Discover Down Under: 3 Must-Read Aussie Kids’ Books

We’ve got a fantastic booklist for you featuring three awesome new Australian kids’ books. Perfect for parents, librarians, teachers, and grandparents, these stories are sure to become new favourites. Whether you’re looking for a fun read for your kids, something fresh and thought-provoking for the classroom, or a special story to share with your young avid readers, we’ve got you covered.

These new books showcase the talent of Aussie authors’ creativity in creating fresh stories for children and teens alike. From heartwarming tales to captivating adventures, each one is a gem. So, let’s dive into these exciting new reads and find your next favourite story to share…

Wurrtoo: The Wombat Who Fell in Love with the Sky by Tylissa Elisara, illustrated by Dylan Finney

Described as an Indigenous Blinky Bill meets Winnie the Pooh, this heartwarming and beautifully illustrated middle-grade novel from 2021 black&write! fellow Tylissa Elisara follows Wurrtoo the wombat on his quest to marry the love of his life, the sky, while facing his fears and learning the importance of friendship along the way. Tylissa Elisara draws on classic children’s literature as well as stories from her own Narungga, Kaurna and Adnyamathanha heritage in this unique novel about friendship, adventure and facing your fears.

Buy a copy here.

Look Me in the Eye by Jane Godwin

Once trust is gone, what is there to hold onto? Do we have a right to know everything about those we love? From award-winning author Jane Godwin comes a thought-provoking novel about young teens. Look Me in the Eye is a gripping tale of young teens navigating freedom and trust-building, privacy and secrets, in an era of parental surveillance.

Buy a copy here.

A Small Collection of Happinesses by Zana Fraillon, illustrated by Stephen Michael King

Ada is not the kind of neighbour Hettie was hoping for. Cranky, impatient and a hater of cats, Ada has no intention of making friends. But as the summer unfolds, Hettie and Ada discover they have more in common than they think. Could their unlikely friendship be the missing piece they never knew they needed? A Small Collection of Happinesses is an unforgettable story of friendship, hope and happiness from renowned Australian writer Zana Fraillon.

Buy a copy here.