The joy of family and escapism during isolation: April highlights

The joy of family and escapism during isolation: April highlights

In April we’ve had an abundance of quality fiction for young readers, right at a time when we desperately needed fresh and exciting stories to entertain us at home. We read books that helped us escape to the Congo, a tropical island, ancient societies, magical worlds and Sherwood Forest. We navigated the complexities of family life guided by maps, stars, lists and family trees. We renewed our friendships with two beloved authors, both of whom released first books of new series, and we celebrated the devotion of mothers. Here’s our favourite ten books from April. What were yours?

 

Cloudburst by Wilbur Smith

Why we love it: Inspired by the environmental action of young people, Wilbur Smith created this series for a new generation of readers. Cloudburst is action-packed and explores themes around friendship, family, environment and power.

What it’s about: The Courtney family are travelling to the Democratic Republic of the Congo for a gorilla conference. Jack and his friends Amelia and Xander go on Safari but when they return Jack’s parents are missing, abducted by mercenaries. Jack must brave the jungle to save his parents.

How to Grow a Family Tree by Eliza Henry Jones

Why we love it: Recommended for ages: 14+, your teens are going to relate to these well-developed characters regardless of their circumstances, as Australian author Eliza Henry Jones skilfully portrays the intensity of teenage friendships with insight and understanding.

 What it’s about: When Stella and her family move to ‘Fairyland’, a caravan park with a dubious reputation, she keeps it secret from her friends. Her dad is grappling with a gambling addiction but that’s not the only thing on Stella’s mind.

Viper’s Daughter by Michelle Paver

Why we love it: Filled with history, fantasy and adventure, Viper’s Daughter is an exciting ride through ancient complex worlds, the intricate plots and characters are exciting and thoroughly captivating.

What it’s about: Torak and Renn have been living in the Forest with their pack-brother, Wolf. However, their peaceful lives change when Renn begins to feel she is a threat to Torak, and he is in danger. When she mysteriously disappears Torak and Wolf must do everything in their power to find her.

The January Stars by Kate Constable

Why we love it: Kate Constable is CBCA award winning and after reading this inspiring tale about two determined sisters on a remarkable quest it’s clear to see why. This will be our go-to book gift for 9+ readers – we highly recommend it!

 What it’s about: Twelve-year-old Clancy and her fourteen-year-old sister have set themselves the task of finding a ‘real’ home for grandpa who isn’t happy in the nursing home he has lived in since suffering a stroke. Their quest takes them far and wide. Can they bring a family back together?

Scary Mary and the Stripe Spell: Monty’s Island #1 by Emily Rodda

Why we love it: Award winning Australian author Emily Rodda has created a magical world of interesting characters that will fuel imaginations. Readers 6+ will be hooked by this new series, and adults will love reading it aloud.

What it’s about: Monty’s Island is a peaceful, magical place that is under threat. Can Monty come up with an idea to foil the dastardly plans of Scary Mary and her pirate crew? Escapades ensue and magic spells go awry but resourcefulness and teamwork save the day!

The List of Things That Will Not Change by Rebecca Stead

Why we love it: Rebecca Stead’s observations of the trials and triumphs of daily life are perfectly drawn through the experiences of her main character, Bea. Simultaneously uplifting and heartfelt, this story will engage readers of many ages as we cheer for Bea and celebrate her triumphs.

 What it’s about: Bea is smart, sassy and 12 years old, living in New York city and splitting her time between her parents two apartments. Bea looks back at the year she was ten and the impact of an important wedding. Will Bea’s hopes and dreams come true?

Funny Kid, Peeking Duck by Matt Stanton

Why we love it: We’ve been eagerly awaiting a new tale of Funny Kid hilarity and mayhem. Matt Stanton’s illustrations add an entertaining extra dimension to the crazy characters we meet on the road trip to the Tower of Dying Deathly Doom.

What it’s about: Max is the funny kid. Not the bravest kid. But he must face a number of dares, competing with his friend Abby. Through a misunderstanding, Max’s parents end up organising a road trip to the very place where Max must face his greatest fear. Will he be able to outwit and outplay Abby?

The Mummy Animal Book by Jennifer Cossins

Why we love it: Perfect for Mummy or Grandma to read aloud with little ones. Discover an amazing range of mother/child relationships in this tiny book, superbly sized for little hands to hold. Just in time to send to someone special for Mother’s Day!

What it’s about: The Mummy Animal Book explores the world of mothers and their offspring through cute animal illustrations and encyclopaedic facts. This book is sure to spark conversations about difference and similarities between humans and animals.

Robin Hood by Robert Muchamore

Why we love it: Robert Muchamore is one of our favourite authors, so we were keenly anticipating this new series! There are no feathered hats, but there are carbon fibre bows, titanium tipped arrows, dirt bikes and car chases. In other words, suspense, mayhem, plot twists and a new action hero for the 2020’s, Robin Hood.

 What it’s about: Robin Hood is a twelve-year-old boy whose father has been framed and brutally assaulted. Robin’s decisive action lands him on the most wanted list of the corrupt police and a brutal underworld gang. Will Robin find the courage to continue to fight to save his father?

The Strangeworlds Travel Agency by L.D. Lapinski

Why we love it:  This book proves an old adage is true – a book can take you to other places when you have to stay at home. Beautifully imagined and skilfully described worlds and characters captured my imagination for perfect escapism. In this case you can judge a book by its cover!

 What it’s about:  Flick enters an antiquated shop to discover an intriguing young man, with suitcases full of secrets. Together they embark on a quest to find his father, travelling to many magical worlds and becoming involved in escapades that test their courage and capabilities.

The Year the Maps Changed by Danielle Binks    

Why we love it:  Danielle Binks explores big themes in a delicate and even-handed story of the conflicts that adults and young adults face when the normal landscape is challenged, and change is thrust upon us. This is a sensitive and gentle Australian coming-of-age story with kindness and compassion at the core.

What it’s about:  Winifred reflects on the year she was eleven and the events that helped her understand that adults don’t always have the answers, but that choosing to follow your moral compass is the best guide for the landscape of life.

 

 

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