Childrens' Book Week 2007
The theme for Book Week 18-24th August 2007 is READiscover.
The Notables and Shortlist were announced on Tuesday 17 April, 2007
The winners were announced on Friday 17 August, 2007
Join the Stage 2 Book Week 2007 READIscover rap. It features the shortlisted books Home,The rainbirds and Leaf litter, and has a focus on literacy and living things with an environmental flavour. It supports English and SciTech and the Local environments unit in the Programming Frameworks.
The official Children's Book Council Web site has information about their activities in children's literature, including conferences, author information and news of other literary awards managed by the Council.
2007 Winners by category
Picture Book of the Year | ||
Tan, Shaun | The arrival | |
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Book of the Year: Early childhood | ||
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Gleeson, Libby | Amy & Louis | |
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Book of the Year: Younger readers | ||
Bateson, Catherine | Being Bee | |
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Book of the Year: Older readers | ||
Lanagan, Margo | Red spikes | |
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Eve Pownall Award for Information Books | ||
Norman, Mark | The penguin book: birds in suits | |
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Crichton Award for new illustrators | ||
Agostino, Vincent | When elephants lived in the sea | |
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CRICHTON AWARD FOR NEW ILLUSTRATORS
AGOSTINO, Vincent & GODWIN, Jane
When elephants lived in the sea
Lothian, 2006
ISBN 0734408420 [599.67]
A quotation from Aristotle begins this picture book, and it concludes with an information page about elephants and the theory that they originated in the sea. Powerful yet seemingly gentle creatures float through the pages, accompanied by curving text. The book incorporates straightforward and occasionally clunky descriptions of the evolutionary process, with simple and strong illustrations. Bold colours resonate against the muted backgrounds. This book could be used by teachers to discuss the interplay of written text and illustration, and it could be suitable for a visual literacy study for younger students. D.Johnston
USER LEVEL: Stage 2 Stage 3
KLA: English; SciTech
SYLLABUS: English K–6; Science & Technology K–6
$27.95 SCIS 1261155
HILL, Aaron & CREW, Gary
Automaton
Lothian Books, 2006
ISBN 0734406932
Based on the true story of Thomas Edison’s creation of a mechanically lifelike doll, this book targets the assembly line’s dehumanising effect. Crew pushes that idea to the limit in an unsubtle written text. Young Dylan is increasingly unable to distinguish realities in the factory and, when the experiment fails, he returns to his sad home life. Dylan has a wonderful working class voice, and his perspective nicely defines his humanity. Life and technology are contrasted in Hill’s splashy watercolours, which are grim but fail to compellingly exploit the industrial theme. The multilayered story could provide interest as a picture book study for Year 10 English, as there would be animated discussion about what works and what does not. This take on Frankenstein could also be useful for English students learning about transformations. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5
KLA: English
SYLLABUS: English 7–10
$27.95 SCIS 1252056
HUME, Lachie
Clancy the courageous cow
Scholastic, 2006
ISBN 1862915636
Youngsters and adults will enjoy this very clever story which points out that there are sometimes advantages to being different from one’s peers. Clancy is a Belted Galloway without a white belt around his tummy. Although his parents love him, other members of the herd are disdainful until Clancy wins the annual cow wrestling competition, thus claiming grazing rights to the rich pastures next door. This often humorous tale may be a useful fiction focus for discussions about accepting difference, the effects of bullying, peer pressure and self-esteem. This colourfully illustrated picture book would also provide an interesting starting point for discussion of the elements of narrative. A. Beedles
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1
KLA: English; PDHPE
SYLLABUS: English K–6; PDHPE K–6
$24.95 SCIS 1252801
Text and illustrations copyright © Lachie Hume 2006
EARLY CHILDHOOD
ALLEN, Pamela
Grandpa and Thomas and the green umbrella
Penguin Group (Australia ), 2006
ISBN 0670029734
In a picture book as warm and wonderful as a hug from a grandparent, this celebrated author again brings ordinary events to life with musical language, clever repetition and strong family themes. Soft, rounded illustrations in both black and white and pastel depict the two characters as they travel through an adventurous day at the beach. An imaginative rain storm adds drama when the green umbrella is blown away and Grandpa and Thomas drive to refuge in their sand car. This book is a simple and wonderful story which all generations should enjoy. S. Taylor
USER LEVEL:Early Stage 1 Community
$24.95 SCIS 1283321
COSTAIN, Meredith & ALLEN, Pamela
Doodledum dancing
Viking, 2006
ISBN 0670028223 [A821]
Rhyming verse and nonsense action poems are the subject matter for this humorous book from Meredith Costain. Pamela Allen’s colourful and dynamic illustrations add to the appeal of the book for young children. Titles, including Loose tooth, Dinosaur swamp stomp and Wintry weather, will stimulate the imagination and evoke memories while introducing early readers to the joys of creative word play. The catchy rhymes relate to events and wonderings in a young child’s life. They could easily be incorporated into language lessons, daily classroom activities and would be suitable for class or assembly presentations. Some poems from this delightful collection could be used as stimulus material for several KLAs. R. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1
KLA: English
SYLLABUS: English K–6
$24.95 SCIS 1250502
FOX, Lee & WILCOX, Cathy
Ella Kazoo will not brush her hair
Lothian Books, Vic, 2006
ISBN 0734408560 [A821]
One of the issues encountered by many parents is described brilliantly in humorous and repetitive rhyme in this picture book. Wilcox’s colourful acrylic and crayon illustrations energetically help us experience Ella’s hair becoming wilder and curlier, until it has an unbrushed life of its own. Meanwhile, an exasperated mum battles the unkempt Ella. With a satisfying resolution and great visual and auditory appeal for young students, this book will entertain and engage students. F. Moore
USER LEVEL:Early Stage 1 Stage1
$27.95 SCIS 1269427
GLEESON, Libby
Amy & Louis
Scholastic Press, NSW, 2006
ISBN 1865049352
Best friends Amy and Louis are always calling out to each other to come over and play. Then Amy moves far away and Louis is lonely. Will Amy hear him if he calls out really loudly? Realistic watercolours bring this simple story to life in an attractive picture book that will be appealing to the young child. Themes of friendship, loneliness, hope, and acceptance, are handled adroitly and this text could be used to help a child come to terms with the departure of a close friend. The illustrations would also be suitable as examples for visual literacy activities as they vary in their moods and point of view. R. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1
$24.99 SCIS 1285719
LEE, Lyn & GAMBLE, Kim
Eight
Scholastic, 2006
ISBN 1862914567
This is a warm story for all children who have been attached to a special object. When Timmy’s toy octopus, Eight, goes missing, Dad uses the situation to encourage Timmy to overcome his childhood fears and imaginations. We follow Eight’s amazing watery adventures through visual clues, including an excellent depiction of rain. Gamble’s soft and misty watercolours confirm security and happy childhood memories. They are supportive illustrations which would be very suitable for a visual literacy study. Providing opportunity for discussions about negative and positive situations, childhood fears and their resolution, the picture book culminates in the achievement of some independence for Timmy, and a disguised message. D. Johnston
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1
$27.99 SCIS 1278233
WILD, Margaret & NILAND, Deborah
Chatterbox
Penguin Group (Australia ), 2006
ISBN 0670029327
These lively illustrations and wonderful narrative will entertain and please readers. Using meaningful prose, the picture book is a witty snapshot of life in a household where a child is learning to talk. The chatterbox in question is Daisy, Max’s young sister, who charms everyone she meets. Once Daisy does talk, she burbles whole sentences of questions and assertions, and readers should empathetically relate to Max and his family. The strong emphasis on child development, particularly speech, means that Chatterbox provides strong curriculum support for cross-curricula units on identity, families and relationships. D. Croker
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1
$24.95 SCIS 1273894
EVE POWNALL AWARD FOR INFORMATION BOOKS
DAVIDSON, Leon
Red haze: Australians & New Zealanders in Vietnam
Black Dog, 2006
ISBN 1876372958 [959.704]
Davidson successfully presents a balanced view of the Vietnam War, using the perspectives and voices of Australian and New Zealand soldiers to describe and evaluate events. The book has evocative descriptions of the role of these soldiers, and the actions and tactics of the Viet Cong. It discusses the differing methods and tactics of the Australians and New Zealanders, and their American counterparts, and the public response to the war in Australia . It briefly describes the emergence of communism and Vietnam ’s history. The book is written with an awareness of the complexity of events and does not pretend to tell the complete story of the Vietnam War. The written text is fast paced and supplemented with black and white maps and photographs. D. Giorgi
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: History 7–10; Modern History Stage 6
Paper $16.95 SCIS 1252925
FENTON, Corinne
Queenie: one elephant’s story
Black Dog Books, 2006
ISBN 1876372974 [636.967]
Carrying passengers around the Melbourne Zoo on sightseeing trips from 1905 to 1945, Queenie was known to generations of children and their parents. Her beguiling idiosyncrasies, recounted here in simple prose with meticulously detailed illustrations, will endear her to all who enjoy her story. A sense of the times is vividly evoked with fashion, social behaviours, and architecture of the zoo buildings, so that a memorable episode in Australian social history is realised. This engaging picture book may be useful in a study of changes in Australian society during the 20th century, prompting discussion about animal rights, the value and purpose of zoos, and changing social values and attitudes. W. Smith
USER LEVEL:Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English K–6; HSIE K–6
$24.95 SCIS 1274878
HOCKNULL, Scott & COOK, Alex
Amazing facts about Australian dinosaurs
Steve Parish Publishing, Qld, 2006 (Steve Parish amazing facts)
ISBN 1740218345 [567]
Written in conjunction with the Queensland Museum, this large format information text is rich in exhibits of Australian fossils and skeletons. Its engaging features include full colour paintings, fact boxes, descriptively labelled diagrams, significant facts, a relevant timeline, and a metalanguage glossary. Contents include Dinosaur armour, Dinosaur food and Recreating dinosaurs. Students will be intrigued by the explanations of paleontologists working with fossils and the process of skeleton reconstruction. This well presented resource supports Stage 2 Connected Outcomes Group (COGs) (C): Effects of growth and change and Stage 3 Connected Outcomes Group (COGs) (C): Interconnecting growth and change, and will intrigue boys needing encouragement to read. D. Johnston
USER LEVEL: Stage 2 Stage 3
KLA: SciTech
SYLLABUS: Science & Technology K–6
Paper $14.95 SCIS 1267108
HOOPMANN, Kathy
All cats have Asperger syndrome
Jessica Kingsley, UK , 2006
ISBN 9781843104810 [616.85]
Wonderfully engaging photographs of cats in deliberate poses are accompanied by empathetic explanations to help capture and explain the characteristics of Asperger syndrome. The gentle flow of language used provides insight into the behaviours that are especially important to those with the condition, such as the need for routine, particular language characteristics, persistent focus on topics, concerns about bullying, and types of interaction with others. The tone should be highly reassuring to families, friends and individuals affected, by acknowledging differences and difficulties and reinforcing the fact that everyone has qualities that make them unique. The book would provide excellent stimulus to promote acceptance, understanding and discussion about additional factors that make each person a remarkable individual with their own type of potential. J. Hawkes
USER LEVEL: Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Professional
$27.95 SCIS 1316296
NORMAN, Mark
The penguin book: birds in suits
Black Dog, Vic, 2006
ISBN 1921167300 [598.47]
All 17 species of penguin are examined in this informative and visually appealing book. General information about penguins includes their physiology and where in the world they can be found. The treatment is humorous and enthusiastic, celebrating the birds’ oddity and encouraging student empathy. A colourful and appealing graphic depicts predators, breeding and feeding for each species. Photographs readily complement the written text. This resource ably supports the Science and Technology Strand: Living things, and the study of living things in their environment in the Stage 2 Connected Outcomes Group (COGs) (G): Our fleeting past. J. Eade
USER LEVEL: Stage 2 Stage 3
KLA: SciTech
SYLLABUS: Science & Technology K–6
Paper $16.95 SCIS 1285049
TONKIN, Rachel
Leaf litter : exploring the mysteries of a hidden worldAngus & Robertson, 2006
ISBN 0207198225 [577.3]
In this handsomely produced, large format picture book, the annual cycle of life and death in the leaf litter in the box/ironbark forest ecosystem of Victoria is examined in minute detail. Each double page spread shows a patch beneath a single tree, teeming with life and activity in the litter, and in the soil beneath. An astonishing amount of research is evident in the meticulously executed illustrations, and in the detailed notes and glossary, which emphasise the importance of this ecosystem, and the interdependence of all life in these forests. Extensive and relevant teachers’ support material is available on the publisher’s website. This magnificent book supports syllabus outcomes in the Science and Technology Strand: Living things. W. Smith
USER LEVEL: Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3
KLA: SciTech
SYLLABUS: Science & Technology K–6
$29.95 SCIS 1266034
BOOKS FOR OLDER READERS
BAUER, Michael Gerard
Don’t call me Ishmael!
Scholastic Australia , 2005
ISBN 1862916667
An original novel, this narrative successfully explores the awkward but inevitable transit through adolescence. Ishmael Lesuer, a likeable and credible main character, tries to negotiate his peer group, his first romance, being forced onto the school debating team and, most importantly, the mortifying dread of school bullying. Ishmael grapples with his self-image, as the text continually delivers the unexpected. The tightly written dialogue is an accurate reflection of how teenagers speak, and it may enable readers to reflect on their own struggle for self-identity. A satisfying but plausible ending will reassure youngsters that there is hope for the future. S. Taylor
USER LEVEL: Stage 4
Paper $16.95
SCIS 1259925
Text copyright © Michael Gerard Bauer 2006. Cover and text illustrations copyright © Joe Bauer
CLARKE, Judy
One whole and perfect day
Allen & Unwin, 2006
ISBN 1741148561
A truly magical novel, this narrative is about more than just a teenage girl falling in love. In the final pages of the inspiring storyline, the reader discovers that, for Lily Samson, miracles that never seem to happen in families like hers, do happen. Well-written, especially in terms of character portrayal, the sophistication within the novel’s structure culminates with a clever interweaving and development of the characters. Exploration of the themes and issues of family life, normality, pre-conceived ideas and adolescence render this a valuable novel for English teachers searching for a good read to use in a literature circle. J. Webber
USER LEVEL: Stage 5
Paper $16.95 SCIS 1275905
CORNISH, D.M
Foundling
Omnibus, SA, 2006 (Monster Blood Tattoo)
ISBN 0007196865
Rossamund, a boy with a girl’s name, is recruited as a Lamplighter from the orphanage where he lives. Setting out on the journey to his new job, he finds himself in a world filled with monsters. This first book in Cornish’s intended trilogy is extensively illustrated with pencil drawings which help readers immerse themselves in the fabric of the tale. Maps, and the lengthy appendices and glossary, assist readers to travel along with Rossamund through the fantasy world of the Half-Continent, sharing his threatening encounters and growing awareness of the nature of mankind. How does one get a monster-blood tattoo? Those who relish books in this genre will enjoy the journey to discovery. M. Busch & C Keane
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4
Paper 414.95 SCIS 1268150
DUBOSARSKY, Ursula
The red shoe
Allen & Unwin, 2006
ISBN 1741142857
A tale of three sisters growing up in Sydney in the 1950s, this haunting novel with its finely crafted images captures the essence of the era. Set at Palm Beach, then a remote Sydney suburb, the story’s disjointed icons and news fragments of the postwar period resonate within the narrative like images in a dream. There is a sense of foreboding as the girls await the return of their absent father, and Matilda, the youngest, believes their strange new neighbours are spies. Weaving threads of many diverse intertextual links, including fairytales, radio programs, popular films and newspaper reports, the writer creates a deeply psychoanalytic vision of the uncertainty and paranoia engendered by the Cold War. C. Sly
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
Paper $19.95 SCIS 1258260
LANAGAN, Margo
Red spikes
Allen & Unwin, NSW, 2006
ISBN 1741146577
A critically well received collection, these 10 short stories comprise some challenging reading material for motivated students. Lanagan’s word choice and sentence structures are intriguing and thoughtfully crafted. Her expertise with language and theme development in the stories forms an excellent model for English Stage 6 students attempting the short story form for the Extension 2 course. Plot does not drive these stories, but it is important to the meaning and to reader engagement. A critical look at the collection, especially in terms of how Lanagan manages to construct a narrative with a good story and a deeper, psychological meaning, could be a fruitful exercise for mature student writers. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 6 Professional
KLA: English
SYLLABUS: English Stage 6: Extension 2
Paper $17.95 SCIS 1285030
SHANAHAN, Lisa
My big birkett: the sweet, terrible, glorious year I truly, completely lost it
Allen & Unwin, 2006
ISBN 1741145872
Strangely deep, hilariously funny, yet tender and troubling, this is a quirky story of a young girl’s eccentric family and friends. Gemma is in a school performance of The tempest when she meets an unusual boy, Raven, and finds love in the most unexpected places. Written in the first person, the narrative climaxes in the ultimate birkett, the name given by her family for saying the most unexpected and crazy things all at once. Gemma’s emerging love for Raven and his dysfunctional family is both tragic and witty. Gemma deals with a disturbing episode of family violence as the story develops. This is a clever and sensitive novel about finding out what is really important in life. F. Campbell
USER LEVEL:Stage 5 Stage 6
Paper $16.95 SCIS 1268251
PICTURE BOOKS
McKIMMIE, Christopher
Brian banana duck sunshine yellow
Allen & Unwin, NSW, 2006
ISBN 1741147417
Warm and affectionate this appealing picture book is full to the brim with imaginative adventures. Young Brian embraces an identity with each of the pet names he is called by his caring grandparents, as he stays with them on weekends. Many students will identify with this frequent change of environment. Brian’s imagination transports him into many roles and situations. Unique, brightly coloured, childlike illustrations bring opportunity for image analysis as does the repetition of the duck image on each page. The apparently handwritten text will be read again and again by students. This creatively constructed text for younger students will provide opportunity for class discussion and a visual literacy study. D. Johnston
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1
KLA: English
SYLLABUS: English K–6
$24.95 SCIS 12651581
OLIVER, Narelle
Home
Scholastic Australia , SA, 2006
ISBN 1862916683
The aftermath of a bushfire sends the falcons in search of a new home. After a long journey, they encounter the strange structures of the city – a canyon of skyscrapers, the rowing team creature of many legs, strange animals called children who swing and rock and squeal, and peculiar honking creatures with wheels. Illustrations combine photo like images with realistic drawings to overlap the world of nature with urban life. Additional information is provided to explain the background of two falcons that inhabit Brisbane. The unique portrayal of the bird’s eye view of both worlds will effectively support the Stage 2 Connected Outcomes Group (COGs) (A): Local environments, and demonstrate effective narrative. J. Hawkes
USER LEVEL:Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3
KLA: English; SciTech
SYLLABUS: English K–6; Science & Technology K–6
$27.95 SCIS 1259923
ORMEROD, Jan
Water witcher
Little Hare, NSW, 2006
ISBN 1921049510
Set in the Australian outback, the environmental setting for this picture book is certainly timely and serves to develop the relevant themes of drought and water management. Apart from the obvious links to the Environment Strand of HSIE K–6, the most striking aspect of this book is the use of colour and detail in the illustrations. Characters are drawn with indistinct facial features, thus making their actions and emotions more important to how the story unfolds. As the illustrations change from the parched countryside, to the watery dreamscape to the night-time well, they will also provoke much interesting discussion. It is an excellent resource for visual literacy in English. The author’s use of present tense also helps bring the story and the characters to life. M. Whitfield
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English K–6, HSIE K–6
$24.95 SCIS 1282889
METZENTHEN, David & RIPPIN, Sally
The rainbirds
Hachette, Vic, 2006 (Lothian)
ISBN 0734408862
A father tells young Gleeson about the migratory habits of a certain breed of black and white bird, and its links to weather phenomena and the onset of both winter and spring. The unusual collage illustrations are highly effective, using whitewashed newsprint backgrounds, characters cut from textured brown and black paper, and controlled applications of brightly painted highlights. These contrast well against the coloured text throughout. The birds’ onomatopoeic cries eventually reveal them to be currawongs. While drought in Australia is not specifically mentioned, the alternating sparse and lush imagery in this gently told picture book would suit an investigation of weather patterns and the seasons, such as in the Early Stage 1 Science and Technology Unit: Time, earth and weather. I. McLean
USER LEVEL:Early Stage 1 Stage 1 Stage 2
KLA: SciTech
SYLLABUS: Science & Technology K–6
$27.95 SCIS 1282917
WILD, Margaret & SPUDVILAS, Anne
Woolves in the sitee
Penguin, 2006
ISBN 067004167X
A walk on the wild side, this text deliberately breaks the boundaries of even the most modern picture books. The central character, Ben, a lonely runaway who lives in a basement, sees the world as a dark and scary place. Phonetic spelling and ungrammatical language punctuate Ben’s terror, and the dark, sinister illustrations will possibly haunt some young readers. Even though the conclusion of the text is positive as Ben faces his fears, he still looks out on a dark, chaotic world that even adults find difficulty navigating. The book could provoke much discussion: is it an allegory? It is a multilayered text and would be a rewarding picture book study in English 7–10. S. Taylor
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5
KLA: English
SYLLABUS: English 7–10
$26.95 SCIS 1257559
TAN, Shaun
The arrival
Lothian, Vic, 2006
ISBN 0734406940
This magnificent wordless picture book (or graphic novel) explores individual stories behind the migrant journey, chronicling the bewilderment and alienation that can occur during settlement. Focusing on one man’s journey as he escapes oppression, this story highlights the plight of others who are escaping slavery or war, before portraying the man’s loving reunion with his family. Using sepia tones, much of the meaning is conveyed through detailed examination. The complicated and unsettling visual journey parallels the journey experienced by the main character. The visual journey transforms the reading experience into a vivid emotional identification with dislocation. This superb book supports the study of migration and cultural identity in high school, and the Stage 3 Connected Outcomes Group (COGs) (B): Identity and (G): Traditions and heritage. L. Chase
USER LEVEL:Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English 7–10; History 7–10; HSIE K–6
$39.95 SCIS 1288145
BOOKS FOR YOUNGER READERS
BATESON, Catherine
Being Bee
UQP, Qld, 2006
The transition from being part of a single parent family after her mother’s death to gradually including Dad’s girl friend, Jazzi, as part of the family and a future step mother, is not an easy one for Bee. She is not about to become Beatrice or to accept any of the other changes that seem to be becoming part of her life once Jazzi is on the scene. A box of memories from her mother being discarded, strange and comforting letters from her guinea pigs beginning to appear, trouble with friends flaring, and a secret emerging about Jazzi’s brother, are all part of the journey. These are shared through realistic dialogue and incidents that reflect the confusion, resentment and joy of being and becoming a family. Many students will relate to the issues and enjoy their resolution in this delightful story of family love and change. J. Hawkes
USER LEVEL: Stage 2 Stage 3
Paper $16.95 SCIS 1285059
FLYNN, Pat & JELLETT, Tom
The tuckshop kid
UQP, 2006
ISBN 0702235679
Written in first person, this book follows the daily happenings of Matthew and his dietary habits. He is well-known at the school canteen and often purchases food for his classmates. His world almost collapses with a visit to the doctor and a diagnosis of glucose intolerance. A change of lifestyle and an increase in exercise follows the diagnosis. Matthew and his friends outline the impact on events at school, the importance of body image and effects of peer interaction. Black and white illustrations and menu lists enhance the story which would be great stimulus for PDHPE K–6 Strand: Personal health choices. J. Hancock
USER LEVEL:Stage 3
KLA: English; PDHPE
SYLLABUS: English K–6, PDHPE K–6
Paper $16.95 SCIS 1276560
FRENCH, Jackie
Macbeth and son
HarperCollins, 2006
ISBN 0207200343
What is the nature and value of truth? This is the question at the heart of this time slip novel. Set in 11th century Scotland and 21st century rural New South Wales, this fine novel uses Scottish, Irish and Norwegian historical sources to illuminate an obscure period of history. It shows how two widely disparate adolescent boys gradually grow to moral autonomy. The author convincingly demonstrates that Shakespeare’s Macbeth, which was written to flatter the reigning monarch, is a form of a lie. This idea is paralleled with the role of a television talk show host, who is obligated to conform to sponsors’ requirements. The book would have significant value in a study of the play. W. Smith
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5
KLA: English
Paper $15.95 SCIS 1259634
GRIFFITHS, Andy & DENTON, Terry
The cat on the mat is flat
Pan Macmillan Australia , 2006
ISBN 033042260X [A821]
These nine nonsensical narratives use the repetitious rhyme and humour mastered by Dr Seuss. Most words have one or two syllables, but sentence lengths vary a little. The last story is slightly more difficult. The stories have some very funny moments, some clever word choices and satisfying rhymes, with occasional jerky phrases and clunky rhythm. Students will enjoy the ridiculous plots, listening to the repetitive sounds in a reading, and Denton ’s energetic pencil sketches. Stories have lots of action with whacking, colliding, and exploding events, and most have a pleasant resolution. Those stories which do end positively have a pleasing emphasis on the nature and benefits of friendship. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 2
Paper $14.95 SCIS 1278317
LAGUNA, Sofie
Bird & Sugar Boy
Penguin Group (Australia), 2006 (Puffin)
ISBN 0143004956
Bird and his best mate Sugar Boy hang around together, fishing at the river, or racing the train on their bikes, until Sugar Boy and his family move to Broome. Bird narrates, and as things begin to go badly at school and home for the young teenager, Laguna generates reader sympathy with a style and language that will engage young readers. In this funny and touching story, Bird is a sometimes lonely, bird loving boy, who lives with his single parent father. On the day that Sugar Boy moves, Bird runs away in search of the Blue Mountains and the author of his beloved book, Birds: a field guide. This well-written story explores what happens when your best mate moves. It is about friendship, family relations, school, and boys growing up. A. Frost
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5
Paper $16.95 SCIS 1269108
MILLARD, Glenda & KING, Stephen Michael
Layla, queen of hearts
ABC, NSW, 2006
ISBN 0733318428
This engaging book is filled with idyllic childhood experiences of friends and family, and sharing thoughts and ideas which are good for the soul. Readers are challenged with a well functioning, alternative family lifestyle which focuses on the enjoyment of simple childhood delights. The death of a loved one is addressed throughout the story in discussion of the sadness of loss and the happiness of memories. Layla still bears grief over the loss of her grandmother and their close relationship. Eventually, forgetful Miss Amelie becomes her new friend who shares past memories of a long lost love. A miracle recovery of health despite ongoing dementia results in her enjoyable attendance at the school’s senior citizens’ day. Layla demonstrates resilience through her gentle determination, and soft and expressive illustrations combine with the storyline to warm the heart of the reader. D. Johnston
USER LEVEL: Stage 2 Stage 3
Paper $12.95 SCIS 1266849
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