Kids

Spooky reads for Halloween

by Angela Crocombe

October is traditionally the month for spooky stories, decorating pumpkins and dressing up in wacky costumes. While the trick or treating may be a little more socially distanced this year, there are still plenty of terrifyingly fun stories to read … if you dare!

There’s a Ghost in this House by Oliver Jeffers

A captivating new picture book with interactive transparent pages, from world-renowned artist Oliver Jeffers.

A young girl lives in a haunted house, but has never seen a…

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Recommended children's books and news for October

by Angela Crocombe

This month we have a moving story written from the perspective of a wild dingo, a humorous horror story perfect for Halloween, the latest Kate DiCamillo (always an event in itself!), a beautiful cookbook focused on seasonal produce, and stunning picture books from two award winners, Zana Fraillon and Oliver Jeffers. What a wealth of riches!

You can find our round-up of YA titles this month here.

KIDS BOOK OF THE MONTH

Wandi by Favel Parrett

A young cub…

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Animal rescue stories for junior and middle fiction readers

by Angela Crocombe

When I was a kid, the stories I loved most were about animals, and I was particularly fascinated with animal rescue narratives. Well, it turns out this love is perennial and there is a whole new wave of charming books about rescuing animals of all shapes and sizes to inspire and comfort young animal lovers. Here are a few of my recent favourites…

Polly Pecorino: The Girl Who Rescues Animals by Emma Chichester Clark

Polly Pecorino rescues animals, and she…

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Our children's and YA top 10 bestsellers of the week

Dark Rise by C.S. Pacat

The Song of Lewis Carmichael by Sofie Laguna

Wandi by Favel Parrett

It’s Not You, It’s Me by Gabrielle Williams

Bluey: Giant Activity Pad by Bluey

The Curiosities by Zana Fraillon

Big Dog, Little Dog by Sally Rippin

The Tiny Explorers by Kat Macleod

Seasons in the City by Megan McKean

Squirrel Do Bad by Stephen Pastis

Rocketing to the number one spot this week is the brand new debut YA novel by bestselling fantasy…

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Great graphic novels for middle schoolers

Graphic novels are such a fantastic way for young people to explore complex emotional themes while developing their visual literacy. They’re a wonderful option for voracious and reluctant readers alike who are not quite ready for young adult fiction, but are already pushing away from more junior stories. These graphic novels offer more relatable plots and themes for those 10+ who are beginning to search for greater complexity in their stories.

The Okay Witch and the Hungry Shadow by Emma…

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Best truck books for toddlers

by Angela Crocombe

Toddlers and trucks just seem to go together like cheese and tomato, chocolate and ice cream. Playing in the sandpit, driving your truck around the house, vroom vroom, what could be better?

Here are some of our all-time favourite truck books to keep that truck love going strong.

Trucks by Maria Brzozowska

A fun, visual miscellany for younger children who love anything related to cars and wheels!

Each double-page spread features a different group of fascinating vehicles to pore over…

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New indestructible books for babies

by Angela Crocombe

It’s important to introduce books to babies from birth to stimulate learning. They will soon get into the routine of handling books and even learn to turn the pages from a young age. But there’s no doubt they will also chew, slobber, and maybe even throw them, so its good to have books that are washable, safe and sturdy.

Here are a few of our favourite recent, non-toxic, extremely durable baby books.

Today’s Sun by Gregg Dreise

Raise a reader…

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