“Louis, you have the soul of a poet”: these are the words that appear in her automated writing when a spirit inhabits the person of Lady Jane Shelley at the seance that Robert Louis Stevenson and his wife Fanny attend in the Shelley home. Why these words seem horrific to both Louis and Fanny becomes one of the mysteries that unravel in Lyons-Lee’s latest novel set in the 19th century about the inspiration for his book ‘The strange case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’. Readers of Stevenson’s book will find this historical fiction account enthralling.
It begins with a haunted wardrobe, the wardrobe that frightened the impressionable Louis as a young boy, as he listened to the scary tales of his nurse Cummy. It’s a wardrobe that was crafted a century earlier by a notorious Scottish criminal, Deacon Brodie, and it’s posited that perhaps the wardrobe has absorbed the essence of its maker. He was a wealthy and respectable cabinet-maker who led a double life, stealing from his clients and murdering anyone who got in his way.
Augmented by the fevers and visions that are a side-effect of the ergotine drug that Stevenson takes for his tuberculosis, Louis becomes obsessed with the idea of the duality of man, an obsession that leads him to explore the dark underbelly of Edinburgh city as the location for his novel.
There is another duplicitous figure in his life, his ‘good friend’ Eugene Chantrelle, a manipulative figure that Fanny immediately mistrusted when she first made the acquaintance of Louis and his friends, when as an American woman fleeing her husband, she arrived in the artistic community of Grez in France. In their early romantic friendship, she continually warned Louis about Eugene’s behaviour, his callousness and his cloaked abusiveness to both her and his young wife Elizabeth.
All of these elements combine to create a dark mystery in their lives, a mystery that finds expression in the writings of both Louis and Fanny. Fanny is the narrator of Lyons-Lee’s novel, a unique figure of the times, as an adventurous revolver-carrying American woman, Louis’ “Wild Woman of the West’, ten years older than him, who with her three children has tried to separate from her husband three times, who supports herself with her published writing, and who dares to paint ‘en plein air’.
Lyons-Lee has combined thorough research of the times; the drugs, the scientific thinking, phrenology, spiritualism, status of women; and has crafted a gothic mystery of her own, one which fills in the background to Stevenson’s life and work, and is compelling reading for its own sake.
Themes Robert Louis Stevenson, Deception, Serial killer, Murder, Spiritualism, Crime.
Helen Eddy
This Bird: Noticing our Urban Birds by Astrid Hicks with Holly Parsons
If you are on the lookout for a non-fiction bird book for a young reader, then this fabulous new release from CSIRO Publishing is the one. Written by Astred Hicks in collaboration with bird scientist Dr Holly Parsons, this is a must have for any budding ornithologists or twitchers. Filled with fascinating facts and striking illustrations presented on colourful glossy pages, this is a one-stop-shop for information about birds that exist in our Australian urban spaces.
Beginning with a contents page and introduction, the authors then lead readers to a double page spread where there is important information and key symbols about the type of food eaten by birds: using the scientific names such as nectarivore and piscivore, and the varied birds found within the pages of the book. This is followed by two clearly labelled diagrams of the parts of a bird’s body as well as a useful size comparison chart.
The chapters are clearly defined by coloured writing on a white cloud shape with identifying symbols placed strategically amongst the text, which is accessible and well-spaced on the page. There is a map of Australia showing where each particular bird’s habitat may be and extra interesting facts. In the final pages is the glossary, a list of Australian habitats and an index of species.
This beautifully presented book will be wonderful addition to all libraries: home, school or public.
Wiggle, Wobble, Walk! by Mike Dumbleton. Illus. by Sarah Boese
Little Book Press, 2025. ISBN: 9781923141285. (Age:Birth - 4) Highly recommended.
Wiggle, Wobble, Walk! is a charming board book to share with babies and toddlers. Four very appealing babies gently flow through the stages of growth and movement from the early waving of legs, to sitting up, crawling, standing, walking, exploring and finally running.
Author Mike Dumbleton has skilfully used rhyming words to show the many features of moving - including bending, wiggling, slithering as well as toppled, explore, climb and run. The diverse images of the lively, active babies and toddlers are beautifully drawn by illustrator Sarah Boese in soft pastel colours. Each character has a delightfully expressive face that visibly shows their joy in moving.
A wonderful book to read and enjoy with the littlest of readers.
Penguin Random House, 2025. ISBN: 9780241681121. (Age:13+) Recommended.
Blaze, born to a family that commands flames, has been hidden away following the mighty storm she summoned unwittingly at her birth. The devastating death and destruction have rendered her a disgrace in the eyes of many. Feared and shunned for her anomalous abilities, she longs to travel far, far away from it all. Her plans will, however, have to wait for she has been chosen to compete for the crown in the Choosing Rite. What will follow when the people realise that the Stormweaver’s dreaded powers have turned feeble? And what happens when Blaze meets the only other person in her world to have caused as massive a destruction as her?
Set in a fantasy world where the elements obey one’s wishes, Heir of Storms is perfect for young adults hung-over from Powerless and the Hunger Games. With a feisty heroine, bitter rivalries, and unexpected romances, Murray’s first in the Storm Weaver trilogy delivers a gripping blend of magic, politics, and emotional depth that will leave you breathless. The only drawback is that some of the characters were not explored enough. A little more insight into characters like Flint, Blaze’s brother, would have increased the story’s appeal. However, it is possible that this may have been reserved for the second book.
This book is a solid 4.5 out of 5 and definitely recommended for readers aged 13 and above.
Themes: Fire, Magic Twins, Sorcery.
Jyothika B. (Student)
Tom Clancy: Line of demarcation by M.P. Woodward
Little, Brown Book Group, 2025. ISBN: 9781408732755. (Age:16+ - Adult) Recommended for those who love action-adventure.
In the style of the original Tom Clancy’s works this is an incredible tale involving Jack Ryan Jr, a successful business operative, who is on the cusp of sealing an oil contract deal with the Guyanese government. But as the region has been impacted by the evil and corruption of those in the drug trade and there has been significant infiltration of other foreign powers from Russia and Venezuela, at the last minute Jack’s business interests are plagued by major obstacles. An American Coast Guard cutter, (providing logistical assistance for the newly built oil platforms in Guyana), also encounters opposition and America can’t turn a blind eye but is only able to help in a ‘dark’ capacity, utilising the incredible skills of a small group of brave operatives. In extremely risky conditions Jack’s own life is under threat, but he is not the only one! And Guyana is also on the cusp of major change as corruption and a potential coup threaten all attempts at overcoming the problems of their region. An exciting politically-charged, dangerous adventure into the darker side of power and espionage.
For those who love action and adventure, this is a compelling story. Mature readers would love the intrigue and complexity of the story set in the South American environment. Each chapter is relatively short as it deals with different aspects of the complex operation. But always the intelligence and bravery of Jack Ryan Jr, and the small band of American operatives working in impossible circumstances, drive the interest. This story is for readers aged 16+ and for those who love dramatic action with violence and political conspiracy. Although not written by the late Tom Clancy, it has all the hallmarks and style features of his work.
Themes Guyana, Corruption, Drug barons, Espionage, Oil wealth, US Military, National sovereignty.
Luis and Pablo have always lived in a cabin deep in the woods, foraging for food and enjoying the company of friends who drop by. It is a place that, according to Luis, is spectaculous. Realist Pablo points out that no such word exists, but Luis insists it does as he said it. Luis is a big, gentle bear with a tendency towards philosophical musings which he makes into songs for his small friend Pablo, a grumpy mole happiest with his head in a book. When Luis wonders why they never go to shows and entertainment Pablo points out that there are no shows in the woods just nature. He also tells Luis the shocking story about his great-great-great grandfather who left the woods and never came back. When Luis gets a surprise letter in the mail telling him he has won two tickets to the big city’s theatrical production of The Weary Mermaid he is delighted and eventually persuades Pablo to join him. The unprepared pair take a bus to the city where they have unexpected adventures, meet interesting characters and solve the mystery of Pablo’s ancestor. Returning home they find friendship and culture through song and storytelling about their new experiences.
This beautifully produced graphic novel with colourful cartoon figures in rich and varied scenery with equally interesting and funny dialogue takes us on a journey about stepping out of our comfort zone so we can fully appreciate what we have and not be afraid of trying new things. There are pages at the end about how to draw Pablo and Luis (rather like Winnie the Pooh in many ways) and there is a fun map at the beginning. A great book to read with younger children and any age will enjoy the philosophical banter between the characters.
Themes Graphic novel, Friendship, Adventure.
Sue Speck
The Great Dawn Choir by Sarah Speedie. Illus. by Cindy Lane
The glorious cover of morning colours plus well-known Australian birds will hook readers immediately to The Great Dawn Choir. With the bright endpapers showcasing the different types of feathers, this delightful picture book will appeal to readers both young and old.
The striking double page glossy spreads are a joy to ponder over. The brilliant detail of the birds and the colourful backgrounds displayed, along with the skilfully rhyming text, will encourage readers to think about these familiar birds in a deeper way.
There are some excellent examples of onomatopoeia with words such as the sulphur-crested cockatoo’s Caw!, the magpie’s Ordle!, the rainbow lorikeet’s Tweet!, the fairy-wren’s Chitter! and Ha! from the kookaburras. Each vibrant page is a joy to read aloud and the final verse and images are just beautiful. There is also additional information about each of the birds portrayed in the narrative. A perfect learning opportunity for further research.
This wonderful book is a visual delight and definitely deserves a place in a home, school or public library.
What do you do when you want some friends, but you are a shark, the animal that everyone runs from. In this cute tale, you keep on trying, eventually succeeding in changing people's minds by your perseverance. Each double page shows the shark in a different situation, the first down deep in the ocean where a range of fish are doing their best to get away from him. Next a group of pirates are about to open their treasure chest when the shark pops out, ready to be friendly but finds they all run away. Over the page is Benny Bunny’s birthday party, all going well until Shark makes his appearance. No matter how friendly he is, everyone runs away when he appears. Even in space!
So he hops into bed with a book telling him how to make friends, and sends out invitations to all the animals in Blue Bottle Bay. They are intrigued at who could have set up. But a party is a party, so they go along, only to find it is Shark who has surprised them all with a party for everyone. They decide that he is not so bad after all and settle down to a pleasant party afternoon.
Cute illustrations will catch the attention of the reader as they spot the different animals, and laugh at the detail the illustrator Patrick Corrigan has included. I love the space ship with its dice hanging from the rear vision mirror, and the shark popping out of the vampire's coffin, and the messy party at the rabbit’s house after Shark makes his appearance.
Repetition and rhyming lines all add to the enthusiasm of the audience as this read aloud story is read over again to the delight of all.
From his early childhood Casper (known as Cas, who is now 12-years-old) has known what it is to be abandoned and to eke out an existence with little support from an emotionally absent father and a completely absent mother. His Aunt Mel, and her immediate neighbourhood, has provided the only love and stability for him for some time, but his father now wants to re-enter Cas’ life. Cas is far from ready to accept him back into his life and takes the opportunity to run. But in doing so he places himself into danger in the bush, far from any support. A chance rescue, from another father and his daughters living a re-wilding life in the bush, saves his life. But they too are on the run, and before he knows it he must run again. Can he survive the wild? Or is there hope for a future for any of them?
Initially this was a distressing tale of distrust and emotional abandonment for a young pre-teen, but quickly it moved into a chase through densely wooded mountains to evade re-capture and a survival story with new companions who had their own escape story. There were many tense moments when ‘run!’ was the response to the stress of new uncertainty. This was a compelling adventure story and although the heart-breaking background for Cas and his rescuers would be troubling for some young readers, it is reminiscent of some of the works of Tristan Bancks, Nat Amoore and even Gary Paulsen’s Hatchet. Hard social stories are not softened, they are not given intricate or intrusive detail but are combined with a gripping ‘lost’ experience in the Australian bush setting in difficult dangerous terrain. The emotional journey for Cas has a growth trajectory that enables hope for a future. Readers aged 9-14 will enjoy the story and the impressive way Sarah Armstrong escalates tension from almost the first page.
Gabrielle Bergmoser has created an exhilarating sequel that takes readers deeper into the thrilling multiverse she first introduced in Andromache Between Worlds. This action-packed follow-up is brimming with suspense, shifting loyalties and unexpected twists that will keep readers eagerly turning the pages.
The story begins with high stakes as Andromache and her family are informed that archenemy, Vincent Black has escaped from prison. This reignites a highly dangerous mission for brave heroine, Andromache. Determined to track him down and put an end to his dark plans, she is initially thrilled to be reunited with her loyal friends, Tobias and Rylee. But their joyous reunion quickly fades as Andromache uncovers secrets that force her to question everything and everyone. Who is truly on her side… who is hiding something….and what are their motives?
Bergmoser masterfully builds tension as Andromache is plunged into a series of parallel worlds, each with its own rules and dangers. The line between friend and foe blurs as the trio faces betrayals, shifting realities and harrowing challenges that test their courage, friendship and inner strength. As the danger escalates, Andromache must rely on her instincts and resilience to survive; even when the truth becomes harder to face than the enemy.
Andromache is a compelling protagonist who is courageous, curious and committed. Her inner turmoil adds depth to the high-risk adventure, making her journey gripping and emotionally engaging. Tobias and Rylee add further complexity to the quest with their insight, thoughts and observations; making the group dynamic such a strong kinship.
The story is again fast paced and vivid, capturing the dizzying shifts between worlds and the emotional weight of trust betrayed. This sequel deftly blends science fiction, fantasy and emotional drama, creating an exhilarating and thought-provoking read.
Andromache in the Dark is a thrilling continuation of Andromache’s journey. It will certainly appeal to early adolescent readers who love imaginative adventure, strong friendships and stories that find you lost in a maze of deception.
The girl with a feather in her hair by Eleanor Pearson & Julie Spencer
Little Steps, 2025. ISBN: 9781923306066. (Age:3+)
Gentle water colour illustrations hug each page as the girl explores her natural environment, images of recognisable elements of Australia’s flora and fauna catching the readers’ attention. Magpies, parrots and cockatoos, along with red flowering eucalypts, wattle and scribbly gum can be found on the pages, as the girl wonders through the landscape.
She whispers to the ladybirds, reaches for butterflies as she dances with her shadow. She rescues a beetle from a puddle, watches the ants on the anthill and slips a heart shaped stone into her pocket. She looks up noting the huge array of greens, searching for the sky above the canopy.
The dandelion on the front cover has seeds blown across the page, encouraging little fingers to feel them as they open the book. Inside they will see the beautiful gum trees and the bright colours of the bush, and follow the little e girl and her journey through the bush, under the trees, seeing the insects and the birds, crossing a stream on the fallen log.
The girl with the feather in her hair eventually comes to rest at the edge of the pond, sitting quietly with her mother as they feel the water and see what is under its surface.
Themes Environment, Australian flora and fauna, Eucalypts.
This delightful book with its gorgeous green cover of a generational family relaxing on the branches of a tree is a wonderful read-aloud for young children. The beginning lines of “Family’s warm, like hot buttered toast. Family’s here when you need them most” are a perfect introduction to family life in a variety of different homes.
Families can be blended, far away, small or large but family offers so much to a young child. It is a place where children can play, be supported, be encouraged, be safe and most importantly be loved. The illustrations are in soft tones and perfectly complement the text while adding extra visual interest for the reader.
It’s time to muster the cattle. Mum’s in the ute. Charlie’s in the chopper. Dad leads the jackaroos. Sis rides canters on the wing. Everyone has a job, everyone except me...
The lives of children in the rural and remote regions of Australia are very different from those of kids in the city and this offers a small insight into one aspect of that as the Brahman cattle are mustered, loaded onto the road trains to be taken to the saleyards, and everyone has to lend a hand. That is, unless you are deemed to be too young - and even city kids can relate to that.
Told by the one-who-is-too-young in simple text accompanied by vibrant illustrations which echo the palette of the Outback, this is a story that has a uniquely Australian flavour to it that is going to appeal to those who live the life, those who aspire to, and those who are keen to adventure beyond the city limits. Perfect for this year's CBCA Book Week theme.
The silken thread is a delightful, warm and magical story about cross cultural friendship, overcoming grief and hope. It's a book that this writer would give or read to her grandchildren. That is a high recommendation.
Gabrielle Wang has written an award-winning body of work and was our Australian Children's Laureate for 2022 to 2023. Born in Australia of Chinese (Victorian Gold Rush) heritage, Wang's books blend "... Chinese and Western culture with a touch of fantasy". The silken thread (written and illustrated by Wang) takes this pattern as it weaves a tale of Moonie in Melbourne, Little Dipper on Chongming Island in China and J.M Barrie's Peter Pan and Wendy (1911). What a delightful tale! Wang has imaginatively recreated the story of her grandparents when they were children and imagined what might have happened if they had met then. Her mum grew up in Carlton Melbourne in the Depression years of the 1930s and her father's job as a child was to take care of the silkworms on the family's farm in China. Wang drew on what historical records she could find and on her mother's memoir to create this work of fiction which magically captures the time and place.
The silken thread is imaginary silk from a magical cocoon which enables Moonie and Little Dipper to connect, visit and develop a friendship across continents and oceans. It is a metaphor for the threads of friendship and the ties that bind. Moonie's household is sad. Her mother (Ma Mi) has had to leave the children and go away. Wang doesn't tell us why. Perhaps she is physically unwell; perhaps it is a mental condition. Will she come back or has she left forever? The tension is there. Moonie's father employs an awful woman (Miss Yip) who starts to take over the household and "care of the children". Unhappiness descends. Tapping shades of the evil stepmother in Cinderella, Moonie's father seems unable to stand up to this woman and protect his children. Meanwhile, in China, Little Dipper, a Chinese peasant boy wins a scholarship but his efforts to get to school are sabotaged by troublesome ghosts. The silken threads of friendship help both to strive for their dreams in a magical manner reminiscent of the dreamlike visitations of Peter Pan.
The realities of life are tough and they are there in The silken thread but they are dealt with with such wisdom in the gentle, skilled hands of Gabrielle Wang. The characters are delicately drawn and the perspective alternates in an authentic manner between the two main characters. Being children the cares and concerns are those of children. The interactions between the characters are warm and delightful. LongMa, the Chinese cow is a sentient being. Ghosts inhabit the story, being there to help and hinder and to disappear when no longer needed. A way to handle grief and move on to a life of your own is woven in.
A lovely extra are the paper-cut doll silhouettes and patterns for outfits that can be copied and cut out at the back of the book.
The silken thread is a magical story with roots in reality (a tribute to the magical realism genre) that offers wisdom and comfort through the eyes of Moonie and Little Dipper, two very relatable characters who overcome grief and disappointment through friendship.
This book is a gem for school libraries and homes. It would make a great classroom read-aloud for year 5+ especially if classes are working on cross cultural understanding and/or dealing with grief.
Author/illustrator James O’Hanlon is a scientist with a passion for mysterious animals and uncovering their secrets. Sid and the very hard to find Squid is an amusing and enjoyable rhyming story that tells of Sid’s journey of discovery looking for the elusive colossal squid. Sid crosses every special creature off his list and the clever endpapers, both front and back, reflect his discoveries.
Beginning with an introduction to various creatures Sid has uncovered on his bucket list, the narrative then leads into his obsession with finding the squid with some amazing facts and a detailed diagram of the squid. While he is searching Sid finds all sorts of sea creatures but not the one he is desperate to uncover. However there just might be a colossal squid hidden in plain sight on the pages!
This wonderful read will be enjoyed by all ages. The rhyming text is skilfully constructed and the big, bold and bright illustrations will appeal to all readers. The insertion of a mention of farts is sure to bring a laugh from young children when read aloud. More valuable facts about the colossal squid are shared in the final pages.
This delightful story is a must-have for all school libraries. With a humorous twist and an engaging storyline, it will be appreciated by all.
