Relax and immerse yourself in one of our Book of the Month choices. From tasty new recipes to some fantastic fiction and even books for young readers, these are a few of our favourite new offerings.
Turbulent Threads
Karen McMillan
Quentin Wilson Publishing
$37.99
Set in Victorian Dunedin in 1890, this passionate tale of freedom and love by bestselling New Zealand author Karen McMillan is a page-turning saga set in extraordinary times. There’s a wonderful sense of nostalgia and connectivity about being able to visualise many of the settings, such as Larnach Castle, where suddenly orphaned 20-year-old Greer Gillies is reduced to working as a servant. Greer becomes a symbol of courage, daring to pursue her dreams, follow her heart and find her place in a world that promises a better future. Find a cosy spot and settle in to enjoy.
What Can I Bring?
Sophie Hansen
Murdoch Books
$55
The community of food, togetherness, and sharing is at the heart of What Can I Bring? Perfectly packed with recipes for any occasion, sections include Dinner for a camping trip; Things to eat with one hand; Salads that won’t wilt in the heat; and Soup for the thermos. The common thread of Sophie’s recipes is the community and kindness that binds us. Easy, delicious food for sharing, this is the one cookbook that has you covered for any shared-plate or crowd-pleasing occasion, taking away the stress and panic of that ‘what can I bring’ moment.
Koro’s Star
Claire Aramakutu
Scholastic NZ
$20.99
A delightful read with themes of acceptance, bullying, friendship, and family ties – a definite to add to your collection for children or grandchildren. Winner of the 2023 Storylines Tom Fitzgibbon Award, Koro’s Star is a heart-warming, exciting adventure story set in the 1960s for children aged 9+. The story celebrates the strong bonds between father and son and has a slight touch of the supernatural.
The Apple Tree
Steven Moe
Seeds Press
$20
More than a picture book for children, The Apple Tree by author and lawyer Steven Moe resonates with adults and is an inspiring story that encourages those who give much but are often unseen. As the seasons pass, an apple tree grows and wonders why it has been left alone with no purpose. This story is a reflection on the nature of things we can’t perceive, and the impact we can have on the world beyond our imagination.