Wow! Just wow! 'A Guide to Falling Off the Map' is a must read YA novel about finding oneself, friendship, family and adventure. Zanni L. Arnot's story is written from two perspectives, Roo and Vinnie, who have been friends since childhood. The characterisation is exceptional. Each alternate chapter, the reader is taken to either perspective and due to the distinctive voice, the novel flows authentically. Zanni crafts characters' voices that are raw and real. In this story we see deep emotional trauma from loss, suicide and fear of medical diagnoses, that is carefully woven into the story. I felt the pain along with Vinnie. Zanni's inclusion of MS is also very important, as we see the impact of this neurological condition on the person diagnosed and their loved ones. Zanni is a talented author who can write for all age groups. This novel is refreshingly raw taking us on a ride through some stunning locations within NSW, some I visited last year for the first time. I would recommend this novel for grade 12 students and above. It is a lesson in exploration of one's passions, hope and the possibility. 'A Guide to Falling Off the Map' is a memorable adventure that pulls at the heart strings. This one will stay with me for a very long time. An absolute page turner. Congratulations @zannilouise ❤️ Thank you @lakemaclibraries for offering this book in our libraries. Although, I may now need to purchase my own copy of this one... Loved it. #bookreview #bookreviewers

Worst Hero Ever! Feet First If you loved Worst Week Ever get ready for Worst Hero Ever! Fast paced dialogue, story and a whole lot of laughs! The illustrations will have kids in stitches, just as much as the story! Antics galore, adventure and the build up to the incident. Whatever you expect of a superhero... we see Ricardo do the opposite. Ricardo is the perfect hero for our readers! Incredibly funny and incredibly capable of finding trouble wherever he goes. Each page is filled with creative illustrations along with the story, proving an engaging adventure for readers. Laugh out loud moments, the best expressions and a story for all youngest readers. Congratulations @matt.cosgrove @eva.amores @scholastic_au #bookreview #bookreviewers

Bendable by Kelly Brodie-Brown and Tommy Doyle Julie is a mule who, through persistence, defies all expectations of what a mule can do. She watches others in the gymnasium and is inspired by their grace, movement and balance. Although others doubt Julie, she does not give up. We see how one strong mule tries her best to be bendable. This is a story for all gymnasts or wannabe gymnasts. It's also a story for all children who love a fun, fantastic and flexible story. It is a fabulous book to read a loud and very enjoyable for parent readers too. The illustrations are colourful and engaging. With a group of lovable animal characters, readers will be engaged from beginning to end. A story of perseverance, encouragement and friendship. Congratulations @scholastic_au @kellybrodiebrown @tommydoyle A fantastic story that will be perfect for school libraries and no doubt, book week dress up! #bookreview #bookreviewers #kidlitaustralia

Earl and Worm - The Bad Idea and Other Stories by Greg Pizzoli Earl and Worm are neighbours. Although they live in close proximity, they are very different. Their interests and way in which they wish to enjoy life are completely opposite. Worm likes a peaceful life, whereas Earl is quite extroverted. This collection of stories is perfect for early readers. The dialogue is suitable for early primary school and provides great insight into the story and characters. Through their words, we understand who Earl and Worm are, how they differ and how they learn to come together. Each one of the stories had my sons in fits of giggles and I personally loved reading this with them. Collections of stories are particularly memorable. We decided to read one story each night. My boys' favourite moment in the stories was when worm's home is painted orange with green stripes and purple polka dots. Earl is a kind friend who proves that he will help Worm without question. The stories provide valuable lessons in friendship, patience, love and kindness. These stories remind me of the beloved Maudie and Bear series by Jan Ormerod and Freya Blackwood. When two friends come together and learn what it means to love one another, appreciating their differences. The illustrations are fun, bright and simplistic enough for children to recreate the characters. This collection would be fantastic for primary teachers. It is also inspirational for young writers. I plan to take this book into my Japanese stage 4 classes when we create bilingual picture books, to inspire. Congratulations @gregpizzoli @scholastic_au This special collection is fast becoming a favourite in my home. #bookreview #bookreviewer #writersofinstagram #kidlitaustralia

What is your current read? My son and I are reading 'The Glow in Her Hands' by Marg Gibbs. We are already up to Chapter 3 and loving this story. Once Marg's book was released I knew I had to have a copy! The package that turned up is absolutely gorgeous. Thank you @marg_gibbs for such beautiful gifts and a gorgeous signed copy of this book. I'm looking forward to reviewing your book once we finish it. #currentlyreading #kidlitcommunity

I Survived The Dust Bowl, 1935 by Lauren Tarshis What a powerful read! If you're looking for a fantastic family read, this is it. Each and every chapter had my son and I wanting more. What is usually a chapter or two read per night ended up being multiple chapters. This is definitely a book for late primary, early high school and even adults too. I thoroughly enjoyed the historical context and characterisation. Ray is a courageous young boy who cares deeply for his family. His strength and thoughtfulness towards others is shown in his actions and kind words. It's wonderful to see a historical fiction novel exploring a time and disaster that impacted many lives, yet something I have personally not come across before. The non fiction section at the back of this book is informative and it is evident how much Lauren Tarshis has researched this time period. These dust storms changed lives and caused unimaginable heartache. Lauren writes authentically and brings history to life. She is a talented author who writes authentically, considering historical context and time period with such care. An unforgettable experience of a novel! Congratulations @laurentarshis @scholastic_au This is one book that will no doubt be read again by our family. What a compelling read! #bookreview

I am looking forward to reading this one and sharing my review. In the meantime, here is the blurb. How beautiful is this cover! Having Faith by Nicole Zoch @nicolezoch_author Having Faith is a love story between an ordinary Aussie girl and her extraordinary Father in Heaven. It is a story of God's boundless love and steadfast faithfulness; a testimony of God teaching and refining one woman's faith-walk through a long and heartbreaking nine-year infertility journey. As she desperately sought answers for her empty womb, God unveiled many spiritual truths that aided her infertility-to-motherhood journey. Through a season each of asking, seeking, and knocking, God revealed more of Himself, drawing her deeper into an intimate relationship with the Trinity of God. Out of that newfound intimacy, God then began to bring to light every area in her life that needed His healing touch. From personal and matrimonial healing to spiritual rebuilding, God wrought restoration, victory, and freedom. And from there God granted a barren woman the desires of her motherhood. #bookreviewer #christianreads

#wintering Thank you @lindabenton for recommending this book. I have managed to take 10 minutes today to read some pages of 'Wintering', by the lake. A snippet of rest and retreat in amongst it all. @katherinemay_

Miracles in the Aussie Bush - The Des Miers Story by Shelley and Jeff Reaney A story of miracles, faith and love. This story is a beautiful book that shows the power of prayer. Des is a hardworking Aussie bloke who has not allowed tough times to tear him down. Through his life we see how God has worked to create a path of love and one in which his faith shines through. Reading this book, I felt that I had stepped into Des' family, as we read of his experiences, challenges and spiritual life. I particularly enjoyed reading of his work in mining, the miracles as a believer of Christ that he has witnessed and the love that remains strong in his marriage. His poem, prayer and next steps section finishes this book in such a way that encourages readers in their walk with Christ, sharing love and hope. Thank you for sharing this testament of faith. Your story is impactful, significant and one to be shared. A man who has felt 'God's peace in his heart.' This story is a walk in the bush with a faithful, kind and loving family man, who will show you how he walks with Jesus daily. Congratulations on this powerful story. Thank you for allowing me to read your words. @star_label_publishing

Congratulations @deborahkelly_author @amie_illustration Poppy and Pipsqueak - The Mighty Pipsqueak Deborah Kelly writes heartfelt stories that support inclusion and connection. 'The Mighty Pipsqueak' is the first in this fun-loving series set on a farm. Poppy is drawn to the gorgeous little puppy, born to Jessie, Dad's Border Collie. This puppy, Pipsqueak, happens to be the runt of the litter. As Poppy becomes attached, there is a possibility of Pipsqueak being sold, along with the other puppies. Pipsqueak proves to be a busy puppy who likes to chew and chases butterflies. When Poppy and Pipsqueak come face to face with a snake, the danger is real. What happens next means the world to one little girl who loves her dog. With Charlotte's Web vibes, children will be drawn to Pipsqueak and the adventures on the farm. Poppy is a kindhearted little girl who changes the life of one furry friend. There is a strong connection between the two and, as such, will melt hearts of all animal lovers. Amie Sabadin is a talented illustrator who has brought additional meaning to a beautifully written story. Poppy is such a cute character and it is fantastic that she is a character who will allow readers to see inclusion for the deaf community within these pages. This series is perfect for early readers and will be enjoyed by primary school students. A joyful story that will take readers on an adventure to the farm. Congratulations @deborahkelly_author and @amie_illustration @wombat_books What a talented team. What an amazing book launch with wonderful guest speakers. To be taught the Auslan language this morning was very special. My son was particularly engaged. #bookreview #earlyreaders #kidlitcommunity