Staff Reviews

Finger foods for babies and toddlers by Annabel Karmel

Available in print 

The essential expert guide for a new generation of food explorers. What finger foods are best for my baby? How do I prepare them safely? What should I avoid? How do I move on from single finger foods? How can I get my baby to eat veggies?

From around six months, parents are encouraged to introduce soft finger foods into their baby’s diet - either alongside purées or as part of baby-led weaning. Finger foods are the ideal way to introduce babies to different textures and by handing over the reins to your baby you will empower them to work out how to get food to their mouth, break pieces off and chew, and have all-round fun with food! Yet, many parents are naturally cautious about giving finger foods to their children for fear of choking. Equally, once parents have mastered simple finger foods, they often find it a challenge to think-up interesting and nutritious ideas to fuel little ones.

Discover new and exciting recipes for future family favourites from Tofu and Veggie Stars to Eggy Raisin Bread, Cottage Pie Bites and Prawn and Sweetcorn Pops. With air-fryer friendly recipes and key nutritional information this book contains everything you need to make simple, meals and snacks to nurture independent little eaters.

Sink or swim: Frog Squad #3 by Kate and Jol Temple

Available in print

Frog Squad dives into the treacherous waters of the Bermuda Triangle to find Captain Froggy Longbottom's shipwreck. It's filled with stolen treasure, including the world's largest pearl! But The Organisation of Amphibious Devious Scoundrels (TOADS) is hunting for the treasure, too.

Will the brave rescue frogs reach it first, or will they be swallowed by quicksand? If you enjoyed the first two in this series. #1 Dessert disaster and #2 Bungle in the jungle, you’ll love this one too.

A brief moment of Ichika #1 by Natsu Tadano

Available in graphic novel

Natsu Tadano brings a sweet yet clear-eyed and always humane touch to a story of love doomed by illness. His vivid art brings this quiet love story alive and undergirds the surprisingly deep philosophical themes of the text.

Ichika and Prof. Yurugi (her philosophy teacher) must decide if the pain of losing someone is worth the moments of happiness and comfort, they can afford each other. He was my reason for living—      It’s been three years since college student Ichika Sendawara was given two years to live, and she naturally feels like time is running out. But then, on the train, she happens to see her beloved teacher Professor Yurugi, who had vanished suddenly at the end of last semester.  That one glimpse stokes the fire of a passion she had more or less given up on…but they may have more in common than she ever suspected.

The economy in storytelling in this first of three volumes only serves to underline the poignancy of their connection—is a brief flash of happiness worth the pain of separation?

Poor Deer by Claire Oshetsky

Available in print

Margaret Murphy is a weaver of fantastic tales, growing up in a world where the truth is too much for one little girl to endure. Her first memory is of the day her friend Agnes died.

No one blames Margaret. Not in so many words. Her mother insists to everyone who will listen that her daughter never even left the house that day. Left alone to make sense of tragedy, Margaret wills herself to forget these unbearable memories, replacing them with imagined stories full of faith and magic—that always end happily.

Enter Poor Deer: a strange and formidable creature who winds her way uninvited into Margaret’s made-up tales. Poor Deer will not rest until Margaret faces the truth about her past and atones for her role in Agnes’s death.

Heartrending, hopeful, and boldly imagined, Poor Deer explores the journey toward understanding the children we once were and the stories we tell ourselves to make sense of life’s most difficult moments.

54 miles by Leonard Pitts Jnr

Available in print

The free-standing successor and next novel by the author of the critically acclaimed The Last Thing You Surrender, Leonard Pitts, Jr.'s 54 Miles launches forward twenty years to the fateful weeks of March 1965-from the infamous "Bloody Sunday" march at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma on the 7th to the triumphant entry into Montgomery on the 25th that climaxed the voting rights campaign-and the families who find themselves confronting the past amid another flashpoint in American history.

Young Adam, who has been raised in Harlem by his white father, George, and Black mother, Thelma, goes back to his parents' home state of Alabama to participate in the voting rights campaign, only to be brutalized in the Bloody Sunday melee. He is still recovering from this when he is struck a heavy emotional blow, learning for the first time-and in the cruelest way imaginable-of a family secret that sends him spiraling and plunging further into danger. To save him, and any hope for their relationship, Thelma is drawn back, for the first time in twenty years, to the South she both hates and fears, and to a reckoning that may result in an incalculable loss.

The dream hotel by Laila Lalami

Available in print

In a world without privacy, what is the cost of freedom?

Sara is returning home from a conference abroad when agents from the Risk Assessment Administration pull her aside at the airport and inform her that she will commit a crime. Using data from her dreams, their algorithm has determined that she presents an imminent risk to the person she loves most, and must now be transferred to a retention centre for twenty-one days to lower her risk score.

But when Sara arrives at Madison to be observed alongside other dangerous dreamers, it soon becomes clear that getting home to her family is going to cost more than just three weeks of good behaviour. And as every minor misdemeanour, every slight deviation from the rules, adds time to her stay, she begins to wonder if there might be more here than first meets the eye.

The party by Tessa Hadley

Available in print

On a winter Saturday night in post-war Bristol, sisters Moira and Evelyn, on the cusp of adulthood, go to an art students' party in a dockside pub; there they meet two men, Paul and Sinden, whose air of worldliness and sophistication both intrigues and repels them. Sinden calls a few days later to invite them over to the grand suburban mansion Paul shares with his brother and sister, and Moira accepts despite Evelyn's misgivings.

As the night unfolds in this unfamiliar, glamorous new setting, the sisters learn things about themselves and each other that shock them and release them into a new phase of their lives.

The striker by Ana Huang

Available in print

Asher Donovan is a living legend - the darling of the Premier League, the (arguably) greatest footballer in the world.

But his reckless antics and recent team transfer have caused much controversy, and when his feud with his rival-turned-teammate costs them a championship, they're forced to 'bond' during off-season cross-training.

Surviving the summer shouldn't be hard . . . until Asher meets their new trainer. She's beautiful, talented, and no matter how hard he tries, he can't take his mind off her.

The only problem? She's his rival's sister - and completely off limits.

Our evenings by Alan Hollinghurst

Available in print

Dave Win is thirteen years old when he first goes to stay with the sponsors of his scholarship at a local boarding school. This weekend, with its games and challenges and surprising encounters, will open up heady new possibilities, even as it exposes him to their son Giles’ envy and violence.

As their lives unfold over the next half a century, the two boys’ careers will diverge dramatically: Dave, a gifted actor struggling with convention and discrimination, Giles an increasingly powerful and dangerous politician.

Our Evenings is Dave Win’s own account of his life as a schoolboy and student, his first love affairs, in London, and on the road with an experimental theatre company, and of a late-life affair, which transforms his sixties with a new sense of happiness and a perilous security.

Wild love by Elsie Silver

Available in print

Forbes may have labeled Ford Grant the World's Hottest Billionaire, but all he cares about is escaping the press and opening a recording studio in gorgeous small town Rose Hill. Something that comes to a screeching halt when he ends up face-to-face with a young girl who claims he's her biological father. Now, he spends his days balancing business with parenting a sullen twelve-year-old, all while trying desperately to keep his hands the hell off his best friend's sister, Rosie Belmont.

After living in the city, Rosie came blasting back into town like a storm. Beautiful, messy, and chaotic. And one wide-eyed, desperate plea for a job is all it takes for Ford to hire her. He vows to keep her at arm's length. Tries to stick to scowls and grumpy one-liners.

Ford knows damn well he shouldn't cross this line. But shouldn't and can't are two very different things.

Data grab by Ulises Ali Mejias

Available in print 

“Your life online is their product. Historical colonialism was a landgrab of natural resources, exploitative labour and private property from countries around the world. It stole from native populations and made them sign contracts they didn't understand. It took resources just because they were there. Colonialism has not disappeared -- it has taken on a new form.

In the new world order, data is the new oil. Big Tech companies are grabbing our most basic natural resources -- our data -- to control our views, track our movements, record our conversations and discriminate against us. In this guide, two leading global researchers -- and founders of the concept of data colonialism -- reveal how history can help us both to understand the emerging future and to fight back.”

World travel: an irreverent guide by Anthony Bourdain

Available in print

“Anthony Bourdain saw more of the world than nearly anyone. His travels took him from his hometown of New York to a tribal longhouse in Borneo, from cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, Paris, and Shanghai to the stunning desert solitude of Oman's Empty Quarter and many places beyond.

In World Travel, a life of experience is collected into an entertaining, practical, fun and frank travel guide that gives readers an introduction to some of his favorite places in his own words. Featuring essential advice on how to get there, what to eat, where to stay and, in some cases, what to avoid.

Supplementing Bourdain's words are a handful of essays by friends, colleagues, and family that tell even deeper stories about a place, including sardonic accounts of traveling with Bourdain by his brother, Chris; a guide to Chicago's best cheap eats by legendary music producer Steve Albini, and more.”

Train Japan by Steve Wide

Available in print

“See the land of the rising sun from the rails in Train Japan, the perfect guide to travelling Japan by locomotive. Seasoned Japan lovers Steve Wide and Michelle Mackintosh bring you their expert advice on the best way to get around this country, including day trips, multi-day train journeys and even themed itineraries for crafty folk, foodies or pop culture fanatics on 'joyful' trains.

Platform-hop around Tokyo and Kyoto cities or whiz along on the shinkansen bullet train to get to where you need to go fast! Do a lap of the islands, Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku or Kyushu, to get a feel for all this country has to offer, and then do it again in cherry blossom season or when the mountains are blanketed in snow.

Whatever the time of year, this guide will help you experience Japan in a way you never have before. Including carefully curated advice, stunning photography and useful tips, Train Japan has everything you need to experience Japan by rail.”

Close-Up: the complete guide to macro photography by Matt Doogue

Available in print

“Macro is one of the fastest-growing genres in photography, and with this comprehensive and easy-to-follow guide, macro expert Matt Doogue invites you to discover a whole new world of creative image-making.

You’ll go from a complete novice to a confident macro shooter, learning from a top professional who shares valuable tips and tricks for success. Along the way, you'll discover an exciting new genre of photographic practice, connecting more deeply with nature and gaining a greater understanding of wildlife. You'll master key techniques to achieve pro-level macro photography results, all while embracing a more mindful and rewarding approach to capturing images.

From understanding the optimal lens, to the shooting environment, advanced techniques and post-processing, unlock the beauty of the miniature world with this detailed guide.”

Long surrender by Nathan Best

Available in print 

Damien Hunter leads Taipan One Six, a covert team that takes on missions no one else will touch. But even in the shadows, they're not invincible. Their last operation in Afghanistan left one of their own behind, and Damien has never forgiven himself.

Seeking peace in the Australian outback, he’s pulled back into the fray when a desperate plea arrives. Homaria Radrizzani, an international sportswoman, languishes in an Afghan prison, awaiting execution at the hands of the Taliban. Alongside her, other female athletes face the same grim fate. Then, out of the darkness, the long-lost Taipan operator—abandoned during that blood-soaked mission—makes contact after years in captivity.

Now, Taipan One Six must mount a daring rescue: save Homaria and her fellow prisoners or let them die. But there's more at stake—Damien must also retrieve his old comrade. But as the mission unfolds, he must confront the darkest parts of his past. Can he save them all before time runs out?

The teller of small fortunes by Julie Leong

Available in print

Fleeing a troubled past, immigrant fortune teller Tao roams the dusty countryside with only her mule for company, telling small fortunes, for small prices. Big fortunes come with big consequences . . . which she knows from bitter experience.

It's a lonely life, until she encounters an ex-mercenary and a (semi) reformed thief, who recruit her into their desperate search for a lost child. Soon, they're joined by a baker with a knead for adventure, and - of course - a slightly magical cat.

Tao sets down a new path with companions as big-hearted as her fortunes are small. But as her friends break down her walls, the shadows of her past close in. Now, Tao must decide whether to risk everything to save the family she never thought she could have . . .

The traitor by Jorn Lier Horst

Available in print

Following weeks of heavy rain, the earth comes crumbling down on one of Larvik's residential areas, burying a handful of houses. Detective William Wisting is quick to join the rescue operation. Luckily, by sunrise the next day, it becomes clear that the landslide has claimed no victims. And yet, just twenty-four hours later, a body is found - and the victim was killed before the landslide.

As Wisting opens an investigation into the mysterious murder, he soon discovers this death might have dangerous ties to a series of ongoing cases. And the clues start leading Wisting not towards an enemy on the outside - but to a traitor in his own unit . . .

The Knitting Club at Wagtail Ridge by Janet Gover

Available in print, eBook and eAudiobook

Bree Johnston has given up trying to be the perfect lawyer. It's time to focus on her own dreams, so she decides to leave the city and set up an alpaca farm and wool shop. Her grandmother Rose might be her only supporter, but that's fine. Bree's done trying to win her parents' approval. She finds the perfect property in the charming small town of Wagtail Ridge but gets more than she bargained for when sparks start flying with the handsome real estate agent.

Being a dad is the most important thing in Matt Ambrose's life. His small agency is struggling, but he's committed to raising his young daughter, Vicki, in the country, the way he and her late mother had planned. But Vicki's grandmother wants to take control, and her interference is only getting worse, putting his little family at risk.

Although these two have a lot on their plates, the ladies of the newly formed Wagtail Ridge Knitting Club know a perfect match when they see one. Or rather two perfect matches, when shearing boss Mike walks onto Bree's farm and into her grandmother's life. With needles, yarn and cups of tea to hand, the matchmaking begins...

Ice town by Will Dean

Available in print and eAudiobook

When journalist Tuva Moodyson reads this news alert she knows she must join the search. If this teenager is found, she will be able to communicate with him in a way no one else can.

Esseberg lies on the other side of a mountain tunnel: there is only one way in and one way out. When the tunnel closes at night, the residents are left to fend for themselves. And as more people go missing, it becomes clear that there is a killer among them ...

The governor, his wife and his mistress by Sue Williams

Available in print and eAudiobook

When future governor Philip Gidley King sailed with the First Fleet to the new colony, he had his pick of the convict women to look after him.

Two years, and two sons, later, he set out back to England to provide a report on Sydney and its newly tamed Norfolk Island, as his mistress Ann Inett begged him to return to her and their children.

After a year and a half he did – but bringing with him a shocking secret that would cut her to the core, and change all their lives forevermore.

This is a story of tangled love affairs, female friendship, twisted loyalties, betrayals, hardship, male infidelity, and the tragedies and triumphs of life in a new land.

The Bogan Book Club by John Larkin

Available in print

James Larwood’s life is perfect – until a single mistake sees him lose everything. When James is released from prison, he is penniless and potentially homeless. Enter James’ tradie brother, Larry, who employs him as a cleaner and starts a factory Book Club to try and get his brother back on his feet. James expects to be lumped with a bunch of uneducated bogans and westies but comes to realise that this group of misfits are some of the warmest, funniest and most intelligent humans he has ever met.

Can James claw back the life he once had? The Bogan Book Club – You won’t know whether to laugh or cry, so you’ll probably do both!

The Summerfield saddler by Penelope Janu

Available in print and eBook

Mackenzie Henry is happy enough with her life in the small town of Summerfield. She loves her work as a saddler, the bushland surrounding her home, and the feeling of safety her beloved grandfather brings her. She doesn't want anything-or anybody-else.

So when her grandfather asks her to lead the fight to rehabilitate land destroyed by an open-cut mine, and work in front of the camera with a Norwegian documentary-making team, Mackenzie fears her life will be tipped on its axis. And she's right. The documentary not only reignites old resentments but unearths secrets that threaten her family's reputation and her own safety. To make matters worse, the enigmatic scientist, filmmaker and adventurer Kit Thorsen is a threat to the heart Mackenzie has kept safe.

Handsome, arrogant and infuriating (read: Viking), Kit is in equal parts as fascinated and frustrated by Mackenzie's mix of independence and vulnerability as she is by his. Given the demons in both of their pasts, they should run a mile. Will the compulsion that brings them together unite them or tear them apart?

The pool by Hannah Tunnicliffe

Available in print 

Prince of spin and life of the party, Baz King, is missing. Nine years ago, at an innocent summer barbecue in Melbourne, everything imploded. For the Kings and the four other young families there that fateful day marriages fractured, friendships crumbled, and lives were upended.

Nothing would ever be the same.

Now in their forties and their children teenagers, Baz King cannot be found. Has his charm finally run out? With a history of dodgy dealings and no shortage of motives, anyone could be a suspect – his ex-wife, Birdie; his colleague, Alex Turner; his lover, Jess and her husband, Richard; his friend’s nanny and new wife, Madison – who wants him out of the picture? 

Enchantment by birds by Russell McGregor

Available in print 

Enchantment by birds is commonplace. Birdwatchers merely go a step further than others and actively seek to be enchanted. This book tells why they take that extra step. It takes the reader on a series of excursions into birdwatching’s past, venturing forward to the present. With an intriguing cast of characters, avian as well as human, its lively narratives explore the emotional and aesthetic impulses behind the pastime as well as its scientific and conservationist components.

Its stories of 22 Australian birds range widely: from wordy squabbles over bird names to the artistic finessing of field guides; from the Paradise Parrot’s tragic fall into extinction to the everyday enjoyment of a Magpie’s carol; from the evolution of citizen science to the boom in birding tourism. Interlacing them all is the insight that birdwatching is a means by which modern, urban people reach out to touch the wild. A primal desire to connect with nature lies at the heart of the pastime.

Enchantment by Birds not only offers a compelling exposition of what makes birders tick; it also tells us, imaginatively and informatively, why birds have a special place in our hearts.

Backyard birdwatching By Ron Smith OAM and Bob Winters

Available in print

Go bird watching in your backyard to enjoy some peace and quiet away from the phone and computer. It’s a great way to unwind, get some exercise and discover the joy of your garden and nature on your doorstep.

Learn to identify 36 of Australia’s most common birds and develop your birdwatching skills while creating great memories with family and friends. Backyard Birdwatching helps to increase the environmental life skills of people of all ages and create conversation and activity around the birds in your backyard or local park. Birdwatching is easy, costs nothing and is a great discussion topic maintaining a thread from one day to the next. It is also an activity which can be activated quickly with few resources.

Remember When … by Bob Byrne

Available in print

Take a trip down memory lane with Bob Byrne …

Remember loading up the back of the car and heading away with the family over the summer holidays? Being part of Beatlemania when the group toured in ’64? Watching Dennis Lillee deliver a stinging bouncer in World Series Cricket? Or heading to the drive-in on a Saturday night?

Packed with over 180 photographs, Remember When … is a sugar hit of nostalgia that reminds us of the bits of Australia we loved, the bits we’ve forgotten, and the unforgettable local identities and landmarks of yesteryear.

Memoir writing by Ryan G. Van Cleave

Available in print

Unlock your storytelling journey with expert guidance.

Memoir writing isn’t just for celebrities and politicians. For anyone prone to self-reflection and ready to give shape to your memories and experiences, Memoir Writing For Dummies is your definitive guide. This book offers a concrete roadmap for writing a captivating memoir. Get advice on exploring your past, mapping out your story, and perfecting your plot, setting, character, and dialogue. You’ll also find information on recruiting the help of AI and digital media for a more dynamic storytelling experience. Whether you’re an amateur author with a story to tell or a bestselling author trying out a new genre, Memoir Writing For Dummies will guide you every step of the way.

• Gain a deep understanding of the memoir genre and kickstart your journey into autobiographical writing
• Learn how to structure your memoir to grab readers’ attention from the first page and keep them engrossed throughout
• Organise your thoughts, address sensitive topics, and seamlessly weave your insights and reactions into your narrative
• Embrace technology to streamline your writing process and share your story with the world

Everyone has a story worth sharing, and Memoir Writing For Dummies provides would-be memoirists with the essential tools they need to share their life stories with the world and become published authors.