Hi Riverbenders
It's Christmas Eve and all through the shop not a creature is stirring....
Actually, it's been rather busy and many children will have smiles on their faces in the morning as they enjoy the old classics and new waiting beneath the Christmas tree. This afternoon I enjoyed helping a couple of young uncles who spent a long time choosing books for their three year old niece and new born nephew. They revisited old favourites of their own in their quest for the perfect gift for these special people before leaving with Fancy Nancy , the pop up version of The mole who knew it was none of his business, Guess How Much I Love You and Each Peach Pear Plum
Everyone in my family will find books under the tree in the morning and I can only hope that there may be one or two for me.
I can think of no better gift!
Happy Christmas to you all. Enjoy the time to read and reflect.
Jane
Monday, December 24, 2007
Monday, November 26, 2007
Vote Now
Hi Riverbenders
Voting has well and truly been the flavour of the weekend but with the federal election now a point of ongoing discussion and a new Australian Idol declared, let's turn our thoughts to voting for book of the year. At Riverbend we run a competition annually to gauge our readers' favourite adult and children's books. Nominating one book among many as a favourite is a real challenge. Is it possible to have only one favourite or is it in the nature of book lovers to have many? In recommeding books to our customers we often find ourselves here talking about favourites. My favourite is often the book I have just finished reading, a new favourite, but I also have lists of old favourites. When I arrived at work one day late last week I happened to see a new favourite on the shelves.
How did I know it would be a favourite? It's a sequel to an old favourite! (Other Knuffle Bunny fans, don't miss Knuffle Bunny Too.)
In the last few weeks at Riverbend we have been asked to nominate our favourite books for Christmas reading, we are currently asking customers to nominate favourites and we have a number of catalogues on the counter listing favourite titles for Christmas purchasing. So today I've decided to devote myself to some of my favourites from 2007 and the Riverbend crew's Christmas favourites.
Someday by Alison McGhee has remained one of my favourites throughout the year. A gift for every child and every parent for any occasion or no occasion, this is a simple but powerful ode to the potential of love and the potential in life. A mother talks to her daughter about her hopes and dreams for a much loved child and the bonds which last always.
The Trouble with Dogs by Bob Graham continues to delight, many months after I decided it was a favourite.
A sequel to the much loved Let's Get a Pup we meet Dave and Rosie again as they settle in to life with Kate and her family. Dave is full of the joys of living and needs to be disciplined. When the family responds to an advertisement they meet the Brigadier from Pup Breakers with the ensuing lessons teaching all involved a few new tricks.
Gregory Maguire's What the Dickens is an imaginative journey into myth and mayhem.
On a dark and stormy night three children await their parents return. Their cousin holds them in thrall with stories of rogue tooth fairies called skibbereen who are living in warring colonies in the neighbourhood. A perfect story for a stormy night, at first the children are skeptical but as the storm continues to rage, a certain unease descends. The quality of the writing is apparent from the opening paragraph making this a thoroughly enjoyable read for middle + primary readers.
A recent favourite for teen readers is Life on the Refrigerator Door by Alice Kuipers.
Beautifully told through notes left on their kitchen fridge, this is an intimate portrait of the relationship between a hard-working mother and her teenage daughter. Stunningly sad but ultimately uplifting, it is about being a "good mother" or a "good daughter", and is a reminder of how much can be said in so few words, if only we made the time to say them.
Gallop by Rufus Seder is a book like no other. Employing a patented new technology called Scanimation, each page is a marvel that brings animals, along with one shining star, to life with art that literally moves. It's impossible not to flip the page, and flip it again, and again, and again. A first book of motion for kids this will become everyone's favourite.
And now to the Riverbend staff picks for Christmas. Here they are:
Notes from an Exhibition by Patrick Gale. This is a beautifully written portrait of family life in all its rawness. Told from a number of perspectives, the story of the gifted artist Rachel Kelly who has suffered bipolar disorder for most of her life, emerges. Like a painting, each chapter reveals aspects of her extraordinary life and together form the exhibition of the title. This would have my vote for favourite book of the year.
The Bridge of Sighs by Richard Russo is an epic tale of middle American life. Louis Lynch is sixty, a life long resident of Thomastown in New York state a town divided according to wealth and social status. He is writing the story of his life as he and his wife prepare to visit an old friend in Venice.
Rich in detail this book explores the influences which shape us.
Through the Children's Gate by Adam Gopnik is by turns a tender and hilarious collection of observations of New York family life.
Other staff nominations for Christmas reading include
Matthew Reilly's Seven Sacred Stones,
Twilight by Stephenie Meyers, Cultural Amnesia by Clive James, Paul Ham's definitive Vietnam and a couple of great cookbooks, Creole and Maggie's Harvest. Blurbs about a number of these can be found elsewhere on the Riverbend website or in previous blog entries.
Suzy's favourite book for Christmas reading is Alan Bennett's thoroughly enjoyable The Uncommon
Reader.
Don't forget to vote for your favourite....if you can determine what it might be!
Good luck deciding
Jane
Voting has well and truly been the flavour of the weekend but with the federal election now a point of ongoing discussion and a new Australian Idol declared, let's turn our thoughts to voting for book of the year. At Riverbend we run a competition annually to gauge our readers' favourite adult and children's books. Nominating one book among many as a favourite is a real challenge. Is it possible to have only one favourite or is it in the nature of book lovers to have many? In recommeding books to our customers we often find ourselves here talking about favourites. My favourite is often the book I have just finished reading, a new favourite, but I also have lists of old favourites. When I arrived at work one day late last week I happened to see a new favourite on the shelves.
How did I know it would be a favourite? It's a sequel to an old favourite! (Other Knuffle Bunny fans, don't miss Knuffle Bunny Too.) In the last few weeks at Riverbend we have been asked to nominate our favourite books for Christmas reading, we are currently asking customers to nominate favourites and we have a number of catalogues on the counter listing favourite titles for Christmas purchasing. So today I've decided to devote myself to some of my favourites from 2007 and the Riverbend crew's Christmas favourites.
Someday by Alison McGhee has remained one of my favourites throughout the year. A gift for every child and every parent for any occasion or no occasion, this is a simple but powerful ode to the potential of love and the potential in life. A mother talks to her daughter about her hopes and dreams for a much loved child and the bonds which last always.The Trouble with Dogs by Bob Graham continues to delight, many months after I decided it was a favourite.
A sequel to the much loved Let's Get a Pup we meet Dave and Rosie again as they settle in to life with Kate and her family. Dave is full of the joys of living and needs to be disciplined. When the family responds to an advertisement they meet the Brigadier from Pup Breakers with the ensuing lessons teaching all involved a few new tricks.
Gregory Maguire's What the Dickens is an imaginative journey into myth and mayhem.
On a dark and stormy night three children await their parents return. Their cousin holds them in thrall with stories of rogue tooth fairies called skibbereen who are living in warring colonies in the neighbourhood. A perfect story for a stormy night, at first the children are skeptical but as the storm continues to rage, a certain unease descends. The quality of the writing is apparent from the opening paragraph making this a thoroughly enjoyable read for middle + primary readers.A recent favourite for teen readers is Life on the Refrigerator Door by Alice Kuipers.
Beautifully told through notes left on their kitchen fridge, this is an intimate portrait of the relationship between a hard-working mother and her teenage daughter. Stunningly sad but ultimately uplifting, it is about being a "good mother" or a "good daughter", and is a reminder of how much can be said in so few words, if only we made the time to say them.
Gallop by Rufus Seder is a book like no other. Employing a patented new technology called Scanimation, each page is a marvel that brings animals, along with one shining star, to life with art that literally moves. It's impossible not to flip the page, and flip it again, and again, and again. A first book of motion for kids this will become everyone's favourite.And now to the Riverbend staff picks for Christmas. Here they are:
Notes from an Exhibition by Patrick Gale. This is a beautifully written portrait of family life in all its rawness. Told from a number of perspectives, the story of the gifted artist Rachel Kelly who has suffered bipolar disorder for most of her life, emerges. Like a painting, each chapter reveals aspects of her extraordinary life and together form the exhibition of the title. This would have my vote for favourite book of the year.
The Bridge of Sighs by Richard Russo is an epic tale of middle American life. Louis Lynch is sixty, a life long resident of Thomastown in New York state a town divided according to wealth and social status. He is writing the story of his life as he and his wife prepare to visit an old friend in Venice.
Rich in detail this book explores the influences which shape us.Through the Children's Gate by Adam Gopnik is by turns a tender and hilarious collection of observations of New York family life.
Other staff nominations for Christmas reading include
Matthew Reilly's Seven Sacred Stones,
Twilight by Stephenie Meyers, Cultural Amnesia by Clive James, Paul Ham's definitive Vietnam and a couple of great cookbooks, Creole and Maggie's Harvest. Blurbs about a number of these can be found elsewhere on the Riverbend website or in previous blog entries.
Suzy's favourite book for Christmas reading is Alan Bennett's thoroughly enjoyable The Uncommon Reader.
Don't forget to vote for your favourite....if you can determine what it might be!
Good luck deciding
Jane
Monday, November 5, 2007
A Sure Thing
Hi Riverbenders
There's no doubt that around the nation today and tomorrow there will be much speculation about the winning potential of the various horses which will line up at Flemington for the big race. So in the spirit of the Melbourne Cup here are some of my favourites in the book stakes...
Christmas books are in abundance. There are all sorts of stories for all age groups. Olive the other Reindeer by J. Otto Seibold and Vivian Walsh
is full of flaps to lift, panels to sniff and a fabulous pop up at story's end. Olive is an adventurous dog who hears Christmas songs being played on her daily walks. In fact, she only ever hears one song, Jingle Bells and more specifically hears "Olive the other reindeer" instead of "all of the other reindeer." Olive reports to the North Pole to do her bit and do her bit she does. In fact, Olive saves Santa both time and potential embarassment. This is a tenth anniversary deluxe edition.
I'm the Biggest Thing in the Ocean by Kevin Sherry is the story of another endearing animal.
The bright blue giant squid rejoices in being the biggest thing in the ocean, comparing himself to all manner of sea creatures he encounters. His comeuppance occurs when he falls foul of a whale but undeterred he soon discovers that in fact he is the biggest thing inside the whale! Illustrations are big and bold and the simple story lots of fun.
Remember the very talented Chris van Allsburg?
His new book is Probuditi, a cautionary tale in which Calvin, the practical joker goes too far when he hypnotises his sister and forgets the magic word which will bring her back from the canine world. Illustrations are sepia toned, reveal a fifties setting and dominate the double page spreads.
Another stunningly illustrated new book on the shelves is The Moon Rock by Boriana and Vladimir Todorov.
This is the story of Elliot who one night borrows his grandfather's prized specimen of moon rock. What follows is a fantastic adventure in which Elliot finds himself transported to the far side of the moon where he becomes embroiled in battles between good and evil. Illustrations are cinematic in style and scope. This really is a "sure thing" for fantasy fans.
Our teen book of the month is Lissie Wilcock's first novel Losing It.
Fourteen year old Gabbie Martyn had thought that life was pretty good the way it was but then things start to go awry. Her uncle moves in. Her best friend gets arrested. She falls in love.
Suddenly life isn't so easy, and Gabbie is losing the things she needs most.
At times moving, funny and confronting, 'Losing It' is an outstanding first novel.
All books are sure bets so..
Happy reading
Jane
There's no doubt that around the nation today and tomorrow there will be much speculation about the winning potential of the various horses which will line up at Flemington for the big race. So in the spirit of the Melbourne Cup here are some of my favourites in the book stakes...
Christmas books are in abundance. There are all sorts of stories for all age groups. Olive the other Reindeer by J. Otto Seibold and Vivian Walsh
is full of flaps to lift, panels to sniff and a fabulous pop up at story's end. Olive is an adventurous dog who hears Christmas songs being played on her daily walks. In fact, she only ever hears one song, Jingle Bells and more specifically hears "Olive the other reindeer" instead of "all of the other reindeer." Olive reports to the North Pole to do her bit and do her bit she does. In fact, Olive saves Santa both time and potential embarassment. This is a tenth anniversary deluxe edition.I'm the Biggest Thing in the Ocean by Kevin Sherry is the story of another endearing animal.
The bright blue giant squid rejoices in being the biggest thing in the ocean, comparing himself to all manner of sea creatures he encounters. His comeuppance occurs when he falls foul of a whale but undeterred he soon discovers that in fact he is the biggest thing inside the whale! Illustrations are big and bold and the simple story lots of fun.Remember the very talented Chris van Allsburg?
His new book is Probuditi, a cautionary tale in which Calvin, the practical joker goes too far when he hypnotises his sister and forgets the magic word which will bring her back from the canine world. Illustrations are sepia toned, reveal a fifties setting and dominate the double page spreads. Another stunningly illustrated new book on the shelves is The Moon Rock by Boriana and Vladimir Todorov.
This is the story of Elliot who one night borrows his grandfather's prized specimen of moon rock. What follows is a fantastic adventure in which Elliot finds himself transported to the far side of the moon where he becomes embroiled in battles between good and evil. Illustrations are cinematic in style and scope. This really is a "sure thing" for fantasy fans.Our teen book of the month is Lissie Wilcock's first novel Losing It.
Fourteen year old Gabbie Martyn had thought that life was pretty good the way it was but then things start to go awry. Her uncle moves in. Her best friend gets arrested. She falls in love. Suddenly life isn't so easy, and Gabbie is losing the things she needs most.
At times moving, funny and confronting, 'Losing It' is an outstanding first novel.
All books are sure bets so..
Happy reading
Jane
Friday, October 19, 2007
Revisiting some old favourites
Hi everyone
This week I was delighted to see the arrival on the shelves of one of my all time favourite picture books, Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathman.
For those who aren't familiar with the book, this is the story of the hapless Officer Buckle, foremost expert in all matters of safety in the town of Napville. His role is to educate Napville's citizens in all aspects of potential harm but his presentation skills are found to be lacking. After he is presented with the police dog, Gloria, his audiences begin to sit up and take notice and Officer Buckle basks in their adulation. The reasons for his new found popularity are gleaned from the wonderful illustrations. This is a story about the need for rules, about friendship and about our interdependence. It's also great fun. Winner of the Caledcott Medal in 1996 it has certainly weathered the tests of time.
The very popular Tomorrow When the War Began series by John Marsden has been re jacketed. This series began with Ellie and her friends back in 1993 and seven books and fourteen years later continues to have great appeal with the new jackets offering a fresh look for a new group of fans.
A Bridge to Wiseman's Cove, The House on River Terrace, Crossfire and Touch Me by James Moloney have also been reprinted with new jackets. Each jacket gives only a hint of what is to come. It's great to see James' first book, Crossfire, published in 1992, back on the shelves for a new generation of readers.
Remember Dinotopia?
James Gurney has published a new book in the adventures. Journey to Chandara is as breathtaking in its execution as Dinotopia was when introduced to readers in 1992. In this edition we read of the discovery of a new journal and once again embark on an adventure in which science, art and the imagination converge.The illustrations are stunning. This is a must for those fascinated with the world of dinosaurs and the world of "what if".
Happy reading
Jane
This week I was delighted to see the arrival on the shelves of one of my all time favourite picture books, Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathman.
For those who aren't familiar with the book, this is the story of the hapless Officer Buckle, foremost expert in all matters of safety in the town of Napville. His role is to educate Napville's citizens in all aspects of potential harm but his presentation skills are found to be lacking. After he is presented with the police dog, Gloria, his audiences begin to sit up and take notice and Officer Buckle basks in their adulation. The reasons for his new found popularity are gleaned from the wonderful illustrations. This is a story about the need for rules, about friendship and about our interdependence. It's also great fun. Winner of the Caledcott Medal in 1996 it has certainly weathered the tests of time.
The very popular Tomorrow When the War Began series by John Marsden has been re jacketed. This series began with Ellie and her friends back in 1993 and seven books and fourteen years later continues to have great appeal with the new jackets offering a fresh look for a new group of fans.
A Bridge to Wiseman's Cove, The House on River Terrace, Crossfire and Touch Me by James Moloney have also been reprinted with new jackets. Each jacket gives only a hint of what is to come. It's great to see James' first book, Crossfire, published in 1992, back on the shelves for a new generation of readers. Remember Dinotopia?
James Gurney has published a new book in the adventures. Journey to Chandara is as breathtaking in its execution as Dinotopia was when introduced to readers in 1992. In this edition we read of the discovery of a new journal and once again embark on an adventure in which science, art and the imagination converge.The illustrations are stunning. This is a must for those fascinated with the world of dinosaurs and the world of "what if".Happy reading
Jane
Monday, October 1, 2007
October New Arrivals
Hi Everyone
In the past week or so we have received a lot of new stock in readiness for Christmas. There are rich pickings for the children and teens in your life.
Ape by Martin Jenkins
with breathtaking illustrations by Vicky White is a mix of fact and fiction detailing the lives of the world's great apes - orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos and ... you and me. The conservation message is a strong (almost didactic) one but all is forgiven as the illustrations are a feast.
Tiddler
by Julia Donaldson is a wonderful celebration of the enduring power of story. Tiddler is always late for school but never fails to have a story to explain his tardiness. A number of his classmates dismiss his stories as trivial but John Dory relishes them and shares them with his grandmother who in turn shares them with her friends. When Tiddler is caught in a fishing net his many stories lead him home.
The newly found confidence of young toddlers is captured to perfection in Andrew Daddo's new book I Do It. Whether it's cooking, driving, changing a tyre, dancing or myriad other activities, our confident young miss has a go. Jonathan Bentley's illustrations reflect the child's delight in her many successes.
A less light hearted title is The Enemy by Davide Cali and Serge Bloch. Story and illustrations are simple and yet powerful.
Two enemy soldiers concealed in their trenches wage a never ending battle, understanding little of its origins or little of their opponents. Each believes implicitly in the manual which describes the other as a heartless killer and yet each longs for hostilities to end. When the weather changes and the rain threatens, both soldiers leave their holes under cover of darkness and discover some unsettling truths which lead them both to surrender. A timeless story of the senselessness of war, this picture book for older readers is a great stimulus for discussion.
Odo Hirsch is at his best with Amelia Dee and the Peacock Lamp. A rare bronze lamp hangs outside Amelia Dee's bedroom door. It intrigues Amelia who longs to know its history and origins. When she meets Princess Parvin Kha Douri the puzzle of the lamp becomes even more perplexing. As Amelia sets out to solve the mystery she encounters many memorable characters.
Another name who seldom disappoints is Emily Rodda.
Her new book The Key to Rondo will take readers on a thrilling quest to a new kingdom. The story begins with a music box, handed down through generations. Leo is its custodian and he conscientiously follows the rules of ownership. Not so his visiting cousin Mimi however who flaunts the rules and plunges them both into danger. A great fantasy adventure from the creator of Rin and Deltora.
George's Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy and Stephen Hawking is an entertaining and informative mix of fact and fiction.
When George's pet pig breaks through the neighbour's fence, he meets Annie and her scientist father and discovers a new way of looking at the world...from outer space. This is in essence a gripping adventure story but the inclusion of fascinating facts about the universe and planets plus full colour photos of real images from space takes it to a new plane.
My three suggestions today from the many new arrivals for teenagers are Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac by Gabrielle Zevin, Michael Sweeney's Method by Sean Condon and The Declaration by Gemma Malley.
In Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac we meet Naomi, who wakes up in a hospital bed with no recollection of the immediate events which have brought her there or of the people and events of the last three and a half years of her life. On her return to school she must begin the painstaking task of putting her life back together but it soon becomes clear to her that she may not wish to be united with the past quite as she left it.
Michael Sweeney's Method is Sean Condon's first book for teenagers.
Condon is the author of the adult novel Film, and of the travel books Sean and David's Long Drive, Drive Thru America and My Dam Life, as well as a collection of his articles, The Secret of Success is a Secret.
Michael Sweeney and his friend Dud are just two of the many invisible nothings at their expensive school. They come from deep in the suburbs and they're not cool or tough or even that brainy. So they're pretty much left alone, until they make friends with the new American guy. And before lone, Michael Sweeney is somebody. But that's just the beginning of his troubles.
If you had the choice between living forever and never having children, or living for the natural term of your life and having kids, which would you choose? Such are the questions posed by Gemma Malley in The Declaration which is a gripping, powerful, move-you-to-tears dystopian novel.
The publishers provide this description: Anna Covey is a 'surplus'. She should not have been born. In a society in which aging is no longer feared, and death is no longer an inevitability, children are an abomination. Like all surpluses, Anna is living in Grange Hall and learning how to make amends for the selfish act her parents committed in having her. She is quietly accepting of her fate until one day when a new inmate arrives- a boy, who claims to know her parents. Anna's life is thrown into chaos. Is she brave enough to believe this mysterious boy?
A tense and utterly compelling story.
Happy Reading.
Jane
In the past week or so we have received a lot of new stock in readiness for Christmas. There are rich pickings for the children and teens in your life.
Ape by Martin Jenkins
with breathtaking illustrations by Vicky White is a mix of fact and fiction detailing the lives of the world's great apes - orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos and ... you and me. The conservation message is a strong (almost didactic) one but all is forgiven as the illustrations are a feast.Tiddler
by Julia Donaldson is a wonderful celebration of the enduring power of story. Tiddler is always late for school but never fails to have a story to explain his tardiness. A number of his classmates dismiss his stories as trivial but John Dory relishes them and shares them with his grandmother who in turn shares them with her friends. When Tiddler is caught in a fishing net his many stories lead him home.
The newly found confidence of young toddlers is captured to perfection in Andrew Daddo's new book I Do It. Whether it's cooking, driving, changing a tyre, dancing or myriad other activities, our confident young miss has a go. Jonathan Bentley's illustrations reflect the child's delight in her many successes.A less light hearted title is The Enemy by Davide Cali and Serge Bloch. Story and illustrations are simple and yet powerful.
Two enemy soldiers concealed in their trenches wage a never ending battle, understanding little of its origins or little of their opponents. Each believes implicitly in the manual which describes the other as a heartless killer and yet each longs for hostilities to end. When the weather changes and the rain threatens, both soldiers leave their holes under cover of darkness and discover some unsettling truths which lead them both to surrender. A timeless story of the senselessness of war, this picture book for older readers is a great stimulus for discussion.Odo Hirsch is at his best with Amelia Dee and the Peacock Lamp. A rare bronze lamp hangs outside Amelia Dee's bedroom door. It intrigues Amelia who longs to know its history and origins. When she meets Princess Parvin Kha Douri the puzzle of the lamp becomes even more perplexing. As Amelia sets out to solve the mystery she encounters many memorable characters.
Another name who seldom disappoints is Emily Rodda.
Her new book The Key to Rondo will take readers on a thrilling quest to a new kingdom. The story begins with a music box, handed down through generations. Leo is its custodian and he conscientiously follows the rules of ownership. Not so his visiting cousin Mimi however who flaunts the rules and plunges them both into danger. A great fantasy adventure from the creator of Rin and Deltora.George's Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy and Stephen Hawking is an entertaining and informative mix of fact and fiction.
When George's pet pig breaks through the neighbour's fence, he meets Annie and her scientist father and discovers a new way of looking at the world...from outer space. This is in essence a gripping adventure story but the inclusion of fascinating facts about the universe and planets plus full colour photos of real images from space takes it to a new plane. My three suggestions today from the many new arrivals for teenagers are Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac by Gabrielle Zevin, Michael Sweeney's Method by Sean Condon and The Declaration by Gemma Malley.
In Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac we meet Naomi, who wakes up in a hospital bed with no recollection of the immediate events which have brought her there or of the people and events of the last three and a half years of her life. On her return to school she must begin the painstaking task of putting her life back together but it soon becomes clear to her that she may not wish to be united with the past quite as she left it.
Michael Sweeney's Method is Sean Condon's first book for teenagers.
Condon is the author of the adult novel Film, and of the travel books Sean and David's Long Drive, Drive Thru America and My Dam Life, as well as a collection of his articles, The Secret of Success is a Secret.Michael Sweeney and his friend Dud are just two of the many invisible nothings at their expensive school. They come from deep in the suburbs and they're not cool or tough or even that brainy. So they're pretty much left alone, until they make friends with the new American guy. And before lone, Michael Sweeney is somebody. But that's just the beginning of his troubles.
If you had the choice between living forever and never having children, or living for the natural term of your life and having kids, which would you choose? Such are the questions posed by Gemma Malley in The Declaration which is a gripping, powerful, move-you-to-tears dystopian novel.
The publishers provide this description: Anna Covey is a 'surplus'. She should not have been born. In a society in which aging is no longer feared, and death is no longer an inevitability, children are an abomination. Like all surpluses, Anna is living in Grange Hall and learning how to make amends for the selfish act her parents committed in having her. She is quietly accepting of her fate until one day when a new inmate arrives- a boy, who claims to know her parents. Anna's life is thrown into chaos. Is she brave enough to believe this mysterious boy?
A tense and utterly compelling story.
Happy Reading.
Jane
Friday, September 21, 2007
Holidays Begin
Hi Riverbenders
My teacher friends have reminded me that the September holidays begin today so for them, here are a few holiday reading suggestions.
Our book of the month is Run by Ann Patchett. I thouroughly enjoyed this one.
Set in Boston in the depths of winter, it's a story of family. Tip and Teddy are brothers, close in age, both adopted by a well to do politically connected family. As adults they reluctantly accompany their father to an event to hear Jesse Jackson speak. Afterwards on the icy road they are involved in an accident with far reaching ramifications. Read a full synopsis on the homepage of the Riverbend website.
Another good holiday read is Blood Ties by Sam Hayes.
This is a compelling mystery - one story with three threads. Beginning with the disappearance of a baby from the back seat of a car and continuing thirteen years later with a mother's reluctance to allow her teenage daughter to accept a scholarship to a prestigious school, this mystery will keep you guessing until the surprising end.
Rose Tremain's new book The Road Home is the story of Lev, a newly arrived immigrant from Eastern Europe.
Tremain is well known for her historical fiction but in this book she turns her gaze to the England of here and now as she explores the contemporary migrant experience.
The Last Summer (of you and me) by Ann Brashares has a very "holiday read" cover.
Author of The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pantsthis is the story of sisters, Riley and Alice and of the summer in which they leave childhood behind. Anita Shreve describes the book as a very adult novel of love, loss and the beauty of intense family bonds.
And last but not least is Patrick Gale's stunning Notes from an Exhibition.
The story of a life told from multiple perspectives, this is a tale of enduring love and of a family which weathers tragedy, mental illness and the intolerable strain of living with genius.
For the younger holiday reader, try these.
Spilled Water by Sally Grindley - When her father dies, leaving Lu Si-Yan's family in poverty, her uncle decides to sell her. Lu Si-Yan is eleven, and regarded as 'spilled water' - a waste. From her idyllic home in the Chinese countryside to the smog-wrapped factories of the big city, Lu Si-Yan's journey is a difficult one. But she refuses to spend her life in servitude and is determined to be reunited with her beloved mother and brother.
The Tapestry 1: The Hound of Rowan by Henry H Neff will delight Harry Potter fans. Max McDaniels lives a quiet life in the suburbs of Chicago, until the day he stumbles upon a mysterious Celtic tapestry depicting the mythic Cattle Raid of Cooley. Now many strange people are interested in Max and his tapestry. His discovery will lead him to Rowan Academy, a secret school where great things await: fantastic creatures, rigorous training, and his very own observatory within a mansion by the sea.
But dark things are waiting, too. When Max learns that priceless artworks and gifted children are disappearing from around the globe, he finds himself in the crossfire of an ancient struggle between good and evil. To survive, he'll have to rely on a shadowy network of agents and mystics, the genius of his roommate, and the frightening power awakening within him. This is a great mix of fantasy, mythology and folklore.
Wendy Harmer's Really Really Pearlie is good value holiday reading - three books in one glittering hot pink cover.
On Monday night we enjoyed meeting Agnes Nieuwenhuizen who introduced us to her book Right Book Right Time 500 Great Reads for Teenagers. This is a great reference for teachers, parents and teenagers looking for tried and true recommendations.
I hope you all manage to find the right book for these holiday times.
Enjoy the Spring sunshine.
Happy holiday reading
Jane
My teacher friends have reminded me that the September holidays begin today so for them, here are a few holiday reading suggestions.
Our book of the month is Run by Ann Patchett. I thouroughly enjoyed this one.
Set in Boston in the depths of winter, it's a story of family. Tip and Teddy are brothers, close in age, both adopted by a well to do politically connected family. As adults they reluctantly accompany their father to an event to hear Jesse Jackson speak. Afterwards on the icy road they are involved in an accident with far reaching ramifications. Read a full synopsis on the homepage of the Riverbend website. Another good holiday read is Blood Ties by Sam Hayes.
This is a compelling mystery - one story with three threads. Beginning with the disappearance of a baby from the back seat of a car and continuing thirteen years later with a mother's reluctance to allow her teenage daughter to accept a scholarship to a prestigious school, this mystery will keep you guessing until the surprising end.Rose Tremain's new book The Road Home is the story of Lev, a newly arrived immigrant from Eastern Europe.
Tremain is well known for her historical fiction but in this book she turns her gaze to the England of here and now as she explores the contemporary migrant experience. The Last Summer (of you and me) by Ann Brashares has a very "holiday read" cover.
Author of The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pantsthis is the story of sisters, Riley and Alice and of the summer in which they leave childhood behind. Anita Shreve describes the book as a very adult novel of love, loss and the beauty of intense family bonds.And last but not least is Patrick Gale's stunning Notes from an Exhibition.
The story of a life told from multiple perspectives, this is a tale of enduring love and of a family which weathers tragedy, mental illness and the intolerable strain of living with genius.For the younger holiday reader, try these.
Spilled Water by Sally Grindley - When her father dies, leaving Lu Si-Yan's family in poverty, her uncle decides to sell her. Lu Si-Yan is eleven, and regarded as 'spilled water' - a waste. From her idyllic home in the Chinese countryside to the smog-wrapped factories of the big city, Lu Si-Yan's journey is a difficult one. But she refuses to spend her life in servitude and is determined to be reunited with her beloved mother and brother.
The Tapestry 1: The Hound of Rowan by Henry H Neff will delight Harry Potter fans. Max McDaniels lives a quiet life in the suburbs of Chicago, until the day he stumbles upon a mysterious Celtic tapestry depicting the mythic Cattle Raid of Cooley. Now many strange people are interested in Max and his tapestry. His discovery will lead him to Rowan Academy, a secret school where great things await: fantastic creatures, rigorous training, and his very own observatory within a mansion by the sea.
But dark things are waiting, too. When Max learns that priceless artworks and gifted children are disappearing from around the globe, he finds himself in the crossfire of an ancient struggle between good and evil. To survive, he'll have to rely on a shadowy network of agents and mystics, the genius of his roommate, and the frightening power awakening within him. This is a great mix of fantasy, mythology and folklore.
Wendy Harmer's Really Really Pearlie is good value holiday reading - three books in one glittering hot pink cover.On Monday night we enjoyed meeting Agnes Nieuwenhuizen who introduced us to her book Right Book Right Time 500 Great Reads for Teenagers. This is a great reference for teachers, parents and teenagers looking for tried and true recommendations.
I hope you all manage to find the right book for these holiday times.
Enjoy the Spring sunshine.
Happy holiday reading
Jane
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Indigenous Literacy Day
Hi everyone
Today we mark Indigenous Literacy Day when booksellers and publishers around Australia are banding together to raise funds to address illiteracy levels in remote indigenous communities. It is hoped that our combined efforts will raise $100000 which will be used by the Fred Hollows Foundation to purchase books and other literacy resources for remote indigenous communities in the Northern Territory and New South Wales.
We launched Indigenous Literacy Day in the shop this morning with her excellency the Governor of Qld Ms Quentin Bryce, Susie O'Neill, an ambassador for the Fred Hollows Foundation and representatives from local schools. Susie O'Neill was interviewed about her role by one of our student guests and each of the children presented the governor with suggested reading by sharing with her some of their favorite books.
We listened attentively to the story of the Crow and the Waterhole by Ambelin Kwaymullina read by another of our student guests before enjoying morning tea. We will be sending some of the students' favourite books to the Northern Territory so that children in the Jawoyn communities can share their enjoyment.
You may be interested in some of the titles the children spoke about. The Girlz Rock! series rated a mention as did perennial favourite The Magic Faraway Tree. Anna, who nominated Skellig had this to say "as the story unfolds you begin to understand the characters lives. It is an emotional journey filled with suspense, joy and fear. Skellig is a heart warming tale that anyone can relate to." Wow...quite a recommendation. Other recommendations were The Book of Lies, the children's edition of Mao's Last Dancer, Dragonkeeper, Captain Underpants and the classic, Alice in Wonderland.
Indigenous Literacy Day will become an annual event.
Jane
Today we mark Indigenous Literacy Day when booksellers and publishers around Australia are banding together to raise funds to address illiteracy levels in remote indigenous communities. It is hoped that our combined efforts will raise $100000 which will be used by the Fred Hollows Foundation to purchase books and other literacy resources for remote indigenous communities in the Northern Territory and New South Wales.
We launched Indigenous Literacy Day in the shop this morning with her excellency the Governor of Qld Ms Quentin Bryce, Susie O'Neill, an ambassador for the Fred Hollows Foundation and representatives from local schools. Susie O'Neill was interviewed about her role by one of our student guests and each of the children presented the governor with suggested reading by sharing with her some of their favorite books.
We listened attentively to the story of the Crow and the Waterhole by Ambelin Kwaymullina read by another of our student guests before enjoying morning tea. We will be sending some of the students' favourite books to the Northern Territory so that children in the Jawoyn communities can share their enjoyment. You may be interested in some of the titles the children spoke about. The Girlz Rock! series rated a mention as did perennial favourite The Magic Faraway Tree. Anna, who nominated Skellig had this to say "as the story unfolds you begin to understand the characters lives. It is an emotional journey filled with suspense, joy and fear. Skellig is a heart warming tale that anyone can relate to." Wow...quite a recommendation. Other recommendations were The Book of Lies, the children's edition of Mao's Last Dancer, Dragonkeeper, Captain Underpants and the classic, Alice in Wonderland.
Indigenous Literacy Day will become an annual event.
Jane
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
September and Spring
Hi everyone
After the wonderful rain last week, Spring seems to have come early to the Riverbend deck where the sun is shining and more than one or two people are basking in it as they read. Our Father's Day catalogue is a point of interest.
It features not only books for dads but books dads can share with their kids. One suggestion is bound to please both. Robert Sabuda and Matthew Reinhart have created the Encyclopedia Prehistorica: Mega Beasts, the final in their Encyclopedia Prehistorica series. Mega Beasts showcases more than 35 pop ups which will delight and amaze both young and old.
Fancy Nancy by Jane O'Connor with illustrations by Robin Preiss Glasser is a delightful, sparkly pink picture book which provides an entree (that's a fancy word for entry) into Nancy's world.
Nancy is the fanciest member of her family. She has transformed her bedroom, dresses fancilly (lace trimmed socks do help her play football), speaks fancilly, fancies up her food (sprinkles, frilly toothpicks) and embarks on her most ambitious undertaking, teaching her family how to be fancy. Full of fun, fancy words and gestures this book was a number 1 New York Times bestseller. Nancy would expect nothing less!
Michael Morpurgo's new book Best Mate
looks like compulsory reading for dog lovers. Rescued from drowning as a puppy, the greyhound pup becomes Patrick's best mate. When he is kidnapped by a greyhound trainer he becomes a champion who is much loved by Suzie, the trainer's step daughter who renames him Bright Eyes. Best Mate's story does not end here though. Cast aside, kidnapped, adopted or living rough on the street, this dog always finds a way to survive. A great story from a masterful storyteller.
Another great and intriguing story is that of Apache Girl Warrior by Tanya Landman. Siki is an orphan of the Black Mountain Apache.
Her mother was killed by Mexicans three years ago and her father lost in an ambush the winter before that. When Siki witnesses the brutal murder of her little brother Tazhi, she vows to become an Apache warrior and avenge her brother's death. The author's motivation in writing the novel was to explore the likelihood of a Native American woman being allowed to bear arms as a warrior. Her research unearthed examples of female warriors and informed the writing of this powerful and thought provoking book.
The Stephenie Meyer books I blogged about last week are walking off the shelves. Have you met Edward and Bella yet?
Enjoy the week
Jane
After the wonderful rain last week, Spring seems to have come early to the Riverbend deck where the sun is shining and more than one or two people are basking in it as they read. Our Father's Day catalogue is a point of interest.
It features not only books for dads but books dads can share with their kids. One suggestion is bound to please both. Robert Sabuda and Matthew Reinhart have created the Encyclopedia Prehistorica: Mega Beasts, the final in their Encyclopedia Prehistorica series. Mega Beasts showcases more than 35 pop ups which will delight and amaze both young and old.Fancy Nancy by Jane O'Connor with illustrations by Robin Preiss Glasser is a delightful, sparkly pink picture book which provides an entree (that's a fancy word for entry) into Nancy's world.
Nancy is the fanciest member of her family. She has transformed her bedroom, dresses fancilly (lace trimmed socks do help her play football), speaks fancilly, fancies up her food (sprinkles, frilly toothpicks) and embarks on her most ambitious undertaking, teaching her family how to be fancy. Full of fun, fancy words and gestures this book was a number 1 New York Times bestseller. Nancy would expect nothing less!Michael Morpurgo's new book Best Mate
looks like compulsory reading for dog lovers. Rescued from drowning as a puppy, the greyhound pup becomes Patrick's best mate. When he is kidnapped by a greyhound trainer he becomes a champion who is much loved by Suzie, the trainer's step daughter who renames him Bright Eyes. Best Mate's story does not end here though. Cast aside, kidnapped, adopted or living rough on the street, this dog always finds a way to survive. A great story from a masterful storyteller.Another great and intriguing story is that of Apache Girl Warrior by Tanya Landman. Siki is an orphan of the Black Mountain Apache.
Her mother was killed by Mexicans three years ago and her father lost in an ambush the winter before that. When Siki witnesses the brutal murder of her little brother Tazhi, she vows to become an Apache warrior and avenge her brother's death. The author's motivation in writing the novel was to explore the likelihood of a Native American woman being allowed to bear arms as a warrior. Her research unearthed examples of female warriors and informed the writing of this powerful and thought provoking book.The Stephenie Meyer books I blogged about last week are walking off the shelves. Have you met Edward and Bella yet?
Enjoy the week
Jane
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Book Week Blogging
Hi everyone
I hope that you are all celebrating Book Week well. Congratulations to the winners of the Children's Book Council awards announced last Friday. The full list of winning and honour books in the four fiction categories and the Eve Pownall category for information books can be found on the CBCA website.
If you are school based, have you given any thought to continuing the focus on books and reading beyond Book Week and into National Literacy and Numeracy Week in September? Indigenous Literacy Day on Wednesday September 5th will be a big one for us here at Riverbend when we join over two hundred other booksellers and publishers around Australia in raising funds to address the literacy crisis in remote indigenous communities. We will be donating 5% of takings on the day to the cause and would encourage each of you to help in any way you can. We will have a collection box in the week leading up to the 5th for donations and on Indigenous Literacy Day everyone who buys a book will go into a draw for one of many book prizes which will be drawn on the hour. Please join us if you can. The web link above has many suggestions of ways in which you can be involved.
With a federal election looming, newspaper columnist Danny Katz and illustrator Mitch Vane have produced a timely and rather amusing picture book which
explores the democratic process. Rory decides one lunch time that he wants to be the prime minister and sets about convincing his mates in the school yard of his worthiness. Soon the class is holding an election. Who will make a better prime minister, Rory or Debra-Jo Woo?
Let the campaign begin!
Have you discovered Stephenie Meyer's Twilight saga (three books so far - Twilight, New Moon and Eclipse, five books planned)? The third in the series, Eclipse has topped the latest US Today bestseller list knocking Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows from its perch.
These are romances with a difference. In the first book fifteen year old Bella meets and falls in love with Edward who just happens to be a vampire. Set in Seattle, the stories chart not only the progress of Bella and Edward's impossible romance but also the threat posed by other (less friendly) vampires.
Read them with the lights blazing.
Enjoy the Book Week celebrations.
Cheers
Jane
I hope that you are all celebrating Book Week well. Congratulations to the winners of the Children's Book Council awards announced last Friday. The full list of winning and honour books in the four fiction categories and the Eve Pownall category for information books can be found on the CBCA website.
If you are school based, have you given any thought to continuing the focus on books and reading beyond Book Week and into National Literacy and Numeracy Week in September? Indigenous Literacy Day on Wednesday September 5th will be a big one for us here at Riverbend when we join over two hundred other booksellers and publishers around Australia in raising funds to address the literacy crisis in remote indigenous communities. We will be donating 5% of takings on the day to the cause and would encourage each of you to help in any way you can. We will have a collection box in the week leading up to the 5th for donations and on Indigenous Literacy Day everyone who buys a book will go into a draw for one of many book prizes which will be drawn on the hour. Please join us if you can. The web link above has many suggestions of ways in which you can be involved.
With a federal election looming, newspaper columnist Danny Katz and illustrator Mitch Vane have produced a timely and rather amusing picture book which
explores the democratic process. Rory decides one lunch time that he wants to be the prime minister and sets about convincing his mates in the school yard of his worthiness. Soon the class is holding an election. Who will make a better prime minister, Rory or Debra-Jo Woo? Let the campaign begin!
Have you discovered Stephenie Meyer's Twilight saga (three books so far - Twilight, New Moon and Eclipse, five books planned)? The third in the series, Eclipse has topped the latest US Today bestseller list knocking Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows from its perch.
These are romances with a difference. In the first book fifteen year old Bella meets and falls in love with Edward who just happens to be a vampire. Set in Seattle, the stories chart not only the progress of Bella and Edward's impossible romance but also the threat posed by other (less friendly) vampires.
Read them with the lights blazing.
Enjoy the Book Week celebrations.
Cheers
Jane
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Don't Leave Childhood Without...
Hi Everyone
Many of you will know this great little reference tool.
Yesterday we received new stock and I once again enjoyed dipping into this comprehensive list of great books for children. Like all lists, it is out of date as soon as it is compiled but nonetheless this 2004 production is well worth owning. It is a great buying guide for school libraries, or gift for young mothers or a checklist to judge whether or not you've left childhood behind! At just $6.95 it's also very affordable.
Also back on the shelves this week is A Mama for Owen by Marion Dane Bauer with fabulous illustrations by John Butler. Owen is a baby hippo living an idyllic life on the banks of the Sabaki River in East Africa.
Following the tsunami of 2004, Owen and his mother are washed out to sea and become separated. Luckily for Owen he meets Mzee and decides that Mzee may well become his newest best friend. Apparently based on a true story, both words and images will delight.
Previously by Allan Ahlberg and Bruce Ingman is a tonne of fun. Lots of intertextual references as we arrive home with Goldilocks who had previously been elsewhere and had previously run into a boy named Jack who had previously stolen a hen which lays golden eggs and so on.
Who else has previously taken part? Previously I've given enough clues so you'll need to read the book and discover for yourselves.
How many of you are now looking for a Harry Potter alternative? According to its publishers, Tunnels by Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams may be just what you're looking for. Apparently, Barry Cunningham, the man who "discovered" J.K. Rowling chanced upon the audio version of this story and immediately recognised its potential.
Fourteen year old Will Burrows and his father live in London. Both have a penchant for digging. When his father mysteriously disappears, Will and his friend Chester decide to investigate and soon find themselves deep underground where they unearth a dark and terrifying secret (and an underground colony.) This is the first in a promised series and may just satisfy those entering Potter withdrawal.
I started this week's installment with a book of lists and will now finish with another.
When you've navigated your way through Don't Leave Childhood Without...you might like to turn your attentions to Peter Boxall's very impressive 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die. You'll never again wonder what to read next.
Happy reading folks
Cheers
Jane
Many of you will know this great little reference tool.
Yesterday we received new stock and I once again enjoyed dipping into this comprehensive list of great books for children. Like all lists, it is out of date as soon as it is compiled but nonetheless this 2004 production is well worth owning. It is a great buying guide for school libraries, or gift for young mothers or a checklist to judge whether or not you've left childhood behind! At just $6.95 it's also very affordable.Also back on the shelves this week is A Mama for Owen by Marion Dane Bauer with fabulous illustrations by John Butler. Owen is a baby hippo living an idyllic life on the banks of the Sabaki River in East Africa.
Following the tsunami of 2004, Owen and his mother are washed out to sea and become separated. Luckily for Owen he meets Mzee and decides that Mzee may well become his newest best friend. Apparently based on a true story, both words and images will delight.Previously by Allan Ahlberg and Bruce Ingman is a tonne of fun. Lots of intertextual references as we arrive home with Goldilocks who had previously been elsewhere and had previously run into a boy named Jack who had previously stolen a hen which lays golden eggs and so on.
Who else has previously taken part? Previously I've given enough clues so you'll need to read the book and discover for yourselves. How many of you are now looking for a Harry Potter alternative? According to its publishers, Tunnels by Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams may be just what you're looking for. Apparently, Barry Cunningham, the man who "discovered" J.K. Rowling chanced upon the audio version of this story and immediately recognised its potential.
Fourteen year old Will Burrows and his father live in London. Both have a penchant for digging. When his father mysteriously disappears, Will and his friend Chester decide to investigate and soon find themselves deep underground where they unearth a dark and terrifying secret (and an underground colony.) This is the first in a promised series and may just satisfy those entering Potter withdrawal.I started this week's installment with a book of lists and will now finish with another.
When you've navigated your way through Don't Leave Childhood Without...you might like to turn your attentions to Peter Boxall's very impressive 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die. You'll never again wonder what to read next.Happy reading folks
Cheers
Jane
Monday, July 30, 2007
Big Month for Readers
Hi everyone
Every month here at Riverbend we nominate Books of the Month. The adult selection is usually highlighted on the home page of the website but we also have selections for picture book, children's book, teen book, non fiction, DVD and CD of the month.
For August our children's selection is the Australian edition of The Dangerous Book for Boys by Conn and Hal Iggulden.
Much of the information from the original edition is included: how to make the perfect water bomb, how to read codes and how to play cricket but in this edition you can also read about local heroes like General John Monash at Gallipoli and the battles of Somme, find how to skin a kangaroo, get the lowdown on creatures that crawl, bite, sting and sometimes kill (and learn the first aid which can save you from them), have a quick reference guide to the Prime Ministers, learn how Australian football is played and lots more. In all probability girls will find the information just as interesting as the boys.
The Picture Book of the Month is The Cow on the Roof by Eric Maddern. I included this book in the June/July email for schools. It's a whismical fable in which farmer Shon, who believes that a woman's work is fair easier than his own, gets his comeuppance. Illustrations are by expat Australian Paul Hesse and add much to the humour of the story.
Teen book of the month, The Secret Countess by Eva Ibbotson is a fairy -tale like romance set in the early years following WW1. Anna is a Russian countess who has fled her homeland to escape the revolution and has taken up employment "below stairs" with an aristocratic English family. This is a thoroughly engaging and enjoyable read from a writer skilled in creating memorable characters.
A couple of new picture books which have caught my eye are Parsley Rabbit's Book about Books by Frances Watts and David Legge for younger readers and Armin Greder's powerful new work The Island.
Parsley Rabbit's Book about Books is exactly as the title suggest, a book about books.
Parsley Rabbit introduces his readers to the endpapers, blurb, imprint page, title page, to books that make you laugh or cry (or indeed change the world). This is an entertaining introduction not only to a book's layout but also to the delights of engaging with books.
The Island on the other hand is a book for more mature readers.
Winner of several international awards it has been described as a story of our time. In the morning the people of the island found a man sitting on the shore, there where fate and the ocean currents had set him and his frail raft in the night. When he saw them coming towards him, he rose to his feet.
He was not like them.
The people's reaction to the stranger provides much to ponder and discuss. Only one voice of dissent is raised and proves ineffective against the wishes of the majority. This book packs a powerful punch.
You are all no doubt readying yourselves for the celebration of Book Week later in the month when the Children's Book Council awards are announced.
Hopefully you are also giving some thought to ways of supporting Indigenous Literacy Day on Sept 5th when publishers, booksellers and schools around the country will unite to focus on the plight of too many indigenous Australians who struggle with illiteracy. There are many ideas for schools' involvement in this very important initiative on the worldwithoutbooks website.
Have a good week
Jane
Every month here at Riverbend we nominate Books of the Month. The adult selection is usually highlighted on the home page of the website but we also have selections for picture book, children's book, teen book, non fiction, DVD and CD of the month.
For August our children's selection is the Australian edition of The Dangerous Book for Boys by Conn and Hal Iggulden.
Much of the information from the original edition is included: how to make the perfect water bomb, how to read codes and how to play cricket but in this edition you can also read about local heroes like General John Monash at Gallipoli and the battles of Somme, find how to skin a kangaroo, get the lowdown on creatures that crawl, bite, sting and sometimes kill (and learn the first aid which can save you from them), have a quick reference guide to the Prime Ministers, learn how Australian football is played and lots more. In all probability girls will find the information just as interesting as the boys. The Picture Book of the Month is The Cow on the Roof by Eric Maddern. I included this book in the June/July email for schools. It's a whismical fable in which farmer Shon, who believes that a woman's work is fair easier than his own, gets his comeuppance. Illustrations are by expat Australian Paul Hesse and add much to the humour of the story.
Teen book of the month, The Secret Countess by Eva Ibbotson is a fairy -tale like romance set in the early years following WW1. Anna is a Russian countess who has fled her homeland to escape the revolution and has taken up employment "below stairs" with an aristocratic English family. This is a thoroughly engaging and enjoyable read from a writer skilled in creating memorable characters. A couple of new picture books which have caught my eye are Parsley Rabbit's Book about Books by Frances Watts and David Legge for younger readers and Armin Greder's powerful new work The Island.
Parsley Rabbit's Book about Books is exactly as the title suggest, a book about books.
Parsley Rabbit introduces his readers to the endpapers, blurb, imprint page, title page, to books that make you laugh or cry (or indeed change the world). This is an entertaining introduction not only to a book's layout but also to the delights of engaging with books.The Island on the other hand is a book for more mature readers.
Winner of several international awards it has been described as a story of our time. In the morning the people of the island found a man sitting on the shore, there where fate and the ocean currents had set him and his frail raft in the night. When he saw them coming towards him, he rose to his feet.He was not like them.
The people's reaction to the stranger provides much to ponder and discuss. Only one voice of dissent is raised and proves ineffective against the wishes of the majority. This book packs a powerful punch.
You are all no doubt readying yourselves for the celebration of Book Week later in the month when the Children's Book Council awards are announced.
Hopefully you are also giving some thought to ways of supporting Indigenous Literacy Day on Sept 5th when publishers, booksellers and schools around the country will unite to focus on the plight of too many indigenous Australians who struggle with illiteracy. There are many ideas for schools' involvement in this very important initiative on the worldwithoutbooks website.
Have a good week
Jane
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