Hairy Maclary, Shoo by Lynley Dodd, published by Mallinson Rendel.

Hairy Maclary is in his twenty-sixth year and still a firm favourite with children and adults at story time. Part of the pleasure for young readers is the mischief Hairy gets into. He may not intend to, but he creates havoc wherever he goes.

This time, Hairy’s escapade takes him far away from his neighbourhood. Lynley Dodd keeps the action in constant motion with her fast-paced verse and lively illustrations. The language is perfect for reading aloud and rolls off the tongue. “STOP this shemozzle, this hullabaloo! Scarper, skedaddle, be off with you – SHOO!”

Hairy leaves a trail of destruction as he races through shops and school classrooms. His feet hardly touch the ground as he escapes annoyed, finger-wagging adults. Youngsters eager to see what happens next will keep the pages turning. How will he find his way home?

The illustrations in Hairy Maclary’s latest book show backyards, schools and toy shops familiar to children in many countries. Yet, Dodd has included details to please sharp-eyed Kiwis. There’s flax, ferns, Tui Street, and red, corrugated iron roofs. Each page offers a visual treat with varied settings, bright colours, and the expressive little dog always the main focus.

This is another gem by Lynley Dodd that will delight Hairy Maclary fans. A hard-back edition designed to last the ‘read it again’ sessions.

- Reviewed by children’s book author, Jean Bennett.

Buy in Tauranga at Books a Plenty, 28 Grey St, phone (07) 578 6607.
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Strong characters fill this warm-hearted young adult novel. The story centres on thirteen-year-old Helen, a Waikato farmer’s daughter. Her soldier brother, Harry, comes home on leave during World War II and changes her life. He reveals a family secret that makes Helen question her identity.

This well-written novel shows the impact of the war years on families with sons in the armed services. Helen works hard helping her parents with the everyday grind of the dairy farm. She takes part in the twice-daily milking schedule and a multitude of household chores. Harry teaches her to drive and how to fire a rifle, just in case the Japanese invade New Zealand.

Helen tells her troubles to her old horse, Ginger, as she rides him to and from school. She’s in her final year at a small primary school where she shares a friendship with Barbara, a foster child. Together they endure strict teachers and the irritating boys in their class. Brave young Helen copes with many challenges; her friend’s sudden departure, her father’s ill health, her bossy older sister, her brother’s return to the army and the anxiety this causes. Her inner thoughts give insight into the hopes and dreams of a courageous teenager who faces the loss of loved ones. She longs to go to high school, yet it seems she may have to leave school to work full-time on the farm.

Brother Sister Soldier Cousin is a fascinating glimpse of the mid-1940s. Descriptive writing, humour, and down-to-earth conversation bring the characters to life. Their struggles reflect the social standards and restrictions of the era. The tension of the war years underpins Helen’s story, highlighting the intensity of relationships because of the uncertain future. Highly recommended.

- Reviewed by children’s book author, Jean Bennett.

Buy in Tauranga at Books a Plenty, 28 Grey St, phone (07) 578 6607.
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The long awaited sequel to Secret Sacrament .....

"I was the first child born to a hunted people, in the first winter of their flight. My earliest memory is of being carried on my mother's hip across barren plains, with wild mountains all around, and of rough tents made of skins stretched across sticks planted in the dust, of hunger and thirst and a feeling I did not like or understand, but which I know now was the fear that shadowed my people, as a wolf shadows a wounded deer."

Avala dreams of becoming a healer, but her dreams are not the same as her destiny. Hers is a mighty but lonely fate, for she is the chosen one—the one who will bring the Time of the Eagle, when the hunted will become the hunters and win back their freedom. It is a destiny that requires the spirit of a warrior and the heart of a healer. But does Avala have the courage to set the Eagle on its flight?

In this epic story about a girl born to greatness, Sherryl Jordan tells an unforgettable tale of destiny, betrayal, and the power of love and faith.

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The latest novel in the Denzil series, The Silver Dragon has been released as part of a boxed set of the entire series, The Wednesday Wizard, Denzil's Dilema, and The Great Bear Burglary.

Denzil lives in a time when monks copy books by hand using quills and ink, and write on parchment made from animal skins. Books are rare and very precious and only the rich can ever learn to read. However, Denzil has travelled by magic to the future and there, in the home of his friend Sam, he has seen books made on machines - and suddenly Denzil wants to invent such a machine....

But as usual, Denzil's spell gets out of hand and puts himself, and his friends from the future, and even the history of his world in the most terrible danger.

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Phyllis's latest novel tells the story of Dee, who is proud to be the daughter of a brave soldier father who died fighting in the war. After the Great War, Dee lives at the beach along with her mother and aunt. It’s a paradise for Dee, with the sun, the sea and the sky, but little by little her seaside haven disintegrates. Her mother and aunt become very ill, leaving Dee abandoned. However, soldier Joe has never forgotten his promise to his army mate, Dan, Dee’s dead father.

He and Essie take Dee north into half- broken bush country. Roaming the countryside, doing farm work, and making friends, Dee is almost happy again, but shadows hang over her life in Mamaku. Joe and Essie can’t afford high school for her, and all the kids seem to know something Dee doesn’t - something about her soldier father Dan. Told with subtlety and charm, this is a poignant, bighearted story - of honour, courage and the aftermath of war.

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Woo-ha! Long time Bookrapt member, Jean Bennett, has had another three books published by National Geographic. One writes for Natinal Geographic by invitation only! These are the latest two books in Jean's "Kids Around the World" series for Grades 3 to 6 (8 to 10 year olds). Jean's books explore the everyday lives of young people in different countries. The realistic stories look at challenges that young people face in their homelands and how they make plans for their future.

Hopes and Dreams: a story from Northern Thailand.
Three young friends are anxious to protect Thailand’s rural traditions and to ensure a reasonable income for people in their small village. They’re also concerned about the future of Asian elephants that are no longer employed in the logging industry.

Stormy Seas: a story from the Shetland Islands.
Vaila introduces her city cousin to her remote Shetland homeland. The islands are rich in history but struggle to provide an economic future for young people. Vaila has an opportunity to develop a music career but she would have to leave her beloved islands.

Erana’s Land: a story from New Zealand.
Erana and Keri are proud of their Maori heritage and want to protect the last place where their ancestors settled. The area is threatened with development and the girls’ tribe stages a protest. How to find a fair solution for everyone involved proves a difficult challenge.

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David Hill's latest teenage novel is an action-packed thriller.

Shy Jonno, the class geek, has won a trip to South America to watch a total eclipse of the sun. On arrival he swiftly becomes aware of local anger against a land-grabbing government. Although Jonno is mesmerised by the eclipse, he's anxious to return to his safe homeland.

However, he becomes involved in terrifying events that test his courage. Within the tightly-controlled storyline there's much to be learned about how people react under pressure. The characters hold diverse points-of-view which adds to the tension.

Jonno's eyes are opened as to why some people use desperate measures to fight for their rights. He begins to realise that oppression has complex consequences.

Fire on High challenges readers to think about how they'd behave in situations that take them beyond their comfort zone. It's a flaming good read.

Illustrator Vonnie Sterritt gives the river creatures distinct personalities - quite an achievement with tiny look-alike whitebait. The pages are an eye-catching mix of colour, drama, close-ups, and busy waterways.

A useful glossary at the end explains Maori words and pronunciation. Both books are available in te reo Maori.

- Reviewed by childrens' author Jean Bennett.

Buy in Tauranga at Books a Plenty, 28 Grey St, phone (07) 578 6607.
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Piano Rock - Gavin Bishop, published by Random House. RRP $34.99.

Award-winning New Zealand illustrator Gavin Bishop gives a fascinating glimpse of his childhood in the small town of Kingston on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

The descriptive detail of Bishop’s writing shows his artist’s vision and perspective. Images spring to mind with phrases such as: we scrambled over lake-washed logs as soft as grey velvet, and, the moon came up and threw a white sheet over the water.

It was as a school boy that Bishop realised he wanted to be an artist. He watched a sign writer paint a mural on the wall of the Lake Wakatipu Hotel. The picture of the lake surrounded by mountains, golden poplars and wispy clouds captivated the young boy. His future career was sealed.

Bishop’s illustrations are like stepping into a movie set of the 1950s. For example, there’s the old coal range with slippers and clothes warming on the rack above the stove, letters on the mantelpiece, a coal bucket beside the range and a cat warming itself. Traditional food features in many images; sponge cakes, girdle scones, roast dinners and vegetables. Childhood interests are shown in how to catch crawlies, bonfires on Guy Fawkes night, and family pets.

Piano Rock gives young readers an insight into a child’s life in the 1950s. Adults will also enjoy the memories Gavin Bishop shares of carefree days in a remote Southland settlement. A beautifully produced hardback book to treasure.

- Reviewed by childrens' author Jean Bennett.

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There Was a Crooked Man - Gavin Bishop, published by Gecko Press. RRP $19.99

This enjoyable board book will captivate pre-schoolers with its cheerful tale and vibrant illustrations.

The crooked man from the familiar rhyme is a good-natured, long-limbed fellow dressed in top hat and tails. His tall body seems to be in constant motion and stretches from top to bottom of the vertical format.

Bright colours with bold outlines highlight each scene. The stylised landscape is reminiscent of the Canterbury Plains with the Southern Alps in the background.

Bishop wraps it up with flair. The crazily shaped house is a happy home with the crooked man, cat and mouse living in harmony. Another gem from this award-winning New Zealand illustrator.

- Reviewed by childrens' author Jean Bennett.

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Kids to the Rescue by Rebekah Palmer

An appealing New Zealand picture book for young readers. The Kids Rescue gang are an adventurous team. There’s Pete the pilot, Piper the paramedic, Zoom the dog and Scratch the cat. They all hang out in an airport hangar with the central hero, Champ the Chopper.

Although Poppa Chopper occasionally butts in with fatherly advice, parents of pre-schoolers may appreciate his cautionary messages to children. Fortunately, he allows the young heroes to deal with the dramas by themselves.

In Kids to the Rescue a typical New Zealand disaster unfolds on a rainy day with heavy skies, muddy farms and swollen rivers. Cars, cows, and people become trapped in the flood. It’s a perfect opportunity for Champ the Chopper and gang to swing into action. The rescue has some anxious moments, but the group work hard to solve the challenges.

Bright, expressive illustrations by Daniel Falconer, Weta Workshop designer, bring the excitement and characters to life. The uncluttered scenes, large font size, and A4 format will be useful for reading aloud in pre-schools and junior classrooms.

Excellent resources for internet-capable children are available at www.champthechopper.com. There are print-outs for posters or colouring in, profiles of the main characters, and a Champ the Chopper club. Clever marketing from the author/publisher for a well-planned series. The Champ the Chopper team also supports New Zealand rescue helicopters.

- Reviewed by children’s book author, Jean Bennett.

Buy in Tauranga at Books a Plenty, 28 Grey St, phone (07) 578 6607.
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The Chicken Thief by Beatrice Rodriguez, published by Gecko Press.

Most people would think that a fox who steals a chicken has dinner on his mind. Chicken has some loyal friends who jump to that conclusion when a fox races off with their feathered companion.

Off they go to the rescue! Rooster, Bear and Rabbit chase fox and chicken into the forest. They climb mountains and cross raging seas, determined to save their friend. But all is not what it seems in this wordless picture book. The ending will surprise.

This quality hardback book with its muted watercolours and expressive characters is a delight. Background detail is kept to a minimum to focus attention on the friends and their pursuit. Author and illustrator Beatrice Rodriguez invites young readers to explore friendships that cross the usual boundaries.

- Reviewed by children’s book author, Jean Bennett.

Buy in Tauranga at Books a Plenty, 28 Grey St, phone (07) 578 6607.
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Zou by Michel Gay, published by Gecko Press.

Little Zou the zebra is determined to give his parents a treat – breakfast in bed. Parents know the possible dramas that can happen when their children take over the kitchen.

The inevitable disasters occur, but Zou is a zebra with perseverance. His patient parents give him the chance to rise to the challenge he has set himself. Pre-schoolers will enjoy how Zou copes with setbacks and finally succeeds. A warm, fuzzy ending.

Michel Gay’s lively illustrations take centre stage on the white pages. Restrained use of pastel colours contrasts well with the black-and-white zebras. A paperback edition with heavy-grade, durable paper.

- Reviewed by children’s book author, Jean Bennett.

Buy in Tauranga at Books a Plenty, 28 Grey St, phone (07) 578 6607.
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The Loblolly Boy by James Norcliffe, published by Longacre Press.

Have you ever dreamed of flying and leaving the worries of the world far behind? An unhappy boy is offered the chance to swap places with a mysterious loblolly boy who can fly. The sad child grabs the opportunity to escape his life in an orphanage and flies over the walls. The new loblolly boy’s flight is described with such joy that it’s sheer delight. He loves soaring and swooping through the sky - but there’s a price to pay for his magical gift. He’s invisible to others, and unable to enjoy food or friendship. Loneliness saps his spirit and he longs to return to his human life.

The loblolly boy is relieved to meet Captain Bass, another person unable to be seen by humans. The wise captain guides the boy to seek his destiny in the real world. However, there are many dangers for a rare creature who can’t defend himself. Will he find where he truly belongs?

During his search, the boy observes people behaving in surprising ways when they think they can’t be seen. He also meets feisty twin sisters, their out-of-control dog, and their sharp-tongued mother. The characters are well-defined and believable in their response to everyday problems.

This sparkling fantasy novel explores a child’s need to be with his own family – even if they are fractured, poor and struggling to cope. The author writes with rare insight into the mind of a young person discovering what is of lasting value in life. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by children’s book author, Jean Bennett.

Buy in Tauranga at Books a Plenty, 28 Grey St, phone (07) 578 6607.
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The stacks of entertaining information about New Zealand 's history will delight readers as they discover people and events that shaped this country. The time span stretches from Gondwanaland to the 21 st century.

Mahy's conversational writing style and tongue-in-cheek humour is well-matched by Trace Hodgson's quirky illustrations. His line drawings combine visual wit and interesting detail. Catchy rhymes are included with many illustrations:

The world is composed of strange regions,
Which men have invaded in legions,
But to span the Pacific,
Was simply terrific!
Hurrah for the great Polynesians!

A multitude of fascinating facts are woven into this fast-paced romp through our early years . Chapter headings are breezy: Twitchy Islands , Down in the Dumps with Measles and Mumps! Vogel the Mogul, Depressing Daze, to name a few. There's even a quick lesson about the sharemarket: Rocking investors, share markets pop! Investments fall over, savings flop!

Mahy invites readers to consider the storytelling nature of history. “In some ways, the world is like a story without an end – well, so far anyway.” She says Barry Crump's book A Good Keen Man introduced New Zealanders to themselves. “There we are,” they all cried. “That's us!”

However, in Awesome Aotearoa, Mahy has outstripped Crump. She's given us a sharp-eyed glimpse of our past – and a darn good read. Inquisitive youngsters should be inspired to research more information about topics that interest them.

At the end, Mahy asks, “What happens next?” and answers, “We'll just have to wait and see.”

- Reviewed by children's book author, Jean Bennett .

Buy in Tauranga at Books a Plenty, 28 Grey St, phone (07) 578 6607.
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Bute View by Janice Marriot, published by Mallinson Rendel.

This imaginative junior novel is a grand adventure filled with action, humour and fascinating characters. Set in a futuristic 2076, the world has become a strange place. Arlo, a clever young inventor, is eager to escape his garbage-filled raft adrift in a polluted ocean. His inventions have caught the attention of Big Boss who has invited Arlo to SPACE headquarters in the southern hemisphere. He’s convinced he’s on his way to fame and fortune.

Arlo enters a world of weird creatures, robots and super-fast tube rockets. His hosts are odd people without the warmth of his own family. He soon discovers that his One Day Wonder celebrity status is meaningless.

Homesickness hits Arlo, but he can’t contact his family and there’s no way he can leave. Fear surfaces as he’s targeted to become part of a scary experiment. Too late, he realises that friendship and freedom are the real prize.

The details in Bute View are as creative as Arlo’s gadgets. There’s spinning Gooble Sticks that screech nonsense news, genetically engineered pets, computer body suits, and seafood treats such as Sea Slug Slime Paste and Algal Mushies.

Janice Marriott creates a troubled planet where reality has been twisted by greedy leaders. People have become obsessed with technology but lack the ability to think for themselves. Will the young hero of the future find a solution?

An entertaining, thought-provoking read.

- Reviewed by children’s book author, Jean Bennett.

Buy in Tauranga at Books a Plenty, 28 Grey St, phone (07) 578 6607.
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BOOK REVIEWS OF NEW RELEASES BY INTERNATIONAL AUTHORS

Good for You, Good for Me - Lorenz Pauli, published by Gecko Press. RRP $18.99.

Dormouse is a busy little fellow, full of ideas and always on the move. In contrast, Bear is large and a slow thinker. Bear is charmed when Dormouse plays music from a hand-made flute. He gives Dormouse his favourite red cushion in exchange for the flute, "Good for you, good for me," he says.

After much huffing and puffing Bear realises he doesn’t have Dormouse’s musical talent. So Dormouse offers to play the flute while he’s sitting on Bear’s cushion. "Good for you, good for me," he says.

Bear is puzzled that now he doesn’t have either his cushion or the flute. Still, the good-natured bear enjoys Dormouse’s music and his company. He leaps and dances across the pages.

Clever Dormouse entices Bear into sharing adventures in the forest. The illustrations highlight the pleasure they each gain from their friendship. Background details are in muted colours as the characters take centre-stage. The artist captures their personalities with humour and movement. Bear’s delight in each new discovery shows that possessions aren’t necessary to be happy. A joyful tale.

- Reviewed by children’s book author, Jean Bennett.

Buy in Tauranga at Books a Plenty, 28 Grey St, phone (07) 578 6607.
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Buy in Tauranga at Books a Plenty, 28 Grey St, phone (07) 578 6607.
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