2020 2019 Handpicked and reviewed by Australia's leading booksellers - Megalong Books
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2019
2020
Handpicked and reviewed by
Australia’s leading booksellers
Dorling Kindersley
WELCOME TO THE 2019
One Blue Shoe
Jane Godwin and Jane Reiseger I HB $19.99
Get ready for a fun counting adventure. Full of playful rhymes
As an author for young people, I'm delighted to see such a thoughtful and lovely illustrations you will be counting shoes and babies and
and imaginative selection of books–all chosen by people who spend bubbles and learning simple maths concepts without even trying.
every working day talking to kids, talking to parents and rellies, talking to One Blue Shoe is lots of fun. Good luck finding the missing blue shoe!
teachers and librarians, and even talking to books (I've seen them do it).
Children's booksellers need to know their Our friends change us in all sorts of Play School Story Time Volume 3
stuff because their shops are often quite wonderful ways, and when those friends are Various I CD and MP3 $29.95
small, so there's nowhere to hide from characters in stories we love, there's no limit
unhappy customers. Or unhappy books. to where these friendships can take us. Join an amazing host of celebrities including Dylan Alcott,
Jimmy Giggle and Adam Liaw as they snuggle up on the Story Time
I'm also very pleased to see, as the current All a young person needs to get started is couch to narrate a selection of stories for young children. Favourites
Australian Children's Laureate, that so many one book. Lots of them here. All chosen include Guess How Much I Love You, We’re Going On A Bear Hunt
of the books in this guide offer young readers by big-hearted experts. (Actually some and Owl Babies. Perfect for car rides or quiet time at home.
the trifecta–fun, yes, adventure, yes, and also of their shops are quite big too.)
rich reading experiences that will open up
possibilities in their future lives.
My Country
Ezekiel Kwaymullina and Sally Morgan
BB $14.99
Happy reading.
Morris Gleitzman, Australian Children’s Laureate Opening with “In my country I play with the Morning Star” we follow
a child through her day and its changing landscapes. A beautiful
celebration of our country with simple text and so much to look at
in each stunning illustration. A book that should be in every home.
ABC For Me:
To win all the books in the guide enter our ‘write a review’ competition.
What Can He Be?
Visit kidsreadingguide.com.au for all the details. Competition closes 31/01/20.
Jessie Ford | BB $19.99
From Quantum Physicist to Yoga
Instructor, this gorgeous ABC shows a
Every Child A Song whole spectrum of possibility for young
boys imagining their future. This follows
Nicola Davies and Marc Martin | HB $26.99
last year’s very popular ABC What Can
She Be? Both books are beautifully
A beautiful, poetic celebration of the UN Convention on the Rights illustrated and thoughtfully put together,
of the Child. The lyrical language describes the song within every perfect for children starting to question
child that should be nurtured, cherished and heard. It is perfectly their place in the world.
complemented by striking illustrations and full of colour and
movement, which emphasise the joy in being able to sing freely.
02 03
Spot Book & Toy The Little Yellow Digger ABC
Eric Hill | Boxed Set $22.99 Peter Gilderdale and Alan Gilderdale | PB $17.99
The iconic Where’s Spot celebrates its 40th anniversary, We all love the story of The Little Yellow Digger and this new story
packaged with a gorgeous Spot plush toy. Little readers will will not disappoint. With a rhyming text, bright illustrations and
love lifting the flaps in this sturdy board book discovering funny amazing calligraphy style letters hidden behind the flaps, children
animal surprises as they help Spot’s mum find her cheeky puppy, will delight in learning the alphabet. A perfect way to sit with your
all while cuddling their own! little one and teach them their ABC.
Boo! Animals
Margaret Wild and Andrew Joyner | HB $19.99 Chihiro Takeuchi | BB $19.99
Boo! Said the baby to the monkey in the cot… Boo! Boo! Boo! Learn about the animals of the world in this board book. Spot and
Brightly illustrated with big sturdy pages this book will delight find the European wolves or tigers from Asia. There is a page of
the very young and parents alike. Rhyming and expressive Australian animals too with koalas, cockatoos and crocodiles to
text makes this book a joy to read aloud and is sure to be a find. With beautiful paper cut art and die-cut pages this is a book
favourite for years. to treasure.
Bluey: The Beach Bluey: Fruit Bat Farmblock
Christopher Franceschelli and Peskimo | BB $21.99
Bluey | BB $14.99
Follow a year in the life of a farm in this delightful book, the latest in
Follow the bold, imaginative Bluey and her ridiculously
a series of educational stories for the very young. With sturdy pages
charming family through these fun, relatable stories that
perfect for little hands, and lots of flaps to lift, this colourful book is
invite readers to enjoy the magic of the everyday. Based on
the perfect gift for any toddler.
the massively successful ABC show and set in a recognisably
Australian landscape, Bluey’s adventures are sure to delight
young pups everywhere.
Australian Baby Animals Moving Your Body
Frané Lessac Dressing Your Family
BB $15.99 Beci Orpin | BB $12.99
Charlie loved the rhyming text and Anaya was instantly attracted to the bright
laughed out loud listening to the sounds colours of Moving Your Body and loved
of the animals. The cuddly koala and copying the movements described in
playful Tasmanian devil are just like him. the story. What a great book for sharing
A perfect colourful story for the little and reading together!
CHARLIE, AGE 1 ones which will grow with them. ANAYA, ALMOST 1
04 05
I Saw We Saw
(Djamarrkuli’wu
Yolgnumurru Dhäruk)
By Yolgnu students at Nhulunbuy Primary School
with Ann James and Ann Haddon | HB $24.99
There’s lots to see in Yolgnu country. Join the local children as they
show you their world. Wonderfully illustrated you will spend hours
Mr Chicken All Over Australia poring over the pictures and learning the Yolgnu Matha words for
Leigh Hobbs | HB $24.99 whale, crocodile, stingray, bats and family to name a few. What a
great way to celebrate UNESCO’s year of Indigenous Languages.
Mr Chicken is back for another mad cap adventure travelling all of
Australia to meet his legion of letter writing fans. With a fondness Fly
for lamingtons and pavlovas he travels everywhere by plane, train
Jess McGeachin | HB $24.99
and boat creating havoc and mayhem. And, of course, there is a
surprising twist at the end.
Lucy lives with her dad and loves fixing and making things. After
finding an injured bird, she embarks on a mission to help it fly again,
but learns that sometimes not everything can be easily fixed. This
Miss Kraken beautifully told and gorgeously illustrated story celebrates the
Nicki Greenberg | HB $24.99 importance of acceptance.
How would you feel if your new teacher is a very strict and very Three
large octopus and no one seems concerned about this except you
and your class mates? When Miss Kraken goes missing at the local Stephen Michael King | HB $24.99
aquarium excursion, you aren’t exactly sad. But things can always
get worse! This is a very funny tale that kids will love. You will fall in love with Three, the happy, friendly, delightful dog
in this adventure story. Three is on a mission to find a new home.
He hops and skips his way wherever his three little legs will carry
him. With whimsical illustrations this beautiful tale reminds us how
important family and friendship are.
Liarbird
Laura Bunting and Philip Bunting | HB $17.99
Lyrebird was born to mimic, tell fibs, create fake news and create
mayhem in the bush. But one day Lyrebird’s boasts and fibs catch up
with him! Can he possibly tell the truth or is even that too difficult?
Children and adults alike will love the play on language in this book.
Tilly
Jane Godwin and Anna Walker | HB $24.99
The picture book ‘dream team’ of Jane Godwin and Anna Walker
have created another timeless classic with this beautiful picture book
about a little girl’s bond with her collection of special treasures and
the secret world they live in.
06 07
The Stephen Michael King Collection The Swan Lake (The Story Orchestra)
Stephen Michael King Katy Flint and Jessica Courtney Tickle | HB $27.99
CD and MP3 $19.95
A beautiful introduction to the story of Odette and Odile in
A collection of six heartwarming stories filled with imagination and play. Tchaikovsky’s ballet. This book has interactive buttons that play
Little children will learn about the importance of friendship, self-expression excerpts of the music on each double page of gorgeous artwork,
and accepting differences, and will meet an unforgettable cast of colourful with a great fact file about Tchaikovsky and the history of the ballet.
and engaging characters. Perfect for ballet lovers or anyone who loves a great classic story.
Antarctica Summer Time
Moira Court | HB $24.99 Hilary Bell and Antonia Pesenti | HB $24.99
This little book is amazing! Learn about Antarctica with some simple These rhyming vignettes form the story of summer, from the last
facts and then discover some of the fascinating animals that live magpies of spring to back-to-school shoe shopping, perfectly
there. The text is perfect for reading aloud with delicious words and capturing the quintessential Australian summer time experience.
a wonderful rhythm that is beautifully complemented by lively paper Accompanied by bright and exciting art and collage illustrations this
collage illustrations. Oh! And it’s a counting book, too! gorgeous picture book is a snapshot of summer, both wonderfully
fresh for little ones and perfectly nostalgic for grown ups.
My Pet Star Polly and the New Baby
Corrinne Averiss and Rosalind Beardshaw | PB $15.99 Rachel Quarry | PB $13.95
We have all looked up at the stars at night and thought how magical
A simple, beautiful story about an imaginary friend. Polly pushes
they are. This delightful heartfelt story is about a little girl looking after
her friend Bunny around in the pushchair that had been hers when
a lost star. With kindness and caring the star’s glow is getting brighter
she was a little baby. They go everywhere together. Her Mum and
each day until it is time to let the star go. With the magic of caring the
Dad are getting worried. When their new baby arrives how are they
star is glowing in the night sky. A beautiful bedtime story.
going to get the pushchair off Polly? Polly solves the problem with
her surprising imagination.
Moon River
Illustrations by Tim Hopgood | PB with CD $17.95
Using the lyrics of the beautiful song written 60 years ago, Tim
Hopgood takes us on a journey that begins with a dream. Listen to
Oi Puppies! the audio and read the story. The words are still beautiful and the
Kes Gray and Jim Field journey is full of love.
HB $24.99
The Tiny Star
I love puppies and cats. I like all
the rhymes and my favourites Mem Fox and Freya Blackwood | HB $24.99
are ‘Tickles on some pickles’ and
‘Tiddles on the fiddle’. Mum says I Mem Fox’s touching words about the journey of life and the love
giggle a lot when she reads those of family and friends, work beautifully with Freya Blackwood’s
parts. The puppies are very naughty WOLFGANG, AGE 3 heartwarmingly soft illustrations. This beautiful picture book will
but I think they are funny. soon become a classic that is read and reread to generations of
children in the years to come.
08 09
This is a Dog
Ross Collins | HB $22.99
Dog has decided that he is the only animal that counts in
The First Book of Animals. Armed with a pencil he begins to wreak
havoc on the tale – scaring cat, rabbit and squirrel but meeting his
match with crocodile, bear and gorilla! A delightful laugh out loud Dumazi and the Big Yellow Lion
treat for readers young and old. Valanga Khoza and Matt Ottley
HB & CD $24.99
Paper Planes
When Dumazi comes across a lion caught in a trap she decides to
Jim Helmore and Richard Jones | PB $16.99
take a chance on kindness and set him free. But she learns that a
promise a lion makes with his mouth doesn’t necessarily speak for
Mia and Ben are the best of friends who do everything together and his tummy! Dumazi’s story is brought to life with a CD featuring
their favourite activity is making paper planes. That is until they hear original music by Matt Ottley and Valanga Khoza.
the news that Ben is moving away to the city. How will they manage
to stay friends when they are so far apart? A very moving story about
the power of friendship.
The Girl and the Dinosaur
Hollie Hughes and Sarah Massini | HB $22.99
Midnight Ninja
Sam Lloyd | PB $14.99 On a beautiful beach a young girl is digging up dinosaur bones to
build herself a magical friend. Together they journey past giants
Join the midnight ninja on his big adventure to find the stolen and fairies, through mysterious forests, coming in the end to a
socks. When everyone is asleep our ninja is fighting baddies with his dream world in the clouds. A gorgeous story about the power of
gadgets and skill and his sidekick pussycat Ginger. But at the end of imagination and friendship.
the day all ninjas need their sleep and it is time for bed.
Baby’s First Jailbreak
Jim Whalley and Stephen Collins | PB $14.99
Have you heard about Baby Frank who turned his home into a zoo?
It was so famous that visitors came in droves, that was until Baby
Bruce opened a competing zoo with performing animals and free
All of the Factors of ice cream. What is Baby Frank to do? A rollicking rhyming adventure
Why I Love Tractors made for reading aloud.
Davina Bell and Jenny Lovlie
HENRY, AGE 4
HB $24.99 I See, I See
Robert Henderson | HB $19.99
Frankie and his Mum are going to the library, just like I do with
my Mum. It is one of my favourite places. I love how the story
rhymes and how Frankie explains to his Mum why he loves Designed to be read right side up and upside down at the same
time, this book encourages young readers to see a story from
tractors so much. I also like tractors and love looking at the fun
different perspectives. Playful, rhyming call and answer text means
drawings in the book. As the librarian, Miss Squid, says “A boy
this book is meant to be read by more than one person. It’s an artful
who likes books is a nice thing to see”. I am like Frankie because
and original concept.
I have always loved books.
10 11
Painted Ponies
Alison Lester | HB $24.99
Matilda loves staying at Grandma Lucky’s, riding Luna in the front 100 Ways to Fly
paddock, playing with the painted ponies in their carved wooden Michelle Taylor | PB $14.95
wagon and listening to Grandma’s stories. One day she tells Matilda
about the real ponies from the mountains that became her friends.
A lyrical picture book about friendship and freedom from the much A perfect introduction to poetry for young children where you will find a
loved Alison Lester. poem for all your varying moods. Different styles and forms make poetry
easily accessible to children. Funny poems include limericks, tongue
twisters and wordplay but there are also poems to encourage bravery,
Be More Bernard adventure and kindness.
Simon Philip and Kate Hindley | HB $24.99
Bernard is a bunny but doesn’t really feel like one! He sort of joins Poems from a Green and Blue Planet
in, but he is not happy. One day he decides just to be himself and
to the shock and horror of his family and friends he becomes a Sabrina Mahfouz [ed] and Aaron Cushley | HB $32.99
different bunny. So get out there like Bernard and be yourself.
A stunning collection of new and classic poems celebrating diversity in our
world. Beautiful illustrations add to this great collection. There are new
Sofia Valdez, Future Prez poems, including 8 Australian ones, classics, sonnets and haiku, and the
Andrea Beaty and David Roberts | HB $24.99 poems range from rap to the Romantics. Every family should have a copy.
When Sofia’s grandfather hurts his ankle at a local landfill she
sets about trying to get the slimy mess turned into a park for her
community. A fabulous story about how everybody can make a This is Home:
difference if they are passionate about something and set their Essential Australian Poems for Children
minds to it. A new character from the team who brought us
Selected by Jackie French, illustrated by Tania McCartney
Ada Twist and Rosie Revere.
HB $34.99
Beast Feast An ideal companion for every home, much-loved author Jackie French
Emma Yarlett | HB $24.99 has chosen poems for every mood. Poets such as Oodgeroo Noonuccal
and Dorothea Mackellar sit alongside Shaun Tan and Andy Griffiths.
From poems to give you courage and poems that whisper, this beautifully
Beast is very pleased with himself. He has caught Dinner and invites
illustrated collection can be enjoyed by the whole family.
his friends to a Beast Feast. One problem though, he is beginning to
think of Dinner as a friend. What can he do, should Dinner run and
hide? A fun interactive story with beastly letters to open.
Just Because
Mac Barnett and Isabelle Arsenault | HB $24.99
Many parents will identify with children who cannot go to sleep at
bedtime because they have way too many important questions to
ask. For curious minds comes even curiouser answers which are sure
to delight and inspire the imagination of every child.
12 13
Funny Bones
Edited by Kate Temple, Jol Temple and Oliver Phommavanh
PB $24.99
Everyone could do with a good laugh and this collection of over 100 funny
Stella the Unstoppable and stories, hilarious poems and side-splitting drawings will have you laughing
the School Camp Kerfuffle (Book 2) out loud for hours and hours. With contributions from lots of very funny
people like Hannah Gadsby and Andy Griffiths this book will make a great
Richard Newsome | PB $14.99 gift. All royalties from sales of the book will go to the international aid
charity, War Child Australia.
Richard Newsome’s new series is jam-packed with madcap adventures
and ridiculous situations which will have you giggling out loud! Readers
will fall in love with bossy, impertinent Stella and her gang of friends as
Ask Hercules Quick
they navigate school camp and a pair of magic underpants. Perfect for Ursula Dubosarsky and Andrew Joyner | HB $19.99
emerging readers or to read together with younger children.
Also available Stella the Unstoppable and the Magic Underpants. A very funny story about a boy called Hercules who lives with his alligator
aunt in a building full of eccentric characters. When Hercules sees a magic
box, he wants to buy he decides to earn some money by taking on odd
Paddy T and the jobs for his even odder neighbours. With lots of very colourful illustrations
this is a great first chapter book for new readers.
Time-travelling Trampoline
Adam France and Zahra Zainal | PB $12.99
The Adventures of Anders
Paddy seems like an ordinary kid, but he keeps falling into the most Gregory Mackay | PB $19.99
extraordinary adventures. He saves a magical serpent, writes stories
with a magic pencil, and time travels through his trampoline! This omnibus volume collects three cartoon stories starring a pair of
A delightfully funny collection of wacky short stories, perfect for squirrels named Anders and Eden, and an elephant named Bernie. Their
newly independent readers. adventures promote very positive messages about friendship and inclusion
and the power of imagination.
Bold Tales for Brave-hearted Boys Two Sides
Susannah McFarlane | HB $24.99
Polly Ho-Yen and Binny Talib | HB $16.99
For bold, brave-hearted boys everywhere comes this collection of classic
Lula and Lenka are best friends but opposites in many ways. That is until the
fairy tales retold with a contemporary twist. Read Jack and the Beanstalk,
pencil case saga! Enter Maya into the mix and the unhappiness begins. Don’t
Hansel and Gretel, The Emperor’s New Clothes and Prince Leo and the
worry, as this beautiful little book ends with a smile and new friendships.
Sleeping Princess. Fabulous bold illustrations and a text showing you that
you can be strong but also follow your heart to do the right thing. The
perfect companion to Fairytales for Feisty Girls.
Isadora Moon Puts on A Show
The Impossible Boy Harriet Muncaster | HB $17.95
Ben Brooks | HB $19.99
Isadora Moon is awesome because she is half vampire
You need a big imagination to read this book! It has everything from and half fairy. She has magical powers, cool fangs and
walking snowmen to goats in school and lots of ice-cream. All this she can fly. I like this book because you can read this
happens after Oleg and Emma invent a new kid in class, Sebastian Cole, story and at the back of the book Isadora shows you
the impossible boy. Just one problem! Sebastian actually appears in a how to put on your own play and make popcorn.
spaceship and the adventure begins. Read it, love it! LUCY, AGE 8
Also available Isadora Moon Makes Winter Magic and
Isadora Moon Has A Birthday.
14 15
Lottie Luna and the Bloom Garden Milton The Mighty
Vivian French and Nathan Reed I PB $12.99 Emma Read | PB $14.99
Lottie is a werewolf and off to a new school. Her father has just been Appearances can be deceiving and when tiny spider Milton finds that
crowned king and she is worried about many things, especially fitting in. he has been falsely branded as a deadly spider he must join forces with
She has super powers but doesn’t like to use them, she just wants a normal his house human Zoe to defend his species! A funny and warm story
life and to enjoy school with her friends. But life isn’t like that and when the about courage and cooperation and not believing everything you read
school garden is under threat, she must use her powers. on social media.
First book in an exciting new series.
The Enchanted Wood Madame Badobedah
The Magic Faraway Tree Sophie Dahl and Lauren O’Hara | HB $26.99
The Folk of the Faraway Tree
When the mysterious Madame Badobedah checks in to the
Enid Blyton | CD $29.95 and MP3 $24.95 Mermaid Hotel, Mabel decides she must be a supervillain! In her
quest to discover the truth, she instead finds friendship and adventure.
Enid Blyton’s timeless classics read by Kate Winslet will This absolutely gorgeous book is great for emerging readers, or as a
provide hours of entertainment for the whole family. read-together story at bedtime.
Daring Delly #1: Team Tryouts! The Secrets of Magnolia Moon
Matthew Dellavedova and Nathalie Ortega | PB $14.99 Edwina Wyatt and Katherine Quinn | HB $19.99
When tryouts are called for a new basketball team, Delly really wants to make Magnolia’s world is thrown into turmoil when her best friend moves
the team and is prepared to do whatever it takes even if that means practicing away and her parents inform her that she is going to be a big sister.
for hours. Written by an Australian NBA champion this is a fun, engaging read Magnolia is a most delightful character with a vivid imagination and
for all young basketball fans especially if they think that there’s no time to sit a heart full of joy. Written with delightful, poetic language.
and read and when they could be shooting hoops.
Toffle Towers 1: Atticus Van Tasticus
Fully Booked Andrew Daddo and
Tim Harris and James Foley | PB $14.99 Stephen Michael King
PB $14.99
PATRICK, AGE 8 Toffle Towers is about a 10yr old boy called Chegwin DANIEL, AGE 8
who inherits a hotel that does not get many visitors, so Atticus Van Tasticus is adventurous, dramatic and
he comes up with lots of crazy ideas to make it more really funny. Atticus becomes a boy pirate after
popular. Super funny, super cool pictures, lots of mystery getting a pirate ship from his rich GranNan. He sails
and mischief. Tim Harris and James Foley are my favourite the seas using a treasure map that is confusing and
authors and I am so excited they got to write a book strange and weird but Atticus always come up with a
together. If you love the Mr Bambuckle books you will crazy and hilarious way around it. I liked it because it
love this series too. My mum read this out loud to me and was always chaos then calm, chaos then calm.
my 6 year old sister, but my older friends will love it too.
16 17
Paul Jennings: A Different Collection
Paul Jennings | CD and MP3 $29.95
A collection of three stories from award winning author Paul Jennings.
A Different Dog is the story of a boy, a dog and a daring rescue.
A Different Boy follows the fortunes of a boy boarding a ship and
leaving his past behind. A Different Land traces the journey of an
orphan who stows away on a ship bound for a New Land.
The Land of Roar
Jenny McLachlan | PB $16.99
Twins Arthur and Rose have grown apart, mostly because Rose now
considers herself too cool to hang out with her dorky brother. However,
when their grandad disappears into an imaginary land from their
childhood game, the twins must venture into the Land of Roar to save
him. This fantastic book is packed with magic, mystery and adventure.
I, Cosmo
Carlie Sorosiak | PB $14.99 The Brilliant Ideas of Lily Green
Lisa Siberry | PB $17.99
Told by Cosmo, a golden retriever, this is a delightful story full of humour,
warmth and tenderness about a dog who will stop at nothing to keep his Lily Green loves to invent products but she has mixed success. Now she
family together – even if it means learning to dance! With hilarious insights is desperate to create something that will save her family’s beauty salon
into a dog’s life, this heartening tale will especially resonate with anyone who’s from ruin. Strange and unlikely ingredients from the garden next door
ever loved or longed for a dog of their own. make for an original concoction but will this new formula be the one that
makes a fortune?
Caterpillar Summer
Gillian McDunn | PB $14.99 Jinxed! The Curious
Curse of Cora Bell
A charming, heartwarming story about family, friendship and finding your own Rebecca McRitchie and Sharon O’Connor | PB $17.99
sense of self. With beautifully portrayed relationships between siblings Cat
and her brother Chicken who has special needs, and the grandparents they Join Cora on her quest to find out exactly who she is and where she is from.
meet for the first time over the summer holidays. This funny and moving story is Along the way she is helped by two slightly naughty fairies while being
perfect for fans of Kate DiCamillo. pursued by a Jinx, a magician and other magical creatures. This is the
perfect mix of adventure, fantasy and fun.
The Monster Who Wasn’t
T C Shelley | PB $14.99 The Lords of Melody
Phillip Gwynne | PB $16.99
Fabulous characters and rich and imaginative descriptions abound in this
book. ‘Imp’ is a creature born in the underworld but with a foot in each world. Phillip Gwynne never disappoints, and this latest offering is a wonderfully
A rich tradition of monsters, from Celtic mythology are in this book. Our hero funny and quirky tale of sibling rivalry, rock ‘n’ roll parents and the ghost of
encounters ogres, pixies, boggarts and chocolate loving gargoyles in his quest a not-so-sorely missed uncle named Fleabag. Gwynne’s unique sense
to learn his identity and find his family. of humour shines through this compulsively readable book.
18 19An Unlikely Spy The Taylor Turbochaser
Terry Deary | PB $14.99 David Baddiel and Steven Lenton | PB $14.99
World War II has begun. Brigit has been evacuated to Wales from her home Amy Taylor loves cars and would love to be a racing car driver. Just one
in London. But when it’s revealed that her father is German, Brigit runs away problem, Amy is in a wheelchair and an old one at that. She finally gets a new
to a very special training camp for spies and saboteurs. After all, who would one and at first it is super exciting and the chair moves like the wind but then
suspect a child? This is a page-turning historical escapade! she gets used to speed and wants more! That is where her friend Rahul, the
genius inventor comes in. Will it end happily? Read it and find out!
My Parents Cancelled My Birthday
The Fowl Twins
Jo Simmons and Nathan Reed | PB $12.99
Eoin Colfer | PB $19.99
This wacky, fun-filled romp is perfect for fans of David Walliams. Featuring
a flattened chihuahua, a giant pig named Tiny and a multitude of madcap The Fowl family is back and this time the focus is on Artemis’s 11 year old twin
misadventures, this delightful book is sure to make you laugh out loud. brothers Myles and Beckett, who, after being left alone for just one night, end
What would you do if your parents cancelled YOUR birthday? up having to save a troll from a wicked nobleman and that is only the start of
their adventures. Fantastic fun with surprises around every corner, you won’t
be able to stop laughing as you race to read to the end of the book to see
Maddie in the Middle how they get themselves out of this mess.
Julia Lawrinson | PB $16.99
The Bone Garden
Year 6 is a tricky time for negotiating friendships and pushing boundaries. Heather Kassner and Matt Saunders | PB $17.99
There’s a balance between keeping old friends and making new friends
but sometimes, as Maddie learns, friendship comes at a cost and risky Irréelle’s greatest fear is that she isn’t real. A valid concern for a girl made of
behaviours have consequences. A must read for tweens about courage dust, bone and the magic powers of her creator, Miss Vesper. She can never
and being true to yourself. please her cruel creator but after a fatal mistake, she must run for her life.
But how long can she hide from Miss Vesper?
The Good Thieves
Katherine Rundell | PB $14.99 Sick Bay
Nova Weetman | PB $16.95
Journey back in time to 1920’s New York, where a rag-tag bunch of kids
take on a wicked con-man in a desperate attempt to save all their families Two girls from Grade Six meet in sick bay who couldn’t be more
and futures. This is an absolutely fabulous book; you’ll be hooked from the different–well, at least on the surface. Over time Meg and Riley realise
very beginning and gobble it up they have more in common than they thought. A powerful novel about
before you know it! friendship, many readers in primary school and early high school will
relate to the characters of this novel.
21The Glimme Dream Riders: Storm
Emily Rodda and Marc McBride | HB $34.99 Jesse Blackadder
and Laura Bloom
A beautiful new book by Emily Rodda with amazing illustrations by Marc PB $17.99
McBride, full of high fantasy, adventure, magic and mystery. Finn lives in a
small village on the edge of the veil between worlds. Are the images that Storm is learning the skills of natural
Finn draws just in his imagination or can he really see beyond the veil? horsemanship with her new friends,
This is a beautiful hardback gift for your teen or tween. the Dream Riders. But how will she
ever achieve the dream of owning the
beautiful horse that has captured her
Mika and Max heart? This story of courage and self-
Laura Bloom | PB $16.99 belief is also an ode to the beauty and
joy of horses.
Mika is very unsure of Max when she first meets him. She has gone with
her family to visit Max’s family to attend a music festival. Mika knows that
Max is younger and different, he is 10 and has autism, but has no idea
that they will develop an unlikely friendship of warmth and understanding. Nevertell
The most beautiful story of family, growing up and learning that we are all Katharine Orton | PB $16.99
different and that’s okay.
Packed with adventure, magic
and mystery, this wonderful tale
Beverly, Right Here of adventure and courage follows
Kate DiCamillo | HB $19.99 Lina and her best friend Bogdan as
they escape from a Soviet prison
camp. Tracked through the Siberian
Beverly is now fourteen and decides to just leave and make it on her own. wilderness by an angry sorceress, will
After all, her dog Buddy has died and her Mum has never cared for her. they survive to find Lina’s grandmother
She finds a job and a place to live and is determined to be independent. and help save her mother?
She just doesn’t see that she can’t help making connections with people
and it is through them that she will finally work out what her life is about.
A most beautiful, heartwarming story from the fabulous Kate DiCamillo.
Guts JT: The Making
Raina Telgemeier | PB $16.99 of a Total Legend
Johnathan Thurston with James Phelps
Guts is a really cool graphic novel that explores PB $16.99
what happens when anxiety takes over. It is really
relatable for young teens, and it shows the I liked this book because it was inspiring. JT was
feeling of being left out. Raina feels sick to the always told he was too small and not strong enough
stomach all the time… but when her mum takes to play NRL but through hard work and belief in
her to the doctor she is ‘as healthy as a horse’. himself he achieved everything in the game proving
ELSIE, AGE 12 TYLER, AGE 10
Could it be more than tummy troubles? his doubters wrong.
22 23This is How We Change the Ending
Vikki Wakefield | PB $19.99
Complex, gritty, compelling and emotionally charged, this is realistic
Take the Shot Australian YA at its best. Nate is smart, thoughtful and creative but, living
as a charity case with an abusive father, can’t imagine a way out. Gradually
Susan White | PB $16.99 his passive resistance becomes active and, with support from unexpected
places, Nate begins to feel hope and the possibility of change.
Bug feels that his genetic condition has taken everything from him–his
health, friends, school and sport. Although he has been banned from playing
sport, he forms a basketball team without his parent’s knowledge. He finally
Saga
feels he belongs, but it is only a matter of time before he cannot hide his Nikki McWatters | PB $19.95
life-threatening condition any longer.
Three young women are brought together by a mysterious book.
Astrid is a Viking priestess living in a time of great change and upheaval.
Deathless Girls Mercy is a Scottish orphan on a quest to discover her true identity and
Mia, a young Australian, is sent on a quest to uncover family secrets.
Kiran Millwood Hargrave | PB $19.99
Their lives are intertwined in this thrilling story.
Kiran Millwood Hargrave’s first foray into YA is a gothic, lyrical reimagining
of the story of two of Dracula’s brides. In this tale of love, grief, tragedy and It Sounded Better In My Head
triumph, twins Kizzy and Lil are ripped from their home and forced into slavery. Nina Kenwood | PB $19.99
Can their love for each other save them from the mysterious and terrifying
Dragon, or will they fall under his spell forever? 14+ Natalie’s world is turned upside down. Her parents have decided to
separate and she had no clue. Her best friends become a couple and
she had no clue. How can all this happen at the same time? Now she has
As Happy As Here to deal with the emotions of sadness and teenage love. With fabulous
Jane Godwin | PB $16.99 characters this story is funny, honest and real.
Jemma, Lucy and Evie are very different, so when they find themselves sharing Angel Mage
a hospital ward tensions run high. However, when the girls see something Garth Nix | PB $24.99
mysterious on the street below and decide to investigate, they start to realise
that maybe they’re not so different after all. This thought-provoking story of
In this intriguing adventure, full of secrets and twists, Nix skilfully blends
identity and empathy from Australian children’s book royalty is perfect for fans
angels, magic, monsters and seventeenth century musketeers into a
of Fiona Wood.
compelling fantasy world. The vivid descriptions and fast pace immerse
you in the story – in which, if you have the ability, angels can be called
upon to do your bidding. But the cost can be high...
All That Impossible Space
Anna Morgan | PB $19.99 Monuments
Will Kostakis | PB $19.99
Friendship is just as confusing, if not more so, than the
70 year old mystery that Lara is assigned to investigate Connor is a normal sixteen-year-old who is having some issues with
for year 10 history. Relationships, especially high school friends and feels lonely and jealous. Until the day he meets Sally and the
ones, are complex and hard to maintain. The way Monuments – gods who have been buried under schools in Sydney for
All That Impossible Space deals with that is what generations – who change his life forever. Fast paced and full of action
interested me, and made me feel invested in what with some romance and laughs for good measure.
CLARE, AGE 13
was happening. I definitely recommend this one.
24 25Furious Thing
Jenny Downham | PB $19.99 Plastic: past, present, and future
Eun-ju Kim and Ji-won Lee and Joungmin Lee Comfort (translator)
Lexi is angry but no one, including HB $27.99
herself, knows why. As her mother and
stepfather try to mould her into the This timely book takes children through how plastic is made, the history of how
perfect daughter, Lexi starts to realise it was created and all the positive things it contributes to our world. But it also
that her anger may be justified, and addresses the environmental impact of our increasing plastic dependence and
she finds the courage to carve out her ultimately asks an important question for the future generation ‘what can you
own space in the world. A powerful and I do to use plastics more responsibly?’
and topical coming-of-age story.
You Can Change the World
Scars Like Wings Lucy Bell | HB $29.99
Erin Stewart | PB $17.99
This book is a must for kids who want to make a difference in the world. Full of
practical advice on changing things in their own world, from cutting down on
After an arduous recovery from being badly burnt in a house fire,
waste to buying ethically and growing your own food, this book will teach kids
Ava returns to school. There she meets Piper, whose friendship helps
how easy it is to be kinder to the earth and to others.
Ava begin to face her fears, until Piper’s own problems surface. This
engagingly honest story is about facing life’s hurdles to find where and
with whom you belong. Our Planet: The One Place We All Call Home
Matt Whyman and Richard Jones | HB $29.99
Rules for Vanishing This stunning new book is a companion to the Netflix series narrated by
Kate Alice Marshall | PB $16.99 Sir David Attenborough. An exploration of how plants and creatures coexist in
various habitats to create ‘our planet’ and how this generation of children can
When a group of teens venture into the woods to find their missing help to protect this delicate balance. A perfect gift for the whole family.
friend, they stumble into a nightmare beyond anything they could have
imagined as they realise not all of them will make it out. Vividly creepy
and full of original characters, this story will haunt readers long after they
We Are All Greta: Be Inspired to Save the World
turn the final page. 14+ Valentina Giannella | PB $19.99
On March 15 2019, 1.6 million students took to the streets in 1700 cities around
the world to draw attention to perils of climate change after a call to action
from a young girl in Sweden. Do you want to take action like Greta but not sure
you understand all the issues around climate change? This book explains them
Allies in a scientific but accessible way so that you can help to take responsibility for
Alan Gratz | PB $17.99 the future of your planet.
Allies was a fantastic read. I felt so attached to
the characters and it was so interesting to see
the story’s progression through the events of
D-Day. I also loved the historical accuracy as I’m
really interested in reading about WWII so it was
good seeing all the correct things there. I think
this is an amazing read for anyone who loves
JACOB, AGE 13 historical books.
26Explore your World: Weird, Wild, Amazing!
Prof. Tim Flannery and Sam Caldwell | HB $34.99
Tim Flannery, one of Australia’s best-known scientists, takes a fascinating look
The Illustrated Encyclopaedia at some of the world’s strangest animals and their bizarre behaviours. Full of
of Ugly Animals curious and quirky facts, this brightly illustrated look into the natural world’s
Sami Bayly | HB $32.99 weird, funny and disgusting creatures is perfect for young nature lovers.
Australian author/illustrator Sami Bayly makes even the ugliest animals Welcome to Country: Youth Edition
extraordinary in this stunning encyclopaedia. The exquisite detail in the
art, along with curious facts and descriptions of the animals and their Marcia Langton | PB $29.99
habitats provides an intriguing insight into some of our more maligned
creatures. It will make you reconsider your definition of ‘ugly’! This introduction for young adult readers to the Indigenous peoples of
Australia comes from the award-winning author of Welcome to Country.
Covering their unique art and storytelling, knowledge and kinship systems,
Australian Sea Life along with The Stolen Generations and The Uluru Statement, it is a brilliant
Matt Chun | HB $29.99 and timely insight into the world’s oldest living cultures.
Matt Chun returns with a beautiful book of Australian sea life. Sixteen Dr Seuss’s Horse Museum
different creatures are featured from the venomous blue ringed octopus
to the gentle dugong and the terrifying great white shark. Each entry is Dr. Seuss and Andrew Joyner | HB $27.99
accompanied by lively and accessible information about the sea life.
Also available Australian Bird Life Take a journey through the art museum and discover various styles used in
artists’ representations of horses. Engaging, fun text and lively illustrations
make the artworks infinitely accessible for younger readers. It also contains
Mythologica descriptions of the art and artists and a fascinating explanation of the book’s
genesis from the original manuscript and sketches of Dr Seuss.
Dr. Stephen P. Kershaw and Victoria Topping | HB $35.00
This stunning, large format book, provides a detailed introduction to Nose Knows Eye Spy
the cast of characters that populate Greek mythology, including Gods, Emmanuelle Figueras Guillaume Duprat
Mortals and Monsters, with snippets of key myths including The Odyssey
and Claire de Gastold HB $29.99
and The Argonauts. The luminous illustrations almost pop off the page,
highlighting the characters’ attributes and reinforcing the HB $29.99
fascinating facts in the text.
Smell is hugely important in the animal kingdom and Nose Knows tells us why.
Lots of illustrations and flaps explain how pigeons smell their way home, how
mosquitos love the smell of the bacteria on our feet and why lions urinate on
Young Dark Emu trees! A companion book Eye Spy, illustrates how animals see the world.
Bruce Pascoe | HB $24.99
Young Dark Emu is an adaptation of the adult book Dark Emu, a correction
of Australian history. The book challenges previously taught ideas of
Indigenous life and shows it rich with farming, homes and technology.
Including extracts from colonial diaries, this book brings details forward to
paint a new history of Australia and the reality of colonisation. An essential
book for readers starting Australian history in school.
28 29How to Write A Great Story How Trains Work
Caroline Lawrence | PB $14.99 Lonely Planet Kids | HB $24.99
This is the perfect book for budding writers–full of tips and tricks for how Everything young readers need to know about trains. Old trains, new
to write a great story. Using examples from lots of different kinds of stories trains, city trains, super fast trains, train stations – did you know that
like Harry Potter, Star Wars and Alice in Wonderland this book will help with Shinjuku station in Japan has 200 exits–and famous train journeys.
every aspect of writing from creating characters to setting the perfect scene. This book is jam packed with amazing facts and lots of detailed
illustrations for hours of train related entertainment.
The Treehouse Joke Book Lunch at 10 Pomegranate Street
Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton | PB $12.99 Felicita Sala | HB $27.99
Join the residents of 10 Pomegranate Street for a sumptuous feast in this
What type of key opens a banana? A mon-key of course! Everyone knows
delightful story and recipe book! The feeling of warmth and welcome
how funny Andy and Terry can be and this book does not disappoint. If you
are beautifully communicated through the vibrant illustrations, as each
love the Treehouse books then you will definitely love this joke book.
apartment creates a dish for their communal lunch. With simple recipes for
every dish, you’ll soon be creating delicious food to share, too!
Eddie Woo’s Magical Maths
The Flag Book
Eddie Woo | PB $19.99
Lonely Planet Kids | HB $29.99
A bumper book full of fun maths things to draw, puzzle, invent, order,
unscramble, code and decode for kids aged 7+ years from Australia’s best This full colour guide takes you around the world, flag by flag, to discover what
known maths man. Made for kids to have fun while learning amazing things the colours, patterns and symbols say about each country, its history and its
about maths. people. Packed with amazing stories behind all the world’s flags this beautifully
illustrated book is perfect for budding vexillologists everywhere!
20 Cool Projects for your LEGO Bricks Grow Your Own Crystal Dragon
Klang / Albrecht / Uhlmann / Bischoff | Boxed Cards $22.99 Grow Your Own Crystal Unicorn
Klutz | Box $19.99
Need some inspiration when it comes to LEGO? This handy tin contains
cards with simple step-by-step instructions to create 20 projects with bricks
Unicorn and Dragon are two in the new science series from Klutz. Shape
you already have. The perfect gift for LEGO lovers.
your creature, stick in the pipe cleaners and then dip it to seed it. Watch
your crystal creature magically grow. Everything you need is included in
the pack. Fox and Narwhal make up the set.
Rebel Dogs! Heroic Tales of Trusty Hounds
Kimberlie Hamilton | PB $19.99 The Australia Survival Guide
George Ivanoff | HB $24.99
When I’m not sniffing around for food, I spend most of
my days snoozing (my favourite!), fetching my tennis Want to know a book full of ways Australia wants to
ball (exhausting!) and chasing my own tail (hopeless!). kill you? Well this is the place to come. Slithering,
And while I definitely deserve a tummy rub for all of tentacle, or wibbly wobbly jelly death- and how not
these things, they’re not exploits worthy of a book; to die from them- all feature in this Aussie survival
unlike the Very Good Boys in Rebel Dogs, who’ve guide. Want to know whether that spider with the
EDDY, AGE 13 earned an extra special scratch behind their ear for weird red bit on its back that just bit you is deadly? PETER, AGE 11
(or 74, but he prefers all their amazing feats; including going to space. QUICK! READ THE BOOK!
human years)
30 31DK’s beautifully designed children’s range
illustrates a world of information for kids of
all ages. These fun and factual books bring
an unrivalled clarity to fascinating topics, with
a unique combination of words and pictures,
put together to spectacular effect to help kids
see all there is to know.
Through the Animal Kingdom HB $19.99
Let’s Get Gardening PB $30.00
The Wonders of Nature HB $39.99
Survival For Beginners PB $29.99
Explanatorium of Science HB $39.99
www.kidsreadingguide.com.au @kidsreadingguide /KidsReadingGuide
The books in this guide have been chosen and reviewed by members of the ABA, booksellers who
use their expertise to encourage and support reading for all ages.
DISCLAIMER: Cover, illustrations, various internal illustrations and inspiration have been taken from
Every Child A Song by Nicola Davies and Marc Martin (Hachette) and are reproduced with permission.
Price and information are correct at time of print. Some bookshops may not be able to hold stock of
every book in the guide. Speak to your bookseller about special orders.You can also read
