Celebration in isolation: May highlights

In May we enjoyed better community health which sparked some easing of isolation guidelines and a collective sigh of relief as a few more bookstores opened their doors!

Our spirits lifted as we celebrated (virtually)  the Australian Book Industry Awards. We cheered loudly as Bluey: The Beach won Children’s Picture Book of the Year and Book of the Year – the first time a picture book has won the overall prize. Congratulations Bluey and her team at Puffin, who are celebrating 80 years of publishing quality children’s books.

We celebrated the release of new editions of long-time favourite anti-hero Artemis Fowl,  a brand new much-awaited novel from popular YA author Patrick Ness, and the triumphs of Aussie sportswoman Tayla Harris. And most importantly we celebrated Mother’s Day…… and fell in love with Ruby Red Shoes!

Ruby Red Shoes: My Wonderful Grandmother by Kate Knapp

Why we love it:

Kate Knapp’s illustrations are delicately divine, bringing humour and compassion to Ruby’s words. Steering clear of clichés, Ruby shows us the personal reasons that create connection with family members, demonstrating that respect and understanding between generations is of mutual benefit.

 What it’s about:

Ruby and her grandmother share a special connection. Ruby lists the many reasons why she thinks her grandmother is wonderful, taking us on an insightful trip into their lives. The interests of Ruby and her grandmother align in numerous ways, finding common ground where appreciation and thoughtfulness blossom.

Bluey: The Creek

Why we love it: 

With so many playgrounds closing, kids are rediscovering the natural world, and that’s what this book is all about. There’s something so Australian about exploring a creek and having fun just mucking about, without the need for equipment, toys or screens. We also love that dad Bandit is sharing a place that had special memories for him as a pup. It’s wonderful seeing Bluey overcome her fears and increase her confidence. Even kids who don’t know Bluey yet (are there any?) will adore this story, which is perfect for ages 2-7.

What it’s about:

When Bluey and her friends tire of the playground, Bandit takes them bush-bashing to investigate the creek. At first a little worried, Bluey soon joins in the fun and is hopping over rocks, skipping stones on the water, doing leaf boat races and even meeting some wildlife. This is a wonderful adventure that can be shared again and again along with reminisces about favourite places parents played as kids.

 Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer   

Why we love it: 

The first book in a series is always an exciting prospect and this exceeds all expectations. Artemis Fowl is a villainous 12-year-old criminal mastermind with the kind of power that children fantasise about. With a dangerously deadly-farting dwarf and a curmudgeonly cigar-chomping elf commander, this is not your usual fairy fantasy! Originally released in 2001 these new editions have been released to co-incide with the movie release – perfectly packaged to introduce this series to a whole new generation of readers, 8+.

What it’s about:

Artemis Fowl and his loyal bodyguard Butler embark on a despicable plan to exploit the hidden fairy world. With the magical secrets of The Booke in their possession, they obtain knowledge that allows them to kidnap an elf and demand a ransom of gold ingots. Then all manner of unforeseen consequences (including a truly terrifying troll) break loose!

More Than A Kick by Tayla Harris

Why we love it: 

Tayla Harris tells her inspirational story of becoming a high-performance athlete and strong role model for young women. Her down-to-earth approach to life is refreshingly honest. Readers of all ages can learn from her experiences with social media and the professional advice she received. Loads of photos and break-out boxes make this a very accessible book for young people, 12+ .

 What it’s about:  

Tayla takes us behind the scenes of her rise as a professional boxer and WAFL player. She is fulfilling her dreams when a single photo of “that kick” sparks callous online harassment. Tayla explores her own feelings and responses to the challenges of online trolls and cyberbullies and shares professional advice that helped her, and can help all young people, navigate social media safely.

Burn by Patrick Ness

Why we love it: 

Patrick Ness is a double Carnegie Medal winner and this book looks set to be an award winner as well. The plot twists keep your brain engaged all the way through, and the second half of the book is a complete surprise package. Don’t let the dragon fool you – this is a sophisticated intense drama of courage and resilience.

 What it’s about:  

Sarah is a teenage girl, living with her father in a rural community in 1950’s mid-west America. A dragon arrives, bringing news of a prophecy which will change their lives forever and expose them to a deadly assassin, a vengeful goddess, a cult of dragon-worshippers, the FBI and the end of the world as they know it.