Book Week 2008
Childrens' Book Week 2008
The theme for Book Week 16-24 August 2008 is Fuel your mind.
The Notables and Shortlist were announced on Tuesday 1 April, 2008.
The winners were announced on Friday 15th August, 2008.
Join the Stage 2 and Stage 3 Beijing Olympic Games & Book Week 2008 rap. It features the shortlisted book, The Shaggy Gully Times: the f(p)unniest newspaper you’ll ever read. It has a focus on healthy, active lifestyles and related English activities. It supports English K–6 and PDHPE K–6 syllabuses.
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.
2008 SHORTLISTED FINALISTS IN THE CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARDS
Click on the award heading to be taken straight to the relevant Scan reviews.
ALLEN, Pamela (2007) Shhh! Little mouse, Viking (Penguin Group Australia). SCIS 1312793, reviewed Scan 26(4)
BLABEY, Aaron (2007) Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley, Viking (Penguin Group Australia). SCIS 1319967, reviewed Scan 27(1)
DUMBLETON, Mike & SMITH, Craig (2007) Cat, Working Title Press. SCIS 1319590, reviewed Scan 27(1)
GRAHAM, Bob (2007) The trouble with dogs!, Walker Books. SCIS 1320866, reviewed Scan 27(1)
HURST, Elise (2007) The night garden, ABC Books. SCIS 1338688, reviewed Scan 27(2)
WILD, Margaret & JAMES, Ann (2007) Lucy Goosey, Little Hare Books. SCIS, 1338488, reviewed Scan 27(2)
BOOKS FOR YOUNGER READERS
CLARK, Sherryl & CHRISTIAN, Elissa (2007) Sixth grade style queen (not!), Puffin Books (Penguin Group Australia). SCIS 1313595, reviewed Scan 27(2)
The Shaggy Gully Times: the f(p)unniest newspaper you’ll ever read, Angus & Robertson (HarperCollinsPublishers). SCIS 1358885, reviewed Scan 27(2)
HIRSCH, Odo (2007) Amelia Dee and the peacock lamp, Allen & Unwin. SCIS 1335757, reviewed Scan 27(3)
METZENTHEN, David & AXELSEN, Stephen (2007) Winning the world cup, Puffin Books (Penguin Group Australia). SCIS 1317812, reviewed Scan 27(2)
RODDA, Emily (2007) The key to Rondo, Omnibus Books (Scholastic Australia). SCIS 1338535, reviewed Scan 27(2)
WILKINSON, Carole (2007) Dragon moon, Black Dog Books. SCIS 1311346, reviewed Scan 27(3)
(These books are for mature readers)
FRENCH, Jackie (2007) Pharaoh: the boy who conquered the Nile, Angus & Robertson (HarperCollins). SCIS 1311330, reviewed Scan 26(4)
HARTNETT, Sonya (2007) The ghost’s child, Viking (Penguin Group Australia). SCIS 1323866, reviewed Scan 27(1)
HEFFERNAN, John (2007) Marty’s shadow, Omnibus Books (Scholastic Australia). SCIS 1319690, reviewed Scan 27(1)
McDONALD, Meme (2007) Love like water, Allen & Unwin. SCIS 1301564, reviewed Scan 26(3)
METZENTHEN, David (2007) Black water, Penguin Books (Penguin Group Australia). SCIS 1308833, reviewed Scan 26(4)
NORRINGTON, Leonie (2007) Leaving Barrumbi, Omnibus Books (Scholastic Australia). SCIS 1315906, reviewed Scan 27(3)
EVE POWNALL AWARD FOR INFORMATION BOOKS
CERMAK, Michael (2007) Australia’s deadly and dangerous animals, Steve Parish.SCIS 1317214, reviewed Scan 27(3)
COOKE, Kaz (2007) Girl stuff: your full-on guide to the teen years, Viking (Penguin Group Australia). SCIS 1342580, to be reviewed in Scan 27(4)
MACINNIS, Peter (2007) Kokoda Track: 101 days, Black Dog books. SCIS 1303045, reviewed Scan 27(3)
NORMAN, Mark (2007) The Antarctica book: living in the freezer, Black Dog books. SCIS 1327054, reviewed Scan 27(1)
WATTS, Frances & LEGGE, David (2007) Parsley Rabbit’s book about books, ABC Books. SCIS 1328058, reviewed Scan 27(1)
WILKINSON, Carole (ed.) & JONES, Dean (2007) Ned Kelly’s Jerilderie letter Black Bog Books. SCIS 1303041, reviewed Scan 26(3)
PICTURE BOOKS
(Some of these books may be for mature readers; arranged alphabetically by illustrator)
GREDER, Armin (2007) The island, Allen & Unwin. SCIS 1320542, reviewed Scan27(1)
HUXLEY, Dee & NORRINGTON, Leonie (2007) You and me: our place, Working Title Press. SCIS 1321100, reviewed Scan 27(1)
INGPEN, Robert & LOFTHOUSE, Liz (2007) Ziba came on a boat, Viking (Penguin Group Australia). SCIS 1315296, reviewed Scan 27(1)
OTTLEY, Matt (2007) Requiem for a beast: a work for image, word and music, Lothian (Hachette Livre Australia). SCIS 1324498, reviewed Scan 27(1)
SPUDVILAS, Anne & LI, Cunxin (2007) The peasant prince, Viking (Penguin Group Australia). SCIS 1338487, reviewed Scan 27(2)
THOMPSON, Colin and 13 other illustrators, (2007) Dust, ABC Books. SCIS 1317301, reviewed Scan 26(4)
CRICHTON AWARD FOR NEW ILLUSTRATORS
BLABEY, Aaron (2007) Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley, Viking (Penguin GroupAustralia). SCIS 1319967, reviewed Scan 27(1)
EDWARDS, Luke (2007) Ock Von Fiend, Omnibus Books (Scholastic Australia).SCIS 1319807, reviewed Scan 27(1)
KWAYMULLINA, Ambelin (2007) Crow and the waterhole, Fremantle Press. SCIS 1329151, reviewed Scan 27(2)
MARTINEZ, Sonia & SILVEY, Craig (2007) The world according to Warren as told
to Craig Silvey, Fremantle Press. SCIS 1325619, reviewed Scan 27(1)
OXLADE, Jonathon & MEGARRITY, David (2007) The empty city, Lothian (Hachette Livre Australia). SCIS 1329070, reviewed Scan 27(1)
WALKER, Anna & FARRER, Maria (2007) Santa’s Aussie holiday, Scholastic Australia. SCIS 1333988, to be reviewed Scan 27(3)
Reviews of shortlisted books 2008
ALLEN, Pamela
Shh! little mouse
Penguin Group (Australia), 2007 (Viking)
ISBN 9780670070688
In another beautiful contribution to children’s literature, an enduring game of cat chases mouse is played out with a dramatic twist when glass shatters on top of the escapée. The author cleverly uses the device of anticipation where the written text pre-empts the pictures about to be seen at the next opening. Hence the reader is intrigued to turn each page. Interestingly, several openings have no words and this may encourage children to create their own verbal dialogue. Clear, bright illustrations add to this high quality resource. S. Taylor
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1
$24.95 SCIS 1312793
BLABEY, Aaron
Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley
Penguin Group (Australia), 2007
ISBN 9780670070947
A heartening tale of friendship between two seemingly very different children is the basis for this picture book. Charlie is shy and quiet while Pearl is adventurous and outgoing. How can they be best friends? The story explains in single sentences how their differences balance and support each other in difficult situations. They actually complement each other and this is illustrated by quirky acrylic paintings that are humorous and insightful. The text could be very useful in lessons dealing with friendship. R. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1
$24.95 SCIS 1319967
DUMBLETON, Mike & SMITH, Craig
Cat
Working Title, SA, 2007
ISBN 9781876288808
Cat’s peaceful moments in the backyard are shattered by unexpected interactions with a dog, a mouse, a sprinkler, a bird, a bike and a bottle of milk. Each scenario lasts a few pages with visually descriptive one or two word labels, and is concluded with a repeated coda to engage students in choral reading. Smith’s exaggerated illustrations capture the cat’s movements, frozen in time like a series of cartoon stills and inspire empathy while providing clues to predict the outcome of each encounter. The endpapers are useful tools to sequence each set of complications and resolutions, creating a story map of cat’s day that can then be used to support an oral retelling of the story. This deceptively simple picture book will engage students in a variety of teaching and learning activities related to the narrative text. C. Keane
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1
$19.95 SCIS 1319590
GRAHAM, Bob
The trouble with dogs
Walker, UK, 2007
ISBN 9781403303384
In this sequel to Let’s get a pup!, Dave the puppy is proving rather too lively and exuberant, but none of the family feels up to disciplining him. Enter the Brigadier, the man from Pup Breakers, whose training methods are so harsh that all the spirit seems driven out of Dave, reducing him to defeated, dispirited gloom. The wisdom of young Kate and Dave’s natural resilience overcomes the severe control of the Brigadier, leading to a warmly satisfying conclusion. A sense of wonder and delight in simple things, and the close, loving acceptance of children and pets for themselves, shine through on every page. W. Smith
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1 Stage 2
$27.95 SCIS 1320866
HURST, Elsie
The night garden
ABC Books, NSW, 2007
ISBN 9780733318306
Hurst uses detailed illustrations to weave a fantasy narrative about Sally and her cat, Strange, who embark on a highly imaginative journey through a mysterious garden that appears in the dark of night. The narrative is lyrical and creative, and very suitable for young students. It could be useful to teachers as a motivational starting point for the Centre for Learning Innovation’sinitiative, Through my window which promotes descriptive creative writing based upon what students see out of a window. The bookprovides educators with engaging material to explore the fantasy genre with young readers in English. It has interesting potential for linking English with Mathematics in showing how the text illustrations depict time of day. D. Croker USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1 Stage 2
KLA: English; Mathematics
SYLLABUS: English K–6; Mathematics K–6
$27.95 SCIS 1338688
WILD, Margaret & JAMES, Ann
Lucy Goosey
Little Hare, NSW, 2007
ISBN 9781921049873
The themes of unconditional maternal love and acceptance of change run through this heart warming story. A young gosling has to leave the only pond she has known and all her favourite places for the annual migration. Her fear of leaving and becoming lost on the journey are overcome by the reassurances of her mother, as she bravely flies into the unknown. Wild’s rhythmic language and James’ warm, brightly coloured illustrations make this a quality picture book to enjoy with young students, particularly those who may be fearfully facing change in their lives. F. Moore
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage1
$24.99 SCIS 1338488
CLARK, Sherryl
Sixth grade style queen (not!)
Penguin Group (Australia), 2007 (Puffin)
ISBN 9780143303008 [A821]
Told via a series of poems in free verse, this narrative explores Dawn’s problems with growing up. In a typical story about the popular girls at school, the protagonist grapples to find her identity amid school difficulties, family arguments and divorce. While the title suggests a primary school audience, the content is certainly applicable for Stage 4 readers, who may unfortunately be disengaged by the title. Teachers could find this text interesting to include with theme studies about friendship and growing up. Dawn’s realisation that life does not always have answers keeps this narrative interesting. J. Webber
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4
Paper $14.95 SCIS 1313595
FRENCH, Jackie & WHATLEY, Bruce
The Shaggy Gully Times: the f(p)unniest newspaper you’ll ever read
Harper Collins, NSW, 2007
ISBN 9780732284107
This tribute to country newspapers is, as the title suggests, full of jokes and puns. All the common elements of a newspaper are represented, including advertisements, poems, public notices and classifieds, as well as a sports section and personal columns. There are skewed fairytales with headlines such as Blonde intruder and the three bears. Many items contain characters familiar to fans of French and Whatley, such as Josephine the kangaroo ballerina, Pete the sheep, and Mothball the wombat. Witty, short pieces may be read in isolation and would be particularly good for reading aloud, providing an excellent basis for a class television or radio script as well as a great stimulus for students’ creative writing. This entertaining book may also prove useful for community studies. A. Beedles
USER LEVEL: Stage 2 Stage 3
$24.99 SCIS 1335647
HIRSCH, Odo
Amelia Dee and the peacock lamp
Allen & Unwin, NSW, 2007
ISBN 9781741753011
Having an artistic mother who expresses herself through various sculptural phases and a father who works on wild inventions, Amelia Dee has a great deal of time to herself. She secretly writes stories and is captivated by an antique lamp that hangs outside her bedroom door. Her neighbour, Mr Vishwanath teaches yoga, but he has only one student, an elderly and cantankerous princess. When she hears about Amelia’s peacock lamp, a strange connection is made. Through her strained relations with the enigmatic princess and Mr Vishwanath’s cryptic messages, Amelia develops an understanding of different people and their experiences. A gentle, humorous tale, this offers a delightful blend of imagination, creativity, and self development. Finely depicted quirky characters exhibit the importance of understanding and appreciating individual differences. C. Sly
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4
Paper $15.95 SCIS 1335757
METZENTHEN, David & AXELSEN, Stephen
Winning the World Cup
Penguin Group (Australia), 2007 (Puffin) (Aussie nibbles)
ISBN 9780143302780
Children will devour this book which will especially, but not only, appeal to boys. Although the series is aimed at a younger audience, this title will appeal to older sports minded readers as well as ESL students. Countries of the world unite! Where? On a soccer field of course! Every day Marco and his friends play for their own World Cup in the local paddock. The boys come from countries all over the world. The book is a great mixture of cultures, cooperation and goal scoring excitement. Add a cow and a bit of manure and you have another Metzenthen feel good, laugh out loud reading experience. G. Maugle
USER LEVEL: Stage 1 Stage 2
Paper $10.95 SCIS 1317812
RODDA, Emily
The key to Rondo
Scholastic, SA, 2007 (An Omnibus Book)
ISBN 9781862917439
When Leo Zifkak inherits an ancient music box from his aunt, the intricate scenes painted on the box fascinate him. Along with this family heirloom go strict rules on how it is to be used. Obediently, Leo adheres to these rules. Unfortunately, his headstrong cousin, Mimi, does not. Her over winding of the music box unleashes its secrets, including the Blue Queen, who absconds with Mimi’s little dog, Mutt. In pursuit of Mutt, the children find themselves drawn into the world of Rondo. Their challenging and dangerous quest leads them into contact with all manner of strange and sinister characters. An absorbing musical fantasy, this tale takes readers on an amazing journey into a labyrinth of ancestral mystery. C. Sly
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4
$29.99 SCIS 1338535
WILKINSON, Carole
Dragon moon (Dragonkeeper)
Black Dog, Vic, 2007
ISBN 9781921167461
Having wintered with Princess Yangxin in northern China, Ping knows it is time to leave. The first female dragon keeper in the hundreds of years of imperial rule, Ping is responsible for the protection of the playful young dragon, Kai. Their journey to the secret dragon haven, guided only by a cryptic map painted on a piece of silk, is beset with many dangerous challenges. Ping is a tenacious young girl, ready to rise to all challenges in order to fulfil her preordained task. Set in China during the Han dynasty, the book has an inscrutable Chinese atmosphere which enshrouds this magical journey of self discovery. A delightful historical fantasy, it engages the reader from beginning to end. C. Sly
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4
Paper $19.95 SCIS 1311346
BOOKS FOR OLDER READERS
FRENCH, Jackie
Pharaoh: the boy who conquered the Nile
HarperCollins, NSW, 2007
ISBN 9780207200823
Set in pre-Dynastic Egypt, this book is an engaging fictional account of the rise to kingship of Narmer, the pharaoh who united Egypt. From his home of Thinis on the banks of the Nile, to the lands of Punt and Sumer, Narmer’s journey awakens him to advances in technology, such as the wheel, canals and writing. It is also a journey of maturation as he recovers from wounds caused in an accident. Narmer reveals an inner strength and tenacity, and themes of regnal responsibility, family relationships, love and loyalty are explored. This book will be enjoyed by readers who have an interest in ancient Egypt. B. Hull
USER LEVEL: Stage 4
Paper $15.99 SCIS 1311330
HARTNETT, Sonya
The ghost’s child
Penguin Group (Australia), 2007 (Viking)
ISBN 9780670029457
The vivid imagery of this novel engages readers from the start, involving them in both the present time and the reflective subplot. When an unknown young boy visits Matilda, she is unaware that her life has reached its conclusion. The boy’s questions about her journey through life are a catalyst for Matilda’s insightful reflections on love, family and beauty. More experienced readers will appreciate Hartnett’s use of fantasy in exploring Matilda’s thoughts about acceptance, belonging and the value of life. It is not until the story’s conclusion that the powerful significance of the young boy and the title are revealed. J. Webber
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
$24.95 SCIS 1323866
HEFFERNAN, John
Marty’s shadow
Scholastic Australia, 2007 (Omnibus)
ISBN 9781862917323
Marty, the novel’s tree planting anti-hero, does not relate to people very well. That he is mentally unstable is revealed through his shadowy recollections and imaginations of a mysterious man who visited his mother when his father was away. Traumatised by this, and his drunken mother’s desertion, Marty has a slightly overworked obsession to identify the mystery man. His unpleasant father and a new girl at school, an Iranian refugee, nicely complicate the plot. Marty’s internal conflict, and the novel’s descriptions of sexual infidelity, paternal bullying, and community racism, culminates in a skillful climax and a realistic and positive denouement. Marty is brought to the brink of suicide before his family saves him. The novel is well constructed, well written, and interestingly contemporary. It will suit a mature young adult audience. C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
Paper $17.99 SCIS 1319690
McDONALD, Meme
Love like water
Allen & Unwin, NSW, 2007
ISBN 9781741148855
After tragically losing her fiancé in a light plane accident, Cathy Henderson leaves her home in north western Queensland and travels to Alice Springs. Hoping to piece together her life and discover her true self, Cathy shares a house with her brassy friend, Margie. In the Red Centre, black and white cultures intersect, and an intimate relationship with a young Aboriginal disc jockey has a lasting impact on Cathy’s life. Its sensitivity and insightful melding of different cultural problems and perceptions counterbalance the gritty candidness of this narrative. An engaging story of friendship, love and change, it takes the reader on both a vivid physical journey and a journey of self discovery. C. Sly
USER LEVEL: Stage 6
Paper $19.95 SCIS 1301564
METZENTHEN, David
Black water
Penguin Group (Australia), 2007
ISBN 9780143005612
An atmosphere of impending doom enshrouds this narrative which is set on Swan Island, off the Victorian coast. After his father’s death in a storm at sea, young Farren Fox awaits the return of his elder brother from Gallipoli. However, on Danny’s return, physically and mentally maimed by war, things take a turn for the worse. When Souki, a precocious little girl rescued by Danny from a shipwreck, enters their world life improves for the Foxes. This is an engrossing story that exposes the impact of WW1 upon a remote fishing village. Both the historical and physical settings play a highly significant role in a novel that offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of ordinary folk during this era. C. Sly
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5
Paper $18.95 SCIS 1308833
NORRINGTON, Leonie
Leaving Barrumbi
Omnibus, SA, 2007
ISBN 9781862916272
In a sensitive and delightful melding of cultures, this book explores the notion of finding one’s identity in a multicultural society. Although white, Dale Murphy has grown up in an Aboriginal community. When Dale leaves to attend boarding school, his anxieties about leaving home and his difficulty in adjusting to the school cause a great many problems. There are many non-Aboriginal students but, culturally, Dale identifies with the Aboriginal students and this causes a good deal of misunderstanding and grief for Dale. The new school manager is alienated by the culture and climate in the Top End school and takes her frustrations out on Dale who will not toe the line. Interweaving the language, magic and spirituality of different cultures, this narrative is a wonderful portrayal of culture shock from a very different perspective. Norrington acknowledges assistance from individuals in Aboriginal communities. C. Sly
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4
Paper $16.99 SCIS 1315906
EVE POWNALL AWARD FOR INFORMATION BOOKS
CERMAK, Michael
Deadly and dangerous: Australia’s deadly and dangerous animals
Steve Parish, Qld, 2006 (Fact file; Steve Parish kids)
ISBN 9781741931327 [591.6]
The book provides solid information in a simple format for children who are independent readers. The difference between deadly and dangerous animals is explained, using groups of deadly, dangerous, harmful, and disease carrying. For each of the 56 species selected, there is a coloured photograph and report containing information under common headings: the size of the animal; the number of related human deaths; the severity of an attack; and tips for avoiding an attack. This allows comparisons to be made by readers. This fascinating book will enthuse budding scientists and environmentalists. D. Imison
USER LEVEL: Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3
KLA: SciTech
SYLLABUS: Science & Technology K–6
Paper $10.95 SCIS 1317214
MACINNIS, Peter
Kokoda Track: 101 days
Black Dog, Vic, 2007 (The drum)
ISBN 9781876372965 [940.54]
The book gives younger readers the drum on Australia’s role in the allied offensive against the Japanese during 1942. Against all odds, 550 Australian men of the 39th Militia Battalion held back a 6000 strong Japanese army on the Kokoda Track in New Guinea. Referred to as Chocos, because it was believed they would melt under pressure, the ill trained and under equipped army tenaciously stymied the efforts of the Japanese to take Port Moresby. Having to engage in inhospitable jungle warfare and hold off a much larger force, this battle has been referred to as Australia’s Thermopylae. Combining non-fiction and fiction with photographs and potted information on biographies, geography and weaponry, this book is an engaging introduction to the significant role Australians played on the Kokoda Track. C. Sly
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English 7–10; History 7–10; HSIE K–6
Paper $16.99 SCIS 1303045
NORMAN, Mark
The Antarctica book: living in the freezer
Black Dog, Vic, 2007
ISBN 9781921167867 [591.998]
Stunning colour photographs complement this easy to read text. The book details some species that inhabit Antarctica, examining what it is like in Antarctica through its past, present, and future. A variety of plants and animals, including whales, squid, seals, birds, penguins and fish, are described. Scientific names are provided, predators named, food source identified and migration patterns outlined. A visual comparison between the size of an average human and the animal is illustrated. This is a suitable resource when studying global environments in HSIE K–6 and continental patterns in Geography 7–10. A. Frost
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: Geography 7–10; HSIE K–6
Paper $16.99 SCIS 1327054
WATTS, Francis & LEGGE, David
Parsley Rabbit’s book about books
ABC, NSW, 2007
ISBN 9780733321450
In this book about books, Parsley Rabbit takes the young and inexperienced reader on a journey through how and why books are created and designed. It will prove a very effective tool for teacher librarians, as Parsley Rabbit poses questions to the reader, and encourages active participation with every page. The character of Parsley is lively and engaging and the use of speech bubbles makes the information he presents quite accessible. With every page featuring large and colourful illustrations, this picture book could be productively and easily shared with the class, and the lift out flaps will be a hit with the younger reader. M. Whitfield
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1
$19.95 SCIS 1328058
Ned Kelly's Jerilderie letter
/ edited by Carole Wilkinson
Black Dog, Vic, 2007 (True tales)
ISBN 9781921167386 [364.15]
Offering the younger reader an annotated version of Ned Kelly's famous letter, this primary source is an excellent reproduction of an important document in Australian history. The storybook layout, with large clear print and effective illustrations by Dean Jones, is a vivid and, at times, violent depiction of the events. In Kelly’s voice and language, we hear his side of the story, his hatred of the police, and the reasons for his actions, thus giving the reader an insight into the mind of this dangerous yet deified man. A useful glossary, timeline and map, and a list of resources, add to the value of this book. The book supports teachers of the Stage 3 Connected Outcomes Group (COGs) (B): Identity, and is also suitable as a reference for the older student. D. Giorgi
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Professional
KLA: English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: English 7–10; History 7–10; HSIE K–6
Paper $16.95 SCIS 1303041
PICTURE BOOKS
GREDER, Armin
The island
Allen & Unwin, NSW, 2007
ISBN 9781741752663
How would a community react if a stranger was to unexpectedly arrive in its midst? According to this powerful text, newly translated from German, violence, brutality and ostracism would prevail. Ignorance and a fear of difference would incite such extreme reactions. Issues such as human rights, racism and xenophobia are raised. Stark illustrations and a harrowing narrative interweave to create an ominous and thought provoking narrative. There is much to discuss in the book, such as historical parallels, the stranger’s vulnerable nudity, and the human fear of the unknown. This remarkable picture book will resonate with the reader and it has plenty of depth for the study of picture books in English 7–10. H. Gardiner
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5
KLA: English
SYLLABUS: English K–6; English 7–10
$29.95 SCIS 1320542
LI, Cunxin & SPUDVILAS, Anne
The peasant prince
Penguin Group (Australia), 2007 (Viking)
ISBN 9780670070541 [792.8092]
In this large, handsomely produced picture book, the author retells, in simple language for young readers, the already well known story of his life in China, and later in the West, as a poor peasant and then a ballet dancer. The story emphasises the strength, determination and perseverance needed to become an outstanding dancer, and it stresses the emotional deprivation of the young student so far from home An afterword explains conditions in China, under Mao’s rule, during the author’s childhood and youth. In Spudvilas’ illustrations, two distinct and contrasting styles are deliberately employed to reflect the two parts of the author’s life. W. Smith
USER LEVEL: Stage 2 Stage 3
KLA: CA; HSIE
SYLLABUS: CA K–6; HSIE K–6
$29.95 SCIS 1338487
OFTHOUSE, Liz & INGPEN, Robert
Ziba came on a boat
Penguin Group (Australia), 2007 (Viking)
ISBN 9780670028610
Lovingly illustrated in Robert Ingpen's whimsical style, this beautiful picture book readily captures the poignant sadness of a young girl's brave journey to a new life far from home. As the soggy old fishing boat creaks and moans across the sea, Ziba remembers all that she has left behind in her village in Afghanistan, including when she and her mother ran through the night to escape the threatening gunfire. Inspired by stories told to the author by Hazara refugees from Afghanistan who have settled in Perth, the lyrical story is full of sadness and hope for a peaceful, new land. J. Eade
USER LEVEL: Stage 2 Stage 3
$29.95 SCIS 1315296
NORRINGTON, Leonie
You and me: our place
Working Title Press, SA, 2007
ISBN 9781876288792
With illustrations rich in detail and text filled with imagery, this picture book tells the story of Uncle Tobias and two boys as they experience a day of fishing and gathering. The text raises Aboriginal education issues such as coexistence, integration, loss of identity, culture, family relationships and homelessness, and provides inspiration for discussions about community life and experiences. The book is a potential starting point for an alternative to the study of Aboriginal Peoples connection to the Murray-Darling in the Stage 3 COGs Unit(C): Interconnecting growth and change, as the book focuses on the Larakia people from the Darwin area. It also supports learning experiences in the Stage 2 HSIE Unit: Living in communities as the text offers possible comparisons between students’ lives and those of the book’s characters. D. Croker
USER LEVEL: Stage 2 Stage 3
KLA: HSIE
SYLLABUS: HSIE K–6
$24.95 SCIS 1321100
OTTLEY, Matt
Requiem for a beast: a work for image, word and music
Hachette Livre Australia, 2007
ISBN 9780734407962
A powerful contemporary work, this multimodal text incorporates picture book, graphic novel, and musical aspects. There are two complex and emotive voices, plus a third person narration, requiring a reader’s thoughtful engagement. In two storylines, the reflections of an elderly woman of the Stolen Generations are mingled with a stockman’s obsession to catch a wild bull. Cleverly thought out and controlled aspects of culture, landscape, murder, history, and art will have older students immersed in this outstanding resource. A hauntingly beautiful CD accompanies the book, combining a 12th century requiem and music composed by Ottley with traditional Aboriginal music. Extremely strong visual elements enhance the written text. Mature Year 10 English students would find this a most rewarding picture book study, and Visual Arts students will appreciate Ottley’s creative use of motif and music, oils and coloured pencil in this masterly depiction of Australia. Teachers should note there are contextual issues of language. J. Webber & C. Thomas
USER LEVEL: Stage 5 Stage 6
KLA: CA; English; HSIE
SYLLABUS: Aboriginal Studies 7–10; Aboriginal Studies Stage 6; English 7–10; Music Stage 6; Visual Arts Stage 6
$39.95 SCIS 1324498
THOMPSON, Colin
Dust
ABC, NSW, 2007
ISBN 9780733320736
A collaboration between Thompson and 13 internationally acclaimed artists, this book was inspired by the 2005 humanitarian disaster in Niger. Direct and confrontational in word and image, it is not for young children. The text takes a child’s point of view and bluntly retells the death of mother and child. On each double page spread, the artists bring a visual interpretation to the narrative. Although their styles are different, the emotionally charged words bind the story. The book begins with a statement on the donation of royalties to Save the Children, and it ends with thumbnail images of each page and a short biography of the artists. The book has relevance for English and Creative Arts faculties, especially in a study combining contemporary themes, picture books and illustrative styles. J. Eade
USER LEVEL: Stage 4 Stage 5
KLA: CA; English
SYLLABUS: English 7–10; Visual Arts 7–10
$24.95 SCIS 1317301
CRICHTON AWARD FOR NEW ILLUSTRATORS
BLABEY, Aaron
Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley
Penguin Group (Australia), 2007
ISBN 9780670070947
A heartening tale of friendship between two seemingly very different children is the basis for this picture book. Charlie is shy and quiet while Pearl is adventurous and outgoing. How can they be best friends? The story explains in single sentences how their differences balance and support each other in difficult situations. They actually complement each other and this is illustrated by quirky acrylic paintings that are humorous and insightful. The text could be very useful in lessons dealing with friendship. R. Parnis
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1
$24.95 SCIS 1319967
EDWARDS, Luke
Ock Von Fiend
Scholastic, SA, 2007
ISBN 9781862917484
Edwards has given us a delightfully well crafted book with wonderful illustrations. It will undoubtedly lure readers into discovering what lies between the delectable covers. Ock is a vampire and as such is a little different from your average human being. One cannot help but be drawn in by this playful and affectionate character who only bites people on special occasions so that the townsfolk do not get suspicious. Ock the vampire would make a great character study to undertake with students. The author tells us he spends a lot of time indoors, writing and drawing and does not get much sunlight. Let’s hope he remains indoors and creates some more little gems like this. G. Maugle
USER LEVEL: Stage 2 Stage 3
$16.99 SCIS 1319807
KWAYMULLINA, Ambelin
Crow and the waterhole
Fremantle Arts Centre Press, WA, 2007
ISBN 9781863683036
The highly coloured, glossy illustrations of this Aboriginal legend are very appealing. The author is from the Pilbara and her warm narrative is strongly supported by her bold and visually appealing artwork. With the central message encouraging belief in yourself, the book supports classroom work aimed at recognising each person’s worth and increasing the self esteem of all students. Crow is a character who performs brave, faithful, kind and wise acts as she flies about the land. But when Crow sees other crows, represented by her reflection in pools, puddles and rivers, she aspires to be like them: brave, faithful, kind and wise. It takes a kindly kookaburra to point out Crow already has these attributes, and she then, happily, becomes a teacher for those seeking their destiny. F. Moore
USER LEVEL: Early Stage 1 Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3
$26.95 SCIS 1329151
MEGARRITY, David & OXLADE, Jonathon
The empty city
Hachette Livre, NSW, 2007
ISBN 9780734410122
How does a young child view shopping in the big city? This picture book takes the reader on such a journey, dragged through uninteresting places, desperately wanting to be somewhere else. For a time it is as if the child gets lost both physically and in his own imagination. The text is organised as a series of linked, but not always sequenced, thoughts. A varied font size, colour and style draw attention to the child’s view of the world around him. The large and busy collages feature a lot of dark backgrounds and are very intricate. This text is an excellent visual literacy resource for examining character perspectives in stories. M. Whitfield
USER LEVEL: Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3
$28.95 SCIS 1329070
SILVEY, Craig & MARTINEZ, Sonia
The world according to Warren as told to Craig Silvey
Fremantle Arts Centre Press, WA, 2007
ISBN 9781920731212
Warren is a badly behaved guide dog puppy. But he has a good heart and big dreams, and when he meets Eleanor Rigby, she teaches him to ignore distractions and focus on safeguarding her from a dangerous world. This great picture book can be read on multiple levels. The intricate plot and images have a dreamlike quality that explores trust, dreams and happiness with an acerbic humour that should pique the interest of older readers. Beautiful and detailed illustrations add layers of meaning, artistic and cultural, making the book suitable for analysis in Year 7 English. New meaning can be found each time the book is read. H. Gardiner
USER LEVEL: Stage 3 Stage 4
KLA: English
SYLLABUS: English K–6; English 7–10
$26.95 SCIS 1325619
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