all budding singing stars!