AustLit

'After a failed attempt at racing a homemade billycart, Harriet's younger sister Kat becomes obsessed with speed. Kat is determined to take part in a billycart derby, but her parents will only allow Harriet to drive in it, as Kat is still too young. Harriet - pushed willy-nilly into the scheme - is terrified of getting behind the wheel again. On racing day, however, Harriet proves she's no chicken after all. She starts enjoying herself...until her crazy little sister manages to cause a big upset.' (Publication summary)

'Hector is fed with up with Drain Boys gang picking on everyone, so when he wakes up with to the discovery that he’s the world’s newest superhero, he’s determined to put a stop to the Drain Boys’ evil ways.

'First, though, he needs a superhero outfit and a superhero name. A raid on the dress-ups box fixes the costume and the name – that’s easy: Hector the Protector. Armed with a bevy of superhero powers – he can spew on demand, he has a fearsome smell and he can walk on top of fences – he and his friends Jello and Mick are ready for action.

'Hector the Protector is a fun offering, part of the Little Stirrers series from new publisher Limelight Press. With plenty of silliness, a fast-moving plot and cartoon-style illustrations by Lloyd Foye, it will appeal to children aged 7-10, especially those making their first attempts at reading novels.' (Publication summary)

'Confidence is not one of Stuart's strong points. 'Do it Stuart!' That's what Stuart's shoes say to him whenever he's in a tight spot or has to make a difficult decision. When Stuart wants to impress Simon, the toughest kid in year 5, his shoes tell him how. But does having Simon for a friend really make Stuart happy? Age 8+.' (Publication summary)