Out of This World: The Weirdest Poems of All Time
Michael Rosen, illustrated by Ed Vere
From the author of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt comes a brand new poetry collection that does exactly what it promises, takes you somewhere unexpected. Michael Rosen has long been one of the most joyful voices in children’s literature, and this collection is no exception: funny, surprising and genuinely thought-provoking in equal measure. What would it feel like to be a blood cell? Or a monster who ate the alphabet? Beautifully illustrated throughout by Ed Vere, it’s a book that works just as well read aloud as it does alone. A lovely entry point for kids who think they don’t like poetry. For ages 7 and up.
RRP $17.99 | Harper Collins
Drawing Nudes While Making Other Plans
Zoe Gaetjens
The perfect summer before Year 12 wasn’t supposed to involve a life-drawing class, but when Cleo’s plans fall through, she finds herself at an art school with new friends, wonky sketches and the possibility of a first kiss. A warm, funny Australian YA contemporary with a lot of heart. For readers who loved Nina Kenwood or Jenny Han, and for parents looking for something genuinely enjoyable to put in a teenager’s hands. For readers aged 14 and up.
RRP $19.99 | Penguin
My First Little Library of Australian Animals
Renée Treml
Four board books in one gorgeous boxset, illustrated in Renée Treml’s characteristically soft palette. Kangaroos, wombats, birds and platypuses, all the Australian favourites, in a format perfectly sized for little hands. A lovely gift for new readers or a solid addition to the home bookshelf. For ages 0–3.
RRP $12.99 | Penguin
Raised by Wolves
Tristan Bancks
The follow-up to Tristan Bancks’ beloved Two Wolves, though it reads just as well on its own. Siblings Olive and Ben have one night to track down their father and finally bring him to justice in this tense, propulsive thriller about loyalty, betrayal and what happens when the people you trust most let you down. Bancks is one of Australia’s best writers for young readers, and this one will keep older primary and early secondary kids turning pages well past bedtime. For readers aged 10 and up.
RRP $17.99 | Penguin
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