Heroes of the Secret Underground by Susanne Gervay

“You’re free too … You’re not trapped by the secrets of the past. You’re now a witness to the past. To honour those who have suffered and let no one ever forget so it cannot happen again. You’re free to create your future now.” (Heroes of the Secret Underground) Any introduction of Australian children’s author […]

Mo and Crow by Jo Kasch & Jonathan Bentley

Mo and Crow by Jo Kasch, illustrated by Jonathan Bentley (published by Allen & Unwin) Thank you for speaking to PaperbarkWords, Jo. Thank you for having me! This is my first ever chat so I’m very excited. Where are you based and what is your background, particularly in television? What is some of the work […]

The Labyrinth by Amanda Lohrey

Book Review My lingering recollections of The Labyrinth by Amanda Lohrey (Text Publishing) are of place and the nature of the labyrinth. Erica finds a fibro shack on the sandy, salty, windswept coastline in the hamlet of Garra Nulla. It is a shambled labyrinth but its core is perfectly proportioned. Erica buys the house. “I […]

Bandits by Sha’an D’Anthes

Sha’an D’Anthes is both author and illustrator of the new picture book, Bandits (published by Lothian Children’s Books). Bandits has great visual impact, is set in a slightly futuristic society and looks at significant issues in a highly appealing way. Thank you for speaking to PaperbarkWords, Sha’an. You have such an interesting name and pseudonym […]

Little Lon by Andrew Kelly

Little Lon by Andrew Kelly, illustrated by Heather Potter & Mark Jackson (published by Wild Dog Books) Andrew Kelly is a stalwart of the literary community. He has undertaken many roles but is most recently recognised as the co-author, with Aunty Joy Murphy, of Wilam: a Birrarung Story. Wilam is featuring in children’s literary awards. […]

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 […]