I’m a children’s writer – and celebrity children’s books undervalue my craft, writes Penni Russon I have been an editor and author of children’s and young adult books for over 20 years. I’ve taught writing for children and young adult fiction to hardworking and serious emerging...
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....
‘Live in the light, but carry the dark’: John Marsden’s books are his legacy – but so is his empathy, writes Penni Russon Celebrated author and educator John Marsden, best known for his dystopian young adult Tomorrow series, has died aged 74. The bestselling author of...
We are always looking for books to ignite and encourage a love of books in kids. Our suggestions for those littlies under 7 years can give you a guide for some interesting books to read aloud. On The Hunt For Santa by Leslie Gibbes, illus. by Steven Michael...
Try these tips to help your child develop stronger literacy skills Have Them Read Aloud This encourages them to go slower, which gives them more time to process what they read and in turn improves reading comprehension. Plus, they're not only seeing the words —...
There are some myths about reading that tend to be perpetuated relentlessly. One of them: That graphic novels* don’t count as “real reading.” However, teachers and literacy experts disagree with this. Graphic novels will improve your child's reading skills like any other book would, and they are fantastic...
Maxine Clarke takes up arms against the negative stereotypes and dubious role models in fairytales and children’s nursery rhymes. As a young child, I was always highly suspicious of fairytales. Not because I knew they were fantasy but because I realised, at least on some level,...
Setting aside time to read during the week can be challenging. Fortunately, you only need 20 to 30 minutes of reading a day to boost your child’s literacy—and it’s up to you how you want to structure it! Here are six expert-backed ways to read as...
Explore boredom busters and educational activities to unlock the power of play in learning —and spend some unplugged time together as a family. Keeping kids learning outside of the classroom can sometimes be a challenge, but you can promote active off-screen engagement —both at home and...
It's great that so many of our books for small children have won Awards for their authors and their illustrators. Most authors will tell you it's hard to keep writing fresh books for kids that keep them interested and thinking about their world. Happy All Over by...
