10 children’s books from Canberra authors
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One of my earliest childhood memories is of my Mum reading me a bedtime story as I fell asleep.
Perhaps it was the dim lights, the comforting smell of familiar sheets or her calm tone as she created worlds that moved like images in my mind—but these were the books that imprinted the power of words into my tiny mind.
At the helm of creating these worlds are talented authors, with their youthful perspectives, gentle messages and beautiful illustrations. So if you’re a parent struggling to find their kid’s next favourite read, let us point you in the direction of some books by none other than Canberra authors.
Jack Heath: Stunt Kid Seriously Stacks It
Does Jack Heath ever sleep? Publishing 18 books before the age of 30, Jack is clearly a master of his craft, effortlessly crafting worlds for both adults and children. His latest, Stunt Kid Seriously Stacks It, is perfect for pre-teens who need a fun and engaging read to sink their teeth into.
Featuring words such as “KABLAMMED!”, you know that (much like his other work) it won’t disappoint.
Barbie Robinson and Ian Robertson: Phoenix and Ralph
Ahh, this book! Through stunning imagery and poetic prose, readers become transported back in time (20 years to be exact) to Canberra’s devastating bushfires.
Guiding children through themes such as loss, grief, kindness and human resilience, its profound teachings are endless, offering sure and safe footing as we wade through some, at times, heavy topics.
Touching both young and old audiences, this book is a much-needed fusion of art and Canberra’s history, one you may need to read twice to adequately soak up the imagery and words.
Samantha Ellen Tidy: Our Bush Capital
In this beautiful love note to Canberra, Samantha’s prose shines a spotlight on our city with both a refreshing and inspiring viewpoint, capturing our landscape, history and, most importantly, our people.
Luminous, eloquent and visually stunning, it’s one to read in the middle of Canberra’s winter when we are all craving a touch of colour and literary warmth.
Amelia McInerney: Who fed Zed?
While you can pick out any of Amelia’s books off the shelf and find yourself lost within her delicious literary worlds, her latest Who Fed Zed? will please even the fussiest of young Canberra readers.
Equal parts funny, cleaver and uplifting, Amelia jakes on a journey of rhyme with unexpected teachings about dietary requirements along the way. I mean, what is not to love?
Irma Gold: Where the Heart Is
Inspired by a true story of a penguin and his rescuer, you can expect to feel all of the feels. Irma’s lullaby-like prose quickly sucks the reader in, taking us out of the bushy capital and into a mesmerizing adventure across the ocean.
Filled with friendship, heart and varying shades of emotion, we can almost guarantee your littl-un will be asking for this one to be read more than once.
Stephanie Owen Reeder: Swifty: The Super-fast Parrot
A charming and delightful read about little ‘Swifty’ the bird. Honestly, the illustrations in this book are captivating, with rich colours, warm landscapes and iconic Australian landmarks that pair seamlessly with Stephanie’s carefully constructed words.
A beautiful book from start to finish.
Shelly Unwin: Hello Baby
If a warm hug could be a book (you know where I’m going with this), it would be this book!
Telling the birth story of a baby giraffe, Shelly captures the magic of new life and all those special, warm and fuzzy feels. A heart-warming gift for a soon-to-be Mum.
Gina Newton: Hold On! Saving the Spotted Handfish
This is a beautifully written children’s novel that unpacks climate change and the vulnerability of our oceans with raw and unflinching originality.
In lilting prose like a lullaby, its powerful messaging is easily absorbed.
Catherine Meatheringham: My Possum Plays the Drums
If a front cover of a possum whose little hands are holding a set of gum nut drums can’t entice you, well…I don’t know what will.
Bursting with noise, joy and childlike wonder, you may have to pry this adorable book out of your child’s hands. But those are the best kind of books, right?
Mistie Dal Molin and Zoe Mellors: Garden adventure
Looking for a gentle introduction to reading? Look no further than Garden Adventure by Mistie Dal Molin an illustrated by Zoe Mellors.
From its guiding rhythm and sweet narrative to easy-to-read sentences, every little detail make this an engaging read. Not to mention creating those first surreal moments of understanding words. Delightful!
