New reads for youngsters
The Story Of You
Rose Stanley
Austin Macauley Publishers
$29.99
Rhyming books with excellent syntax are a delight to read to youngsters, and this one is also infused with positive affirmations, aimed at helping celebrate the uniqueness of every individual. Kiwi author Rose Stanley encourages children to celebrate their own taonga. Ages 8–12.
Nicola Toki & Jo Pearson
Allen & Unwin
$22.99
From Nicola Toki, chief executive of Forest & Bird, comes the official children’s book about the world-famous pūteketeke, Aotearoa New Zealand’s Bird of the Century. One dollar from every book sold goes to Forest & Bird for their conservation efforts. Based on the classic rhyme ‘Five Little Ducks’, it’s a charming tale subtly weaving important conservation messages. Ages 3–7.
Joanna Grochowicz
Allen & Unwin
$22.99
Polar historian Joanna Grochowicz draws on diaries, letters, and expedition narratives from archives and personal collections around the world, to transport the reader to Antarctica in the winter of 1912. The extraordinary adventures of explorer Douglas Mawson are vividly brought to life, along with illustrations and documentary-style photographs. Ages 10–14.
Deborah Kelly & Joanna Bartel
Exisle Books
$29.99
It hard to choose which is more stunning in , with equally delightful words and illustrations to mesmerise youngsters. The wonderful tale aims to inspire young readers, particularly girls, to find their inner strength and resilience and connect with their heritage and ancestors. Inspired by the author’s own family, it’s a lovely way to spark conversations about special features of grandparents and extended family.
Nanny Rina’s
Amazing Nets
Qiane Matata-Sipu, illustrations by Isobel Joy Te Aho-White
Picture Puffin
$21
An English translation of the original Ngā Kupenga a Nanny Rina, this heartwarming story about aroha, whānau, passing down traditional knowledge, and welcoming in the new year also includes step-by-step instructions on how to weave a net. Youngsters can be inspired by Nanny Rina who can make all kinds of nets, and learn how the Matariki stars guide her to the right net to make. Ages 5+.
Brown Bird
Jane Arthur
Puffin
$19.99
Eleven-year-old Rebecca tries to make herself invisible, so people won’t call her weird. It’s a familiar situation for many pre-teens and Brown Bird is the ideal read for this age group, touching upon subjects such as fear, doubt, and a lack of self-belief. The gentle warm-hearted novel is a story about discovering what you’re capable of. Age 9–11.
Winter reads
Nici Wickes, photography by Todd Eyre
Bateman Books
$45
A new collection of recipes from the author of the bestselling book A Quiet Kitchen. Renowned for uncomplicated heart-warming recipes, Nici shares some of the soothing meals she turned to following the loneliness of the pandemic and devastating floods and cyclones of 2023. From Chowder for comfort and Corn and Bacon Risotto to juicy Pineapple Prawns and a gorgeous Blackberry and Apple Galette, these beautiful love-filled recipes can be shared by both novice and expert cooks. There are also wonderful ideas for one-person meals.
Marian Keyes
Penguin
$38
There’s something wonderfully comforting about immersing yourself into the chaotic Walsh family, their endless craic and the gradual evolution of their lives. This time, Anna Walsh is at the fore after ditching her long-term boyfriend and dream job in beauty, swapping the glamour of New York for helping put out PR fires in a small Irish town. Whether you’re an ardent fan of Marian Keyes or new to her stream of bestsellers, it’s a wonderful dose of escapism and humour.
Orathay Souksisavanh
Murdoch Books
$55
Immerse your palate in the exceptional flavours of Thai food while expanding your understanding of core Thai ingredients. A celebration of 100 recipes, each with easy-to-follow steps and tips, enjoy everything from classics, such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum Soup, and curries to snacks like Po Pia (fried rolls) and Karipap (curry puffs). Beautifully illustrated, it’s packed with culinary inspiration, gifting you with lifelong skills and appreciation of this cuisine.
Don. E McGregor
Stargull Publishing
$39.99
Step back in time to the Roman Empire to times of turmoil, wars, and rivalry, but equally of deep passion and love. The compelling saga set in the most brutal of Roman times, follows the rise to power of Octavian, Rome’s first emperor, who inherited the lion’s share of Julius Caesar’s estate following his assassination. Seen through the eyes of former street urchin and slave artist Riccar, the tale intertwines the lives of slaves with leaders and is a fascinating immersion into this ancient world and a rich medley of unforgettable characters.
Kiwi Gardener
Philip Thomsen
Bateman Books
$45.99
Kiwis have a long tradition of embracing fresh produce, whether nurturing small pots of herbs or large plots of seasonal fruit and vegetables. With decades of experience helping inspire around horticulture and gardening, author Philip Thomsen has packed this book with invaluable advice for anyone with an interest in caring for their own garden space, regardless of size or location in New Zealand. From vertical gardens to step sites, it’s a wealth of Kiwi-relevant information.
