Looking for books that will keep kids coming back for more? Series fiction is a brilliant way to build reading confidence and momentum — once children connect with the characters, they’re hooked. From gentle adventures and animal tales to imaginative fantasy worlds, these newer series...
Inspired by Nietzsche, his story about a bad-tempered pudding, which never diminishes no matter how much you eat it, has been widely interpreted as defending our “way of life”, writes John Uhr The federal parliamentary seat of Lindsay, west of Sydney, was formed in 1984, honouring...
Australia introduced new rules on December 10th, 2025 requiring social media platforms to stop children under 16 from creating or maintaining accounts. This extract is from Screen Smart Children, which answers many of the burning questions parents might have. One reason for the new social media...
Do you know a youngster about to start school? There are some great new books available to help ease the introduction. Starting School All About Stating School by Felicity Brooks, illus. by Mar Ferrero, an Usborne Book, pub. HarperCollins, h/b RRP$19.99. Ages 3+ Usborne books are always fun and...
With bright illustrations and just the right mix of excitement and emotion, these books capture Christmas themes and what kids love most about reading A Barney Gumnut Christmas by Tamsin Ainslie, pub HarperCollins, h/b RRP$24.99. Ages from 0-4. This sweet book is also beautifully illustrated by the author...
For older, curious and independent readers, these Christmas themed books offer a great mix of adventure and humour. Santa & Son by David Walliams, illus. by Adam Stower, pub. HarperCollins Children’s Books, p/b RRP$12.99. Ages 8-12. Prolific writer, David Walliams, has produced his first, funny, Christmas story –...
As the year ends, it’s the perfect time to reassess friendships. Mental-health author Elizabeth Jane says one-sided relationships can quietly drain energy and confidence. Recognising the signs and setting boundaries can protect wellbeing and create space for healthier, reciprocal connections. As the year winds down, many...
Author and journalist Virginia Tapscott, in her new book All Mothers Work, argues that to value care properly, we must start by changing the words we use. We often talk about mothers “returning to work” as if the countless hours spent feeding, cleaning, teaching, and comforting their children...
Ideal for younger readers, these books combine warmth, rhythm, and colour to keep little ones engaged from start to finish. Whether read at bedtime or playtime, it’s a lovely way to introduce babies and toddlers to the joy of books and shared reading. The Drought Kangaroo by...
In her new children’s book, Jacinda Ardern explores working ‘mum guilt’ through her daughter’s eyes. Reviewed by Katie Pickles Jacinda Ardern’s second book, released within four months of her memoir, is a simple children’s story. Its title – Mum’s Busy Work – appears to still hold...
