No! Never! by Libby Hathorn & Lisa Hathorn-Jarman, illustrated by Mel Pearce

Inside the CBCA Shortlist No! Never! (Lothian Children’s Books) is a humorous cautionary tale about sweet young Georgie told in deft rhyme by Libby Hathorn, one of Australia’s most highly regarded writers for children, and her daughter Lisa Hathorn-Jarman. It is illustrated by Mel Pearce. Thank you for speaking with PaperbarkWords, Libby and Lisa. Whose […]

The Bible in Australia: A cultural history by Meredith Lake

The Bible in Australia: A cultural history concludes, “And while the church’s own record has been very mixed, and at times patently destructive, the Bible, variously interpreted, continues to appear in startling ways – as a source of inspiration, power and practical wisdom.” If you are looking for a great read and you enjoy history […]

Deep Water by Sarah Epstein

“I’m always telling Dad that country people are far too trusting. Everyone may know everyone in small towns, but can we ever truly know anyone?” (Deep Water) Thank you for speaking to PaperbarkWords, Sarah. Thank you for having me, Joy! Where are you based and how are you involved in the Australian YA community? I […]

Andrew Levins & Nelson: Pumpkins and Aliens

Children looking for something fun to read will enjoy Andrew Levins’ debut book, Nelson: Pumpkins and Aliens. It is the first in a new series about Nelson, a boy who detests vegetables. Parents will also be happy that their children are reading a story that promotes healthy eating, especially in such an enjoyable way. Thank […]

Starting Secondary School: The Essential Handbook for every Australian family by Michael Carr-Gregg & Sharon Witt

Starting Secondary School (Penguin Random House Australia) by child and adolescent psychologist and founder of Canteen, Michael Carr-Gregg and experienced teacher and founder of the Resilient Kids Conference, Sharon Witt is a practical, easy-to-read guide. It is aimed at parents with a child entering Year 7 in secondary school but is also useful for parents […]

How to Grow a Family Tree by Eliza Henry-Jones

“Life hasn’t stopped just because something difficult has happened. Something strange and unexpected. Life keeps trucking on …” (How to Grow a Family Tree) Thank you for speaking to PaperbarkWords, Eliza. Where are you based and how are you involved in the world of Australian literature? I’m based on a small farm in the Yarra […]

The Book of Chance by Sue Whiting

Inside the CBCA Shortlist “Sounds to me like a young girl who was hurting and feeling let down by her friends. I think you should try to reach out to her and see if you can make amends. Show some grace. Some kindness.” (The Book of Chance) Thank you for speaking to PaperbarkWords, Sue. Thanks […]

Izzy and Frank by Katrina Lehman, illustrated by Sophie Beer

Thank you for speaking to PaperbarkWords, Katrina and Sophie. Your new picture book Izzy and Frank (Scribble) is a thoughtful and refreshing tale for young children about the friendship between a girl and a seagull and how life changes. Where does your lovely introductory image of Izzy’s island home without corners and a “a staircase […]

The Resilience Project by Hugh Van Cuylenburg

The Resilience Project: Finding Happiness Through Gratitude, Empathy & Mindfulness (Ebury Press, Penguin Random House Australia) is an inspiring book about creating happiness and well-being by practising gratitude, empathy and mindfulness. These three attributes, combined with listening, showing your own imperfections and vulnerability and other behaviours, can turn lives around. Hugh is an Australian who […]

Ursula Dubosarsky & Ask Hercules Quick

Ask Hercules Quick by Ursula Dubosarsky, illustrated by Andrew Joyner Ask Hercules Quick is a beautifully imagined and composed story by esteemed author Ursula Dubosarsky about Hercules who does odd jobs to save for a box of magic tricks. The story incorporates humour and intrigue and, while complete and satisfying, provides space for children to […]