With bright illustrations and just the right mix of excitement and emotion, these books capture Christmas themes and what kids love most about reading A Barney Gumnut Christmas by Tamsin Ainslie, pub HarperCollins, h/b RRP$24.99. Ages from 0-4. This sweet book is also beautifully illustrated by the author...
For older, curious and independent readers, these Christmas themed books offer a great mix of adventure and humour. Santa & Son by David Walliams, illus. by Adam Stower, pub. HarperCollins Children’s Books, p/b RRP$12.99. Ages 8-12. Prolific writer, David Walliams, has produced his first, funny, Christmas story –...
Ideal for younger readers, these books combine warmth, rhythm, and colour to keep little ones engaged from start to finish. Whether read at bedtime or playtime, it’s a lovely way to introduce babies and toddlers to the joy of books and shared reading. The Drought Kangaroo by...
In her new children’s book, Jacinda Ardern explores working ‘mum guilt’ through her daughter’s eyes. Reviewed by Katie Pickles Jacinda Ardern’s second book, released within four months of her memoir, is a simple children’s story. Its title – Mum’s Busy Work – appears to still hold...
The ARA Historical Novel Prize is the richest individual literary prize in Australasia. Inspiring the Next Generation of Readers and Writers The ARA Historical Novel Prize has announced its 2025 Children and Young Adult (CYA) longlist. The award shines a light on books that transport young readers back...
The 2025 CBCA Book of the Year Winners has just been announced. It's the 79th CBCA Book of the Year Awards winners list and the CBCA's 80th Year of incorporation. The List of Notables was published at the end of February. The Shortlist was announced at the...
Navigating the first few months after giving birth can be overwhelming, but The Fourth Trimester by Amelia Lamont, offers new parents a much-needed blend of practical advice and heartfelt reassurance, writes Victoria Baker. Amelia Lamont’s The Fourth Trimester is a realistic, informative and compassionate guide to the first...
The 2025 shortlisted children’s books foster a curiosity in the natural world, a love of nature and a hopeful spirit of collaboration to overcome environmental challenges The Environment Award for Children’s Literature was started in 1994 by a group of environmental educators who wanted to work...
Even after they can read themselves, writes Robyn Cox, because reading aloud to your children is a parental superpower Is reading to your kids a bedtime ritual in your home? For many of us, it will be a visceral memory of our own childhoods. Or of...
Funny and Engaging Early Reader Books to Build Kids’ Vocabulary Early Reader books—sometimes called Junior Fiction—sit between picture books and more advanced chapter books. Aimed at children aged 6 to 8, these books feature more complex plots, rich vocabulary to support reading growth, and plenty of...
