Hi gang,
We’re back after a long break and ready to bring you more reviews on the books available this year. I have sent out some wonderful new books from Scholastic, Walker Books and Random House Australia to reviewers who are excited to bring you their opinions.

The first book up for 2014 is the latest book from Edwina Howard, The Boy From Snowy River, which is available as of this month. Inspired by Banjo Patterson’s The Man From Snowy River, this book is funny, easy-to-read chapter book which is part of a collection called Mates – Great Australian Yarns – which are not only great for young readers but are the only full-colour Australian junior novels.

The book is filled with pictures and creative text types in order to stimulate the young mind and combine elements of design with great writing. It tells of George and a race proposed by his Gran which sees him relying on an old stock horse – who is caring and keeps George safe but still takes him on a wild adventure at the same time. There is excitement, competition, adventure and some pesky runaway goats! The books is recommended for readers 8+ but is also visually stimulating enough to be read to younger readers. The illustrations by Joe Bond are wonderful, they capture many Australian creatures and bring the adventure to life! It focuses on rural Australia and the adventures that happen in our natural habitat as well as the adventures of those in the bush. As well as this it provides a likable adult character, Gran, who is a bit undisciplined and ‘a bit of a joker’ – she drives a of the action and is a good representation of the fun side of the adult that sometimes kids forget exists.

I really think this book is a winner and another great achievement of Scholastic and Omnibus Books! If you see it on the shelf, make sure you grab a copy for your little ones. Not only is it exciting and fun but also a great way to encourage reading novels. It also fits in perfectly with the new National Curriculum, so teachers you should check it out too!

ISBN: 9781862919976
ISBN-10: 1862919976
Series: Mates 
Language: English 
Number Of Pages: 64
Published: 1st April 2014
Publisher: Scholastic Australia 

Hope you’re having a great Sunday!
Leah