A Beautiful Family
by Jennifer Trevelyan
Allen & Unwin, $36.99
There’s something deeply satisfying about a slow burn reveal – and this debut novel by Kiwi author Jennifer Trevelyan sets a beguiling pace. Wonderfully delicate tendrils of suggestion and tension intertwine from the first page. It’s absolutely one of those reads you won’t want to put down, taking you on a journey through a family holiday where secretive layers of adult relationships, blossoming teenage emotions and the frustrations of childhood pool together to create a murky understanding of events. Cleverly crafted and narrated through the lens of childhood friendship, it’s a cracker read.
by Ivor Popovich
Allen & Unwin, $37.99
If you’ve ever wanted a true ‘through the lens’ insight into our health system, this fascinating reveal by Ivor Popovich delivers, as he shares his thoughts and experiences from a decade working as a doctor in New Zealand (including the Covid pandemic and Whakaari White Island disaster). Covering everything from bullying and toxic culture to mismanaged priorities, it’s a sharply focused look at the realities of working as a doctor in a system with obvious flaws. Presented through a series of real incidents and stories, it will leave you frustrated, disappointed and sad, questioning the reality and likelihood of changes sorely needed.
Fire & Ice
by Hazel Phillips
Massey University Press, $49.99
Discover the mysteries of Tongariro National Park, bought to life with the words of avid adventurer Hazel Phillips. Having spent two years exploring the mountains terrain, searching to discover its history, secrets and treasures, the self-confessed ‘Ruapehu addict’ has left literally no stone unturned in her comprehensive study of these mountains. Covering everything from ghosts, fires, avalanches, crevasses and plane wrecks, it’s a comprehensive read for anyone who enjoys taking a deep dive into a topic. Included amongst the research are more than 200 historic and present-day images and more than 25 maps.
by Molly Jong-Fast
MacMillan, $39.99
The relationship between parents and their children are rarely without complexity, conflict and strong emotions. As the only child of Erica Jong, author of the feminist autobiographical novel Fear of Flying, Molly Jong-Fast grew up with her mother absorbed in the world of fame. This memoir shares Molly’s touchingly honest portrayal of their relationship, as she slowly loses her mother (did she ever truly have her?) to the brutal ravages of dementia. Many of the family dynamics will be heartachingly familiar to readers who will share the roller coaster of humour, wisdom and realisation. It’s thought provoking in many multi-layered ways.
Pūkeko Who-keko?
by Toby Morris
Penguin Random House, $21
Prepare to be surprised as to just how many words rhyme with pūkeko! Given the likelihood adults will doubtless be cajoled to read this on repeat, it’s just as well there are plenty of word play and dad jokes for all to enjoy. Join Detective Clue-keko as he follows the paint trail to hunt out the messy mystery of who spilled the blue paint. A super fun Kiwi read.
by Ruth Paul
Scholastic NZ, $20.99
When 11-year-old Ruby’s grandfather Rex is hospitalised, she retreats to the forest with her trusty dog sidekick. Ruby discovers a white kiwi chick and uncovers a plot by the local vet to capture the white kiwi for an international smuggling ring. This well-crafted, compelling story weaves two cultures in an intriguing mystery adventure, spiced with Kiwi banter and humour.
by Katie Furze and Ned Barraud
Scholastic NZ, $21.99
The dynamic combination of author Katie Furze and illustrator Ned Burraud proves successful yet again, as they bring Pekapeka, the short-tailed bat to life. Set in an ancient forest, her nocturnal adventures are shared as she forages for food, evades predators, and plays a crucial role in pollinating native plants, all while navigating the many dangers hidden in the night.
by Ned Barraud
Scholastic NZ, $21.99
Wonderfully realistic images help capture authentic life on a Kiwi farm, further shared through lyrical rhyming text. As the land and animals grapple with drought, youngsters are taken on a journey across paddocks, barns and treetops, discovering the creatures that make up the ecosystem of a farm and the rhythms of farm life.
by Swapna Haddow and Daron Parton
Scholastic NZ, $21.99
There are plenty of laughs and thrills with this fun read, complimented by equally bold and energetic illustrations. A hilarious story about curiosity, exaggeration, and mischief, all part of a visit to the library and a librarian prone to exaggeration and outrageous stories. Or are they?
Is My Worry Worth Worrying About?
by Becky Overeem, illustrated by Sarah Trolle
Little Love, $20
A lovely debut picture book by Kiwi author Becky Overeem, which perfectly navigates the space between storytelling and helping empower youngsters to face their fears and thoughts. Packed with opportunities to engage young readers in conversation around worry and overwhelm, practical tools and resources are also offered, aimed at helping navigate anxiety and find calm.
