Ivy is a Groundling, bound to roam the surface of the Earth, eking a living from the rubble of the past. Skyler lives above the clouds in a haven of technology, wanting for nothing yet knowing there must be something more. Their paths are fixed, in a barren world that has forgotten nature until Ivy makes a discovery that changes everything.
Suddenly, a forgotten orphan from the Piles holds the key to building a new world. But change is never popular with those in power, and as word gets out, society begins to fracture. Both girls lives unravel as Skyler uncovers the secrets that have been kept from her, and Ivy finds out just how important she is to the new world.
The Last Seed Keeper is a tense, heart-pounding adventure about friendship, secrecy, breaking down barriers, questioning everything, and holding onto hope in the darkest of places.
A beautifully illustrated, reassuring story about finding comfort in the
familiar when life turns upside down. Perfect for children experiencing big
changes, from moving house to the trauma of a natural disaster.
In Hugs Still Feel the Same, life is thrown into turmoil for a
little girl and her family when their home is flooded. The water builds andThis gentle and empowering story was inspired by the author's real-life
experience of the severe flooding that engulfed parts of Australia in 2022.Hugs Still Feel the Same is a story of resilience and hope in the face
of life's difficulties. It explores the impact of big changes and trauma,Full of expressive, colourful illustrations, The Mosaic is an optimistic story about parental separation and the healing power of art. Little readers will delight in following Nana and Frankie as they go on an adventure and find an unexpected source of hope and inspiration. They will see that while some changes can feel sad and overwhelming at first, they can also lead to happiness if we know where to look.
Children all over the world are impacted by parental divorce and separation. The Mosaic offers a fresh perspective, focussing on the good that can come from change and giving children comfort in a time of grief and uncertainty. Inspired by the authors conversations with her own children, it is a uniquely personal story that will help any children going through difficult changes to find hope, resilience and joy.
A little determination goes a long way in this inspiring story about creating
green spaces and building community.
Rosie loves nothing more than to dig and spend time with
people from her neighbourhood in the community garden. There's Mr. Dellagatti
who collects seeds, Annika who plays the violin, and even Esmeralda the chicken
who likes worms for breakfast!
But when the garden is sold to the Big Boss of a city company, Rosie looks on
helplessly as it is destroyed and replaced by a towering skyscraper. Where will
her friends from the garden go now? And what will happen to Esmeralda now that
her home is gone?
It's going to take some unexpected teamwork and a whole lot of bravery, but maybe
Rosie can find a solution that makes everyone happy.
Rosie's Garden is an inspiring story about preserving nature and standing up for the things that are
important to us. Through simple prose and beautiful illustrations, it explores
themes of environmentalism, urbanization and community in a way that will
engage younger readers and get them thinking about the world around them, and
the role we can all play in protecting it. Essential reading for any little
ones interested in nature, buildings, the outdoors - and digging!
Barry the Brontosaurus just wants to fit in at his new school. But something about him is going to make him stand out!
Barry is very excited about starting at the finest school in the Jurassic world -- the Brontosaurus Academy. Best of all, he's going to buy a beautiful new tie so he can look like all the other students. But when Barry ventures to the shop of Mr Bruno, the most famous Brontosaurus tailor in the land, he discovers he has a very short neck ... and all the ties are very long!
This makes Barry so scared of standing out that he loses heart. But with the help of his friend Luna, he decides not to give up. What Barry eventually finds is that, with a bit of creativity and a lot of determination, being yourself is not only okay, it's fabulous!
A Tie for Barry is a delightful story about friendship, kindness, imagination, and the power of creative thinking to help you discover your unique self.
When Finn buys a magic pen at a market stall, it seems like all his problems are solved... but the good times don't last in this action-packed adventure featuring life on the run, basketball battles, family secrets and more moral conundrums than you could shake a pen at.
Eleven-year-old Finn lives with his four foster siblings and the TERRIBLE Mr. and Mrs. Grimshaw. Everything might look okay from the outside, but at home the Grimshaws lock Finn in the basement, and reign terror over his little brothers and sisters. Will the power of a magic pen help Finn save himself and his siblings from their nightmare foster parents, and find out the truth about his past?
Join Finn on an adventure beyond his wildest dreams, armed with a pen that makes everything he draws come true. From defeating a bully in a basketball match, to stealing the limelight and serenading the guests at a fancy hotel, Finn discovers he has the power to do anything! But soon, the consequences to his actions start to mount up.
Can Finn resist the temptation of an easy fix and save the day without the increasingly dangerous help of the pen? Find out in this fast-paced, engaging story about family, jealousy, morals, and the importance of being kind to others.
Some Families Change tenderly guides children through various models of changing families with gentle verse and inclusive imagery.
You may not have thought much about it, but did you know that some families change? Some get bigger, others smaller and some completely rearrange!
Changes in the structure of a family can be joyful, turbulent, and especially confusing for little humans. Some Families Change is a gentle and reassuring way of showing children that all families go through changes – its completely natural, and they are not alone.
The book candidly explores concepts such as split families, single-parent households, families with two mums or dads, families that join together, and more, always maintaining sensitivity and sincerity. Children grappling with these changes often harbor difficult feelings. The book validates these emotions, emphasizing that it's okay to feel upset or worried because adjusting to change takes time.
By sharing this book, children and parents can embark on a journey of understanding and emotional healing together, reminding themselves that their feelings are normal, and it's healthy to express them. A timely and therapeutic resource, Some Families Change assists families in navigating their emotional journey together, amidst the inevitable changes that life brings.
In 2011, Dindim the Magellanic penguin washed up on an island beach near Rio de Janeiro. He was rescued by a man called Joao, who nursed him back to health, and created a lifelong bond. Since then, Dindim has spent most of every year with Joao, leaving only to travel 8000 miles to the Patagonia coasts of Argentina and Chile. Where the Heart Is was inspired by this extraordinary true story.
With beautiful prose and stunning illustrations, Dindim's story will capture the hearts of young readers and adults alike. His journey across the ocean highlights both the little penguin's intrepid nature and the variety of wildlife he meets along the way. From whales to albatross, children will discover the kaleidoscope of life that exists in the ocean.
Where the Heart Is also offers a window into discussing big issues with young readers, such as the oil spill that almost killed Dindim, and the effects of climate change on animal habitats. Magellanic penguins are a near threatened species, and it is vitally important to increase our awareness of the dangers faced by these beautiful birds.
Poignant, moving, funny and heartfelt, Dindim and Joao's story is a celebration of friendship and nature. It explores the deep bond that can form between humans and animals, and encourages children to think more about the incredible animals who share our world.
An uplifting story about a boy who doesnt let his eczema hold him back from having fun and facing his fears.
Meet Mitchell, a boy who is part of the one in five children living with eczema. In Mitchell Itches, we learn about his experiences with this condition, including the common triggers and stresses of managing it, while also understanding his resilience, the support he gets from his friends and family, and the self-care he practices to manage his symptoms.
As part of his journey, Mitchell discovers a unique talent. His Uncle Sean introduces him to the guitar to keep his itchy hands occupied. Mitchell's condition, surprisingly, leads him to a new passion that could make him a sensation. Will his newfound talent take centre stage at the school band auditions?
This engaging story helps children to empathize with others and understand the realities of living with a skin condition, showing that challenges can also lead to discovering our strengths.
In a world where the days of the week come to life, Monday learns to let go of negativity and accept herself for who she is.
Its pretty tough being Monday – youre not named after a god like Thursday, and youre certainly not a two-day party like Saturday and Sunday. Instead, youre the start of the week, when people have to wake up early and head back to school and work. Monday even has a pile of complaint letters to prove that nobody likes her but wait, whats in that sparkly envelope?
Nobody Likes Monday is a story about the impact of peoples perceptions of ourselves, and the fact that we all have value we just need to learn to see it. When Monday is feeling down, she tries to change, but only meets more dissatisfaction. It is only when she begins to see her own strengths and gifts that she finds joy in her role and in her life.
Told with vibrant illustrations and light-hearted humour, Nobody Likes Monday highlights the importance of self-acceptance and individuality. It emphasizes that everyone, no matter how they perceive themselves, has a unique value to offer, gently encouraging children to see beyond the negatives and to recognize their own talents and strengths
Despite being oceans apart, Tug and Ship are connected by strong bonds in Anchored, a tale of love and connection told through the relationship of a tugboat and a cargo ship.
Debra Tidball was inspired to write Anchored by the watercraft she observed on harbourvside walks, especially the tugboats that send huge ships out into the open ocean and welcome them back again after long, sometimes perilous journeys. 'As a parent, it made me think about the sustaining power of love -- how holding someone in your heart can make you more courageous, and make the world seem like a better, brighter place despite not being together.'
With her social work background and Masters Qualification in Children's Literature, Debra understands the vital role attachment plays in child development. In a world where many parents are separated from their children for periods of time due to work and/or living arrangements, a sense of attachment can feel stretched. Anchored is a reassuring book reminding children that their attachment with their parents/caregivers can sustain time apart: they are firmly anchored in each other's hearts.
Anchored honors the intrinsic value and worth of a child and the sustaining power of love. It's an empowering story that will give children a sense of pride and strength to get through the 'missing you' days.
In Two Rabbits, Little Brown Rabbit and Little Grey Rabbit have had an argument. As they go their separate ways into the night, the wind whispers around them to remind them of their sharp words. Will they be able to come back together and find a way to save their friendship?
The story portrays the physical and emotional journey of two best friends, as they experience feelings of anger, sadness and loneliness after an argument. It shows us that friendship can overcome differences and disagreements, especially when we are willing to admit our own mistakes.
Larissa Ferenchuk loves writing about animals and nature, relating them to the emotions and feelings we have as humans. She based this story on rabbits as she has a gorgeous little pet grey rabbit at home. Her aim was to create a story that shows that even though we are all different, (different opinions/ideas/journeys) we all experience similar feelings and emotions. She also wanted to show children that they can overcome disagreements and arguments by understanding their emotions and offering the simple words of a heartfelt sorry.
Prue Pittocks subtle and whimsical illustrations add to the emotions in the story while the depiction of the characters on their separate paths allows us to empathize with both friends.
A poignant story about a child finding her own inner strength, courage and resilience by drawing inspiration from the generations of women that came before her.
Whenever Islas mother brings out her small blue doll box, Isla knows she will hear the stories of the women in her familys past. Touching on themes of immigration, war and the feminist movement, their lives show Isla the incredible things women can achieve, and the strength she has inside herself.
Inspired by the author's own family, this book echoes the timeless power of familial bonds and personal histories that instil courage and determination in each new generation. It underscores the belief that sharing family stories can foster a sense of belonging, and provide strength to face life's adversities.
What makes a strong role model for girls? Deborah Kelly found the answer in her own heritage, in the pages of history, and in the inspiring individuals who, despite adversity, discovered their own courage and resilience. The Doll Box is a testament to their stories, lovingly passed from mother to daughter, empowering the next generation of strong women.
In The Real Cowgirl, Sal feels safe and strong at home, and out riding with her pony. She has big dreams of being a cowgirl of being brave, smart and wild. But at school, where she feels anxious and isolated, those dreams seem very far away. How will Sal find her self-confidence and be her true self even when she is scared?
Join Sal and her pony for this heart-warming story about friendship, and the way in which it can make you feel brave. Featuring beautiful, vibrant illustrations of Sals life on the farm, it will delight young readers with an interest in animals and adventure. It will also provide inspiration and comfort for children who experience anxiety, showing them the power of small acts of bravery, and how our friends can build us up to feel all the wonderful things they already see in us.
The Real Cowgirl was inspired by the authors own childhood, growing up on a farm in NSW, Australia with her pony as a source of support and comfort. It is a story about being yourself, finding bravery through friendship, and what it takes to be a real cowgirl.
Novas Missing Masterpiece uses a girls bond with her dog to address the themes of anger, self-regulation, problem solving, resilience and persistence.
When Nova realizes the artwork that she created for her dads birthday present is missing her tummy flip flops and her heart ker-thumps. She and her dog, Harley turn the house upside down but the missing masterpiece is nowhere to be found. Inevitably, Nova loses her temper. But Harley remains calm. Together, they continue searching for the missing masterpiece and eventually Nova starts to pay attention to Harley and his calming strategies. Just when it seems the artwork will never be found Nova tries one last strategy, which leads her directly to her missing masterpiece!
Learning to self-regulate, persist, problem solve, and be resilient are essential skills that need to be taught and modelled to children to support their social and emotional growth. Novas Missing Masterpiece gives children useful coping strategies to deal with anger and frustration, making the book an invaluable tool for parents, educators, health professionals and counsellors.
With vibrant, well-observed illustrations, this is the perfect story to show children how anger and frustration affect their brains and bodies, and how simple techniques can help them self-regulate and reset.
When Patrick suffers a huge loss, he finds comfort in holding an acorn that drops at his feet. The more acorns he collects, the less empty he feels but soon there are acorns hiding in cupboards, under the rug, and even in Dads work shoes. As the tide of acorns grows, Patricks belongings are buried under them, until all he has is perhaps too many acorns.
Join Patrick and Dad as they learn how to cope with their overwhelming grief together, rediscovering the things that make them happy while holding their memories close.
Through gentle language, illustrations and metaphor, Too Many Acorns explores big emotions in a way that is manageable and understandable for young readers. It is a heart-warming story about the ways we find to cope in the hardest times, perfect for sharing with little ones who are experiencing the loss of a loved one, or any other emotional upheaval.
We all have different abilities. But sometimes, we need to dig a little deeper to find our own special gifts.
Lifeguard Anthony 'Harries' Carroll, who appears in the internationally acclaimed, long-running unscripted Australian TV show Bondi Rescue, wasn't always as confident as he is now. As a child, he was often bullied for his dyslexia, and sadness and shame quickly followed.
However, what Harries eventually discovered was that his talent lay not in words, but in seeing and hearing things others might not pick up on. His heightened alertness to his surroundings means Harries can anticipate when someone might be in danger. Uncovering these qualities in himself led Harries to carve out a successful 30-year career as a lifeguard, rescuing and resuscitating thousands of people.
Harries is a story of hope for any child searching to find their own unique place in the world.
Meet Isla, Sophie, Dominik, James and Rashida -- Scottish children representing a multicultural blend of culture and race that typifies our beautiful country. They will take you through a year in the life of Scottish kids, from celebrations to traditions to events, to our everyday way of life and the little things that make childhood so memorable. They are our Scottish childhood.
A Scottish Year is a picture book bursting with national pride. It is a snapshot of who we are as a nation, blending our modern-day culture and lifestyle with past traditions and strong heritage. Its pages feature meandering text, dates and gorgeous illustrations, showcasing our five Scottish children at play, at school, at home, and enjoying the sights and sites of Scotland -- from our heather-strewn Highlands to our historical cities, pristine outer islands and charming rural towns./
When Sam gets his first pair of glasses, he feels like no one knows who he is anymore. His parents say he looks handsome in them and his grandpa thinks he must be a superhero, but Sam just wants to be himself. Even at school, everyone except his best friend George seems to have forgotten who he is. How will Sam make the world see him again?
Follow Sam as he tries to remind people who he is, abandons his glasses at every chance he gets, and even faces giant penguins and googly-eyed turtles in his journey back to his old self. Young readers will delight in the vibrant illustrations and Sam's imaginative antics, from building pirate ships with George to fending off sharks as captain on the high seas. And the more he returns to his adventurous ways, and rediscovers his confidence and sense of humour, the more people see him not as some anonymous handsome superhero, but as Sam.
The Boy in the Big Blue Glasses is an action-packed story about overcoming your fears of other people's perceptions and not shying away from being yourself. Any children dealing with new glasses or other changes in their appearance will find inspiration in Sam's bravery. After all, how big or blue your glasses are doesn't make any difference when you're captain of a pirate ship!