Seven New Children's Books that Shouldn't be Missed

In this post I review 8 books that are suitable for children aged 6-10 years. Most are from Walker Books, a publisher that continues to produce wonderful books for readers in this age group. I will review them in age order, with the books for the youngest readers first.

1. 'Be the Bus: The Lost and Found Wisdom of The Pigeon, as told to Mo Willems' Written by Mo Willems 

This hilarious picture book has a helpful intro from who else but 'The Bus Driver'! He is fascinated by tough questions, like "What is the best stop for the centre'? Or "WHY can't The Pigeon drive the bus?" Of course this is no ordinary pigeon, but it seems the Pigeon has other passions and gifts.

And another contribution from Pigeon, "Genius is seldom recognised." Of course, Pigeon solves this by always wearing a badge that says "Hello, I am a GENIUS." And of course, wer should all pretend to have "an active imagination."

Readers 6-8 will laugh their heads of as they read this book again and again; alone but often with other readers.

2. "Friendly Bee and Friends" by Sean E Avery in similar vane to Mo Willems offers two hillarious books under the banner of "Friendly Bee and Friends" but with two books.

a) 'Friendly Bee and Friends!

It's hard to believe that a Bee and a Wasp could be 'friends', just suspend disbelief. Having Bee as a friend can be dangerous. When Bee assures Wasp that he should wear a dress for a party hosted by a giant spider, he is doubtful, but Bee convinces him that it's perfect. But it seems the dress makes his wings useless. In the second part of the book we meet some 'Pessimistic Friends' (you know 'Oh woe is me!). But even a worse 'Not-so-hairy' friend arrives, 'Angry Wasp'!

The book is in four parts, Part 1 'Grumpy Friends', Part 2 'Boring Friends', Part 3 'Hairy Friends' and Part 4 'Fabulous Friends'. There is such great wisdom in these pages, so don't be put off by Pigeon's statement "that everything has already been said"! As we know it was Plato who said, "Never trust a quotation." 

Children aged 5-6 won't be able to stop reading this book and sharing them with their friends.

b) 'Friendly Bee and Friends: Woe is for Worm' in Three Parts

In this book a Bee decides that she and Wasp need to be best friends. But Wasp is a reluctant friend. However, Bee is persistent and somehow seems to take charge. He wants to find something that Wasp will like. Perhaps flowers? Or wait on, how about ice cream?! When Bee tries to steal a boys ice cream cone, Wasp comes to the rescue. The fun and madness with Bee and Wasp continues until an enormous 6 eyed scary spider captures them both for his supper. How will this end? You'll love reading it to your young readers aged 5-6 and you'll see them trying to read it themselves too!

3. 'Riz Chester' by R.A. Stephens

Once again we have two books under one banner with common characters and the central character 'Riz Chester'. Each is illustrated by Em Hammond. They are suitable for readers aged 6-7. 

a) 'Riz Chester - The Fingerprint CODE' by R.A. Stephens & illustrated by Em Hammond.

Riz Chester juts LOVES mysteries. She has a special interest in forensic science, and just LOVES to organize forensic parties for her friends and family. But when real life collides with her creative genius, she is ready to solve the crime.

Riz also loves mystery parties that she plans for her friends, Lachie A, Lochie C (no I haven't made a spelling mistake), Jenny and Sabrina. All are interested in science. For example, Riz sets up a party centred on finger printing. Table 1 is where they do the fingerprinting. Table 2 has the moulds ready to match the prints. And it doesn't stop there, she moves us on to:

• Making moulds of animal tracks
• Fingerprinting & footprinting
• Forensics

Where will this investigation end? Just get the book and find out. 

b) 'Riz Chester - The Evidence Track' by R.A. Stephens & illustrated by Em Hammond.

Riz is getting ready for a party at his house. But this is no ordinary party. This mystery party was itself inspired by past mystery-solving. His interest in solving things came after he found a bag of counterfeit money in a shopping centre.  

 To solve mysteries he needs lots of stuff like picnic tables for the sleuths. Gear for fingerprinting, moulds and more. Riz is always thinking about weird stuff. His friends Sabrina and Pieter are coming and everyone is excited. They learn about how animal tracks are different, and how to mould them.

But then, a real opportunity appears; a robbery at the local petrol station. And when they discover some large footprints in their front yard after seeing some movement, the speculation and investigation begins. This is a delightful book that would be investigators will love.

 

 

4. 'How to Avoid Being Eaten by Sharks and Other Advice' by John Larking & Illustrated by Chrissie Krebs

This funny book is a collection of hilarious, nonsensical, witty and mischievous subjects - the best (and worst) advice for growing up. The author John Larking, relates his tried and tested advice for navigating the mysteries of life, with a sprinkling of some the facts and history he’s discovered along the way.

How can you avoid being eaten by sharks? What does it mean to ‘skateboard’ someone? Is there a chance you could be abducted by aliens? Are there zombies hiding under your brother’s bed?

If you're scared by sharks Larking suggests you might live in Liechtenstein, that has had "zero shark attacks"!Of course, this is a land locked nation many miles from the sea. In Australia a number of the very rare attacks have occurred in creeks connected to the ocean. Did you know that only nine people were killed by sharks worldwide in 2021. While roughly 450 people die from falling out of bed each year.

There is one sure-fire method to avoid being eaten by sharks. Don’t go in the ocean. Although in Australia, a number of the very rare attacks have occurred in creeks connected to the ocean.

In this hilarious guide, John Larkin relates his tried and tested advice for navigating the mysteries of life, with a sprinkling of some the facts and history he’s discovered along the way. Accompanied by entertaining comic-style illustrations from Chrissie Krebs, this is an education not to be missed!

Of course, this book has more advice than just avoiding sharks. For example, 'Is the Earth really Flat'? How can you translate parent speak? Ah, this book provides a very comprehensive (and very funny) account some of the key concerns in our world.

5. 'One Wise Sheep' by Ulrich Hub and illustrated by Jorg Muhle (translated by Helena Kirkby).

This story is set in 4 BC. The shepherds who care for the sheep have mysteriously left! Tonight, the sheep can't sleep. The pasture is floodlit by a strange new star and their shepherds have disappeared. It is a very dark night with no moon when suddenly, lit up as something bright zooms across the sky. The sheep are scared and puzzled.

But why have the shepherds gone!? Their back packs have been left behind. Perhaps the shepherds have been kidnapped by a UFO. It seems one sheep was a witness to what happened that night.

"I woke in the middle of the night... I felt a weird tingling and prickling all over my body. Then a huge, silent, glowing apparition floated down. Out of nowhere this voice started singing."

It said "fear not: for, behold, I bring good tidings. The shepherds were scared then a host of angels appeared in our field singing praises. I think I even heard trumpets."

What could they do? Well, head off to find out more about this event and what is going on. On the way, they meet an exhausted donkey who needs to have a rest. The sheep survive a river crossing and ferocious wolves in their quest and reach a 'Box Office'!?! They are told, "you needed pre-booked tickets?" They had missed it. The special person had left. So they head home to a very happy shepherd who thought he had lost them. 

This little book is hardly a faithful retelling of the story of Jesus, but it is an amusing story of what this great even might have meant for some hapless sheep.

6. 'Ducky The Spy - Expect the Unexpected!' by Sean & Avery

You should always expect the unexpected from Sean & Avery. Once again they have produced a very funny who-dunnit story with its crazy characters from across the farm yard. 

This new graphic novel from Sean E Avery will engage readers aged 6-8, with its laugh-out-loud who-dunnit ridiculousness.

A thief on the farm. A goat kidnapped by a gang of cats. A giant chicken. Ducky the Spy and Donny the Donkey “The Distraction” are on the case. These are no ordinary characters. Donny, for a start gets very 'Gassy', so stand back. But that's not all, 'Gretta' the chicken becomes involved too and is the master of making handy gadgets.

This funny book is from the internationally renowned creator of Frank’s Red Hat. This new terrific tale is "fresh from the funny, and funky, farm".

6 New Picture Books to Bring Joy & Laughter

1. 'Merry Christmas, Little Wombat!' Written & Illustrated by Charles Fuge

This book is a wonderful take on an Aussie Christmas. A group of animal friends decide to have their own special Christmas at the beach. The fun starts with a lucky dip for all the goodies in Mrs Roo's pouch! Joey the baby Kangaroo went first and pulled a wooden whistle from mother's pouch. Echidna was next, but Mrs Kangaroo suggested perhaps Little Wombat should dip into the pouch - out came a shaker!

Soon everyone had an instrument and the party on the beach began. The band marched and sang "Oh Christmas Tree, oh Christmas Tree" and even Platypus, and Rainbow Lorikeet joined in. Mother wombat came with goodies to eat and Echidna was decorated to act as the Christmas tree, with a Starfish on top!

"MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE" they all cheered!  

2. 'Mr Santa', Written & Illustrated by Jarvis

When a little girl wakes up one Christmas Eve, she is very surprised to see Mr Santa delivering gifts! As you would, she gives him a cup of tea, she makes sure he has wiped his shoes, and gives him a tour of house. It's a great chance to ask him questions. Lots of questions!

Can Santa eat clouds? Does he stop at traffic lights? Is his belly button an innie or outie? Does he like cats or dogs? Can reindeer talk? 

And the little girl just knew her brother was on Santa's list as a 'naughty boy'! Finally, Santa takes her to visit his house!

With his signature warmth and visual humour, Jarvis channels the excitement and joy of every child who has dreamed of meeting the love able guy who personifies the most magical night of the year. The little girl had just one question later, "was it real"?

Such a lovely book. Children aged 3-6 will love it!

3. 'Socks: A Kid's Christmas Lament' by J.D. McPherson & illustrated by Anika Orrock

JD McPherson is a singer-songwriter and guitarist from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Her illustrator Anika Orrock is a writer and cartoonist from Nashville, Tennessee. This alone should tweak your interest! I'm sure many a child (and adult) has opened their presents to find the good old 'standby' gift of SOCKS!! Handy for the Dad or Granddad, who are hard to choose gifts for, but a little kid?!?!

In this book, the author "pays hilarious homage to a stereotypical bad gift―and its disappointed recipients―in a deftly extended picture-book version of his song."

One very disappointed little boy searches everywhere for his presents while Mum & Dad are still in bed. But no! Not socks again?!# He rummages through the laundry, but even there he finds just dirty sock. If only he'd peeked inside the dryer.

"Brought to energetic life in droll, retro artwork by Anika Orrock. Anika illustrated the album cover and liner, Socks will prove a perfect fit for anyone who has ever gotten stressed over holiday gift-giving―and everyone, big or small, who’s come to appreciate the love wrapped up in even the humblest present. Includes a QR code to the Socks song".

This is a very funny book that is beautifully illustrated by Anika Orrock, who makes a special contribution to the work with her hillarious illustrations.

4. 'Don't  Let the Pigeon Drive the Sleigh' Written & Illustrated by Mo Willems

Mo Willems is well known to readers of children's books. He is a #1 best selling New York Times bestselling, and winner of many awards as an author and illustrator.

We often feel as if there are no more new and novel Christmas stories to tell, but no! When Santa ducks off to wrap some presents, and says to Pigeon "can you watch things for me?" Pigeon sees an opportunity and thinks, "can I drive the sleigh!?!" In fact, he ponders, "it would be a Christmas MIRACLE!" Now what could go wrong? He's sure he can do Santa stuff! He could drive the sleigh. But "where's the clutch? Or the steer-y thing? Or the honky thing? What even makes it go?"

But when he notices a horrible smell and comes face-to-face with a big reindeer, he rushes home to take on a more modest task. He will deliver some wonderful Christmas eggs!

This would be a wonderful book to read to children aged 3-6. The three-time Caldecott Honoree Mo Willems' delivers his ninth Pigeon book, and as usual, it will be well loved by many children.

5. 'The Welcome Cookies' Written by Kaye Baillie & illustrated by Kirrili Lonergan

Everyone loves a cafe. They might look a little different in Australia to cafes in France, England or the USA, but we love the fact that this special community 'hub' is there for us.

A visit each Friday was thing that meant normal, special, something always there. So, when she went on holidays for four weeks, it meant missing out on "four whole visits to the cafe". What to do? She decided to paint a surprise picture for Mrs Plum. But when she arrives home and skips to the cafe to give it to Mrs Plum, Mabel finds the café under renovation by someone new.

As the weeks go by she continues to miss her favourite cafe and Miss Plum’s smiles. Some weeks later, the café reopens, again and Mabel reluctantly visits it with her mother. Will this new place provide Mabel with the same joy she felt in the old place? And will she accept its differences?

In 'The Welcome Cookies', Mabel witnesses what she perceives to be the destruction of a place she loved. But the story shows how even though we can mourn the loss of a place and miss seeing people, if we open ourselves to new things, they can offer new beginnings and a chance for new friendships. The story also shows how a child has the power to make someone feel special and welcome.

What a special picture book! You won't be able to read it to your children without a smile on your face. And your children will want to return to it again and again. Simply fabulous!

With sensitive illustrations giving life to Mabel’s emotional responses, the book will have young and old alike wanting to visit their local café to taste the welcome cookies.

Five New Books for Readers Aged 4-12 years

In this post I review five wonderful books. Four are from well-known publishers, and another is in a special category of its own. All can be used as read aloud books, or some as personal reading for children aged 6-8.

The reviews include two Graphic Novels (or are they comic books), and a wonderful illustrated history of the world filled with hilarious (and funny) facts. 

I also want to introduce my followers to the work of Nigel Osgood. Nigel is self publishing his books, but I'm keen for my readers (and perhaps some publishers) to know about this very talented British author/illustrator who SHOULD have a publisher to get his work to a wider audience. This is the first book in a series he has planned. Perhaps one of my friends in publishing, might just take a look at the work of this talented author. Let me know if you'd like to know more. Here's an example of his wonderful work.

1. 'Bedtime for Ella: A Giggly Furbottom Adventure'  

Author Nigel Osgood. Nigel uses the pseudonym of 'Goose in Gold' on his publications (Illustrations by Kriss Lillyman).

'Bedtime for Ella' is the story of 6-year-old who is not your average child! "For 6-year-old Ella, night-time was not for sleep, but to explore a kingdom where monsters creep."

"For in this world of wonder, Ella felt free. To dance and dream, wild and full of glee."

And "Suddenly, poof! A fuzzy surprise... A monster appeared with angry red eyes! The Monster bellowed, such a spooky noise. Ella yelled back, "No silly monster steals my toys!"

 

The wonderful illustrations of Kris Lillyman support so beautifully the engaging text. Nigel has another 5 books set to be released on Amazon as self-published works. I hope a one of the many publishers that follow my blog will make contact with Nigel and see if he's prepared to seek a wider audience in collaboration with a publisher.

2. 'Friendly Bee and Friends' by Sean E Avery

Sean E Avery is a teacher, writer-illustrator, sculptor and designer born in South Africa; living in Perth, Western Australia. He’s known as the writer-illustrator of well-loved children’s picture books, All Monkeys Love Bananas and Harold and Grace published by Freemantle Press.

He’s also known as a sculptor who uses CDs and DVDs to create breathtaking works of art that reside in galleries and private collections all around the world. But, he's creating wonderful children's books!

This is a funny graphic novel about friendship, helping others, accepting our differences and tolerance, and with facts supplied by Clever Cricket, it is sure to be enjoyed by all students in junior to middle primary.

A wasp and a bee are friends?! Or are they just acquaintances? Bee is always friendly and trying to help, but this isn't always reciprocated as things always seem to go wrong for wasp. Bee is dressed for a party, but Wasp doesn't see that as necessary. Bee makes one for him, but when he tries it on (under sufferance) things go very wrong. This is a quirky book that young readers will find intriguing and engaging. The illustrations alone will keep them returning to the book time and again.  

3. 'Friendly Bee and Friends: Woe is for Worm' by Sean & Avery

In this crazy second adventure of a Bee and his friend who is a Wasp things go a little wrong when they are invited to a party by a Worm. Bee decides it would be fun for Wasp to wear a dress like she did to the last party. Wasp doesn't think this is a good idea. No! But Bee launches a sneaky attack from behind to get it on him. Alas! Wasp's wings get stuck and he makes an ungainly crash landing. Ouch!

They meet a distraught worm nearby who is complaining because he can't feel his legs. Ever helpful Bee suggests they must help him. Bee tries some of his jokes. Mmm, these don't seem to work. What next? 

A hairy Spider with far too many legs, and finally a whole swarm of Bees. This funny little book will keep children fascinated. Some might even make up their own version of the story as they flip the pages. Another wonderful book for children aged 4-6.

 

4. 'Be the Bus: The Lost & Found Wisdom of the Pigeon' Mo Willems 

 

The great Mo Willems has another book out that will captivate children aged 4-8 years. Willems is a legendary author/illustrator. He is a number one New York Times bestselling author and illustrator and has been awarded three Caldecott Medals for his picture books. As well, two Theodor Seuss Geisel Medals and five Honours for his 'Elphie & Piggie' books for early readers. 

In this funny book The Pigeon decides to share wisdom. Wisdom once lost, but now found by Mo Willems. We must be grateful for this amazing gift to humanity. The Pigeon humbly suggests that all great things have already been said. For example:

"Never trust a quotation" Plato

"I am not susceptible to flattery" (Unless it's about me)

"Genius is seldom recognised" (That is why I wear a name tag)

"Drive like no one is watching." (HONK like no one is listening! Dream like no one is thwarting)

"Dropped food is gravity's way of sharing"

"Aren't complainers the WORST?"

5. 'History FACTopia! Follow Ye Olde Trail of 400 Facts' Written by Paige Towler & illustrated by Any Smith

As a young boy in my Primary School years, if I'd had this book it would have been my favourite. It would have been revisited every time I went to the library. What a wonderful way to present history to 8-12 years old.

What's even more wonderful is that the facts are funny and yet they will expand worlds and minds. As well, every fact is connected in some way. You can wind your way from facts about sport to horses, armour, pyramids or from underground to discoveries, tombs and burials, curses, decorative arts, the Incas and so much more. What child wouldn't want to know that Australia's world-renowned Opera House had its sail-like shape inspired by the Architect peeling an orange!

Five Quirky New Picture Books that Will Make Everyone Laugh

Christmas is closer than we think so what better time to get some special Christmas books for children aged 1-10. Five new books from Walker Books. I know it seems early, but sometimes delivery times at Christmas can be very slow.

1. 'Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Sleigh!' Written & illustrated by Mo Willems

Now here's a title to get your interest! You'd expect something a 'little' different from Mo Willems, but a pigeon who wants to drive Santa's sleigh?! What could go wrong? And why can't he sneak a drive while Santa's not looking? But, what's wrong with this sleigh? 

But there aren't any gears, or a steering wheel, or even a horn!?

And how does he get it to move? I'll leave you to guess, but better still, just get the book and find out.

2. 'Merry Christmas, Little Wombat' written & illustrated by Charles Fuge 

Now this is an Aussie Christmas story! With a Wombat, Echidna, Kangaroo, Platypus, Rainbow Lorikeet how will this work out? This might be an Aussie take on Christmas, but as the northern hemisphere is often buried in snow, how do they celebrate 'down under'?

But hang on, what might the Christmas tree be like? There are no pines or spruce trees in a southern summer. We need a tree! Help someone!

3. 'Socks' written by JD McPherson and illustrated by Anika Orrock

I love this book! What child doesn't drop hints for the special gifts they'd like at Christmas time? Then again, not all parents are wealthy and can afford many gifts at Christmas. But, while this is very much a wealthy class view of Christmas expectations and gifts it is very funny, it does end with the our cranky kid reflecting on how "love and cheer" don't come in a box. 

Wonderful illustrations from Anika Orrock, and a funny little story from JD McPherson.

4. 'Mr Santa' Written and illustrated by Jarvis

Jarvis (yes that is the full author name) offers a different take on Christmas in this beautifully illustrated and written picture book. What child hasn't wanted to catch Santa at work late at night when they should be sleeping soundly? Or, at least dream about it. This little girl (or perhaps boy) has quite the adventure.

With a stirring in their moonlit room, there's movement at the foot of the bed. Santa is caught 'red' handed! Had he wiped his feet? Well, Santa decides he might just as well sit down for a chat, a nice hot cup or tea or coffee with this little nosy one before heading off.

So Santa, "like to see my fish"? Have some ginger bread. "Do you prefer dogs or cats"? "Can a reindeer talk"? "Can I ride your sleigh"? Wow! Where are we now"? All those penguins, "Are we lost"? "Do you stop at traffic lights"? "Can we visit your house?" "Just one more question" he mumbles as he wakes. "Was it really real?"

5. 'One Wise Sheep' by written & illustrated by Ulrich Hub and illustrated by Jorg Muhle 

Now last, but not least, a short novel for older readers 8-10. Ulrich Hub has written a delightful story with an interesting traditional take on a special time in 4 BC. The sheep are all awake in the dark of night as a new star is in the sky shining as brightly. They're concerned as all the shepherds have gone! Shouldn't "shepherds abide in the fields; they have to stay with their sheep at night". They've even left their back packs behind. Here's an opportunity, there is food in their backpacks!

Then a sheep with a "bobble hat" (beanie) and cries "Fear not: for, behold I bring you good tidings!" The sheep shares how in the middle of the night "... suddenly a host of Angels appeared in our fields singing praises. I think I even heard trumpets-" "And the good tidings?" the other sheep asked? "What were they? "Oh, I've forgotten he replied."

But while this absent-minded sheep takes some prompting, he manages to remember and share the true meaning of the Christmas. He declares, "A baby was born unto us tonight.. he is wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger...". Not all the sheep were persuaded by the tidings. So they follow the star in the night sky for they hear that this baby was sent to save the world! It seems the mother and father and child had to come because the Romans had declared a census must occur. Sadly, the sheep arrive too late to see the baby in the manger but find out there is a happy ending, this is just the beginning of the story this little one had ushered in, for He would change the world.