Old Favourites and New Adventures: February Highlights

This February there are lots of new books that we are reading in the office. We’ve celebrated the 25^th anniversary of Guess How Much I Love You, started a new series about Aussie kids and indulged in a bit of historical fiction. We’ve also been very fortunate to have author and literacy expert Louise Park give us the tools to help get children reading. Our highlights are below but we’d love to hear about what you’ve been reading this February.

Guess How Much I Love You 25th Anniversary Edition by Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram

What it’s About: Sam McBratney’s timeless story, beautifully portrayed by Anita Jeram’s gentle watercolours, captures the deep and tender bond that is precious between loved ones.

Why we love it: The illustrations are gorgeous and the story is heart-warming. So many of you have cherished this book over the last 25 years and these beautiful new editions are the perfect opportunity to re-visit or share it with someone new.

Aussie Kids series by various authors

Why we love it: It’s the perfect series to share with the young reader in your life and even better have them read it to you as the books are great discussion starters.

What it’s about: Aussie Kids is a fiction series for emerging readers that celebrates stories about children living in unique places in every state in Australia.

The Ghost of Howlers Beach by Jackie French

Why we love it: The Ghost of Howler’s Beach explores important themes of racism, poverty, family, friendship and trust. It’s also a thrilling and intriguing mystery story that’s compelling and will excite those who love adventure.

 What it’s about: Set during The Great Depression in Australia, Butter O’Bryan befriends Olive, Gil and Tish on Howler’s Beach. As he gets to know the children, he suspects they are hiding something. Butter is determined to help them but can he do it alone?

Winterborne Home For Vengeance and Valour by Ally Carter

Why we love it: Winterborne Home for Vengeance and Valour is a highly suspenseful story for those who love a good mystery. There’s comradery, gadgets and villains along with endearing characters – you can’t ask for more than that.

What it’s about: When April arrives at Winterborne Home she is already planning on how she will escape to find her mother. However, when she starts to hear things go bump in the night and learns of the Winterborne family tragedy things veer dramatically off path.

7 Steps to Get Your Child Reading by Louise Park

Why we love it: 7 Steps to Get Your Child Reading is an absolute gift – the perfect reference for parents who not only want to pass on a love of reading to their child but one of the most essential life skills. Everything you need to help your child is at your fingertips!

What it’s about: This invaluable book from literacy expert Louise Park, will take you through the 7 steps that your child needs to complete to master reading. Easy to follow and filled with facts, activities and important take aways parents can incorporate into their daily routine.