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...
Navigating the first few months after giving birth can be overwhelming, but The Fourth Trimester by Amelia Lamont, offers new parents a much-needed blend of practical advice and heartfelt reassurance, writes Victoria Baker. Amelia Lamont’s The Fourth Trimester is a realistic, informative and compassionate guide to the first...
It's hard when you are looking for a book with a particular theme, to actually find one that's specific to your child. It will need to be of interest to them to keep their attention and should be one you can read out aloud and enjoy...
Scientifically accurate children’s books on Australian animals – particularly the lesser-known species – are sorely lacking, write Euan Ritchie and Kate Umbers Few things are more wonderful than well-written and produced children’s books. They captivate kids, families and classrooms, leaving lifelong impressions. They shape our world....
