Living on Stolen Land by Ambelin Kwaymullina

“This story begins with the tree on the cover which shows futures The roots go deep down into the ground because just futures must be grounded in respectful relationships with Indigenous peoples Indigenous homelands Indigenous sovereignties“ (Living on Stolen Land) Living on Stolen Land is written by Ambelin Kwaymullina who belongs to the Palyku people […]

When Rain Turns to Snow by Jane Godwin

Inside the CBCA Shortlist “I’m a good writer, but I don’t get great marks because I don’t follow the formula like in Naplan. And I read books about words that are meant for adults, but I can never think of the right words to say when I’m speaking.” (When Rain Turns to Snow) When Rain […]

Mindcull by KH Canobi

“God please help me. The questions keep coming, and the chaos won’t stop. I can’t keep track of my words. My mind is flooded with colour and noise. They are drowning me. I’m going to die here.” (Mindcull) Thank you for speaking to PaperbarkWords, K H Canobi. Thanks for having me on your blog, Joy. […]

When Billy Was a Dog by Kirsty Murray, illustrated by Karen Blair

Inside the CBCA Shortlist Young children, and those sharing When Billy Was a Dog with them, will love this warm, appealing story. Written by Kirsty Murray and illustrated by Karen Blair (published by Allen & Unwin) this picture book is shortlisted for the Children’s Book Council of Australia 2020 Early Childhood category. Thank you for […]

Ribbit Rabbit Robot by Victoria Mackinlay, illustrated by Sofya Karmazina

Ribbit Rabbit Robot by Victoria Mackinlay, illustrated by Sofya Karmazina (Omnibus Books, Scholastic Australia) is a fun story to read aloud with children or for beginning readers to read themselves. Thank you for speaking to PaperbarkWords, Victoria. Thank you for having me Joy! It’s a major achievement to have a book published and an extra […]

The End of the World is Bigger than Love by Davina Bell

Inside the CBCA Shortlist “We live on a blue planet that circles around a ball of fire next to a moon that moves the sea, and you don’t believe in miracles?” (The End of the World is Bigger than Love) The End of the World is Bigger than Love by Davina Bell (Text Publishing) may […]

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 […]