Reviews

Jek/Hyde by Amy Ross

Harlequin Teen, 2017. ISBN 9781489243768
Jek/Hyde is a modern retelling of the classic Stevenson novel The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Set in an industrial town called London, the novel follows Lulu, a seventeen-year-old who is worried about her best friend and crush, Jek. Jek is insanely smart for the seventeen-year-old and because of his mother's position at London Chem he has acquired enough equipment to have a fully functioning lab of his own. As he grew older his experiments became less and less family friendly and, unknown to his mother, his interest in psychoactive drugs grew. While Jek's science ensures he is a recluse this can be hard for Lulu who has been pining for him since they were children.
But Jek isn't the only boy around and Lulu soon meets Hyde. He is thrilling and dark. Completely anti-nice-guy. He's at all the London Chem Brat parties but also seems to be a friend of Jek. Despite their apparent friendship they are never seen together. After catching Hyde emerging from Jek's place Lulu confronts Jek only to find that, for once, this is not a subject they can talk about. Hyde's mystery remains and when Jek disappears it's Hyde that Lulu goes to to find him. But is she too late to save the boy she loves?
While this novel is a way to read The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in a modern setting its introduction of a love triangle strips back the inner conflict of Jekyll and Hyde. While the novel does touch on drug addiction it doesn't deal with it. I wouldn't recommend other than as a more accessible version of the original text.
Kayla Gaskell

I'll keep you safe by Peter May

Hachette, 2018. ISBN 9781784294946
(Age: secondary - adult) Recommended. Themes: Crime fiction, Scotland, Outer Hebrides, Harris Tweed, Weaving, Fashion industry. In the midst of the most important sales fair for his product, Ramish Tweed, Rory Macfarlane is killed, blown up in his car in the streets of Paris, with his lover, Irina Vetrov. His wife, Neave who has accompanied him to the fair, is mind numbingly shocked, especially when she is questioned as a possible suspect. She is eventually allowed to leave Paris and return home to the Isle of Lewis with a child's coffin containing what is left of her husband of ten years, the man who as a teen saved her life, promising to always keep her safe.
Upon return, she must put the funeral arrangements in place while dealing with her always bitter mother in law while an old school friend, Seonag, initially offering comfort outstays her welcome after slipping into her bed one night. Neave's parents have refused to attend the funeral, harking back to an incident which took the life of their younger son, while the arrival of Lieutenant Braque from Paris stirs the pot even further, with simmering tensions between the islanders forming a fascinating part of the mix.
With Braque working with Inspector Gunn on the island, trying to piece together some of the disparate clues, Neave returns home to her beautiful house, built by the couple intending to live out their lives there. Remote, but high on cliffs overlooking the ocean near a small bothy they built for walkers, the house is a stunning part of the backdrop to this novel, and it is to this house that Neave returns after the funeral, there to unknowingly confront the murderer, a murderer who has already killed Lt Braque.
As with Peter May's other stories, particularly the Lewis Trilogy and Coffin Road, the setting is tantamount to the story, the cold and bleak islands of the Outer Hebrides, a metaphor for the windswept, barren relationship between many of the protagonists. Readers will get a feel for the weavers in their crofts, looking back to a time when most crofts had a loom and the noise of its working would fill the days.
This is a highly readable and enjoyable crime novel, set in the bleak Hebridean landscape. Full of the sights and sounds of the people and their customs, language and traditions, I'll keep you safe is a story bound to further enhance the numbers of crime fiction tourists now visiting Scotland's shores.
Fran Knight

One, Two, Three, ROAR! Judy Moody and friends by Megan McDonald

Candlewick Press, 2017. ISBN 9780763695767
(Age: 6-8) A bind up of three short stories, this book would appeal to younger readers between the ages of 6-8. Each of these simple tales focus on Judy Moody and her friends, Rocky, Amy and Jessica.
The first of the three stories, Jessica Finch in Pig Trouble is about a young lady who loves pigs and is desperate to be given one for her birthday. Children could easily relate to the concept of birthday wishes. Secrets are kept, and friendships are tested but the resolution is positive.
Rocky Zang in the Amazing Mr Magic begins with Rocky being keen to perform his magic tricks for an audience. Unfortunately, things don't go quite according to plan and Rocky is disappointed until, eventually, he manages to complete a trick which impresses Judy and makes him feel happy.
Amy Namey in Ace Reporter tells of a keen would be reporter endeavouring to find a great scoop which would merit being a front-page story. She shares her ideas with her friends and together they try to uncover a newsworthy story. Not only does she come up with a piece she deems fit for 'publication', she learns of a similarity between she and her mother and this creates a good bonding experience.
They are gentle and not at all challenging or threatening, providing positive messages about friendship and tolerance and the fact that different interests can unite people instead of dividing them.
Jo Schenkel

Bloomsbury activity books

Bloomsbury, 2017.
My first French words. ISBN 9781408876794
My first Spanish words. ISBN 9781408873700
(Age: 4-6) Sticker activity book. With bright bold illustrations, thematic pages looking at the young child's world, these sticker books are interesting educational tools for introducing a second language or supporting the foundations of developing a mother tongue. Initial introductions, sounding out the noun then finding the corresponding sticker allows for interaction and vocalisation of the new words. These learning opportunities make it fun to learn new words.
My first French words introduces transport, things in a mother's handbag, clothes, things in the garden and animals everywhere. After matching more than 200 stickers, to familiar environments including the bathroom, school and bedroom there's time to check their memory on the 'I knew my French words' pages.
My first Spanish words is set out in a similar format, with lively illustrations and large easy to peel colourful stickers. Familiar topics include things that go, animals, animals everywhere and numbers and counting.
These Bloomsbury Sticker Activity Books give the young reader a chance to experience new vocabulary in a fun way.
Rhyllis Bignell

Greta Zargo and the death robots from outer space by A.F. Harrold

Bloomsbury, 2017. ISBN 9781408869475
(Age: Middle primary) Greta Zargo is an eleven year old orphan who hopes to become famous in her chosen career as an investigative journalist. As an unpaid employee of the local paper, Greta believes that she needs a great scoop to ensure that she will finally have one of her articles on the front page. Instead, she is sent out to investigate what she deems to be the least exciting events ever, including the disappearances of several cakes. Independent, resilient and determined, Greta lives alone, receiving only the odd visit from her Aunt Tabitha to ensure that she is safe and happy.
Meanwhile, as Greta is focused on uncovering the truth behind the cake thefts, a silver death robot is plummeting towards earth, determined to wreak havoc. Who will be able to stop the destruction of earth? Will Greta be able to write her prize-winning article about the amazing creature? You need to read this book to discover the answer.
Initially, I found myself disliking this book intensely, but the more I read the more humorous I found the story. I quite liked the interjections on the sides of many of the pages and was quickly reminded of The Hitchhiker's guide to the galaxy. Double spaced type and lots of illustrations will undoubtedly make this an easily accessible title for middle primary students with a sense of humour. I look forward to seeing the finished product.
Jo Schenkel

How to feel awesome every day by Elly Awesome

Random House, 2017. ISBN 9780143786085
(Age: 9-14) Despite my initial 'cringe' when this book arrived for review, I was quickly converted to see it as a positive title for young girls from the age of 9 to 14 to read. A combined activity book and journal, it was written by an author previously unknown to me. I soon did a little research and realised that Elly Awesome is prolific on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and 'Toasted TV' and discovered that the book is filled with positive suggestions as to how girls could spend their time. The book could easily have become preachy and sanctimonious but, instead, it is a rather delightful little 'how-to' for young girls wishing to keep active.
From mental health and wellbeing quizzes to goal setting, recipes, exercise suggestions, colouring and creative DIY ideas, this book ticks off a multitude of topics which would give any reader a boost. Even as an adult, I went away from reading feeling somewhat uplifted, merely thinking about some of the topics and how I would have answered the questions the author posed. Initially, I was confused as to the age of the target audience but I believe the book would hold a relatively broad appeal.
With well-being coordinators and growth mindset a big part of the curriculum, this book ticks a lot of boxes and I can see some tasks possibly being included in the classroom programme too. This is a great title for young girls to assist them with boosting their self-esteem and general well-being.
Jo Schenkel

Peter Pan and Wendy by James Barrie

Ill. by Robert Ingpen. Walker Books, 2017. ISBN 9781760650254
Over a century ago James Barrie wrote a story about a boy who could fly and who never grew up; who had adventures on an island called Neverland and introduced us to characters like Wendy, Tinkerbell, Captain Hook and the croc with the clock!
Since then it has become a classic, republished many times, made into a stage play and movies and now it has been reworked into an abridged version superbly illustrated by Robert Ingpen so that another generation can delight in it.
With its modern language and stunning pictures, new life is breathed into Barrie's words making it the perfect bedtime read-aloud story to introduce young children to the original tale, or the be read alone by the newly independent reader, and is a must for both the library's collection and the Santa Sack. Given her grandfather is named Barrie after this author because of the impact of the story on his parents, I know just whose tree this will be under.
Barbara Braxton

Dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures by Matt Sewell

Pavilion, 2017. ISBN 9781843653509
If there is one section of the library that can never have too many items, it is 567.9 - the home of the dinosaurs. There seems to be an eternal fascination with these long-ago creatures that has been the door into reading for so many children, particularly young boys who like to get the biggest and thickest books and pore over them with their mates. So this new addition by Matt Sewell that introduces favourites and familiars and also some first-read-abouts will be welcome as it is targeted at those who want to know something but not so much that it is overwhelming. Who knew there were so many - but then they were on the planet for 170 million years! Each creature has a one or two page spread dominated by the illustration, an illustration that is somewhat different from the norm as they have been inspired by new ideas from palaeontologists that the creatures were not only colourful but some may have had feathers rather than the traditional scales and hide.
Each entry includes the length and weight which can always lead to some interesting maths activities and well as the time period (delve into history and create a chart) and their diet with 'proper' descriptors like 'carnivorous' to extend the vocabulary. There are other basic facts written in a conversational tone that makes the language accessible to those early readers. Given that not every dinosaur is included, perhaps they could produce an extra page exploring and explaining their favourite dinosaur as an initial information literacy exercise.
Produced in conjunction with the Natural History Museum in the UK, this is a worthwhile addition to that critical section of the collection.
Barbara Braxton

Healthy Kids Cookbook

Dorling Kindersley, 2017. ISBN 9781740331289
So many cooking shows get huge ratings on television and so much has been written about the 'obesity crisis' amongst our students that it is clear that food is a dominating force in our lives and the interest in it has never been higher. Gradually the tide is swinging towards the healthy end of the scale as we try to nourish our bodies but still cope with the hectic lifestyle we impose on ourselves and our kids. Even the famous 'Golden Arches" is now producing healthier fast foods that are getting a nod, if not the tick of approval, from nutritionists.
But if we are going to make and have sustainable change in our diets, we need to start from the beginning and get children knowing and appreciating what they are putting into their mouths. If they are actively involved in the growing and preparation of their food (A patch from scratch by Megan Forward) they are more likely to build habits of good nutrition that will last them a lifetime. Experience has shown me that those children who are subjected to a healthy food regime imposed on them by well-meaning parents are usually the first to grab the "naughties" at parties as they seek to taste the 'forbidden fruit'.
So to have a cookbook that is directed specifically at children cooking for themselves is very appealing and as usual with DK publications, both the content and the presentation are directed squarely at the child. Beginning with a brief explanation of why a balanced diet is critical and other things that all budding cooks need to know, it is set out with lots of photos, simple captions and just the right amount of information to inform but not bore. The recipes follow a similar sort of presentation with stunning full colour photos to help understanding but also to make the most ordinary food look good - we know we eat with our eyes first. Who knew a rainbow salad could be so tempting? Or how many good things could be packed into a pita pocket? Or even that so many vegetables could be included in yummy cakes? Parents will love this book!!!
With plans for the new school year already on the horizon, this could be the centrepiece of a display encouraging our students to nourish themselves throughout the year, and perhaps even encourage the establishment of a cooking group so they can learn and hone their skills and tastes in a community atmosphere.
Definitely one for the two budding chefs in my life . . .
Barbara Braxton

The Slime Book

Witchfairy by Brigitte Minne

Ill. by Carll Cneut. Book Island, 2017. ISBN 9781911496076
(Age: 6+) Highly recommended. Fairy stories. Fairies. Witches. Growing up. Born a fairy Rosemary must put up with the expectations of her family: she must remain neat and clean, tell stories with her honeyed voice, never spill crumbs upon her clothes, and wave her magic wand about. For her birthday that is precisely what she has been given, but she would have much preferred a pair of roller skates or a boat. In fact she would much prefer to be a witch, so she packs her bags and flies off to the witches' wood. Here she is accepted without hesitation and learns to fly a broom. In her treehouse, a little lonely she looks at the moon wondering what her mother is doing. Back at the castle, mum is also lonely without Rosemary and looks at the moon. She flies off to the witch's wood with her handbag and there the two affect a compromise and all is happy once again.
This delightful tale of growing up, of expectations, of finding out what you really want to be, is an absolute treat. Written with the ambience of a fairy tale by Flemish author, Brigitte Minne, and beautifully illustrate by Belgian illustrator, Carll Cneut, the book will be read and reread by teachers, parents, carers and kids drawing the listeners into talking about what they expect of the world in which they live, and of course, looking closely at the good and bad points of being a fairy or a witch.
The illustrations are simply stunning, with the fairies in their wonderful nineteenth century smocks and delightful tall hats reminding me of the Scandinavian Santa (nisse)and his wife found in people's homes at Christmas.
Each page demands closer inspection as Cneut uses an array of media to create his images: crayon, watercolour and pencil can be seen. Faces of the fairies and the witches dot the pages and the images of the castle and the woods demand closer inspection.
Fran Knight

Fold-up Halloween fortune tellers

Bloomsbury, 2017. ISBN 9781408888629
(Age: Middle primary) To quote the blurb: "Dare to be scared with these ghoulishly gruesome fortune tellers. Can you avoid the wicked witch's spell? Can you outrun the speedy vampire with his toothy grin? Or will you get caught in the blast of the snozzle-nose snot monster's sneeze?
With colourful illustrations on every page, you can make creepy, crazy and completely hilarious Halloween fortunes for all your friends."
Despite my first glance making me wonder why this book would hold much appeal, closer investigation proved that it would be something which lots of children would enjoy. I suspect it would prompt them to create their own fortunes as some are only half written and others completely blank. There is room for plenty of creativity and imagination as children would be inclined to write the spookiest endings possible. As I looked through the pages, they brought back memories of my own childhood, creating 'chatter-boxes' to trick my friends. Given that ours were made on scraps of paper, carefully trimmed and folded, these have way more visual appeal with their colourful patterns and illustrations. The stories contained in these pages are more creative than our 'truth or dare' type fortune tellers. Linking them to the celebration of Halloween provides a certain appeal and there is a possibility that teachers could use these as a basis for story writing for any special celebration being recognised in the classroom. This publication should provide lots of fun for children in middle primary classes.
Jo Schenkel

Billy and the Minpins by Roald Dahl

Ill. by Quentin Blake. Puffin, 2017. ISBN 9780141377506
Billy's mum is always telling what to do and what not to do to be good, but all the things he was allowed to do were boring, and those he was forbidden were exciting. The one thing he was not allowed to do was to never ever go outside the gate all by himself and certainly to never go into the Forest of Sins which he could see from the loungeroom window. His mother painted a fearsome picture of the beasts that lived there - Whangdoodles, Hornswogglers, Snozzwanglers, Vernicious Knids and most terrifying of all, the Terrible Bloodsuckling Toothpluckling Stonechuckling Spittler- and told him that while many went in, none came out.
Billy figured this was just mother-talk to keep him from breaking the rules so when one day The Devil whispered in his ear, he could resist no longer and out the window he climbed, through the gate he went and into the forest he disappeared  . . .
Roald Dahl is master storyteller and he loved to write stories for children that made them not only the heroes but also in defiance of the adults in their lives, so this is Dahl at his best. While not as well-known as some of his other works, it is nevertheless just as gripping and intriguing and engaging as the others. This new edition is the first time that Quentin Blake has done the illustrations for it in his iconic style and as usual he has brought Dahl's imagination and words to life. They are liberally scattered throughout the text, breaking up both the words and the tension so that this is a perfect version for the newly-independent reader venturing into the world of "chapter books" while, at the same time, introducing fans to a not-so-familiar story.
To me, the perfect novel is one I can hear and see myself reading to my students and just as The BFG captured me from the get-go so did this. This needs to be on your read-aloud list.
Barbara Braxton

Sharkpedia

DK Publishing, 2017. ISBN 9781465463128
If there is one section of the library that is just as popular as 567.9, it is 597.3. And if there is one piece of music that still sends shivers up the spine of many it is this . . .
As the Australian summer and holiday season approaches, these creatures will be in the news as people venture into their territory and the debate about their continued existence will rage again.
So this safari with Professor John Bigelow Finnegan (aka Big Finn), a "round-the-globe expedition to study these mighty and mysterious creatures" visiting shark haunts and hideouts to study the habits and habitats of a variety of species will be a welcome addition to the collection. Using photos, diagrams, headings, accessible text and a clever variety of other devices this will appeal to all those who are fascinated by these creatures and who want to know more. As well as the usual facts and figures, it dispels myths, looks at current research and even introduces some of the stories, movies and television programs that feature sharks, painting a whole-well-rounded picture that demonstrates that these creatures not only have a right to their existence but play a critical part in the planet's ecology.
Done with the usual DK thoroughness and understanding of what young readers want and how they want it, this is perfect for both the experienced and novice shark-trackers.
Barbara Braxton

Professor Astro Cat's Solar System by Dr Dominic Walliman and Ben Newman

Flying Eye Books, 2017. ISBN 9781911171379
Professor Astro Cat is the smartest cat in the alley, in fact so much so, he's got a degree in just about any discipline under the sun. In this, the latest in a series to help younger readers understand science better, he takes young explorers on a journey around the solar system, visiting each planet and explaining its various features in simple to understand language and appealing illustrations that will answer the questions and pique the interest of those who want to know more.
From the time they are able to distinguish night and day, little ones want to know more and so this is an excellent beginning book that will help them understand how things work. In keeping with the demands of the young and the potential of the digital environment, there is also an app which has a four-star review from Common Sense Media With the heavy emphasis on STEM in the curriculum and the NSW government investing $80 000 000 in STEM over the next three years this would be a worthwhile investment for your collection for littlies.
Barbara Braxton