Double Down (Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book 11) by Jeff Kinney ($10.50)
This first title will come as no surprise to parents or carers of children who are fans of the phenomenally successful series – they probably put their requests in months ago. It’s priced very reasonably, too. A great stocking filler.
Wormwood Mire by Judith Rossell ($18.50)
The second in the Stella Montgomery Intrigue (great name) series – the first being the award-winning Withering-By-Sea – I know a lot of readers have been looking forward to Wormwood Mire. Like the Child book below, mystery/spy/detective books have been a godsend for me when trying to encourage my not-so-adventurous reader to try new things. It’s a lovely book to hold in your hand.
Blink and You Die by Lauren Child ($16.75)
Those words ‘Series Finale’ will bring a chill to Ruby Redfort fans. Keira is *almost* too old for these, but has all the others so I’m sure would appreciate rounding out her collection. As a parent, I feel in safe hands with Lauren Child – I think she is fantastic. I still quote Charlie and Lola daily.
The Unforgettable What’s His Name by Paul Jennings and Craig Smith ($11.95)
The latest from perennial children’s favourite Paul Jennings and prolific illustrator Craig Smith (over 380 books and counting!) has this hook:
Even before all this happened I had never been like the other kids. I tried not to be seen. If I climbed a tree or hid among the bins, no one could find me. ‘Where’s What’s His Name?’ they’d say.
Then, one weekend, I got what I wanted. First, I blended in with things. But on the second day I changed.
I mean, really changed.
If you’re interested, Allen & Unwin share a find-a-word activity sheet on their website.
The Poppy Stories: 4 Books in One by Gabrielle Wang ($20.80)
I’m starting to see more middle-grade books in a series being bundled together into a larger compendium and these ‘Our Australian Girl’ Poppy stories are no exception, offering terrific value – especially for a hardback – and the opportunity for your child to satiate their reading appetite in one big go (plus getting an extra, new chapter at the end!). This is a well-respected and popular series.
