All posts by Karen Seligman

About Karen Seligman

Karen Seligman is a librarian working in public libraries. As a lifelong booklover, she loves having access to a library’s worth of books! As a librarian, an important (and fun) part of her work is about connecting people to new ideas and new books. Karen is a literary magpie who can't settle on a single favourite genre – she loves narrative nonfiction, historical fantasies and food writing. View all posts by Karen Seligman →

How to encourage your child to read more?

October 19, 2015Children, Uncategorized#Children, #ReadingKaren Seligman

Most people would agree that reading is a good thing, and that it is critical to language and literacy development. But not everyone is a natural bookworm – so here are some tips on how to help your child develop a love of reading.

Tip 1: Reading should be fun

Your first goal is to convince your child that reading is a pleasurable activity that they will want to do again and again. Focus on making reading a fun experience.

Tip 2: Target their interests

Choose books that reflect your child’s interests – whether it be trucks/ princesses/ food/ shoes. There are books on just about every topic – the right one can get the reader hooked on reading for life.

Tip 3: Create a reading-friendly lifestyle

Create a comfortable space for reading – it can be a couch, or beanbag, or cushions, or in bed – and stock up on a variety of books or other reading materials, such as magazines or newspapers.

Incorporate reading into your weekly routine, for example by visiting your local library regularly, or by setting aside some “reading time” at bedtime or on weekends.

Tip 4: Model good reading habits

Let your child see you read. Show that you enjoy reading, want to do it regularly, and that you feel confident about reading. You can also explain why you love reading, such as “reading helps me make sense of things”, or “reading makes me laugh”.

If you want to improve your own confidence in reading, there are community resources to support you. Contact your local library or adult education organisation to see how they can help.

Tip 5: Try different formats

Reading isn’t just about novels. Some children prefer non-fiction (information books), particularly illustrated titles. Don’t forget that newspapers, magazines, even recipes and instruction manuals, can offer good reading opportunities – whatever interests the child.

If your child prefers pictures to words, then why not try picture books or graphic novels? There are many sophisticated picture books aimed at older readers (such as The Arrival by Shaun Tan) , and the graphic novel format has been used on a range of topics including literary classics (for example Nikki Greenberg’s adaptation of Hamlet) . Children who like to listen to stories can try to read and listen at the same time – play an audiobook and encourage them to follow the story on a printed copy.

Tip 6: Make it a family activity

Some children may find reading more appealing if it is done as a family activity. It could be reading aloud to each other; or reading silently side by side; or listening to an audiobook together during a car trip. It can even be watching a film adaptation together (and discussing how it differs from the original book). Be creative, and choose something that all of you can enjoy.

Tip 7: Talk to the experts

Teachers, school librarians, local librarians and children’s booksellers all have professional knowledge and experience in engaging reluctant readers. Talk to them and ask for useful strategies and/or book recommendations. Beloved author Paul Jennings, who is also a teacher and speech pathologist, has written a guide called “The Reading Bug and how to help your child catch it”.

Final tip: Relax

Remember Tip 1: Reading should be fun? Encouraging children to read should not be stressful for parents either.
Don’t worry if they don’t read everyday – this is understandable, especially at the beginning. Be gentle but persistent with your encouragement.
Don’t worry if they don’t choose “good” literature, or if they only read about a single topic or character; sooner or later they will branch out.
Don’t worry if they choose something that is too hard or too easy; gently offer a more appropriate alternative, but also respect their choice.
Finally, try not to feel disappointed if your child shows no interest in reading your own childhood favourites. Encourage them to read widely, and one day they may give your favourite books another chance!

Booko Alerts: never miss a sale again

October 14, 2015Blog, Booko, Hacksalert, Booko, bookoaccount, feature, pricealertKaren Seligman

Have you ever missed a sale on an item you really want? The Booko Alerts feature can help you avoid that happening to your book purchases. When the price drops on a nominated title, Booko will email you with the new best price. Booko Alerts work for DVDs and eBooks as well as printed books. It is easy to use, and will help you get more out of your money! Here’s how:

1. Start by entering details of your item in the search box, then click Search.

2. Choose the item you want from the Results List. Click on its Name or its Cover Image to see the detailed record.

3. On the left hand side of the Detailed Record screen, there are two red buttons directly below the Cover Image of the book. Click on the one on the Left, called “Add an Alert”.

4. This brings up a box where you can specify your preferred price. The box automatically shows the current best price. You can also delete that value and enter a different lower price. Then enter your email address, and click “Add”.

5. That’s done! Booko checks prices daily, and when the price of your item drops below your preferred price, you will receive an email alerting you to the new lowest price, with links straight to the relevant Seller.

Managing multiple alerts

If you are creating alerts for multiple items, then you will find it useful to create a Booko account. Once Logged In, you can view a list of all of your alerts, and update them as necessary. You can also include second-hand books in your price watch.

1. To create a new Booko Account, scroll down to the bottom of the Booko homepage, and click on the red “Sign Up” button.

2. On the Create an Account page, you can either use the form on the left hand side to create a new Booko ID, or you can click on one of the icons on the right, to connect using your account details of your favourite social network. When prompted, allow Booko to share the login details of your chosen social network, and Booko will do the rest.

4. Once you are a registered user, simply Sign In to your Booko account before you create an Alert. The Sign In button is located at the top left corner of the Booko page. When you have signed in, you will not need to supply an email address each time you create an alert.

5. To view the full list of your Alerts, click on “My Alerts” at the top right corner of the Booko page. This will take you to the Booko Sign In page if you are not signed in at the time.

6. The list of Active Alerts shows the current price and the target price for each item. You can change the target prices, or delete alerts here. Check the box for “Include Used” if you want to track the prices of used copies as well as new ones. Don’t forget to click “Save” each time you made any changes!

The Inky Awards 2015: who will win?

October 8, 2015Blog, Fiction, Young Adult#Bookawards, #BookReview, #Fiction, #YAKaren Seligman

Today we’ll take a look at the Inky Awards, whose winners will be announced next week (October 13). The Inkys are an annual celebration of quality young adult (YA) literature, hosted by the State Library of Victoria. Teen readers are actively involved throughout the judging process – from selecting the longlists and shortlists out of the nominations, to voting for the winners. While shortlists are chosen for their quality, originality, readability and age-appropriateness, the winner is chosen by popular vote. Two prizes are awarded each year – the Gold Inky for an Australian book, and the Silver Inky for an international book.

This year’s Gold Inky looks set to be tightly contested. The five shortlisted books are all compelling reads. They are diverse in style and themes – there’s something for everyone. I have found it hard to pick one standout book so I have highlighted a special quality of each one. Enjoy!

The Incredible Adventures of Cinnamon Girl by Melissa Keil

Why it’s good: so funny, you wish you were part of the gang

For Alba and her friends, high school is over, and Christmas and a leisurely summer beckon. However, their plans are interrupted by an obscure prediction for apocalypse, resulting in hundreds of “believers” descending on their sleepy little town. There’s nothing like imminent doom and an influx of strangers to focus the mind on big Life Decisions, such as: What do I want to do in life?, and: Is heading to the City for uni and a career inevitable?, and: How do I really feel about my best friend – is it friendship … or love?

Alba is an appealing heroine – bold, sassy, technicolored like her comic-book creations; but beneath that chutzpah there is angst and vulnerability. The easy camaraderie between Alba and her wise-cracking gang is endearing and hilarious. They may not be “conventionally cool” people, but they are having so much fun that you’ll wish you were one of them. The book’s cover art – in retro comic- book style – complements the story perfectly.

Razorhurst by Justine Larbalestier

Why it’s good: a tense page-turner that transcends the “YA” tag

Sydney, 1932: the inner suburbs are a hotbed of crime and poverty, such that the tabloids dub Darlinghurst and Surry Hills “Razorhurst” and “Sorrow Hills”. Razor gangs rule these areas with violence, and everyone lives or dies by their wits. When Dymphna and Kelpie discover the aftermath of a brutal murder, they realise they are in great danger. Over the next 24 hours, they run, plot, mask their fears, and constantly recalculate their best strategies for survival. As the truce between rival gangs crumbles and power shifts, will they live till tomorrow?

Razorhurst is anchored by a pair of feisty, street-smart heroines: Kelpie, a street urchin who never misses small details; and Dymphna, beautiful, intelligent, a (literal) femme fatale nicknamed “Angel of Death”. They may seem poles apart but they share similarly traumatic pasts and an ability to see and hear ghosts – a twist that adds unexpected richness to the plot.

Razorhurst is a tense noir thriller. Larbalestier’s meticulous research shines through in the vivid evocation of that glamourous-yet-gritty era. It definitely deserves a wider readership than the YA tag would suggest.

Laurinda by Alice Pung

Why it’s good: schoolyard intrigues that get under your skin

John Marsden praises Laurinda as “funny, horrifying, and sharp as a serpent’s fangs” and he is spot-on. Laurinda’s depictions of the insular world of an exclusive girls’ school are likely to bring back memories – especially the uncomfortable ones – to anyone who has ever experienced the bitchiness and power plays of teenage girldom.

Lucy Lam, Asian and from a poor neighbourhood, wins a scholarship to Laurinda: “no ‘Ladies’ College’ after it, of course; the name was meant to speak for itself”. Far out of her comfort zone, her confidence falters; she becomes a quiet but keen-eyed observer of the power dynamics of her new environment. Her outsider status offers her the perspective to critique Laurindan society and see its rottenness – condescension, casual racism, bullying. When the most powerful clique at Laurinda makes overtures to Lucy, she becomes torn between her aspirations for sophistication and middle-class values, and her disgust at the duplicity inherent in privilege and “good manners”. Will she retain her identity and stand her ground, or will she join in, in order to leave the poverty and lack of opportunities of her current life?

Alice Pung’s first foray into fiction elaborates on the themes of identity and belonging prominent in her earlier work. She offers a valuable voice for immigrant youth everywhere, who are trying to navigate issues of race and class in their adopted homeland.

The Intern by Gabrielle Tozer

Why it’s good: a breezy holiday read with important life lessons

Sweet, earnest, gawky Josie has tumbled into an internship at a top women’s magazine. This isn’t her first choice – she wants to become a newspaper journalist – but a prize for the Best Intern keeps her motivated. Each week, Josie’s internship offers a glimpse into an exciting and glamorous adult life – living in a big city, meeting celebrities – although it also shows its dark side, with body image issues and online bullying. As she focuses more on her internship, she loses touch with her family and friends. Soon she has to make tough decisions about what matters most, and how to maintain her integrity.

The Intern is a fun read with coming-of-age themes. Josie is not perfect, but likeable and relatable. Gabrielle Tozer uses her own experience in magazine publishing to create an authentic setting, with just the right touch of ridiculousness. Josie’s fish-out-of-water story invites comparisons to The Devil Wears Prada; what sets them apart is the Intern’s background detail- the struggles of Josie’s mother and sister since her father left the family; the exploration of issues surrounding body image, eating disorders, the definition of success and cyberbullying. Many supporting characters are drawn with depth, and I look forward to meeting them again in the sequel, Faking It, which is now available.

The Protected by Claire Zorn

Why it’s good: a harrowing but un-putdownable read

The Protected has already won this year’s CBCA Older Readers Book of the Year, will it win an Inky as well? The Protected is not “fun” or “entertaining”, but it is mesmerising and unforgettable. It reads like a mystery – the events that lead to the current tragic situation are slowly revealed. The Protected draws readers in, empathising with Hannah, hoping against hope that she will have a happy, or at least hopeful, ending.

Hannah is a quiet, withdrawn fifteen year old, who has been shuttled from psychologist to psychologist following the death of her sister Katie. The accident that killed Katie also left Hannah’s father seriously injured, and her mother clinically depressed. When Hannah starts to connect with the school’s counsellor, the full tragedy of her situation is finally revealed. Hannah’s pain is caused by years of relentless bullying – while her cool, beautiful sister watches on. Katie’s death leads to a tangle of guilt and grief and anger that Hannah, nurtured by the glimmerings of new friendships, finally learns to deal with. The Protected is a powerful story with complex characterisation, all the effective because it is quietly, gently told.

For more information, including the shortlist for the Silver Inkys, see https://insideadog.com.au/page/inky-awards

Would you read a Banned Book?

September 24, 2015UncategorizedKaren Seligman

Two recent news stories show that book censorship is alive and well, even in “open-minded” Western countries. Coincidentally, they occur just before Banned Books Week (Sept 27 – Oct 3). Organised annually by the American Library Association, Banned Books Week aims to galvanise the whole book community – librarians, teachers, authors, booksellers, journalists and readers – to defend our freedom to read and to access information.

Paradoxically, having your book banned may be an honour of sorts, since many beloved and revered books – including To Kill a Mockingbird, Harry Potter, and The Great Gatsby – have experienced bans. Is book-banning ever justified? Read these and see for yourself:

Into the River by Ted Dawe

Into the River is a young adult novel by New Zealand author Ted Dawe, about a Maori boy who won a scholarship to an elite boarding school. It won two New Zealand Post Children’s Book Awards, in the Best Young Adult Fiction and the Margaret Mahy Book of the Year categories. This raw, gritty story has been praised for its authentic rendering of teenage behaviour; however, its references to sex, drugs and racism has attracted complaints from Family First, a conservative lobby group. An interim ban now forbids the sale, distribution or display of this book in New Zealand. Ironically, the ban has generated global interest, and may result in greater availability of this book worldwide.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
Henrietta Lacks was a poor black farmer who died in 1951. Her life was unremarkable, but her death had extraordinary consequences – her cells, taken without her knowledge or consent, became the first “immortal cell line” to be successfully propagated, enabling a range of research and ultimately leading to important medical advances including polio vaccine, chemotherapy, and gene mapping. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks is more than a simple biography or medical history, because it also raises challenging questions about race and ethics. This best-seller has won multiple awards and has been included in over 60 critics’ best of year lists. However, these accolades have not stopped a recent challenge from a Tennessee parent, who wants the book removed from her school district. Her claims of explicit language has led the author to argue that she is “confusing gynaecology with pornography”.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, by Sherman Alexie

On the one hand, this book received the most challenges (complaints/requests for removal) in the US in 2014; on the other, it is a multiple-award winner, and has been named on three ‘Best Books’ lists by the library industry. Based on Sherman Alexie’s own experiences, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a coming-of-age story about a Native American boy, who transfers to an all-white high school in search of a better education. His daily trips out of his home on an Indian Reservation, and his experiences at his new school, give him a new perspective on his culture, his family, and his own life. This book has been controversial for its references to bullying, sex, violence and drugs; however its humour and diary format is engaging and has particular appeal for reluctant readers.

You can’t read this book by Nick Cohen

The internet and social media has made more information available, and has offered more people the chance to be heard. This means free speech is safer than ever – right? In You Can’t Read This Book, Nick Cohen argues that, in fact, increased freedom is co-existing with increased censorship. He shows how the traditional opponents of free speech – religious fanaticism, plutocratic power and dictatorial states – remain powerful, with the ability to effect censorship by stealth, through influencing public discourse and legal development. Citing many examples, including the Satanic Verses, Julian Assange, evolution of libel laws and the murder of Theo Van Gogh, Nick Cohen challenges us to be complacent at their peril.

The Censor’s Library by Nicole Moore
In an archive seven storeys underground, Nicole Moore discovers 793 long-forgotten boxes of books – all banned by Australian authorities between the 1920s and 1980s. Her survey of “the books Australia is not allowed to read” reveals the history of censorship in Australia, and how it has shaped Australia’s intellectual and cultural landscape. The Censor’s Library also reflects upon the changing social, political and legal environment of twentieth century Australia. A fascinating and meticulously researched work.

Library Wars by Kiiro Yumi, from the novels by Hiro Arikawa
In Japan in the near future, the government has enacted the Media Betterment Act, resulting in widespread censorship of books and media. Public Libraries have become the last bastion of free speech, and have formed their own military – the Library Defense Force – to protect their collections and literally fight for the freedom to read. Library Wars follows the story of Iku Kasahara, an idealistic rookie as she becomes an invaluable part of the Library Defense Force. True to its shoujo (girl’s manga) style, much of the story focuses on character development and romance; however, there’s still plenty of combat action and machinations thanks to its political-thriller plot.

Take 5: Books with adult and junior versions

September 15, 2015Children, Uncategorized, Young Adult#Australian, #Autobiography, #BookReview, #Children, #YAKaren Seligman

Are you looking forward to the day when your kids will be old enough to share what you are reading, or to discuss issues you are passionate about? That day may come sooner than you think. Some great books are now available in junior versions aimed at 5-15 year olds. While many teens will enjoy the original (adult) versions, these junior editions will allow new generations of readers to access these inspiring and thought-provoking works.
Ugly: My Memoir by Robert Hoge

One recent example is Ugly, the joyous and uplifting memoir of Robert Hoge. Ugly follows Robert’s life from his birth to the birth of his daughter. His childhood is suburban and familiar, filled with childhood pranks, school camps, bad haircuts, and siblings. What makes his story extraordinary is that Robert was born significantly disfigured – a massive tumour distorted his facial features, and his legs were twisted and useless. Despite this, Robert’s family is determined to give him an ordinary upbringing. Lots of love and courage, as well as a series of groundbreaking operations, allow Robert to triumph over his difficult beginnings, and grow up to be a successful journalist, science communicator and political advisor.

Ugly by Robert Hoge

A younger readers’ version of Ugly was published in August this year, allowing 8-15 year olds to share in this inspirational story. Ugly also offers a reflection on disability, beauty and ugliness – all important issues for this age group. May have particular appeal for fans of R. J. Palacio’s Wonder.

The Happiest Refugee by Anh Do

The plight of refugees is in the spotlight once more, making this a great time to revisit this heart-warming book. The Happiest Refugee is comedian Anh Do’s memoir, which begins with his family’s escape from war-torn Vietnam. During their journey in a leaky fishing boat, Anh and his family nearly die from disease, starvation, dehydration and pirate attacks. Even when they are rescued and resettled in Australia, there is no simple Happy Ever After: Anh and his family face many hardships while they rebuild their lives. Fortunately, hard work, determination, a loving family and a sense of humour help them to overcome many difficulties and pave the way to success.

The Happiest Refugee has won many awards, and was so popular that it became a live show that toured Australia. What makes it so special is Anh’s irrepressible optimism – he can find the silver lining in even the darkest cloud.

The Little Refugee by Anh Do, illustrated by Bruce Whatley

The Little Refugee is a picture book adaptation of The Happiest Refugee, aimed at primary school students. From young Anh’s point of view, we learn about Anh’s life from his birth in Vietnam to his early years in Australia. Atmospheric illustrations by Bruce Whatley (of Diary of a Wombat fame) effectively contrast the Do Family’s frightening journey with the more humorous situations as they settle into Australian life, and emphasises how hard work, persistence and a sense of humour triumph over hardship. The Little Refugee was awarded CBCA Honour Book in the Information Book of the Year category in 2012.

The Weather Makers by Tim Flannery

The Weather Makers is the book that identifies Tim Flannery as an international authority on climate change. It is an award-winning, best selling work that has been highly influential, with endorsements by policy makers, scientists, and writers worldwide. The Weather Makers tells the climate change story – from its its history, to its current status, and onto potential future impact. It also encourages its readers to start taking action to avert the imminent climate crisis. The Weather Makers is widely admired for being authoritative and comprehensive while remaining readable and accessible to the general public.

We are the Weather Makers: the Story of Global Warming by Tim Flannery

Since Tim Flannery dedicated The Weather Makers to children, “to all of their generation who will have to live with the consequences of our decisions”, it makes sense to produce a version of the book that speaks to youth readers directly. The result is called We are the Weather Makers. It is underpinned by the same vigorous scholarship, but with updated data, and more streamlined, concise prose. While it is aimed at 10-15 year olds, We are the Weather Makers will appeal to anyone who wants a succinct version of the original, important work.

Eats, Shoots and Leaves: the Zero-Tolerance Approach to Punctuation by Lynne Truss

When Lynne Truss wrote her “small book on punctuation”, she had no idea that it would become a bestseller that reinvigorates interest in the niceties of the English language. Eats, Shoots and Leaves is more than a guide to punctuation use – it is also a lament and a call-to-arms. Through amusing anecdotes drawn from history, literature, and real signage, Lynne Truss discusses the origin and history of different punctuations and how they should be used. Eats, Shoots and Leaves manages to be witty, informative and compulsively readable, because it shows that misplaced or absent punctuation can change the meaning of sentences in dramatic and funny ways.

The Girl’s Like Spaghetti: Why, You Can’t Manage Without Apostrophes! by Lynne Truss, illustrated by Bonnie Timmons

The adult version of Eats, Shoots and Leaves has inspired two picture books illustrated by Bonnie Timmons. While Eats, Shoots and Leaves focusses on the use of commas, The Girl’s Like Spaghetti focusses on apostrophes. Each book contains double spread pages that show how dramatically meanings can change when punctuations are placed differently. For example, “the girl’s like spaghetti” may describe your best friend, while “the girls like spaghetti” sounds like a good meal! The witty illustrations allow even young children to appreciate the quirkiness of the English language, and the importance of good punctuation. Perfect for Ages 6-12.

Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser

Fast Food Nation is Eric Schlosser’s critique of the American fast food industry. He shows how the rise of fast food has resulted in many societal problems including rising obesity rates, widening income gap, labour exploitation, and potential for mass outbreaks of serious diseases (such as BSE, aka “mad cow disease”). It is also a warning for the future, as emerging economies embrace fast food as part of their yearning for a Western lifestyle. Eric Schlosser is an investigative journalist who has used a compelling narrative to make serious topics – politics, economics, health, business strategy, psychology – interesting and accessible. Fast Food Nation is a seminal work that has inspired other exposes into big businesses, such as Super Size Me and Enron: the Smartest Guys in the Room.

Chew on This by Eric Schlosser and Charles Wilson

Chew on This is an adaptation of Fast Food Nation aimed at 10-16 year olds. Eric Schlosser teams up with fellow journalist Charles Wilson to refine the original text and make it more accessible to the age groups that most favour fast food. Chew on This has retained the engaging narrative and the solid research (including footnotes) of Fast Food Nation, but is more concise and straightforward.

5 activities for a non-boring school holiday

September 15, 2015Activities, Blog, Children, Non-fiction#activities, #Children, #NonfictionKaren Seligman

Only a few more weeks until the September school holidays! The prospect of a slower pace (perhaps even a sleep-in!?) is attractive, but school holidays can also mean squabbles and excessive screen-time if the kids are at a loose end. So here are some activities that can lure your young’uns from the couch / TV / e-devices while stretching their creativity and imagination! They are also great resources for nurturing an existing interest.

These ideas have been inspired by the excellent programs run by our librarian friends around the country. Many public libraries have free or low-cost events specially designed for children and youth – these can range from theatre shows, games tournaments, craft sessions, to how-to workshops. Some libraries even have specialist equipment such as recording studios and 3D printers – and will teach you how to use them. So do check out your local library to see what they are offering these school holidays!

For those who like drawing / cartooning:
Kids Draw Big Book of Everything Manga by Christopher Hart

Christopher Hart is a bestselling author of how-to-draw books. He has guides catering to all ages from young children to adults, and to all skill levels. Kids Draw Big Book of Everything Manga is a beginner’s guide for middle-primary students, just starting to develop their own characters. It starts with basic style elements that define a manga-style drawing, then offers stepwise instructions on how to draw typical characters, poses and equipment for genres such as monsters, fantasy and shoujo.

For those who like computer games:
Scratch for Kids for Dummies by Derek Breen

If you love computer games, why not try to create your own? Scratch is a visual programming language that is easy to learn, allowing users to quickly start creating their own stories, animations and games. (Users build projects by joining chunks of ready-made code together, like virtual LEGO). There is also a version for younger children called ScratchJr available as a tablet app. It is available free of charge and has impeccable educational credentials – created at the MIT Media Lab specifically to help children learn computer programming.

Scratch for Kids for Dummies can be used as a troubleshooting guide as well as a complete beginner’s course in Scratch. It is divided into three sections – character design, animation and games creation. Like other For Dummies guides, it feels approachable – it is easy to read and has clear stepwise instructions with lots of illustrations. Each chapter also ends with ideas for extending your skills. Available in both paperback and eBook formats.

For those who love the outdoors:
Cronin’s Key Guide to Australian Wildlife by Leonard Cronin

The September Holidays is a great opportunity to head outdoors and enjoy some long-awaited warmth and sunshine. Some local councils and libraries run a Junior Rangers program during school holidays to encourage young people to visit local parks. Junior Rangers learn about nature and conservation through activities such as guided walks, wildlife and plant identification, puzzles and games.

Create your own Junior Ranger activities using Cronin’s guides. The Guide to Australian Wildlife offers a general introduction to plants and animals for a range of habitats including coral reefs, rain forests, woodlands and deserts. Other titles in this series focus on specific topics such as trees, wildflowers, mammals, reptiles, and rainforest plants. Each entry is beautifully illustrated and contains a detailed description including information on location, size, type of habitat, diet etc. Cronin’s Guides can be useful whether you are travelling or even at home – there’s a surprising variety of birds and wildlife even in suburbia!

For anyone who loves LEGO:
LEGO Awesome Ideas by Daniel Lipkowitz

Hot off the press is this latest book of ideas to help LEGO builders extend their play and stretch their imagination. Following from the success of the LEGO Ideas Book (2011) and LEGO Play Book (2013), Daniel Lipkowitz now shows builders how to create whole imaginary worlds starting from a single creation.

LEGO Awesome Ideas is arranged in themed chapters, such as Outer Space and The Wild West. In each chapter, it offers suggestions on what to build, how to build and what else to build, to help fans go from a single creation to developing a complete LEGO world. Each topic is richly illustrated, including with step-by-step instructions and visual break-downs for clear guidance.

For those who love cooking, science and/or getting messy:
Kitchen Science Lab for Kids: 52 Family friendly Experiments from around the House by Liz Lee Heinecke

Using everyday objects to demonstrate science is a great way to engage kids and facilitate their understanding. Kitchen Science Lab for Kids contains 52 simple experiments based on common and inexpensive materials. The experiments are grouped by type (such as acids and bases, sunny science and life science), and cover key principles in chemistry, physics, and biology. Each experiment includes step-by-step instructions, safety tips, a discussion of the relevant scientific principles and an extension activity. They are simple enough that young children can participate, while interesting enough to appeal to teens.

Children who like to cook will also enjoy these experiments – after all, the process of gathering ingredients then carefully following a set of instructions is common to both cooking and to science!

Inside Out

August 28, 2015Booko, Children#BookReview, #ChildrensLiteratureKaren Seligman

Inside Out is Disney / Pixar’s big mid-year movie release. This engaging story about a young girl and her five emotions (Joy, Disgust, Fear, Anger and Sadness) has been praised for its accurate portrayal of psychology, and its positive messages about the value of different emotions.

If the children in your life are interested in, or have enjoyed Inside Out, this can be an opportunity to discuss how to recognise and manage emotions. Here are some additional resources, suitable for different ages, to help you further that conversation.

For the youngest children:

When I’m Feeling Lonely by Trace Moroney (and other titles)
Trace Moroney has written a series of picture books, each focussing on a single emotion (such as anger, jealousy, kindness, love). She uses a bunny character and lots of descriptive language to help children understand what each emotion means, and how to deal with it. Each book also contains teaching notes written by child psychologists for carers / teachers.

My Big Shouting Day by Rebecca Patterson

My Big Shouting Day won the Roald Dahl Funny Prize and it is easy to see why. Bella is having a Big Shouting Day because nothing seems right – it’s either too hot, too cold, too wet and even too minty! Luckily, her very patient mum reminds Bella that everyone has those days sometimes, and that things may be better tomorrow. Parents and children alike may giggle at the all-too-familiar situations and the increasingly frazzled expression on Mum’s face (After reading this book, my friend laughed, then ruefully said “this is not comedy, it’s documentary”). The ending, with a cuddle and a shy apology, is upbeat and reassuring.

For early- to middle-primary:

Inside Out Driven by Emotions by Elise Allen and the Disney Book Group
This is a novelisation of the movie, aimed at junior readers. Each of its five chapters is a retelling of the Inside Out story from the perspective of a different emotion – Joy, Anger, Fear, Disgust and Sadness. A creative way to illustrate how different emotions can change our perception of events.

The Emotions’ Survival Guide
This non-fiction accompaniment to the Inside Out movie aims to be a survival guide for school-aged children, with expert advice on how to recognise and deal with feelings. Available for pre-order (to be published September 2015)

For pre-teens and teens:

Understanding Myself: a Kid’s Guide to Intense Emotions and Strong Feelings by Mary C. Lamia

Understanding Myself is written by a clinical psychologist with over 30 years’ experience. It defines and explores 18 feelings, including love, envy, shame, loneliness and anxiety, in a supportive and non-judgmental way. Not only can this book be used by young people to understand and manage their emotions, its vocabulary offers a framework to help them articulate and discuss their concerns with peers and adults.

Don’t Let Your Emotions Run Your Life for Teens by Sheri Van Dijk

Teenagers often have to deal with new experiences and emotions that leave them feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope. This is a workbook that uses a structured approach to guide teens on how to stay calm in difficult situations, reduce the pain of intense emotions, and manage overwhelming feelings. The techniques are based on dialectical behaviour therapy, a clinical tool designed to help change unhelpful patterns of behaviour.

#LoveOzYA and great Aussie reads for teens

August 26, 2015Blog#Bookawards, #BookReview, #LoveOzYAKaren Seligman

Today we round-off our spotlight on the Children’s Book Council of Australia awards by looking at winners in the Older Readers category. One interesting fact is that all three honoured authors are first-time or early career novelists!

Book of the Year (Older Readers)

Winner: The Protected by Claire Zorn

Hannah’s sister Katie has been dead nearly a year, irretrievably shattering her family’s lives. Since then she has been shuttled from psychologist to psychologist – but who wouldn’t have problems when they have a depressed mum, an injured dad and a dead sister? When she starts to connect with the school’s counsellor, the full tragedy of Hannah’s situation is finally revealed – she has been a victim of extended bullying, while her cool, beautiful sister stood by. This is the story of how Hannah slowly deals with her grief, hurt and guilt, nurtured by the glimmerings of new friendships.

I was devastated by Hannah’s story, particularly the depictions of bullying, how poisonous but random these vicious acts can be. The characters are complex – particularly the deceased Katie – and far removed from cliches. The complexity of their feelings for each other is unexpected and riveting.

Claire Zorn is an exciting new author whose two novels have both received critical acclaim. While her debut novel, The Sky so Heavy, was a CBCA Honour book last year, The Protected has done one better by winning the Older Readers Book of the Year. The Protected has also won the Young Adult prize in the Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards.

Honour book: Nona and Me by Clare Atkins

Rosie is a white girl living in the Aboriginal community of Yirrkala in Arnhem Land. Her family was adopted into that community years ago; Rosie grew up with Nona, an Aboriginal girl who became her sister – Yapa. They were inseparable until Nona went away at age nine.

Fast forward six years and Rosie is at the mainstream (i.e. mainly white) high school in the nearby mining town. She is navigating through familiar teenage minefields – trying to conform, to fit in, crushing on a cute boy. When Nona returns unexpectedly, Rosie’s Aboriginal links become a source of tension. Will she risk prejudice and exclusion, in order to reconnect with Nona?

Nona & Me is a powerful story about friendship, community and being true to oneself. It also presents an unusual take on being caught between two cultures. Nona and Nick, both crucial to the story, remain somewhat elusive – I would like to get to know them better. Clare Atkins is a first-time author with a background in screenwriting. Nona & Me was written while Clare lived in the Aboriginal community of Yirrkala, and contains significant input from its Yolnu community.

Honour book: The Minnow by Diana Sweeney

The Minnow is Diana Sweeney’s first novel. It had already won an award as an unpublished manuscript (the Text Prize for Young Adult and Children’s Writing, in 2013) so it is no surprise that the published version is also a critical success. Tom is a fourteen-year-old girl adjusting to life after her personal apocalypse – a massive flood that has killed the rest of her family and destroyed much of her town. After leaving an abusive environment, a pregnant Tom seeks refuge by moving in with her best friend, Jonah. Tom’s bond with Jonah, her wise and vivacious Nana, and with The Minnow – her name for her unborn child – slowly allow her to process her grief and move on with her life.

The Minnow deals with some confronting topics – Death, grief and abuse – but it is not grim. Instead it is melancholy, dreamlike and somewhat surreal, due to Tom’s regular conversations with her dead family, Oscar the pet carp, and Sarah the catfish (that just may be Tom’s dead sister). Is Tom unhinged, or is she constructing an alternative reality in her mind? However you interpret this, it does not detract from Tom’s appeal – she is strong and steadfast and utterly admirable. And mature – it is hard to remember she is only fourteen.

These prize winners represent only a tiny fraction of a diverse and vibrant local industry. Recently the Australian YA community – authors, teachers, librarians and booksellers – have used the #LoveOzYA hashtag to publicise the quality and range of Australian YA. This is to counter the overwhelming attention given to blockbuster imports such as Hunger Games and Fault in Our Stars, supported by the significant marketing budgets of big publishers and film studios.

Search for “#LoveOzYA readalikes” on the internet and you will find many suggestions of great Aussie reads that explore similar territory to your favourite overseas authors. Some of these readalikes include:

For fans of paranormal romance try Alexandra Adornetto’s Halo series

For stories with a multicultural perspective try Alice Pung’s Laurinda,

For fans of dark fantasy try Margo Lanagan’s Sea Hearts

For fans of John Green try Zac and Mia by A.J. Betts

For fans of morally ambiguous stories try Justine Larbalestier’s Liar

Book Week Picks for primary-aged readers

August 25, 2015Booko#Awards, #BookReview, #CBCA, #ChildrensLiteratureKaren Seligman

Children’s Book Week is an annual celebration of Australian children’s publishing, and the authors and illustrators who contribute to this vibrant industry. Look out for activities, such as special story time sessions, offered by your local schools and public libraries as part of the celebrations.

Book Week also means the CBCA Children’s Book of the Year awards, whose winners were announced last Friday (August 21). Last week we looked at shortlisted titles in the Early Childhood category. This week, we spotlight the winning titles in two categories particularly suited to primary-aged children – the Younger Readers award and the Picture Book of the Year award.

Book of the Year (Younger Readers)

This year’s winners are diverse in both style and target ages.

Winner: The Cleo Stories by Libby Gleeson (illustrated by Freya Blackwood)

Libby Gleeson and Freya Blackwood have achieved outstanding results at this year’s awards, with two of their co-creations taking out top honours (the other title, Go to Sleep, Jessie! has won the Early Childhood Book of the Year). Once again, they demonstrate their skill at observing the minutiae of daily life, and at detailing the dramas of childhood with understanding and affection.

The Cleo Stories contain two short stories about Cleo, an imaginative six-year-old. The first thing you notice about this book is its beautiful design – thick silky pages packed with full-colour illustrations. It is halfway between picture book and chapter book, and is perfect for early-to-middle-primary readers.

In the first story,’The Necklace’, Cleo desperately wants a necklace of her own, but she will only be given one on her birthday – which is so far away that Cleo decides to come up with a better solution. Then in ‘The Present’, Cleo is trying to find the perfect present for her mum’s birthday – something that is just from her. These stories show the enterprising Cleo solving her dilemmas with enthusiasm, creativity and humour. A sequel is already in progress and will be available later this year.

Honour Book: Two Wolves by Tristan Bancks
This dark mystery-thriller is a departure for Tristan Bancks, previously known for sassy school stories for pre-teens and teens. Ben is a slightly-chubby, slightly-gawky boy who just loves the comfort and security of his bedroom. Then the Police arrive at Ben’s house looking for his parents. Minutes after they leave, his parents arrive and bundle Ben and his little sister Olive into their car to go on a “holiday”. But Ben’s parents behave strangely – they are not using their credit-cards or mobile phones, they cut their hair and they lie to the police – what’s going on? As Ben uses his amateur detective skills to gather evidence and understand the events, he realises that his parents are in serious trouble, and that he has some tough decisions to make.

First and foremost, Two Wolves is a tense, action-packed story. Tristan Bancks’ background in acting and filmmaking is evident in his vivid descriptions, and dramatic opening – readers are thrown straight into the action, creating many questions that are slowly resolved as the story progresses. The language has a terse rhythm that builds a sense of urgency and threat.

What lifts it out of the ordinary is the convincing portrayal of flawed characters, and of Ben’s personal growth – his developing resourcefulness, self-belief and ability to make difficult decisions. Those moral and ethical dilemmas – about right and wrong, honesty and loyalty, also test us readers and hold our interest right to the last page.

Honour Book: Withering-by-Sea: a Stella Montgomery Intrigue by Judith Rossell
This Honour Book commendation caps off a successful year for Withering-by-Sea, which has already won two awards – the Indie Book Awards (Children’s and YA Book of the Year), and the Australian Book Industry Awards (Book of the Year for Older Children).

High on a cliff in the town of Withering-by-Sea stands the faded glory of the Hotel Majestic. Here, Stella feels stifled by the strict and dull upbringing given her by three dreaded Aunts. She is constantly getting in trouble for unladylike behaviour, because she prefers adventure to deportment and needlework. One day, while hiding in the hotel’s Conservatory with her Atlas, she sees a man hiding a package in a potted fern. Thereafter she is swept along in a mystery that is full of danger, black magic and even singing cats!

Judith Rossell has used period language and the conventions of the Victorian Gothic genre to great effect, resulting in a moody, spooky mystery. The cold mist-wreathed setting seems quintessentially English and echoes the misery of Stella’s predicament. The illustrations, similar in style to Edward Gorey, add great visual impact. A subplot relating to Stella’s mysterious background and parentage is intriguing and paves the way for future instalments.

Picture Book of the Year

Books considered for the Picture Book of the Year award are typically aimed at older children but can be enjoyed by all ages (including adults!). Compared to the Early Childhood category, these stories tend to be more complex, and may also include mature or challenging themes such as death or trauma.

Winner: My Two Blankets by Freya Blackwood and Irena Kobald

2015 is a great year for Freya Blackwood. She has just won a hat-trick at the CBCA awards – each of her three shortlisted titles (Go to Sleep, Jessie!, The Cleo Stories and My Two Blankets) has won in its category. In fact, she is the first creator in the awards’ 70-year history to have been honoured three times in the same year. These wins add to her already impressive tally of past honours, including three previous CBCA wins, and the Kate Greenaway Medal, a prestigious international prize for illustrators.

My Two Blankets offers a child’s perspective on life as a refugee. Cartwheel left her home to escape the war, and has sought safety in a new country. Everything is strange in her new home, making Cartwheel feel isolated and lonely. She seeks comfort in her own language – her “old blanket” of familiar words and sounds. Then Cartwheel meets a friendly girl at the park. As their friendship grows, Cartwheel gains new words – words that she uses to weave a new blanket that is just as comfortable as her old one.

Irena Kobald’s heartwarming story of friendship and acceptance marries beautifully with Freya Blackwood’s gentle, dreamy illustrations. The use of colour and the creative depiction of the abstract concept of ”language” are particularly noteworthy.

Honour Book: One Minute’s Silence by Michael Camilleri and David Metzenthen

A roomful of bored modern-day students are led to imagine themselves in the midst of the Gallipoli campaign as they observe one minute’s silence. One minute’s silence is enough to imagine the thousands of wild colonial boys charging into relentless gunfire; it is also enough to imagine how the Turks felt, trying to defend their homes and their lives, as they watch slouch-hatted strangers run uphill towards them.

One Minute’s Silence is a heartbreaking story conveyed by considered, evocative language and intricate illustrations packed with meaning. By showing the Battle of Gallipoli from both sides, the story extends beyond the history of a single battle, but instead reflects upon the senselessness and horror of all wars. It is a visually stunning, affecting addition to the range of books created to commemorate the centenary of World War One. One Minute’s Silence deserves every one of the three honours it gained in this year’s CBCA Awards – winner of the Crichton Award for New Illustrators, Honour Book in the Picture Book category, as well as Notable Book in the Information Book category.

Honour Book: The Stone Lion by Ritva Voutila and Margaret Wild

Sometimes, stone animals get a chance to become warm, breathing creatures for a short time – if they desire it greatly with a generous heart. The stone lion outside the library longs to become alive, to run free. He is finally granted his wish one snowy day, but two young children desperately need his help – will he sacrifice his own desires for their sake?

The Stone Lion is a poignant story about compassion and selflessness, and also a celebration of libraries.
We see and rejoice in the lion’s transformation from heartless and indifferent – unable to comprehend human emotions – to humanity, with the ability to sympathise and the desire to help.

Margaret Wild is a well-loved author who has won the CBCA Picture Book of the Year award three times in a career of over thirty years. The period setting used in Ritva Voutila’s drawings makes this story dreamy and timeless – a bittersweet fable reminiscent of Oscar Wilde’s The Happy Prince.

Book Week Picks – Early Childhood Book of the Year

August 17, 2015Booko, Children#Awards, #BookReview, #ChildrensLiterature, #EarlyChildhoodKaren Seligman

Book Week is fast approaching – as advertisements spruiking dress-ups remind us. Book Week also means the CBCA (Children’s Book Council of Australia) Book of the Year Awards, the most prestigious awards in Australian children’s publishing. This year’s winners will be announced on Friday 21st August, the day before Book Week, a week long celebration of children’s books, literacy and publishing, from August 22-28.

This year, CBCA celebrates its 70th anniversary with the theme “Books light up our World”. Here’s a run down of the different award categories and some titles to watch out for.

Book of the Year (Early Childhood)

The Early Childhood category was first awarded in 2001, to differentiate these works from ones judged under the general Picture Book of the Year category, that may contain more mature, challenging subject matter. The need for two separate awards in picture storybooks reflect a growth and diversification of this format away from the idea that “picture books are only for young children”. In fact, a picture is still worth a thousand words, and the combination of text and graphics offers a multi-layered, powerful approach to storytelling.

This year’s shortlist is dominated by established authors and illustrators, many of whom are past winners.

To further your reading experience, many of these titles come with teaching notes available from the publisher’s websites.

A House of her Own by Jenny Hughes and Jonathan Bentley
Audrey is bigger than she was yesterday, so now she needs a bigger house – a house of her own. Luckily, Dad is there to help her build a wonderful house at the top of a tree, with a bathtub for snorkelling, a blue bed for hiding secrets under – everything that a girl could want. However, when it’s time to turn in, Audrey is not so sure that being big is such a good idea afterall…

Jenny Hughes and Jonathan Bentley have created a delightful heroine and an endearing story. The story, told almost entirely through dialogue, builds a vivid picture of a loving father-daughter relationship (with a single-parent subtext), and captures the essence of an almost-big girl who wants independence but who also longs for security.

Scary Night by Lesley Gibbes and Stephen Michael King

Stephen Michael King is a prolific and versatile author/illustrator who has three works shortlisted for this year’s CBCA awards – two in the Early Childhood category, and The Duck and the Darklings competing for the Picture Book of the Year. In Scary Night, he illustrates the story of first-time author Lesley Gibbes.

Once upon a scary night, a hare, a cat and a pig set out on a journey. They must keep going, even though there are lots of dangers lurking! The story unfolds into a happy surprise as the friends finally reach their destination. The use of repetition and sound effects in the text ramps up the pace and fills it with tension; it is perfect for a dramatic read-aloud. The cute-but-spooky illustrations – I especially love the wide-eyed apprehension in the friends’ faces – will bring delicious shivers to the audience.

Go to Sleep, Jessie! by Libby Gleeson and Freya Blackwood

Libby Gleeson and Freya Blackwood are both multiple award-winners with formidable track-records at the CBCA awards. This year, two of their collaborations – Go to Sleep, Jessie! and The Cleo Stories – are shortlisted for the Early Childhood and the Younger Readers awards, respectively. Moreover, Freya Blackwood has also been shortlisted for the Picture Book of the Year Award, as illustrator for My Two Blankets.

Baby Jessie screams every night at bedtime. Mum, Dad and Jessie’s big sister try all sorts of tricks to help Jessie sleep but the peace and quiet never lasts. The big sister (narrator) grows increasingly frustrated and looks set to snap… fortunately an endearing twist gives the story a gentle, happy ending.

Go to Sleep, Jessie! is a charming, tender story reminiscent of the award-winning The Runaway Hug, that will resonate with many parents (and older siblings!). Once again Libby Gleeson and Freya Blackwood show their great skill in illuminating the drama of everyday life. The use of some comic strip-style layouts add visual flow to the illustrations that help to propel the action.

Other shortlisted titles are:

Snail and Turtle are Friends by Stephen Michael King

A very simple, gentle and cute story about Snail and Turtle, friends who love to spend time together even though they are different. The humour and cheerfulness is guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face. This is the second of three works by Stephen Michael King in this year’s awards.

Pig the Pug by Aaron Blabey

Pig the Pug is greedy and selfish in every way. When Pig refuses to share his toys, it starts a chain of events that leads to a nasty end for Pig! The rollicking rhymes and Aaron Blabey’s distinctive drawings will have children following the story with gleeful giggles. A sequel, Pig the Fibber, is just released and already a bestseller.

Noni the Pony Goes to the Beach by Alison Lester

Noni the Pony is friendly and funny. In this new adventure, Noni and her farmyard friends have lots of adventures on a fun day at the beach. It has the same musical rhymes and adorable illustrations of its predecessor and is a joyful story for even the youngest children.

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