Just Write For Kids

Instilling a sense of wonder in children enriches their minds, but giving them steps towards turning ‘wonders’ into realities, empowers their actions. I Wonder is a powerful story that both enlightens children’s imaginations and encourages their motivation to make changes for something as real and important as the world we live in. Allison Paterson, extraordinary author of historical fiction and non-fiction books of war, such as the Australia Remembers series, Anzac Sons and Follow After Me, now brings us this enchanting, timely tale of saving our future – something that young readers can literally take into their own hands. Her whimsically told story of the wonders of an inanimate object brought to life, appeals masterfully to children’s senses and inquiring minds… what would we wonder about if we were a discarded old toy at the beach? Sea life and marine animals, and odd bits of rubbish, stumble across the forgotten little wooden boat’s path – the pollution clearly affecting the health of the ocean and its surroundings. And the wooden boat wonders; is it rubbish, too? Illustrator Nancy Bevington adds meaning and depth to the narrative with her stunning visual literacy, eliciting further thought and discussion amongst readers. The fluid watercolours in muted primary-colour tones lend beautifully to the earthy environment with the red pops and sequenced vignettes leading the eye on the wooden boat’s physical and emotional journey of deterioration. This metaphor is utilised brilliantly; showing the changes of its peeling paint and torn sails both in text and illustrations. The repetitive use of language carries through, tying the messages of curiosity, of re-cycling, re-using and repurposing unwanted items, and of cleaning up after ourselves and others. Combining both the beautiful landscape scenery throughout, with a final take-away piece of information about the dangers of plastics to sea animals, and useful ideas for readers to ponder, and wonder, I Wonder is a fulfilling, enriching and encouraging book for all early childhood and primary-aged children. This imaginative nature book, as a part of Big Sky Publishing’s Caring For Our World initiative, is brimming with life (old and new), care, kindness, resourcefulness, sustainability, and wonder. A refreshing, playful and powerful story that will sweep its readers along on a salient journey of self- and worldly-reflection.

Doesn’t get much cuter… Hello, Baby! is the sweetest introduction to the world! Beginning with expecting parents, such a joy and marvel it is to welcome a newborn baby into our hearts, and watch them learn and grow into special little persons – even if they are of the adorable animal varieties. Shelly Unwin and Jedda Robaard team together to create a truly precious gift to new parents; a book they can share and treasure with their little bundle to celebrate their entrance into the world – now and forever. The soothing rhyme and soft-toned illustrations lend beautifully to the love of baby’s fingers and toes, tiny button nose, and newborn eyes – it’s literally a snuggly hug emanating from the pages. Reminiscent of the year that was, as well as a look to the bright future ahead, this book baby is truly a miracle!