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Children's Books - Australian Children's Fiction |
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March 2012 update Following is a selection of fiction by some of the major Australian authors. Most of the titles included are contemporary but there are also a number of classics. The list includes many books which have been short listed for the Children's Book Council Book of the Year Awards and have also received other commendations however, because of lack of space, I have mentioned only the CBC Awards and a few other major international awards. The books listed are for both Elementary and Secondary levels. Please take the age suggestions as just a rough guide. Many of these titles are also available as audio cassettes or CDs. Titles newly included on this list are marked with • Please Note All prices are in Australian dollars and include the new 10% GST tax. However this GST does not apply to exports from Australia. Send orders by email to Austral Ed austral@gleebooks.com.au Freight is sent by the most economical method, depending on urgency. Recommended by Kate Shepherd and Mandy Clarke Deborah Abela • The Remarkable Secret of Aurelie Bonhoffen pb $15.95 (9781741660951) Corrupt, greedy developers are secretly plotting to take over the Bonhoffen’s Seaside Pier, where Aurelie and her family have lived and run the fun-fair for many years. There’s mystery and intrigue, a kidnapping and a big family secret. I really liked the characters and the affirmation that it's ok to be different and stand up for what's right (there are themes of bullying and peer-group pressure). Although the jacket seems aimed at girls, I think quiet, thoughtful boys of this age group would find it a good read. 10-13 years. • Grimsdon pb $16.95 (9781741663723) A fast-paced dystopian adventure set in an abandoned, flooded city. Isabella, Griffin and three young kids have forged a new family and survive amidst the threat of sneaker waves, unscrupulous bounty hunters and rumoured sightings of sea monsters. Friendship, loyalty and trust are put to the test with the arrival of Xavier in his amazing flying machine. (10-13 years) MC Allan Baillie The China Coin pb 9780140347531 $18.95 Based on his own experiences when he and his family went to China, this story is set in a small village in China at the time of Tiananmen Square. (10 up) Little Brother pb 9780143301745 $17.95 A story of courage and perseverance set in Cambodia during the traumatic times of the Vietnam war. (10 up) The Excuse pb 9780140386592 $12.95 Pete shows great ingenuity in making up this amazing excuse for being late. But is his teacher really as easily fooled as he seems? (7 – 9 years) Krakatoa Lighthouse by Allan Baillie pb 9780143303596 $17.95 Duncan Ball His books about Selby the dog that talks are very popular with children in the 8 to 10 age range, often winning awards when children themselves are the judges. Selby's Secret 9780207200045 , Selby Speaks 9780207200243, Selby Screams 9780207200236, Selby Surfs 9780207200038, Selby Spacedog 9780207200069, Selby Snaps 9780207200205, Selby Snowbound 9780207200199, Selby’s Stardom 9780207200212, Selby’s Shemozzle 9780207200304, Selby Scrambled 9780207199110, Selba Santa 9780732286798, Selby Sprung 9780732292638and Selby Shattered 9780207200663 pb $14.99 each. He has also written a number of books about Emily Eyefinger, a girl who has an eye at the end of her finger which leads to many strange and funny situations. Emily Eyefinger 9780207196041, Emily Eyefinger and the City in the Sky 9780207200670, Emily Eyefinger and the Puzzle in the Jungle 9780207199035, Emily Eyefinger and the Black Volcano 9780207198816, Emily Eyefinger and the Ghost Ship 9780207198694, Emily Eyefinger and the Lost Treasure 9780207196034, Emily Eyefinger’s Alien Adventure 9780207197239 and Emily Eyefinger, Secret Agent 9780207196027 pb $11.95 each Catherine Bateson Rain May and Captain Daniel pb 9780702233371 $16.95 Daniel writes his account of his new friendship with Rain in the form of a Star Trek journal. Rain corresponds with her mother through fridge poems. A highly entertaining account of a strong friendship between two eleven year olds in the country. (9 – 13 years) Millie and the Night Heron by Catherine Bateson pb 9780702235269 $16.95 Shifts and changes in life are not easy but can sometimes bring more friends and a different perspective on the world, as Millie discovers. This is a sensitive story about a girl who is not an extrovert but is determined to keep a strong sense of herself. (9 - 12 years) The Wish Pony pb 9781864718768 $16.95 Ruby has just quarrelled with her best friend. Her mum always seems to be sick as she is expecting another baby. It is altogether an upsetting time for Ruby and she finds herself in behaving in hateful ways. However with the help of Magda, who is a bit like a fairy godmother, things change and on the way Ruby learns a lot. A charming book with a hint of magic. (9 – 11 years) Michael Gerard Bauer Mates: You Turkeys pb 9781862918160 $11.99 A funny story about the difficulty of having a garden and living nearby to scrub turkeys. One of the Mates series (6 – 8 years) Just a Dog by Michael Gerard Bauer pb 9781862918870 $14.99 Told in short chapters, these are all the stories that Corey can remember abut his dog, Mister Mosely. Mister Mosely is just a normal, everyday dog but he is a very important part of their family. The book has more to offer than just stories about a much loved dog as the stories gradually reveal deep problems within the family. (8 – 11 years). KS The Running Man pb 9781862915756 $19.99 A story about the relationship that gradually develops when a young teenage artist draws a portrait of a reclusive and disturbed neighbour who was a Vietnam vet. A moving story about our perceptions of others. (13 years up) Don’t call Me Ishmael! pb 9781862919327 $19.99 This book written with a flair and vigour and love of language which is invigorating and very, very funny. When Ishmael becomes involved in an attempt to set up a debating team, it looks disastrous but is hilarious as the team gradually learn to work together. (11 – 16 years) Return of the Dugongs pb 9781862917644 $18.99 This is a sequel which is equally hilarious. Ishmael starts the year full of confidence but his confidence quickly evaporates with an incident which is excrutiatingly embarrassing. (11 – 16 years) Ishmael and the Hoops of Steel pb 9781862919174 $19.99 The final year at school for Ishmael has an emphasis on the importance of friends and what can be achieve together. (11 – 16 years) Christine Bongers • Henry Hoey Hobson pb 9781864719956 $16.95 This is a story of great fun and eccentricity. Henry Hoey is starting on his sixth new school in as many years and discovers he is the only boy in grade seven at his new school called Our Lady of Perpetual Succour. When four very strange people move in next door, Henry Hoey suspects they must be vampires. Many misunderstandings lead to some very funny situations but along the way we meet some memorable characters. (10 – 14 years). KS
Anna Branford • Violet Mackerel’s Brilliant Plot Illus Sarah Davis hardback 9781921529177 $19.95 Violet has fallen in love with a beautiful blue china bird she saw at the Saturday markets, but how to make it hers? This is a VERY IMPORTANT IDEA and Violet proves herself to be a girl who knows how to THINK OUTSIDE THE SQUARE. The discovery of a dusty red button sparks a BRILLIANT PLOT that brings her heart’s desire, in more ways than one. A charming, gentle and thoughtful story about a creative, resourceful little girl with lots of big ideas. Black and white charming illustrations. (6 – 8 years). MC • Also Violet Mackerel’s Remarkable Recovery Book 2 hardback 9781921529184 $19.95 • Violet Mackerels Natural Habitat hardback 9781921529191 $19.95
J.C.Burke The Story of Tom Brennan pb 9781741660920 $17.95 Tom Brennan’s older brother causes a car accident in which two of his close friends are killed and his cousin becomes a quadriplegic. This is the very moving and believable story of Tom Brennan’s struggle to come to terms with the accident, its effect on his close family and on Tom’s identity. It is extremely well written. (14 years up) Isobelle Carmody The Obernewtyn Chronicles are the first of Carmody’s very popular books and consist of 1 Obernewtyn pb 9780140178548, 2 The Farseekers pb 9780140134056, 3 The Ashling pb 9780140271515 4 The Keeping Place pb 9780140295795 5 The Stone Key pb 9780143009436 $22.95 each There is also a new sixth title in this series called 6 Sending pb 9780670853595 $32.95 • The Red Wind (Kingdom of the Lost Book # 1) by Isobelle Carmody hardback 9780670074037 $19.95 Brothers Zluty and Bily are strange furry creatures, hatched from an egg of mysterious origins. Gentle in nature, they have a strong, loving bond and depend on each other’s resourcefulness in order to survive. Zluty is away on his annual food-gathering trip when the red wind sweeps the land, bringing with it a hail of boulders and a fearsome, injured beast, and turning their peaceful lives upside-down. This post-apocalyptic fantasy is a tale of courage, compassion and empathy. (9 – 12 years). MC Brian Caswell A Cage of Butterflies pb 9780702224164 $18.95 A gripping science fiction novel involving a group of children with unusual brain formation and an international drug company. (12 up) Only the Heart written with David Phu Anh Chiem pb 9780702233760 $18.95 A perceptive account of a perilous journey to escape Vietnam and the struggle while living as a refugee and trying to adapt to a new country, Australia. (12 years up) Judith Clarke One Whole and Perfect Day pb 9781741148565 $17.95 Lily is normally the sensible one in a family where everyone has their own peculiarities but one year she tires of being sensible and falls in love. (14 years up) • Her latest for young adults is called The Winds of Heaven pb 9781742378336 $18.99 Due May follows the lives of two very different young women but linked by blood and friendship. (13 years up) Bryce Courtenay Gary Crew Terry Denton Gasp! Zapt! Splat! hardback 9780670071074 $19.95 Gasp! The Breathtaking Adventures of a Fish Left Home Alone are the hilarious adventures of a naughty and greedy fish who breaks his fish bowl and, with only 27 pages to go, realises that he “is a fish out of water”. Gasp! Denton is a witty writer and illustrator and the high drama of this story will appeal to beginner readers and ESL students. The sequels Splat! The Explosive Adventures of a Fish Not Home Alone and Zapt! The Electrifying Adventures of a Fish Left Home Alone are combined in one hardback volume called Gasp! Splat! Zapt! $19.95 Gasp! The Breathtaking Adventures of a Fish Left Home Alone is also available as a single paperback pb 9780140557008 $14.95 (7 - 13 years) Nick Earls Joel and Cat Set the Story Straight by Nick Earls and Rebecca Sparrow pb 9780143006916 $19.95 Nick Earls and Rebecca Sparrow have had fun written this story in tandem, about a story writing assignment that Joel and Cat (who have developed a strong antipathy to each other) have to write together. It is fast moving, witty and enjoyable. (12 – 16 years)
Vashti Farrer A fascinating period of history. Kitty Barnes describes in her diary the bubonic plague caused by the plague of rats infesting the area where they live. She also describes the events leading to the Federation of Australia and the horrors of the Boer War where her brother is fighting. (11- 15 years) Anna Fienberg and Barbara Fienberg Tashi 9781741149654, Tashi and the Giants 9781741149661, Tashi and the Ghosts 9781741149678, Tashi and the Genie 9781741149685, Tashi and the Demons 9781741149708, Tashi and the Baba Yaga 9781741149692 , Tashi and the Big Stinker 9781741149715, Tashi and the Dancing Shoes 9781741149722, Tashi and The Haunted House 9781741149531, Tashi and the Royal Tomb 9781741149739, Tashi and the Stolen Bus 9781741148770, Tashi Lost in the City 9781741149630, Tashi and the Forbidden Room 9781741149647, Tashi and the Mixed-up Monster 9781741751918, Tashi and the Phoenix 9781741754742, Tashi and the Golem 9781741757927 ($11.99) all with illustrations by Kim Gamble pb $11.95 each Tashi is a charming if extraordinary character who tells magical stories to his friend Jack. This has proved to be a much loved and very popular series. There Once was a Boy Called Tashi is a large picture book introducing Tashi and his magical world hardback 9781741141986 $27.95 pb 9781741147193 $14.95 The Big Big Book of Tashi pb 9781865085630 $24.95 contains 7of his adventures in one large book. The 2nd Big Book of Tashi pb 9781741148336 $24.95 contains 10 of Tashi’s adventures. (6 – 8 years) Minton Goes! Series illus by Kim Gamble Driving & Trucking pb $12.95 (9781741754278) Sailing & Flying pb $12.95 (9781741754285) Underwater & Home at Last pb $12.95 (9781741754292) Each book contains two exciting adventures of the enthusiastic Minton and his reluctant friend Turtle. There are themes of transport, recycling and problem-solving. Perfect for those obsessed by machines, there are instructions at the end of each story on how to re-create the machines using everyday household materials. (5-7 years) MC Horrendo’s Curse with illustrations by Kim Gamble pb 9781865086033 $14.95 The story of Horrendo’s rollicking adventures and ordeals as he and his friends are captured and taken on a pirate ship. Horrendo can only speak in compliments which makes for some very funny situations. (8 - 12 years) Horrendo’s Curse with illustrations by Kim Gamble pb 9781865086033 $14.95 The story of Horrendo’s rollicking adventures and ordeals as he and his friends are captured and taken on a pirate ship. Horrendo can only speak in compliments which makes for some very funny situations. (8 - 12 years) John Flanagan Ranger’s Apprentice series pb $16.95 each Books 1 & 2, and 3 & 4 are also available in hardback as a bindup $29.95 each Book One: The Ruins of Gorlan 9781864719048 Book Two: The Burning Bridge 9781864719055 Book Three The Icebound Land 9781864719062 Book Four: The Oakleaf Bearers 9781864719079 Book Five: The Sorcerer in the North 9781864719086 Book Six: The Siege of Macindaw 9781864719093 Book Seven: Erak’s Ransom 9781864719109 Book Eight: Kings of Clonmel 9781864719116 Book Nine: Halt’s Peril 9781741663020 Book 10: The Emperor of Nihon-Ja pb 9781741664485 $17.95 Book 11: The Lost Stories pb 9781864718188 $17.95 These are gripping adventure fantasy stories set in a fantasy kingdom. Will and his friends are assigned to various professions. And over the books they meet up in various adventures. Will is chosen to be an apprentice to the mysterious Ranger who has remarkable skills in tracking and melting into the background. Will gradually learns that the work of the Rangers is highly important and respected as they are the scouts and the eyes and ears for the kingdom. (9 – 14 years ) A new fantasy series Brotherband has just been published. It is set in the same world as Ranger’s Apprentice series but is set on the island of Skandia. In order to become a warrior boys are chosen to form a brother band. However Hal Mikkelson is chosen as the reluctant leader of a brotherband of outcasts. • The first title is The Outcasts pb 9781741664492 $17.95. Book 2 The Invaders pb 9781741664508 $17.95 is due in May 2012. Rachel Flynn Moon Station illus by Judy Watson pb 9780143304524 $12.95 Williams has to do a project on designing a moon station. Some enterprising kids outsource their projects to their parents since this is the modern way or “best practice.” Williams has a suspicion that this might be cheating. A very amusing story about the hazards of doing projects. One of the popular Aussie Bites. (7 – 9 years) Elaine Forrestal Jackie French Walking the Boundaries pb 9780207200434 $14.95 Another historical time-slip novel which looks at the importance of the land. (10 - 14) Daughter of the Regiment pb 9780207196744 $14.95 A hole in the air in the chook house enables Harry to have a glimpse back in time, to see Cissie who lived more than 150 years ago near the farm where he lives. A compelling historical time-slip story. (8 - 12 years) Hitler’s Daughter pb 9780207198014 $14.95 When Anna makes up a compelling story about Hitler’s daughter, Mark finds the story disturbing and questions if children can be blamed if their parents do something evil. Thought provoking. Winner of the 2000 CBC Younger Readers Book of the year Award. (9 – 14 years) How the Finnegan’s Saved the Ship pb 9780207197499$14.95 The story of the eventful trip to Australia in 1913 of Mrs Finnegan and her seven children. At the end of the book there are some interesting historical notes on Irish immigration to Australia. Ride the Wild Wind: The Golden Pony and other Stories pb 9780207198304 $14.95 This is a collection of horse stories with
a difference as Jackie French is writing not just about horses but about the
bond that
has developed over thousands of years between people and horses. (8
- 12 years) The Goat Who Sailed the World pb 9780207200779 $14.99 This book has two narrators, a young twelve year old boy called Isaac Manley and a much travelled and superior Goat. This narrative device gives us two very different perspectives on Cooks’ amazing voyage around the world from 1768 to 1771, when Australia was discovered and the ship was almost wrecked on the Great Barrier Reef. Very entertaining. (8 – 14 years) They Came on Viking Ships pb 9780207200113 $15.95 is a convincing and exciting story of Hekja who was captured by Vikings and taken to Greenland. She has courage and determination and earns the respect of her captors and finally joins colonists on a journey to Vinland (on the coast of America). (10 – 14 years) Macbeth and Son by Jackie French pb 9780207200342 $15.95 This novel is about the truth in history and whether it really matters. Jackie French’s complaint is with Shakespeare who wrote about the Scottish King Macbeth who was by all accounts an honourable king but was turned into a villain in Shakespeare’s play Macbeth. Jackie uses the dreams of a modern-day boy, Luke who is studying the play at school to show what really? or possibly happened to Lulach and his father Macbeth in eleventh century Scotland. The most fascinating aspect of the story is the theme of whether the truth really matters and whether Shakespeare was justified in making Macbeth a villain for the sake of the play. This would make a fascinating book for discussion. (11 – 14 years) Pharaoh The Boy Who Conquered the Nile pb 9780207200823 $15.99 Another successful attempt to portray a historical period: this time in the Nile region but before the building of the pyramids. Prince Narmer was destined to be King of a city state but after a shocking accident he has to leave the land he knows and loves by the Nile and goes with traders and visits the lands of the region including the wondrous cities of Punt and Ur. Jackie makes this a fascinating and believable adventure. (9 – 13 years) A Rose for the ANZAC Boys by Jackie French pb 9780732285401 $15.99 This book is set at the beginning of the First World War, and describes three young girls who are about 16 years old and who decide to set up a canteen at a railway stop in France to serve cocoa and sandwiches to troops going to the front. The story is often told in the form of letters by Midge McPherson, who later helps out by driving an ambulance and later still at a casualty station very close to the frontline. Through this story about three young girls, Jackie French has succeeded in giving a graphic and terribly moving account of the suffering of the soldiers at the front and also of the amazing efforts of so many women working without stop as nurses. (12 years up) Simon French Sandy Fussell Polar Boy pb 9781921150388 $15.95 Iluak is a young Inuit boy and is apprehensive about a prediction that he will meet with a polar bear. Iluak meets with several bears but it is the meeting with a fierce Viking leader which is the most terrifying. The story is set in the time when the indigenous peoples of that region followed the seasons and the paths of migratory animals. It is an absorbing and at times exciting story. (9 – 13 years) Samurai Kids 1: White Crane pb 9781921150203 $15.95 A story about kids training to be samurai but one has only one arm, one only one leg, one is blind, one is very big and strong but refuses to fight and there is a girl who has white hair and six fingers and toes. Amazingly the characters come to life. Their sensei or teacher is old and skinny but very wise in the way of Zen and Zen sayings provide much of the humour of the book. The story is exciting, lively and often very funny. Other titles in the series are: Book 2: Owl Ninja pb 9781921150371, Book 3: Shaolin Tiger 9781921150906 and Book 4: Monkey Fist 9781921150913 Book 5 Fire Lizard pb 9781921529467 Book 6 Golden Bat pb 9781921529474 $15.95 each (9 – 13 years)
Scot Gardner • The Detachable Boy pb $14.95 (9781741753455) A fast, funny, wacky adventure about a kid who can detach his limbs and then reassemble himself at will. Very useful, although things can get a little out of control when a sneeze can literally blast your head off! When John Johnson's friend Crystal is kidnapped by a crime boss with four arms, he convinces his friend Ravi to pack him up and send him to the USA on a rescue mission - via parcel post! Scot Gardner usually writes for older teens/young adults. This is his first novel for younger readers. (10-13 years) MC May Gibbs Libby Gleeson Queen of the Universe pb 9781862913141 $11.99. A simply written, very satisfying story about a school play, the middle sibling and a bout of chicken pox. For beginner readers. My Story: The Rum Rebellion The Diary of David Bellamy Sydney Town, 1807 - 1809 hardback 9781865048543 $19.99 pb 9781741697797 $16.99 A well written absorbing story of one year in the life of David Bellamy. Mahtab’s Story pb 9781741753349 $15.95 Based on true stories, this is the moving account of how a young Afghan girl and her family were forced to flee Afghanistan in the time of the Taliban and how they finally make their way to Australia. (11 – 15 years)
Morris Gleitzman Give Peas a Chance pb 9780143302629 $16.95 is a collection of entertaining short stories (8 – 14 years) • Pizza Cake pb 9780143305989 $16.95 is a new just published collection of amusing short stories. Once pb 9780143301950 $16.95 A Jewish boy Felix finally comes to understand that the Nazis really are trying to kill him and thousands of other men, women and children, and especially the Jews. A very difficult topic again treated with humour and tragedy. Then pb 9780670072781$19.95 is the sequel as Felix and his friend Zelda try to hide from the Nazis. Now is the final title in this series. pb 9780670074372 $19.95 Set in the current day in Australia Felix is now a grandfather. Once and Then combines the two books in one volume pb 9780143203032 $24.95. (11 – 15 years) Andy Griffiths Phillip Gwynne 9780141300498 $19.99 A perceptive and highly entertaining book describing the growing friendship between Blacky, a white teenager and Dumby Red an Aboriginal young man from out of town and how it is affected by the narrowness and pervasive racism of a country town. Winner of the 1999 CBC Book of the Year Award. The sequel is Nukkin Ya pb 9780141309439 $19.95 (13 up) Swerve pb 9780143009337 $19.95 This is a most enjoyable book about a teenager preparing for university life. Hugh is a cellist whose life seems mapped out for him but then he goes on an outback trip in an HT Monaro GTS 350 with his father who he hasn’t seen for years as his father has been estranged from the family for years. The trip is an eye-opener for Hugh and he lives life as he has never imagined it but he also discovers much about his family and his father and also about himself and what he really wants to do with his life. (14 years up) A Chook called Harry pb 9780143303473 $12.95 is a very appealing story. Chris’ family decides to buy ten chooks and the father thinks it is only sensible to eat any chook that doesn’t pull its weight by laying eggs. But the chook that isn’t laying is Chris’ favourite chook, Harry. Another in the Aussie Bites series. (7 – 9 years) Steven Herrick A Place like This pb 9780702229848 $18.95 The sequel in which Jack and the love of his life Annabel decide to take a year off university and just wander. Excellent. The Spangled Drongo pb 9780702230950 $16.95 A similar verse narrative format but directed at a younger age group. Twelve year Sam is mad about soccer and then to his surprise discovers a girl, who is also mad about soccer. (9 - 13 years) Tom Jones Saves the World is written from Tom’s view point. His family has just shifted into a trendy suburb which is enclosed by a high wall and he hates it. pb 9780702233364 $16.95 (8 – 12 years) By the River by Steven Herrick pb 9781741143577 $17.95This is another verse novel for young adults by performance poet Steven Herrick. Harry writes about his memories of growing up in a country town in a close knit family. The death of his mother when he was just seven years old had a powerful effect. (12 up) Nette Hilton Star of the Circus pb 9780702236006 $16.95 Poor Bonnie Belinda Bennett just wants to come first in something. However Bonnie has a very special gift; she has taught the animals on the farm to do the most amazing tricks and when the circus comes to town then her farm animals are called upon to show all their skills. An engaging story about a child who thinks she is ordinary but who really is quite extraordinary. (6 – 10 years)
Odo Hirsch Hazel Green pb 9781741144376 $15.99 Hazel Green is a spirited heroine and the Yak is an introverted boy who is a mathematical whiz who make a formidable team. Sequels are Something’s Fishy Hazel Green pb 9781741144383 $15.95, Have Courage, Hazel Green pb 9781741144390 and Think Smart, Hazel Green! 9781741141108 each pb $15.95 (8 - 12 years) Bartlett and the Ice Voyage pb 9781864488357 $15.95 A charming and engaging adventure story about an indulged young queen and an unlikely explorer whose inventiveness, desperation and perseverance succeeds against all odds in bringing back to the young queen the delights of a fresh melidrop fruit. The sequel is Bartlett and the City of Flames 9781865081168, pb $15.95 each (7 - 12) Amelia Dee and the Peacock Lamp by Odo Hirsch pb 9781741753011 $15.95 This is a charming story with a touch of the exotic and the whimsical. It is about memory and loss, the power of story and of truth to change lives. (11 – 13 years) Darius Bell and the Glitter Bell by Odo Hirsch pb 9781741757163 $15.95 Another quirky, whimsical and charming story. Darius Bell lives with his family in a huge old house which was bequeathed to the family by the Town Council on the proviso that they present a special gift to the Council every 25 years. Darius is certain that his father has neither the money nor the ideas to come up with a special gift that will satisfy the Council and so he is the one who searches and finally finds the beautiful Glitter pool. (10 – 13 years) Sequel is Darius Bell and the Crystal Bees pb 9781742376837 $15.95 Leigh Hobbs Mr Badger and the Big Surprise 9781742374178 Mr Badger and the Difficult Duchess 9781742374192 Mr Badger and the Missing Ape 9781742374185 Mr Badger and the Magic Miror 9781742374208 each pb $14.00 Mr Badger is the impeccable extraordinarily competent Special Events Manager at the Boubles Grand Hotel (pronounced Boublay) in Mayfair London. He constantly has to use all his ingenuity to ensure that nothing disturbs the guests and visitors to the Hotel, especially from the atrocious behaviour of little Sylvia Smothers-Carruthers, the spoilt seven year old grand-daughter of the owners. I found the tone of these stories very appealing and loved the ironic humour as Mr Badger so calmly endeavours to stop the potential disasters which constantly threaten. The very amusing illustrations perfectly match the stories. (7 – 9 years) Elizabeth Honey To the Boy in Berlin pb 9781741750041 $15.95 also written by Heike Brandt This is the story of an intriguing email correspondence between Henni who lives in Melbourne, Australia and Leo Schmidt in Berlin. The emails fly backwards and forwards providing much amusement as well as glimpses of the difference and similarities between their lives and also some of the history linking the two countries. (10 – 14 years) Paul Jennings Jennings is Australia's most popular author, even outselling Roald Dahl. His stories are funny, quirky and often have a strange twist to the ending. Rascal Stories by Paul Jennings illustrated by Bob Lea pb $9.95 each Rascal the Dragon 9780143300366, Rascal’s Trick 9780143300380, Rascal in Trouble 9780143300373, Rascal Takes Off 9780143300397, Rascal at the Show 9780143300922, Rascal and the Cheese 9780143300939, Rascal and Little Flora 9780143300946, Rascal and the Hot Air Balloon 9780143300915, Little Rascal to the Rescue 9780143302674, Rascal and the Dragon Droppings 9780143302667, Rascal and the Monster 9780143302650, Rascal goes Fishing 9780143302643. Rascal Plays Up 9780143302377, Rascal Runs Away 9780143304098, Rascal and the Bad Smell 9780143304111, Rascal Bumps his Head 9780143304203, Rascal’s Big Day 9780143305200, Rascal’s Shadow 9780143304104. Rascal the Dragon is an engaging young stray dragon who has been adopted by a young boy and his father in much the same way that a family would take in a stray puppy. The stories are enjoyable, humorous and very simply written for children just beginning to read. Also would be good for ESL. Rascal the Dragon 9780143501732, Rascal in Trouble 9780143501749, Rascal Takes Off 9780143502067, Rascal and the Cheese 9780143502418, Rascal at the Show 9780143502401, Rascal and Little Flora 9780143502395, Rascal and the Hot Air balloon 9780143502425, Rascal’s Trick 9780143502050, Little Rascal to the Rescue 9780143503972, Rascal Goes Fishing 9780143503958, Rascal and the Dragon Droppings 9780143503965, Rascal and the Monster 9780143503941 are also available in larger picture book format. pb $14.95 each Six Little Rascals The first six of the Rascal stories are also available in a boxed set 9780143303435 $29.95. Another Box of Rascals contains the next six Rascal titles in a boxed set 9780143304159 $29.95 The Cabbage Patch Fib pb 9780140377699 $14.95 has large print and is ideal for those just beginning to read. The Cabbage Patch Pong 9780141306070 $12.95 is a quirky sequel . • All four stories now available in one volume The Cabbage Patch Fibs (Curse, War, Fib and Pong) pb 9780143302551 $19.95 (6 – 10 years) The Paw Thing 9780140377705 $12.95, Singenpoo Strikes Again 9780141300993 , Singenpoo Shoots Through 9780141306094 $12.95 and Singenpoo’s Secret Weapon pb 9780141306087 $12.95 Wacky stories about Singenpoo the remarkable cat who can read and even play Scrabble. Large print, simple text and illustrations. All four stories also available in one volume The Many Adventures of Singenpoo pb 9780143304791 $19.95 (7 – 10 years) Unbearable 9780140371031, Unbelievable 9780140371000, Uncanny 9780140371024, Unmentionable 9780140371048, Unreal 9780140370997, Undone 9780140368239, Uncovered 9780140369007and Unseen 9780141305158 all pb $14.95 each (8 - 15) years Quirky Tales 9780140371017 $16.95 Funniest Stories 9780670028900, Spookiest Stories 9780670028917, Trickiest Stories 9780670071845 and Weirdest Stories 9780670070640 pb $24.95 each are all collections which generally contain the same stories but in different groupings. The Gizmo 9780140370904, Come Back Gizmo 9780140378450 and Sink the Gizmo 9780140381481 are single short stories with the usual bizarre twist and illustrations. pb $12.95 each All four stories are also available in Fantastic and Amazing Gizmo Bindup pb 9780143304876 $19.95 How Hedley Hopkins Did a Dare, robbed a grave, made a new friend pb $16.95 is based on Paul Jennings’ own life growing up in Australia in the fifties. His family were English immigrants and he felt that he was an outsider. (11 – 14 years) The Nest pb 9780143206590 $19.95 Jennings latest novel is ambitious. It has elements of his trademark quirky humour but then becomes extremely intense as it probes the troubled mind of the main character Robin. (14 years up) Catherine Jinks The Pagan Chronicles Book 1 Pagan's Crusade pb 9781741752311 $17.95 A wonderfully refreshing historical novel which doesn't need a time/slip device to bring vividly to life 12th century Jerusalem at the time of the Crusades. Book 2 Pagan in Exile pb 9781741752328 $17.95 is the sequel where the even more violent and vigorous action takes place in medieval France. Book 3 Pagan’s Vows pb 9781741752335 is set in a monastery as Roland and Pagan take monastic vows and develops into an exciting medieval thriller. Book 4 Pagan's Scribe pb 9781741752342 is told through the eyes of the bookish young Isidore giving a different perspective on Pagan and Roland. pb $17.95 each title (11 years up) Book 5 Pagan’s Daughter pb 9781741752359 $17.95Babylonne is a feisty character whose life is fraught with danger as it seems that in whichever city she is, the city is besieged. This was an extremely violent period of history and Jinks describes the brutality of the frequent battles and sieges between the Cathars in the south of France and the French lords. (13 - 17 years) Barry Jonsberg The Whole Business with Kiffo and the Pitbull pb 9781741141122 $17.95 Don’t be put off (as I was) by the title because this is the engaging, very entertaining story written by Calma Harrison, a Year 10 English student who has a flair for language and a highly developed imagination and sense of loyalty to her friend Kiffo. This innovative book has some extraordinarily funny episodes which made me laugh aloud. (12 up) It’s Not All About You, Calma! pb 9781741144840 $17.95 is the witty sequel in which Calma’s certainties about her own skills and opinions are challenged. (14 up) Mates: Heart of the Forest illustrated by Craig Phillips pb 9781862918139 $11.99 A rather spooky but satisfying story. (7 – 9 years)
Victor Kelleher He has been one of Australia's most popular fantasy and science fiction writer. Taronga pb 9780140326314 $19.95 is a bleak but compelling view of the future after a nuclear holocaust. (13 years up ) • Gibblewort the Goblin is a nasty little Irish goblin who likes to play horrible tricks on his friends. However when he decides to mail himself to Australia for some sun, things go horribly wrong. He ends up in trouble no matter where he goes. The books have amusing illustrations by Stephen Michael King. Goblin in the Bush pb 9781864719499, Goblin in the City pb 9781864719512, Goblin at the Zoo pb 9781864719536, Goblin at the Beach pb 9781864719550, Goblin in the Rainforest pb 9781864719529 and Goblin on the Reef pb 9781864719505 $9.95 each Gibblewort the Goblin contains the three stories Goblin in the Bush, Goblin on the Reef and Goblin in the City all in one volume pb 9781741660050 $16.95 (5 – 8 years) Diana Kidd I love you, Jason Delaney pb 9780207189876 $13.95 Ali thinks her life will only begin when she has her first boyfriend and the waiting is very frustrating. (8 - 12) Two Hands Together pb 9780141307480 $17.95The growing friendship between Lily and Ella is marred by the disapproval of Lily’s father, much to Ella’s confusion. How could it be that her father doesn’t like this warm and friendly Aboriginal family? (7 – 10 years) Robyn Klein pb 9780140316728 $17.95 is a very funny story of two girls who take an instant dislike to each other and why. (8 - 12) Also available as a play pb 9780140327496 $19.95. Boss of the Pool pb 9781862916401 $15.99 is about the satisfaction Shelley feels when she succeeds in teaching a mentally handicapped boy to swim (8 - 13). Came back to show you I could fly pb 9780140342543 $19.95 is the moving story of a friendship between an 11 year old boy and Angie, 17 years old, and struggling to free herself of a drug dependency. Winner of the CBC Award for Older Readers 1990. People might Hear You pb 9780140366297 $17.95 is also for older readers. The Listmaker. pb 9780670871759 $19.95 Twelve year old Sarah makes lists. A portrayal of families and their idiosyncracies. (11 - 14) Justine Larbalestier • How to Ditch Your Fairy pb $17.95 (9781741757378) CD unabridged $29.95 (9781742333892) Having a parking fairy is not all it’s cracked up to be, especially if you’re a 14 year old girl at the competitive New Avalon Sports High. Charlie is determined to ditch her ‘doxy’ fairy, even if it means teaming up with her arch-enemy, Fiorenze. This is a fun, sassy, contemporary read, with engaging characters and generous servings of amusing made-up slang. The author is a Sydney girl married to Scott Westerfeld (author of the young adult Uglies / Pretties series). They divide their time between Sydney and New York City. Mature 11/12+ girls MC Alison Lester Also The Snow Pony pb 9781864489309 $15.95 Set in the Snowy Mountains, this is a story about a farming family trying to survive a severe drought and a girl’s love and trust in a wild pony. (9 – 14 years) Bonnie and Sam: The Shadow Brumby pb 9781741148909 $12.95 is the first in a new series for younger readers about two friends Bonnie and Sam who love horses. (7 – 10 years) Also in the same series are 2: Circus Pony 9781741148879 and 3: Racing the Tide 9781741148886 and 4: Saving Mr Pinto pb 9781741148893 $12.95 each Morris Lurie Maureen McCarthy 9781742379517 $19.99 Marvellous story about the lives of three young women in their first year at University in Melbourne. Conflicting emotions, desires and shifting relationships are powerfully portrayed in this very moving story which brings tears of laughter, sadness and delight. Ganglands pb 9780141003320 $19.95 is set in inner city Melbourne and looks at the pressures and expectations and changes in young peoples' lives at this often tempestuous period. (15 up) Chain of Hearts pb 9780140281538 $22.95. This deals with Sophie a rebellious 17 year old who is sent as a last resort to her aunt in the country. There the past gradually emerges in a way that helps her deal with the present. Flash Jack pb 9780141311708 $19.95 is about a 13 year old boy’s summer which he thought would be disastrous after burglars steal all his stuff. (11 – 15 years) When you wake and find me gone by Maureen McCarthy pb $22.95 Kit is just twenty years old and enjoying her new independence when she makes a trip to Ireland to understand more of her background and becomes enmeshed in the bitterness, hatred and complexities of the long Irish struggle for independence. (14 years up) Rose by any other name pb 9781741754261 $16.95 Rose has left school and has planned a trip in her van along the western coast of Victoria. However she hadn’t planned on her mother coming. There are flashbacks to the troubled times over the past year. (14 years up) • Somebody’s Crying pb 9781742370248 $17.99 is a thriller, murder mystery (14 years up). Melina Marchetta Saving Francesca pb 9780143000976 $19.95 The most enjoyable story of Francesca and the ups and downs of her year eleven at a Catholic Boys school which is accepting girls into Year eleven for the first time. It is fascinating look at the effect of girls on the culture of a boys school and also the way the girls are changed. (13 years up) The Piper’s Son pb 9780670074235 $24.95 Set in Sydney’s inner west, this novel has a very urban feel to it. Although not a sequel, it does continue the story of some of the friends in Saving Francesca; however, it is now five years later and the focus is on Thomas Mackee. The death of Thomas’s beloved uncle in the London bombings has spun Thomas out of control, and grief is tearing his family apart. Thomas just wants to escape from everything, and alienates himself from friends and family with his behaviour. Ultimately, though, it is family, with all their flaws, who help him to get back on track. This is definitely a book for Senior students as the friends are now in their early twenties and the book contains mature themes. (16+ years). KS & MC On the Jellicoe Road pb 9780143011194 $19.95 An ambitious novel for 13 years up. Finnikin of the Rock by Melina Marchetta pb 9780143009870 $19.95 This is Melina Marchetta’s first fantasy novel and she has created a world in which there is great suffering, however the characters are engaging and believable and the plot is exciting, complex and well constructed. Fantasy enthusiasts will be sad to leave the world of Lumatere and Finnikin, Sir Topher and the mysterious Evanjalin on their quest to free the land of Lumatere from its curse. • The sequel is Froi of the Exiles pb 9780670076086 $24.95 (13 years up) John Marsden Letters from the inside pb 9781742611488 $14.99 is a similarly challenging novel for older readers which presents a very bleak view of the world. Staying alive in Year 5 pb 9780330358842 $12.95 Scott and his friends are just staying alive in Year 5 until their surprising new teacher comes along. (8 – 12 years) Looking for Trouble pb 9780330359900 $12.95 Tony and his mates are good fun but they always seem to be looking for trouble ... and finding it. The Tomorrow when the War Began series is an extraordinarily popular series about a group of teenagers who are forced to fend for themselves and to fight for their country when Australia is invaded by a foreign power. It is gripping, compulsive reading. By far the most popular books ever written in Australia for young adults. Tomorrow when the War Began pb 9780330274869 Film Tie-In 9780330403801, The Dead of the Night pb 9780330356473 Film tie-in 9780330403818, The Third Day the Frost pb 9780330356688 Film Tie-In 9780330403825, Darkness be my Friend pb 9780330360050 $16.99 Film Tie-in 9780330403832, Burning for Revenge pb 9780330360630 $16.99 Film tie –in 9780330403849, The Night is for Hunting pb 9780330361361 Film Tie-in 9780330403856 and the final title in the series The Other Side of Dawn pb 9780330362139 Film Tie-In 9780330403863 $16.99 each. Or the new film tie-in editions are $18.99 each (12 – 18 years) The Ellie Chronicles by John Marsden pb $14.95 each or new editions $18.99 each A continuation of the Tomorrow when the war began series sees Ellie back on the farm and trying to take up her life again. However there is a disaster and Ellie has to take on a role of responsibility and caring way beyond what should be expected of someone of her age. While I live: The Ellie Chronicles pb 9780330364843 $14.95 or 9780330404402 $18.99 Incurable: The Ellie Chronicles pb 9780330422529$14.95 or 9780330404396 $18.99 Circle of Flight: The Ellie Chronicles pb 9780330423595 $14.95 or 9780330404389 $18.99 Christobel Mattingley is about a young girl who lives on an island where turtles nest and who takes action to save them from fisherman’s nets. A book with an environmental message. (8 – 10 years) David Metzenthen Winning the World Cup by David Metzenthen illus Stephen Axelsen pb 9780143302780 $12.95 Marco and his friends live in Australia but come from many different countries. This is a lively positive story about the exuberant soccer games they play showing how children can care both about the country where they live and also the country they come from. An Aussie Nibble (5 – 8 years) Hide that Horse! Illus by Leigh Hobbs pb 9780143304494 $12.95 It’s not easy to hide a horse. An Aussie Nibble (5 – 8 years) The Only Pony illus by Judy Watson pb 9780143303114 $12.95 Bessie Swan wants to learn to ride a pony. An Aussie Nibble (5 – 8 years) Spider illus by Peter Sheehan pb 978014330099 $12.95 Another Aussie Nibble And also Squidnapped pb 9780143304777 $12.95 and (5 – 8 years) Save Our Sharks pb 9780143306405 $12.95 Aussie Bites series The Really Nearly Deadly Canoe Ride pb 9780143304548 and The Really Epic Mini Bike Ride pb 9780143301219 $12.95 each (8 – 12 years) are both part of the Aussie Chomps series. Stony Heart Country pb 9780140279085 $19.95 Aaron’s father is a city consultant brought in to sack country workers making life very difficult for Aaron at the local high school. Boys of Blood and Bone pb 9780143001300 $19.95 Metzenthen skilfully contrasts and links the lives of Andy Lansell killed in France in the First World War 1918 and of Henry Lyon, a keen surfer, whose life changes when by chance he stops at a country town where his path crosses that of Andy Lansell. (13 years up) Tiff and the Trout by David Metzenthen pb 9780141306575 $16.95 Tiff loves trout fishing and just about everything about the high mountain country where she lives. However her life changes when her parents separate and she has to make some difficult choices. (9 - 11 years) Black Water pb 9780143005612 $18.95 Set in the time of the Great War in a fishing town on the southern coast of Victoria, this is the story of Farren Fox who was only about 15 when his brother returned injured from the horrors of Gallipoli. It is a rough time for Farren as his father and mother have recently died. Metzenthen brings to life all the characters of this fishing town with its strong sense of community and brings to life a time long past. (13 years up) • Jarvis 24 pb 9780143010043 $19.95 Marc Jarvis is an engaging character. He is a worrier who finds getting organized difficult and is always losing things. He is at a loss to know where to do his Work Experience and when he asks on a whim at a secondhand car dealership, he is surprised when he is accepted. This opens up a very different world and in particular friendship with a girl who is full of surprises and is a highly focused athlete. A convincing and entertaining story about new friendships and the complications of peoples’ lives, (13 – 17 years) James Moloney Swashbuckler pb 9780702228254 $16.95 There is a reason behind Peter's determined pursuit of a variety of swashbuckling roles. A moving story, at times sad and funny. Winner of the 1996 CBC Younger Readers Award. Sequel is Buzzard, Buzzard Breath & Brains pb 9780702233920 $14.95 (8 - 11) House on River Terrace pb 9780702236303 $19.95 An interesting plot which looks at history and the ways it can be manipulated and also looks at the pressures involved in having a parent in political life. For older readers. A Bridge to Wiseman’s Cove pb 9780702236280 $19.95 A complex moving novel which won the CBC Book of the Year Award for 1997. (14 years up) Touch Me pb 9780702236297$19.95 Xavier is a young man for whom being picked for the first Rugby team at achool means everything until he meets and fall in love with Nuala Magee, an unpredictable, witty and engaging girl. (14 years up) Black Taxi pb 9780207199899 $16.95 A crime/adventure with many humorous twists of plot that come when Rosie gets to look after her grandfather’s black Mercedes. It’s good to have a determined, sensible, fun-loving and life affirming heroine. (13 years up) Lost Property pb 9780670029433 $19.95 explores the themes of individuality and sense of worth. (13 years up) 68 Teeth pb 9780143301912 $12.95 is an exciting story set on a cattle station in the far north. The 68 teeth belong to a hungry crocodile! One of the Aussie Chomps series. The Mobile Phone Detective pb 9780143304838$12.95 This is fun! It is mystery in which mobile phone technology is the key – not that this would normally be of much interest to me but somehow James Moloney makes this mystery adventure tale very entertaining. Renton is 13 years old and is travelling with his father in France when his father is kidnapped. Renton doesn’t speak French but he manages to send incriminating photos to the French Police showing what has happened, where he is going and where his father is being held. Mobile phones can truly do amazing things in the hands of smart kids! One of the popular Aussie Chomps. (8 – 12 years) Chris Morphew • The Phoenix Files Book1 Arrival pb $16.95 (9781921502392) Arrival takes place over the first 12 days of a 100-day countdown to the end of the world. The world outside of Phoenix, that is. Set in the surreal town of Phoenix in the Australian outback, this fast-paced thriller has a futuristic feel to it. Young Sydney author. Further titles in this exciting series are: Book 2 Contact 9781921502408 Book 3 Mutation 9781921502415 Book 4 Underground 9781921502422 (12+ years) MC
Sally Murphy Pearl Verses the World illus by Heather Potter pb 9781921150937 $15.95 Pearl has always lived with her mother and her granny making a family of three but now her granny cannot remember anyone and this is such a sad time for Pearl that she feels she has no friends. Pearl loves to write and tell stories and her granny always encouraged this but she also taught her that a poem does not need to rhyme and this is how Pearl writes this story, in free verse. (8 – 10 years) • Toppling illus Rhian Nest James pb 9781921529429 $16.95 A novel in verse about John and his 11 year old best friend Dominic, who becomes ill with cancer, and how John copes with this frightening turn of events. A warm story about the importance of family and friendship, especially in the face of illness, death and grief. Gentle, thoughtful writing. (10 – 12 years). MC
Garth Nix Sabriel pb 9781741750188 $17.95 A highly inventive story of Sabriel, an engaging heroine. For many years she has lived outside the walls of the Old Kingdom but when her father, the Mage Abhorsen is missing, Sabriel must cross back into that world. (12 up) Lirael pb 9781741750195 and Abhorsen pb 9781741750201 $17.95 each Set in a dark magical world, these are absorbing sequels. Shade’s Children pb 9781741148046 $17.95 A dramatic story of courage and companionship set against savage forces of darkness. (12 up) Mister Monday (Keys to the Kingdom Book 1) pb9781741142136 $15.95 This is the first book in a new fantasy series called Keys to the Kingdom. It is densely written and has a complex plot. For fantasy fans. Sequels are Grim Tuesday pb 9781741142549, Drowned Wednesday pb 9781741144413, Sir Thursday pb 9781741145885 , Lady Friday pb 9781741145892, Superior Saturday pb 9781741145908, Lord Sunday pb 9781741145915 $15.95 each (12 - 16 years) Ruth Park An excellent time-slip story in which Abigail finds herself in the old Rocks area of Sydney in the 1870s. Winner of the Book of the Year Award 1981. (10 - 15 years) Emily Rodda Pigs Might Fly pb 9780207187261 $14.95, Finders Keepers pb 9781862918221 $16.99 and its sequel Timekeeper pb 9781862918382 $16.99 and The Best Kept Secret pb 9780207167058 $14.95 are all stories for younger readers with a fantasy element. (8 – 11 years) Rowan of Rin pb 9781862916357 $15.99 contains many of the elements of the traditional fantasy - the quest, the dragon, misty swamps and walls of spiders. It won the Younger Readers, 1994 CBC Award. Sequels are Rowan and the Travellers pb 9781862916364 and Rowan and the Keeper of the Crystal pb 9781862916371 $16.99, Rowan and the Zebak pb 9781862916388 and the latest Rowan and the Bukshah pb 9781862916395 $15.99 each (7 – 10 years) Bob the Builder and the Elves pb 9780733314841 $12.95 Bob is appalled when his house is infested with elves who keep his house much too tidy and make him fairy bread and polish his boots. A very funny story. (7 - 10) Deltora Quest series involves a traditional fantasy quest to find the seven gems which make up the Belt of Deltora. Each book involves a perilous quest for Lief, Barda and Jasmine through seven very different lands to obtain the gems to free Deltora from the tyranny of the evil Shadow Lord. (8 - 12 years) Deltora Quest 11 The Forests of Silence 9781741697520 2 The Lake of Tears 9781741697537 3 City of the Rats 9781741697735 4 The Shifting Sands 9781741697735 5 Dread Mountain 9781741697827 6 The Maze of the Beast 9781741697834 7 The Valley of the Lost 9781741697896 8 Return to Del 9781741697902 pb $14.99 each Deltora Quest 2 pb $14.99 each book 1. Cavern of the Fear 9781741699548 2. The Isle of Illusion 9781741699555 3. The Shadowlands 9781741699562 (8 - 13 years) Deltora Quest 3 1. Dragon’s Nest 9781741699579 2. Shadowgate 9781741699586 3. Isle of the Dead 9781741699593 4. The Sister of the South 9781741699609 Deltora is threatened again, this time by four vile creations of sorcery, the Four Sisters. pb $ 14.99 each book Secrets of Deltora illustrated by Marc McBride hardback 9781741692082 $29.99 is a “travel guide’ to Deltora told from the perspective of Doran the Dragonlover. It explores the seven gem territories giving new information about them. Contains a fold-out map. The Key to Rondo by Emily Rodda hardback 9781862917439 $34.99 pb 9781862918450 $22.99 In this new fantasy adventure series the old music box which has been passed down in Leo’s family for many years is the key to Rondo. Leo has always respected and followed the rules of its use but his least favourite cousin doesn’t and so they are both plunged into an exciting quest in the very strange world of Rondo. It is a world in which many characters seem familiar and children will soon recognise that many are taken from nursery rhymes and from fairy tales. The sequel is the Wizard of Rondo hardback 9781862917927 $34.99 pb 9781862917934 $22.99 The final story in this trilogy is The Battle for Rondo hardback 9781862918306 $34.99 pb 9781862918313 $22.99 (9 – 14 years) • The latest exciting fantasy series the Three Doors. Book 1 The Golden Door p b 9781862919129 $16.99 James Roy Town pb 9780702236372 $19.95 Thirteen short stories are told by thirteen different adolescents over the course of year in an Australian country town. The stories are linked because they often deal with the same characters but through the various stories they are described from different viewpoints. It won first prize in the Teenage Inky Award. (12 - 17 years) A Boat for Bridget pb 9780702232503 $16.95 Bridget’s father loves the sea and he passes on his love of sailing to Bridget and build her a boat but Bridget’s mother has good reason to be fearful of the sea. An engaging story about conflicting desires that can cause difficulties to family life. (10 – 14 years)
Gillian Rubinstein Randolph Stow Penny Tangey • Loving Richard Feynman pb 9780702237256 $17.95 Cantherine is an outsider, a nerd as she says but at fifteen years old she is resigned to it as she loves science and maths. She writes letters to Richard Feynman who was a Nobel Prize-winning physicist because it gives her more of a focus and she describes her many frustrations, enthusiasms, lack of confidence and scorn at the behaviour of others. It is at times very funny. (14 – 17 years)
Colin Thiele Thiele's novels have been well known and loved for some forty years. His stories have humour, adventure and a very strong sense of place. Uncle Gustav's Ghosts pb 9781741102376 $12.95 My favourite. Set in the Barossa Valley of South Australia amongst the German emigrants which was Colin Thiele's own background, it is hilarious, exciting and features a variety of ghosts, including poltergeists. (10 - 14) Storm Boy illus by Robert Ingpen pb 9781741101874 $14.95 The well known story of the friendship between a boy and a pelican Mr Percival. It has been reprinted with the original illustrations capturing the beautiful desolation of the sand dunes of this coastline. (6 – 12 ) Richard Tulloch Beastly Tales pb 9781741661897 $14.95 and Twisted Tales pb 9781741662740 $14.95 are very funny stories with lively illustrations by Terry Denton. (8 – 11 years) Ethel Turner Carole Wilkinson Dragonkeeper pb 9781742032450 $19.99 An intriguing fantasy novel set in Ancient China where a slave girl saves the life of an aging dragon and together they make an epic journey across China. The Garden of the Purple Dragon 9781742030609 and Dragon Moon pb 9781742030616 $19.99 each are the exciting sequels. A prequel Dragon Dawn pb 9781742030623 $12.99 has also been published. This is the story of Danzi, Kai’s father and the first dragon that Ping cared for as a young girl. (8 – 14 years) The Dragon Companion illustrated by Dean Jones hardback 9781742030005 $26.99 pb 9781742031446 $19.99 contains information about dragons from around the world. The information is arranged alphabetically, beautifully illustrated. (8 – 16 years) Ramose Prince in Exile pb 9781921167058 $16.99 This is the first book in a series set in Ancient Egypt about Ramose who was the pharaoh’s rightful heir but who has had to escape and live in disguise since a plot against his life. These are exciting adventure stories which give many details of courtly and everyday life at the time of Ancient Egypt. Other titles are Ramose and the Tomb Robbers pb 9781921167065 , Ramose Sting of the Scorpion pb 9781921167225 and Wrath of Ra pb 9781921167232 $16.99 each (9 – 12 years)
Tim Winton Blueback: A Fable for all Ages by Tim Winton pb 9780143304333 $17.95 An environmentally conscious story about Abel and his mother who live by the sea and whose lives revolve round the ocean. They endeavour to protect their bit of ocean and the creatures who live in it from anything harmful. (9 years up) Markus Zusak The Underdog pb 9781862917606 $15.99 is the first in a trilogy about Cameron Wolfe and his family. It gives vivid portrait of an Australian boyhood. In Fighting Ruben Wolfe pb 9781862917613 $15.99 Cam and his older brother are conscripted into the boxing circuit, fighting for money since their father is unemployed. In When Dogs Cry pb 9780330403733 $16.99 Cam comes out of the shadow of his older brother Rube and finds a more confident pace for himself. (12 – 16 years) The Book Thief pb 9780330423304 $19.95is told mainly through the Narrator Death telling the story of a young girl left by her mother to live with foster parents in Munich and during the second world war. The book is also surprising in its quirkiness and sense of irony and at times humour while depicting a period in Europe of great suffering. (14 years up)
Collections • The ABC Book of Australian Poetry: A Treasury of Poems for Young People compiled by Libby Hathorn illustrated by Cassandra Allan hardback 9780733320194 $29.95 A lovely collection of well loved classics as well as contemporaty poems by Steven Herrick, Les Murray anxd others. (ages 10 – 14 years)
100 Australian Poems for Children edited by Clare Scott-Mitchell and Kathlyn Griffith Illustrated by Gregory Rogers hardback 9781740517751 $19.95 These poems reflect life in Australia, from settlement days to modern times. There are poems by children as well as by adults. There are also many poems by Aboriginal poets. Many of the poems are humorous and many are about animals. The black and white illustrations are by well-known illustrator Gregory Rogers. (9 – 14 years)
And the ‘Roo Jumped Over the Moon: Australian Stories and Poems for Children compile by Robin Morrow illustrated by Stephen Michael King pb 9781865047829 $14.95 An entertaining collection of children’s stories and poems by Australian writers. (7 – 10 years)
If you would like to order any of the books listed, send orders to Austral Ed by email austral@gleebooks.com.au All prices are in Australian dollars. For additional lists of recommended books and newsletters from Austral Ed, visit our website www.australed.iinet.net.au |
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