The History of Mischief by Rebecca Higgie

“I took the people, stories and books I loved, and added magic.” (The History of Mischief) I am awestruck at The History of Mischief, Rebecca Higgie’s debut novel for young people (Fremantle Press). It has an engaging storyline and overarching narrative and a rich backstorybrimming with fascinating, often unexpected, historical information. The skill, complexity and magic […]

Benevolence by Julie Janson

“She thinks she can be in two worlds and not have to choose.” (Benevolence) Benevolence is a searing, unforgettable work for adults and mature young adults by Julie Janson, a Burruberongal woman of the Darug Aboriginal Nation and award-winning playwright. It is published by Magabala Books. Although not easy to read because of the unconscionable […]

The Giant and the Sea by Trent Jamieson, illustrated by Rovina Cai

“There was a giant who stood on the shore of the sea. She looked out across the water because that is what she had promised to do long, long ago.” The Giant and the Sea by Trent Jamieson, illustrated by Rovina Cai (Lothian Children’s Books) is a significant multifaceted work. It is likely to become […]

Taking Down Evelyn Tait by Poppy Nwosu

Poppy Nwosu has created a memorable character, Lottie, in her new YA novel Taking Down Evelyn Tait (Wakefield Press). Lottie is very funny and always in trouble. Her friendships and relationships are painted superbly and, told with humour, help contribute to her changing insights. Thank you for speaking to PaperbarkWords, Poppy. Thank you so much […]

The Strangeworlds Travel Agency by L.D. Lapinski

“You could travel to places you could never have imagined, see worlds on the edge of the multiverse. You could watch blue suns rise over mountains of red glass, see flowers the size of houses, hear the crunch of the ground as dragons hatch from hidden caverns …” (The Strangeworlds Travel Agency) Thank you for […]

Please Don’t Hug Me by Kay Kerr

“You see the world in a different way, Erin, and I think people might be interested in hearing about it.” (Please Don’t Hug Me) Thank you for speaking to PaperbarkWords, Kay. Thank you for having me, Joy. Your title, Please Don’t Hug Me (Text Publishing) is eye-catching and memorable. Why have you chosen it? I […]

Snow by Gina Inverarity

“When I came into the world I brought a deep, soft quiet with me. For that is how the world is when it’s covered in snow. Quiet.” (Snow) Snow is New Zealand-based Gina Inverarity’s first YA novel. Her concept is brilliant and her writing extremely strong. It will no doubt be regarded as one of […]

Worse Things by Sally Murphy, illustrated by Sarah Davis

Inside the CBCA Shortlist “We have no words for her today but we are here to show her she is not alone.” (Worse Things) A new verse from Sally Murphy is a special occasion. Sally has written three great verse novels for children – Pearl Verses the World, Toppling and Roses are Blue – and […]

Rising Heart by Aminata Conteh-Biger

Thank you for speaking to PaperbarkWords, Aminata. Rising Heart is Aminata’s memoir (co-written with Juliet Rieden, published by Macmillan Australia). Aminata grew up in Sierra Leone, West Africa, and experienced the horrors of war, kidnapping and rape during the country’s 11-year civil war. She was brought to Australia as a refugee because her safety was […]

As Fast as I Can by Penny Tangey

“I am going to the Olympics. Not just as a spectator because anyone can do that. I will be a competitor. I haven’t found out which sport I’m good at yet.” (As Fast as I Can) Thank you for speaking to PaperbarkWords, Penny. I have read all your books since being on the CBCA judging […]