AustLit

'Anzac Ted is the powerful, poignant story of a little boy's teddy bear that was passed down to him from his grandfather. Battered, torn, missing an eye and an ear, he might look scary but he's got a great story to tell. For Anzac Ted went to war, keeping soldiers company and giving them comfort. And while he never won a medal, and now doesn't even attract a single vote at classroom Toy Shows, if only everyone looked a little deeper:

'They'd see a hero, plain as day

'Who sits upon my bed.

'A hero, who saved me and you.

'His name ... is Anzac Ted.' ' (Publication summary)

'A poignant story about a child finding her own inner strength, courage and resilience by drawing inspiration from the generations of women that came before her.

'Whenever Isla's mother brings out her small blue doll box, Isla knows she will hear the stories of the women in her family's past. Touching on themes of immigration, war and the feminist movement, their lives show Isla the incredible things women can achieve, and the strength she has inside herself.

'Inspired by the author's own family, this book echoes the timeless power of familial bonds and personal histories that instil courage and determination in each new generation. It underscores the belief that sharing family stories can foster a sense of belonging, and provide strength to face life's adversities.

'What makes a strong role model for girls? Deborah Kelly found the answer in her own heritage, in the pages of history, and in the inspiring individuals who, despite adversity, discovered their own courage and resilience. The Doll Box is a testament to their stories, lovingly passed from mother to daughter, empowering the next generation of strong women.' (Publication summary)

'In Two Rabbits, Little Brown Rabbit and Little Grey Rabbit have had an argument. As they go their separate ways into the night, the wind whispers around them to remind them of their sharp words. Will they be able to come back together and find a way to save their friendship?

'The story portrays the physical and emotional journey of two best friends as they experience feelings of anger, sadness and loneliness. Young readers will learn that friendship can overcome differences and disagreements.' (Publication summary)

'When Nova realizes the artwork she created for Dad’s birthday present is missing, her tummy flip flops and her heart ker-thumps. She and her dog, Harley, turn the house upside down, searching absolutely everywhere, but the missing masterpiece is nowhere to be found. Nova loses her temper but Harley remains calm and content. Can Nova learn from her dog, calm herself down and find her Dad’s present in time for his birthday party?' (Publication summary)

'The world of the shallow ocean seabed is brought to life in this story of an amazing animal, the mimic octopus. The illustrations give a realistic picture of the sea creatures in this environment and how perfectly the octopus impersonates and outwits them. For the reader, the fun is in the guessing — what is the real shape of the master of disguise that Meet Mim introduces us to?' (Publication summary) 

'When Grandma Burnt Her Bra uses humour to tell the story of feminism and women’s rights, exploring how, throughout history, both men and women have broken down barriers. The illustrations help convey, carefully and quirkily, the complex message that things were not always equal — and that they are not yet equal — which means that each generation faces the continued fight for equality. The call to action is to carry the flame forward. And best of all, this book has dinosaurs!' (Publication summary)

'Xander and the Pen is the story of a boy who loves to draw superheroes, and the pen he buys from a mysterious market stall. He soon learns that the pen has a magical power: whatever he draws, happens! At first the pen helps Xander improve his family’s fortunes, but there are many unintended consequences and soon everybody is angry at Xander. With problems galore, Xander has one big decision to make — should he use the pen to draw one more picture?' (Publication summary)

'Butterfly Girl is a charming and sensitively illustrated book about friendship and making space for animals, even in an urban environment. Olivia, who loves butterflies, has to leave her home in the countryside and move into a city apartment. Feeling lonely without her fluttering friends, she realises she needs to transform her bare balcony if she wants her friends to visit — and that turns out to be a great way to meet her new neighbours!' (Publication summary)

'Despite being oceans apart, Tug and Ship are connected by strong bonds in Anchored, a tale of love and connection told through the relationship of a tugboat and a cargo ship.'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

'Pepper Masalah adventure series is based on a black cat called Pepper Masalah, a nine-year-old boy called Zamir and a flying carpet.

'Pepper Masalah lives with Zamir and his family on an olive farm in Australia. Zamir’s grandmother is from the old country (Kashmir) and when coming to Australia she brought with her an ancient carpet.

'A charming story about the importance of family and caring for those in need. Readers who loved the magic and playfulness of the bestselling Tashi series, will also love Pepper and her friend Zam.

'With her usual flair, Rosanne Hawke blends culture, legend, and history throughout her stories, as Pepper and Zamir are whisked off together on adventures around the globe.

'The concept has broad appeal: mystery, adventure, travel, exotica, and three very memorable characters: Pepper Masalah, Zam and the Flying Carpet.' (Publication summary) 

'Pepper Masalah lives with Zamir and his family on an olive farm in Australia. Zam’s grandmother is from the old country (Kashmir) and she brought with her an ancient carpet. She is the only one who believes the carpet can fly and will try to find its previous master in Kashmir. It hasn’t flown for hundreds of years so it is shaky at first and can’t find its bearings. Thus, it lands in many countries on the way to Kashmir where Pepper Masalah, the cat and Zamir have dangerous but exciting adventures.

'In the 2nd book, Pepper Masalah and the Temple of Cats the flying carpet lands in the River Nile in Ancient Egypt. They have a clash with a crocodile and the carpet floats away on the Nile. Pepper and Zam are taken to a temple full of cats by a girl called Tabir. Pepper is in danger again as she is so special people want to make her into a mummy. Pepper tries her best to escape and Zam manages to climb the wall of the temple to help her. Sebu, the temple attendant wants the carpet and Pepper for himself. Pepper wants to save the cats and herd them to the granaries where there is a plague of mice.' (Publication summary)

(Publication summary)

'A highly entertaining and amusing story is bound to be a favourite among young readers and adults alike, particularly those who are familiar with race-day fashions and the pros and cons of high-heel shoes.

'Captivated by the glamour of elegant hats and highheeled shoes, a spirited racehorse named Lucky, who is the fastest horse in the stable, becomes determined to emulate race-day fashion in the quest to win the cup, only to discover that the best shoes to wear in order to win the race are her own lucky horse shoes—an amusing and light-hearted story of the pros and cons of impractical footwear.' (Publication summary)

'Edward is Katie's best friend. They do everything together, but best of all, they love playing in the old summerhouse.

'One day Mum comes hurrying down and grabs Katie by the hand, leaving Edward all alone.

'Edward knows Katie will come for him, so he settles down and watches what happens through the window …' (Publication summary)

'Celebrating new ideas that can make a world of difference, Jørn’s Magnificent Imagination is the true story of Jørn Utzon, the architect of the world-renowned Sydney Opera House. In this gorgeously illustrated book, we follow Jørn through his life as he discovers his love of building and creating, gathering ideas from everything around himself.
'Along the way, young readers will be reminded of the importance of taking the time to dream and create, and of the incredible power of the imagination.' (Publication summary)

'For every child practicing their new instrument and the parents and teachers helping them along the way, this book celebrates the joy of unexpected friendship through music. Young readers will love the appealing characters and carefully drawn settings. Two cultures, two instruments, one piece of music; the inclusion of a playable tune is a bonus!' (Publication summary)