AustLit

'Hard Knocks is a collection of interviews by Fiona Scott-Norman with famous and successful Australians who had a tough time at school – either being bullied, not fitting in, or facing other adversities.

'The concept for the book is simple: many of the most popular Australians today were outsiders when they were at school. Not only did they ‘get through’ those difficult times, their school experiences helped shape them into the strong, resilient individuals they are today. The book is truly inspiring, sending the message that school is only a small part of your life and a bright future is still possible, no matter what the circumstances you have to deal with when young. As such, it will provide comfort and perspective to the one-in-four students in Australia affected by bullying, as well as their parents.

'Featuring contributions from: Missy Higgins (musician), Tiffiny Hall (TV), Eddie Perfect (actor), Megan Washington (musician), Brendan Cowell (actor), Mo’Ju (musician), Adam Goodes (AFL), Charlie Pickering (TV), Kate Miller-Heidke (musician), Penny Wong (politician), Benjamin Law (writer), Judith Lucy (comedian), Paul Capsis (musician), Holden Sheppard (writer), Mo’Ju (musician) and Carly Findlay (writer).' (Publication summary)

'Having chickens in your life is so hot right now. If you're not obsessed yourself, you know someone who is.

'Within a few years, keeping backyard chooks has gone from being something your nonna did, to the mainstream. Chickens are in inner-city backyards and comedy gigs, old people's homes and poultry shows, prisons and weddings. Regional poultry clubs have been revitalised by the influx of tree-changers and hipsters intoxicated with exotic heritage breeds.Rescue chickens are the new black, and the perfect feel-good accompaniment to your rescue dog. Chickens are an essential component of the permaculture, locavore, sustainability, self-sufficiency and low food mile movements. Chickens are owning Instagram. Chickens are everywhere.

'A collaboration between writer, comic and chicken owner, Fiona Scott-Norman, and acclaimed photographer, Ilana Rose, This Chicken Life is a collection of stories about chickens and the Australians who love them. You'll meet Jareth Bullivant, an animal liberationist who takes his rescue broilers Twistie and Sephiroth to the beach. Nik Round, a Victorian advertising executive who is focused on saving a heritage breed. Summer Farrelly from Queensland, a twelve-year-old with autism who connects with the world through her chooks and has started a chicken therapy program. Shane Secombe, who rescues the unwanted roosters of Alice Springs and gives them a second life at the prison. And Adele Scott, a burlesque performer and interior designer with tattoos and a permaculture garden. Oh, and Costa.

'Funny, joyful and moving, This Chicken Life unpacks an obsession and a love affair. Chickens and humans, heart to heart, face to beak. This is no fad, it's a way of life.' (Publication summary)

'In She’s Having a Laugh, 25 of the funniest women in Australia write about life, love and laughter. Their stories are irreverent, intimate and – most of all – often hilarious. They reflect on why they became comedians, celebrate the funny women in their own lives, explore what’s different about the female funny bone, and take a look at the power of laughter for us all.' (Source: Publisher's website)