Merle's Country Show Baking And Other Favourites

Merle's Country Show Baking And Other Favourites
by Merle Parrish

Championship Recipes For You At Home!

Award winning baker Merle Parrish shares some of the recipes that have won her success with this selection of country show recipes alongside some of her personal favourites. Whether you are looking to feed the family with a hearty Family-Style Meat Pie, entertain friends with delicate Fingerbuns, delight children with tasty Gingerbread People or create delicious Easy Chocolate Fudge for a special home-made gift, you will find a recipe to suit your delectable needs.

Merle's Country Show Baking And Other Favourites is Merle's second cook book containing a wide range of recipes including cakes, breads, biscuits, jams and much more. Each appetising recipe is accompanied by a beautifully presented photo and with helpful tips and baking hint this is one cookbook that you will return to again and again. So far I have enjoyed several of these recipes including Chocolate Mudcake, Scones and Cinnamon Teacake which you see below.
 

Cinnamon Teacake

Merle Parish @ Random House

On sale: 01 November 2013
Price (AU): $39.99
ISBN: 9780857981097
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Show Recipes
Re-read it: yes, many times
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Brian Froud's World Of Faerie

Brian Froud's World Of Faerie

"The Book Of Mysteries And Love"

Faeries are more than just pretty little girls with butterfly wings, flowers in their hair and who live at the bottom of the garden. Although they can be just this, they are more complex then this image implies. Faeries are beings of brightness ready to guide you on your way; however you must be wary for they are also beings of shadow who would easily lead you astray. These are the dangers that come with venturing into a world both light and dark, where friendships teach wisdom and danger brings lessons.

Brian Froud's World Of Faerie is a journey into a world of beauty, inspiration and possibility, a place only few have visited but open to all if your mind and heart are receptive. A book that reminds us to believe in the impossible as well as in ourselves and shows how all life is a mystery and that acceptance and love abound. Taking you behind the scenes into a wondrous realm seen through the portal of magical creation, otherwise known as Brian Froud's studio, this enchanting book also includes the poster Instructions, a story by Neil Gaiman.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

On sale: 04 September 2007
Price (US): $40.00
ISBN: 9781933784137
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Faeries
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Discworld - The Folklore Of Discworld

DISCWORLD:
The Folklore Of Discworld
by Terry Pratchett and Jacqueline Simpson

Full Of Things Most People Know, But Things Not Known By Most!

Some of the most unique and magical beings on the Discworld are born from stories and belief alone. Here Gods walk the Disc, along with trolls, vampires, witches and many other creatures of human imagination. In this alternate universe stories, superstitions and the supernatural are all warped and re-imagined into a reality both humorous and flat, as just about everything on this flat world has its roots on the round world of Earth. For on the Discworld magic is real and all things that have been imagined have been given life.

The Folklore Of Discworld and the folklore of our world are almost identical but for a few differences, the most obvious of which being that in our world folklore is just that, folk tales and legends, but in the Discworld folklore has become much more, it has become reality, albeit a twisted reality. Here the fairy tales, myths and legends that are ingrained within our collective consciousness are collected, manipulated and explained through the combined efforts of Terry Pratchett's unique wit and Jacqueline Simpson's folklore knowledge creating a book both informative and funny.

Terry Pratchet Webpage

Terry Pratchet @ Random House

On sale: 01 October 2009
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN:9780552154932
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Folklore
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Hunger Games Book 2: Official Illustrated Movie Companion

THE HUNGER GAMES:

Catching Fire Official Illustrated Movie Companion

    

"The Girl On Fire"

A year ago Katniss competed in the Hunger Games and not only did she win, she defied those in power to do so. In her defiance she has become a symbol for the people of the districts, a beacon of hope and that has made her enemies who will stop at nothing to see her destroyed. With talk of rebellion and fear of an uprising, Katniss is once again called to compete in the arena in a more dangerous Hunger Games and these images prove it.

Catching Fire Official Illustrated Movie Companion is a look behind the scenes into the second film in this trilogy. A bigger, brighter and bolder movie to complement the book it is based on. This full of colour companion brings you closer into this world and the way it is created for the big screen. With everything you should want to know about this film, this book will inform and delight any fan of this series.

Suzanne Collins Webpage

Hunger Games @ Scholastic
Hunger Games
Hunger Games (Movie)

On sale: 01 December 2013

Price (AU): $24.99

ISBN: 9780545599337

Recommended age: 12+

In a word: Catching Fire

Re-read it: possibly

Recommend: yes

Star rating: four out of five

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The Fairies' Oracle

The Fairies' Oracle by Brian Froud
text by Jessica Macbeth
     

"Working With The Faeries To Find Insight, Wisdom, And Joy"

Whether this is your first experience with oracles and tarots, or faeries for that matter and you are looking for fun or just to learn, or whether for serious reflection or you are an expert at reading cards or communicating with faeries, these cards will open your mind to the possibilities and potentials that exist both in our world and the faery realm as well as within ourselves.

A selection of faeries both favourable and frightening have been drawn together, each to impart their own story and wisdom to those brave enough to search their depths for deeper meaning. There are as many meanings and interpretations of these faeries as there are ways of reading these cards and it is up to each individual to find their own path.

The Faeries' Oracle brings the enchanting and mystical artwork of the talented Brian Froud together with the insightful and spiritual teachings of Jessica Macbeth to guide us through the pathways of faery and our inner selves. This oracle set is unique in both meaning, imagery and magic, despite many of these faeries having been introduced to us before in Brian Froud's Good Faeries/Bad Faeries. A truly versatile and inspiring set.

These faeries enhance our journey of discovery, wisdom and joy as we uncover insights into our lives. These insights are discovered through images as lively and charismatic as the definitions they embody. Below is a simple three card reading representing past, present and future, more information about which can be found inside The Faeries' Oracle.

The Faeries' Oracle - three card reading

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

Jessica Macbeth Webpage

Brian Froud @ Simon & Schuster

(includes 66 Cards + 208p Hardcover book)
On sale: 29 November 2000
Price (AU): $39.99
ISBN: 9780743201117
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Faeries
Re-read it: yes, many times
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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The Hunger Games Book 1: Official Illustrated Movie Companion

THE HUNGER GAMES:

The Hunger Games Official Illustrated Movie Companion

 

"May The Odds Be Ever In Your Favour"

Every year tributes are taken from the twelve districts to compete in the Hunger Games. These twenty four children are pampered, trained then sacrificed for the entertainment of others: their deaths a punishment for crimes past and a means to contain their futures. The districts, the Capital, the arena and the colourful characters that inhabit this world are all brought to life on the big screen as seen within these pages.

The Hunger Games Official Illustrated Movie Companion takes you behind the scenes and into the history, cast and creation of this books journey into film. A bright and insightful look at the places and props created in order to bring this world to life. This companion offers a gleaming aspect into the people, filming and legacy of this popular book made into a movie. A perfect accompaniment to the series for any collector, and a book any fan will treasure.

Suzanne Collins Webpage

Hunger Games @ Scholastic
Hunger Games
Hunger Games (Movie)

On sale: 01 March 2012
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9780545422901
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Hunger Games
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Strange Stains And Mysterious Smells

Strange Stains And Mysterious Smells
by Brian Froud & Terry Jones

"Quentin Cottington's Journal Of Faery Research"

During his time at the Institute for the Criminally Insane, Quentin Cottington devoted his life to the study of stains both great and small, and their associated smells both foul and sweet. His so called research led him to believe that these stains were more than just something to be scrubbed, washed out and removed, these were living, breathing, stinking beings.

Strange Stains And Mysterious Smells uncovers a world never before imagined, a world of stains come to life and smells having personalities. With the fame of his twin sister Angelica, it seems strange that we have not before heard of Quentin Cottington, especially with the content of his research. A uniquely stench filled book that's rich with stains, personality and beings of a disgusting nature.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

On sale: 03 November 1997
ISBN: 9780684832067
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Quentin
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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The Raven Cycle Book 2

THE RAVEN CYCLE:
The Dream Thieves by Maggie Stiefvater

Not All Dreams Should Come True!

Ronan had pulled a living breathing Chainsaw from his dream and brought it into reality. If he could bring Chainsaw, a raven, into the waking world from his dreams what else was he capable of dreaming into reality? If he could do it once why not again? Why not other objects? As Ronan delves deeper into his ability, manifesting all manner of objects from his sleep, he discovers his father's hidden secret and the dire consequences of this gift used thoughtlessly; Cabeswater is weakening and uncontrollable things are slipping through into reality, things that could never be, should never be, things of nightmares.

The Gray Man is unobtrusive, indistinguishable, unremarkable. He enters a place with little fuss keeping only to himself, until his job is done, then he is on his way again. Although a self professed hit man his job mostly consists of hunting for things unable to be found, brought or acquired. At the present the Gray Man has been hired to hunt for the Greywaren, a relic that allows its owner to take objects out of dreams. But even as others are searching themselves, there are other obstacles in his way, namely a psychic named Maura and a boy named Ronan. For it turns out the Greywaren is not a thing but a person.

The Dream Thieves unveils the true identity of the Greywaren, at least one of them, as Ronan soon discovers he is not the only one. With more than one person searching for this relic, this enthralling tale sees the Raven boys distracted from their mission to find the sleeping king as secrets are revealed, decisions are made and danger is faced. A welcomed return to a world where life can be dreamt, enemies can be friends and where mystery and myths still exist. This second book in the series is as addictive and engaging as the first, its cast just as complex and memorable and its magical realism just as seamless and attainable.

Maggie Stiefvater Webpage

Maggie Stiefvater @ Scholastic

On sale: 01 November 2013
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9780545424943
Recommended age: 13+
In a word: Greywaren
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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A Midsummers Night's Dream

A Midsummer Night's Dream by Charles and Mary Lamb

illustrated by Brian Froud
      

"All These Adventures Were Visions Which They Saw In Their Sleep"
  

Long ago in Athens there was a night where confusion reigned, love was made and magic was played. The fair Hermia was in love with Lysander, and he with her. Her dearest friend Helena was in love with Demetrius, but alas Demetrius was in love with Hermia and had her father's consent to marry. When Hermia and Lysander made to run away they were followed by Demetrius, who was followed by Helena. Here enter that great trickster Puck and a night of mischief begins.

A Midsummer Night's Dream, the well known Shakespearean play is here rewritten into a story worded plain enough but littered with quotes direct form the original script. It is within these pages we find the famous king and queen of the Fairies, Oberon and Titania, here again immortalised within this dreamy new version. A story that blends ancient words with striking new images as soft and whimsical as the story itself, bringing new appreciation to a timeless tale.

(illustrator) Brian Froud - World Of Froud

On sale: 1972
ISBN: 9780851663333
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Dream
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Are All The Giants Dead?

Are All The Giants Dead? by Mary Norton

illustrated by Brian Froud
 

"There's No Giant Living!"
 

James, while sleeping safely in his bed, is awoken my Mildred, a magical woman, and taken on an adventure into a fairy-tale land. At a dream like castle James befriends a princess who is burdened by great loneliness and a christening curse. A bad fairy had cursed the princess and it was now her fate to marry a toad. Understandably upset by the thought of a toad as a husband, the princess runs away and seeks help in breaking her curse. This is when she finds James who decides to help her. But what has all this to do with giants?

Are All The Giants Dead? James is about to discover the answer to this question as he goes against good advice and involves himself in the lives of these fairy-tale characters. In particular, his decision to aid the princess Dulcibel in her toad marrying curse soon brings about a change in this magical land and the town of Much-Belungun-under-Bluff. Despite James' fondness for science fiction, this is a story bursting with fairy-tale characters and references. Accompanied by black and white Froud images, this story is a charming fairy-tale all its own.

(illustrator) Brian Froud - World Of Froud

On sale: 15 April 1997
ISBN: 9780152015237
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: James
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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My First Book Of Fairy Verse

My First Book Of Fairy Verse by Shirley Barber
 

Carry A Verse Wherever You Go!

Within these pages fairies are found, in ponds and forests, markets and mountains.
A magical place where rhyming abounds, in seas and gardens and flowing fountains.
An assortment of authors here come together, to share their great love of magical beings.
This magical book is made all the better, through poetic sounds and pretty seeings.

My First Book Of Fairy Verse, a cute board book of great rhyming example.
Looking just like a sweet little purse, it comes complete with pink carry handle.
With rhymes to treasure day and night, filled with fairies, mermaids and a little elfman.
A book that will bring great delight, a book not just for girls but all children.

Shirley Barber Webpage

On sale: 01 May 2002
Price (AU): $12.95
ISBN: 9781865036434
Recommended age: 3+
In a word: Fairy
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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The Faeries Of Spring Cottage

The Faeries Of Sping Cottage by Terri Windling

art by Wendy Froud
   

With A Story In His Heart And Courage In His Hands!

Sneezle is a tree root faerie living in the Old Oak Wood, but through a series of events he soon finds himself facing a fearful giant, a human girl named Rowan. Far from his safe home of the wood, Sneelze finds he is trapped in Spring Cottage, a human dwelling, with no way to return home to his wood.

Sneezle soon finds out that Spring Cottage is full of faeries, but unlike any Sneezle has ever meet before, usual knights serving a King and Queen, brownies turning into boggarts, rats with swords, and dolls come to life. Sneezle's only chance of returning home will depend on courage, new friendships and a story or two.

The Faeries Of Spring Cottage are a strange and dangerous group who have lost their way and allowed their fear to change them, transforming them into angry and mean faeries. But not all the faeries have lost their way and with Sneezle's help they will find peace once again. A story that will delight both young and old and will remind us that it's never too late to believe in faeries.

Terri Windling Webpage

Wendy Froud - World Of Froud

On sale: 01 May 2003
Price (AU): $39.99
ISBN: 9780743202350
Recommended age: 6+
In a word: Sneezle
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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The Man Whose Mother Was A Pirate

The Man Whose Mother Was A Pirate by Margaret Mahy

illustrated by Brian Froud
     

"I Want To See The See Again"
    

Sam was a proper little man who had lived all his life in the smoky city. He had a proper little job and never wanted for anything. His mother, however, was a pirate. She had been too long away from the sea that was her home and so convinced her son to take her back.

The Man Whose Mother Was A Pirate was a timid man who, over time and with the help of his mother and the sea, discovered that life could be joyous and that the sea could be home. A charming little story partnered with uniquely crafted images.

Margaret Mahy Webpage

(illustrator) Brian Froud - World Of Froud

On sale: 1972
ISBN: B000P505T6
Recommended age: 6+
In a word: Pirates
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five

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The Goblin Companion

The Goblin Companion by Brian Froud & Terry Jones

"A Field Guide To Goblins"

Once there was a goblin king who endeavoured to keep his subjects safe from the growing advancement of the ungoblin world. So he built a great structure where all goblins could live in safety from the outside world. Eventually this became the only place goblins could be found; this was the Labyrinth.

The Goblin Companion is the accumulation of forty-three dusty, mouldering notebooks dating from 3000 B.C. created by a goblin of some talent but, unfortunately, little concentration. Painstakingly restored by the eminent goblinologist, Brian Froud, these pages are full of goblin diagrams, footnotes and facts.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud
Got Goblins

On sale: 28 November 2003
Price (AU): $16.95
ISBN: 9781862056480
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Goblins
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Introducing Aromatherapy

Introducing Aromatherapy by Margrit Bachmann

"The Beginner's Guide To Aromatic Essential Oils

For Better Health, Inner Calm and Wellbeing"

So much of how we interact with the world, how we experience life, comes from our sense of smell. Scents are powerful enough to affect our moods, unlock memories and increase our appetites. Within these pages we discover how to harness this sense in a natural way for the benefit of our everyday lives.

Introducing Aromatherapy is a practical guide to essential oils, the plants they come from and how best to use them. These scented remedies are applied to a number of ailments ranging from anxiety, asthma, bruises, colds, headaches, sunburn, and many many more. A handy little book for those interested in a natural alternative to health and wellbeing.

On sale: 1997
ISBN: 9780646282794
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Smells
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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The Land Of Froud

The Land Of Froud by Brian Froud
   

"World Of Faerie"
   

Even as a child Brian Froud has held an affinity with nature and the land. His imaginings transforming the trees, rivers and stones into being of mystery and magic, manifesting the land into a world of faeries. Each image is a door into a land all its own, each with its own story to tell and each a glimpse into the possibilities of worlds yet to be created, of stories yet to be told.

The Land Of Froud is an enchanting journey into the imagination of a talented artist who has inspired and delight many throughout the years. Drawing influences from other artists, stories and legends and from the land itself, Brian Froud has evolved from a simple illustrator of other peoples stories into an artist whose pictures really do tell a thousand words. A book any Froud fan will treasure.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

On sale: September 1977
ISBN: 9780553010558
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Froud
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five

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Discworld - Nanny Ogg's Cookbook

DISCWORLD:
Nanny Ogg's Cookbook by Terry Pratchett,
Stephen Briggs, Tina Hannan
illustrated by Paul Kidby

Deliciously Gross, Disgustingly Tasty!

After years of people seeking out her recipes, advice and wisdom, Nanny Ogg has decided to write down much of what she knows, and if others are interested then all the better. Who else would be able to impart the secrets of Nanny Ogg's Perfectly Innocent Porridge with Completely Inoffensive Honey Mixture Which Shouldn't Make Anyone's Wife Laugh, which turns out to be honey. Or who else would you ask to ensure the proper etiquette of a wedding, the answer being plenty of strong drink for a fight to break out at.

Nanny Ogg's Cookbook is more than a collection of recipes both disgusting and strange; it is a manual for those times in life where the social rules may elude you. How else would you know who to sit where at your dinner party and what food to avoid with certain guests. It is highly recommended that you not actually try any of these recipes, for while technically edible the taste maybe highly questionable. An amusing and witty collection of recipes and advice on etiquette that is fit only for the Discworld and the odd witch.

Terry Pratchet Webpage

Terry Pratchet @ Random House

On sale: 02 November 2001
Price (AU): $27.99
ISBN:9780552146739
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Nanny Ogg
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Brian Froud's Faerielands Book 1

BRIAN FROUD'S FAERIELANDS:
The Wild Wood by Charles De Lint
illustrated by Brian Froud

You Must Remember!

Eithnie has always loved the Canadian woods, it was home to her and as an artist she has always found inspiration and comfort among the trees. But now something is different. There is a change in the air and the woods are full of whispers, shadows and visions that fill her with fear. For the first time in her life the woods no longer feel safe, and so Eithnie flees.

In the desert plains of Arizona, a world away from her familiar landscape of trees, Eithnie discovers a new land, a new vision of inspiration, a new understanding for the sparse plains before her and for the wooded lands she left behind. Armed with new courage, Eithnie returns to her woods where she discovers a love she never thought possible and a new future in the woods that have always been home.

The Wild Wood is changing, there is a magic in the air and a presence among the trees. But there is also desperation, the woods are dying, crying out for help and only Eithnie has the power to save them, if she has the courage to accept the responsibility. A story of magic and romance, this first book in the Fairyland series is beautifully written by a masterful storyteller bringing to life the magical imagery of an enchanting illustrator.

Charles De Lint Webpage

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

On sale: 01 February 1994
ISBN: 9780553096309
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Lia
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Snake Bite

Snake Bite by Christie Thompson
    

With Friends Like These...!
      

Laura has just moved from Melbourne to a small town in Canberra, her two mums had decided the move would be good for her, but now she is stuck without friends in a boring little town with nothing to do. That's when she decides to get a piercing, and while there makes friends with Lukey and Jaz. But just as she and Lukey seem to be hitting it off, Jaz takes an almost disliking to her.

Casey has lived her whole life in this shit hole of a small town. She is bored, reckless and always looking for her next drink, and her next conquest. There is nothing, and no one she won't do to satisfy her desires. What she can't stand, however, is her so called friend Jez looking down on her as though she were worthless.

Lukey is fed up with his home life, ever since his mother died when he was young, his father has been absent and his older brother has become increasingly drunk and abusive. But he has a plan to escape all that, as soon as he has sold enough pills, he will use the money to leave this hellish small town and hopefully his best friend Jez will be leaving with him.
    

Snake Bite is the story of Jez, a seventeen year old virgin with eleven piercings, blue highlights and a habit of wearing black jeans, even in forty degree weather.  Although at heart Jez is hoping for a fairytale romance, this is a story of sex, drugs and body piercings, where the language is violent and the friendships volatile. Be warned, this is a messed up story that is not for everyone.

Christie Thompson @ Allen & Unwin

On sale: 01 August 2013
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9781743316863
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Jaz
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: probably
Star rating: three out of five
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The Wall

The Wall by William Sutcliffe

"Which Side Are You On?"

Despite only living in Amarias for the past four years, the imposing presence of the Wall was not something Joshua thought about every day. Not when he had a bully for a stepfather and no friends to speak of. For Joshua, this walled city was a strange place to live, with its quiet, patrolled streets and uniform buildings, he was hard pressed to find anything or even anyone, he liked in this town. Since moving to Amarias all he has ever wanted was to leave, and then one day Joshua finds a tunnel that leads him under the wall and what he sees on the other side will change his life.

The Wall segregates all those who are different, all those who are dangerous, from those who belong. But as Joshua soon learns, the world is not always black and white and not everyone outside the Wall is an enemy, just like not all those within the Wall are safe to be around. This is not the story of a revolution, the Wall will not crumble and the world will not be changed by the actions of one person, however one person's world will be forever changed. A story of one boy, the Wall that divides and a hope for the future.

William Sutcliffe @ Bloomsbury Australia

On sale: 01 May 2013
Price (AU): $22.99
ISBN: 9781408838426
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: The Wall
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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The Tao Of Pooh

The Tao Of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff

Pooh Just Is...!

"Nothing is something, and Something is really nothing at all." Within this sentence we find the meaning of Taoism, that it is the simple things in life that matter. Nowadays people are so ready to fill things; silences with idol chatter, time with mundane activities, homes with useless clutter. But it is in the emptiness, in the silences, that wisdom may be found and happiness gained. A simple philosophy explained by the bear of very little brain.

The Tao Of Pooh is a fun and accessible introduction into the wisdom of Taoism through the characters of Winni-the-Pooh. Knowledgeable Owl is not so wise, clever Rabbit is not so smart, and complaining Eeyore never accomplishes anything. But Pooh, in his simple-mindedness is quite happy. This book explains that although at times we may have a little Owl or Eeyore within us, it would do us good to have a little Winni-the-Pooh in our lives.

Benjamin Hoff Webpage

On sale: 31 March 1994
Price (Uk): $2.99
ISBN: 9780749301798
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Winnie-the-Pooh
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Into The Mists Trilogy #1

INTO THE MISTS TRILOGY:
Into The Mists by Serene Conneeley

'A Novel'

Every morning Carlie wakes to the same hellish realisation, her parents are dead and it is all her fault. With no family left to take her in, Carlie is sent halfway round the world to live with a grandmother she never knew existed. How terrible must her grandmother be if her mother ran away from her and never spoke to her or of her ever again?

Carlie may not understand her grandmother, or why her mother left her childhood home never to return, but she does understand grief and loneliness. Living with guilt is horrible enough, living with a stranger in a foreign land is even worse. But then something happens, out of the mist Carlie begins to uncover her mother's past and discovers a way to heal.

Into The Mists, on a moon lit night, Carlie will step through the past, glimpsing a life that could have been but for miscommunication, before re-emerging into a life filled with forgiveness and magic. This is a novel of healing, acceptance and the courage to continue after those we love have moved on. A story filled with love, loss, lyrics, and the tenderness of hope.

Serene Conneeley Webpage

On sale: 24 May 2013
Price (AU): $19.95
ISBN: 9780987050588
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Carly
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Shadowfell - Book 2

SHADOWFELL:
Raven Flight by Juliet Marillier

A Land Divided, A Girl With A Calling,

Leading A Rebellion Requires Great Sacrifices!
  

For too long Alban has been a land in turmoil, its people suppressed, the Good Folk shunned. The King has turned on his land and installed fear into his people but now the people are ready to fight back. The rebels of Shadowfell are preparing for a war against the King, a war to bring peace back to the land, a war to save them all and Neryn is the key to winning the war.

As a caller Neryn has the ability to call the other folk forth, without whose help there would be no war. But before she is able to call them to war she must first learn to master her gift. Neryn must travel the four corners of the kingdom in order to find the Guardians and learn from them the secrets of harnessing her power, but it is not an easy road to tread, and as a valuable asset to the resistance, she will not be travelling alone.

Tali, a skilled fighter and fierce loyalist to Alban and the rebellion, is not the easiest person to get along with at the best of times, so having to accompany Neryn on a dangerous journey across the country will bring rising tensions and new found respect. But while everyone is busy fighting and sacrificing for the resistance, Tali is frustrated to see that Neryn is distracted from her quest by Flint.

Raven Flight across a turmoil landscape, a call to the past, a hope for the future. A journey of trials and hardships, of friendships and love, this is a quest to save a land that is crying out to be healed. A beautiful tale that continues Neryn's quest to save her homeland from the hands of a tyrant. A story that is as moving as it is magical.

Kingdom Of Alban - map

Juliet Marillier Webpage

Juliet Marillier @ Pan Macmillan

On sale: 01 July 2013
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9781742612249
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Caller
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Secrets of Carrick Book 3

SECRETS OF CARRICK:
Tantony by Ananda Braxton-Smith

The Truth Will Set You Free!

When Mam told her stories of danger and warnings to Mally and her siblings, Mally was the only one to really listen, the only one to take those warnings to heart. While her sibs spent their time in blissful ignorance, Mally saw only danger everywhere. Mally knew she was right to be afraid, but with so much to fear Mally cannot understand her brothers and sisters fearlessness, and while she loved them she hated their carefree ways.

Doyln Craig is a bully, violent and frightening, Mally goes out of her way to stay out of his. But lately, for some reason he is seeking her out, wanting something from her. All Mally wants is to left alone, to feel safe, but soon she is pulled into a journey across Carrick to mend a broken boy, heal a hare woman and finally discover her inner courage that will finally set her free and find her peace and acceptance.

Ghostheart uncovers a hidden tragedy, brings closure to loved ones and mends broken ties all through the courage of one frightened, fearful girl. Mally's fears have kept her isolated and alone, but when forced to confront the frightening, forced away from all that she holds safe, she will find she is not as alone as she had believed, not as powerless as she had felt. A beautifully written tale that will capture your heart and feed your imagination.

Ananda Braxton-Smith @ Walker Books

On sale: 01 May 2013
Price (AU): $18.95
ISBN: 9781742032184
Recommended age: 13+
In a word: Witch-Webster
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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The Wardstone Chronicles Book6

THE WARDSTONE CHRONICLES:
The SPOOK'S Sacrifice by Joseph Delaney

A Sacrifice For The Greater Good!
  

Despite Alice's training as a witch, she is Thomas Ward's friend. So even after Alice had been banished by the Spook and had returned to Pendle, Tom missed her. The Spook however would no longer tolerate Alice and her connection to the dark, his greatest fear was that Tom would be turned to the dark, therefore giving the Fiend unspeakable power. But not even the Spook can stop the dark from reaching his own home.

Tom's Mam has returned to the County seeking help in her homeland of Greece. After having enlisted the aid of the Pendle witches, Alice among them, Mam seeks out the help of the Spook, Bill Arkwright and her son Tom, who would never refuse his Mam. Although Bill Arkwright also agrees to accompany Mam and the witches to Greece to fight this great evil, the Spook refuses to sacrifice his principles by working with the enemy.

The Spook’s Sacrifice takes Tom to Greece, where lives will be lost, secrets revealed and the dark makes a powerful win. But as Tom is tempted ever closer to the dark through secrets and lies, and even after the greatest battle against the dark has been fought, there will be a terrible price to pay, and Tom will make the biggest sacrifice of all. The dark has never been more frightening in this, the most thrilling tale in the series yet.

Joseph Delaney Webpage

Joseph Delaney @ Random House

THE SPOOK'S

On sale: 02 August 2010
Price (AU): $17.95
ISBN: 9781862303522
Recommended age: 12-16
In a word: Greece
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Brave

Brave adapted by Irene Trimble
 

'Book Of The Film'
 

Once there was an ancient kingdom ruled by a much loved king and queen. The king was a large and fierce man who had fought the great bear Mordu and lost a leg in the struggle. But that did not stop him from his bear hunts and for this he became known as the Bear King. The queen was a knowledgeable and beautiful lady who felt it her duty to pass on all she knew to her daughter Merida, the princess.

As a princess, Merida had many duties, responsibilities and expectations heaped upon her, but it was her mother, the queen who pushed her to be perfect.  Merida knew she could not live up to her mothers ideals and struggled to make her mother understand that she was not like her, that she would never be like her, but her mother, the queen refused to listen. So Merida took drastic action resulting in her mother becoming a bear, a dangerous thing when your father is the Bear King.

Brave, the book of the film, is not your typical Disney princess story. There is no handsome prince rushing to the rescue of a princess in distress. There is only a princess who through selfish actions creates a rift in her kingdom, not to mention turns her mother into a bear, and must stand alone to set things right, saving her kingdom from war and her mother from death.

Those who have watched the movie may note the numerous though minor changes that are present throughout the dialogue and the action within this novel. However despite this distraction, this is a heartfelt, humorous and entertaining tale to enjoy on its own or as an accompaniment to the movie.

Brave

(includes 8-page full-color insert of scenes from the movie)
On sale: 22 June 2012
Price (AU): $8.44
ISBN: 9781445495101
Recommended age: 8+
In a word: Merida
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Brave (Little Golden Books)

Brave (Little Golden Books) by Random House Disney
  

A Princess Follows Her Own Path!
  

Merida is a princess who feels her mother does not understand her; Elinor is a Queen who feels she knows what is best for her daughter. Through miscommunication and a magical spell cake, Merida and her mother must learn to listen to each other and love each other for who they are.

Brave (Little Golden Book) is a charmingly simplistic story of a mother daughter relationship that is simple enough for your little one to follow along with, accompanied by adorable images children will enjoy. A loving story that will be a special favourite for little girls.

Random House Disney

Brave

On sale: 15 May 2012
Price (US): $3.99
ISBN: 9780736429016
Recommended age: 2+
In a word: Merida
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Wildlife

Wildlife by Fiona Wood

The Wildlife Can Be Dangerous, Feed At Your Own Risk!

When you're a shy, naive girl in high school, gaining a little popularity is pretty much the equivalent of throwing a lamb to the wolves; the only thing worse is having a best friend who is really a wolf in sheep's clothing. For Sibylla this is exactly what happens, but maybe if she can discover herself in time she may escape being eaten alive.

Being the new student is like being a fish out of water, you instantly don't belong, no one seems to want you and your very existence is a fight for survival. For Lou surviving a new school is nothing, she doesn't care about belonging, she doesn't care about being wanted, it is only life she is fighting to survive, only her grief she is struggling to breath through.

Wildlife is not about surviving the animals of the wilderness but the wildness in your fellow students. For these year 10 students, spending fourth term at Mt Fairweather, Crowthorne Grammar's outdoor educational campus, is more then an education on becoming self-sufficient, it is a lesson in becoming self-aware, of growing up and making discoveries on life, love and acceptance of ones-self.

Fiona Wood Webpage

Fiona Wood @ Pan Macmillan

On sale: 01 June 2013
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9781742612317
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Wilderness
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: probably
Star rating: three out of five
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Secrets of Carrick Book 2

SECRETS OF CARRICK:
Tantony by Ananda Braxton-Smith

This Is What I Am For!

Fermion and Bolson were twins, but despite there sameness they were very different. Though they shared the same face and the same heart, it was Fermion who was older, always in a rush, never believing what she couldn't see and always working for others. Bolson on the other hand always took his time with things, he saw whole worlds were others saw only a drop of water; he believed the birds spoke to him and he worked only towards fulfilling their wishes.

But when Fermion found her brother, the life drained from his cold body, her life was suddenly changed, as was that of her whole family. Losing Bolson meant losing a piece of herself, but it was also a loss to everyone at home. Everyone in her family was changed by his absence and for Fermion nothing could make sense again until she could discover the reason why he had died and accept that he was never coming back.

Tantony is a journey through grief and loss, a journey across land and sea, a journey to find your own path in life and what you believe. As one girl struggles with her life, her loss and what she believes she learns to accept others for who they are and herself for who she needs to be. Written with a raw and edgy language that reflects the uniqueness of this country and the quirkiness of its people, this down to earth story is one that settles deep within you and refuses leave.

Ananda Braxton-Smith @ Walker Books

On sale: 01 May 2013
Price (AU): $18.95
ISBN: 9781742031668
Recommended age: 13+
In a word: Monsters
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Pandora English #3

PANDORA ENGLISH:
The Skeleton Key by Tara Moss

She Has A Date With A Green Eyed Monster!

Pandora is looking forward to her date with Lieutenant Luke, a ghost from the Civil War. This is despite the fact that she sees him most nights; he is her spirit guide after all. However this night will be different, on this night it will be the Crow Moon, on this night Lieutenant Luke will be flesh-and-blood.

When Lieutenant Luke disappears halfway through their date, Pandora is not just frustrated but frightened. What if he is gone for good? However there are other worries to occupy her, she is sure her boss Skye DeVille is now Sanguine and on the verge of firing her at any moment. Jay Rockwell posses a romantic complication and Athanasia and her friends continue their vendetta against her.

But most curious of all is the skeleton key Pandora now possesses and the doors it opens in her Specktor home. Repeatedly warned of the Powerful force in Specktor, Pandora comes face to face with the architect of her new home and finally learns the secret behind its powerful force. Too bad she may not live long enough to survive what comes next, the Revolution of the Dead.

The Skeleton Key gains access to doors and pathways previously closed to Pandora, however what she never expected to find was the entryway to underworld. As the dead rise up across New York City, Pandora can't help but think what lousy time they have, right in the middle of her second first date. A romantically complex, fashionable tale where the dead outnumber the living.

Tara Moss Webpage

Tara Moss @ Pan Macmillan

On sale: 01 December 2012
Price (AU): $22.99
ISBN: 9781742611631
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Revolution Of The Dead
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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FLOWER FAIRIES: Moments & Memories Photo Album

FLOWER FAIRIES:
Moments & Memories Photo Album
by Cicely Mary Barker

Treasured Moments Magically Preserved!

Let these fairies protect your most favoured and magical moments within the pages of this generous and gorgeous album. Sprinkled amongst your own images are those of these iconic and beautiful flower fairies.

Moments & Memories Photo Album is a beautiful way to show off precious memories or keep safe those photos that are most meaningful. A precious album that is a real treasure to house that special occasion or makes a wondrous gift for a loved one.

Flower Fairies

On sale: 1999
ISBN: 9780785334668
Recommended age: 6+
In a word: Fairies
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Faeryland

Faeryland by John Matthews

illustrated by Matt Dangler

'The Secret World Of The Hidden Ones'
   

Here is a door, enter if you dare to discover a world both familiar and new, a world full of beings found both on the land and under the sea. These fanciful beings have many names and hide many secrets, but with this book to guide you, you can uncover their hidden places and discover their magical ways.

Faeryland opens the door to these elusive and enchanting beings that have long fascinated and frightened people the world over. With this personal invitation to Faeryland you will learn the secret faerie spells and charms, as well as own your very own personal map of Faeryland. A beautifully presented book any faery lover will treasure.

@ Thames & Hudson

John Matthews @ Abrams Books

On sale: 01 April 2013
Price (AU): $30.50
ISBN: 9781419706738
Recommended age: 6+
In a word: Faeries
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Secrets of Carrick Book 1

SECRETS OF CARRICK:
Merrow by Ananda Braxton-Smith

A Sea-Girl's Story!

She is a wild girl, full of stories and covered in scales, growing up without a mother or a father. Although her aunt raised her it is the stories surrounding the island of Carrick that she lives on, stories of Other Ones, changeling's, the honey-tongued and cave people. But the stories she craves most are the stories of her own family, her great-grandfathers merrow wife, her fathers search for a sea wife, her mother's watery end.

With her affinity for water the long hot summer has driven her to the seabed for respite and answers, however it is through a hidden cave of hands, a man washed ashore in a net and an encounter with an ancient one that brings about the answers she so desperately needs. But when the truth is revealed it is not the story she had been hoping for, but with the truth she is finally able to find peace in her own story.

Merrow brings a young girls dreams of hope, magic and merrow's to life only to have those dreams transformed with the truth into memories of a woman who loved and was loved, a woman who was her mother. Neen's summer is one filled with stifling heat, enchanted stories, hidden truths, uncovered pasts and a new found affinity for bees. A notable story that is as wondrous as it is fulfilling.

Ananda Braxton-Smith @ Walker Books

On sale: 01 May 2013
Price (AU): $18.99
ISBN: 9781742031361
Recommended age: 13+
In a word: Merrow
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Lady Cottington's Pressed Fairy Album

Lady Cottington's Pressed Fairy Album by Brian Froud

A Hidden Past... A Secret Revealed Squashed!

On her sixteenth birthday Angelica Cottington discovers an album that had once belonged to her sister Euphemia. It had been twelve years since her sister had passed, a sister she bearly remembered but for a few kindnesses. However the entries with this album reveal to Angelica the character of a girl lead astray by the fairies, portraying Euphemia as she has never been revealed before.

Lady Clottington's Pressed Fairy Album continues Angelica's story, and fairy pressing, through the revealing entries of a lost album. In this we learn not only of Euphemia's life and love of capturing fairies in photos, we learn of Angelica's reactions to her sisters exploits. But the most shocking truth of all is still to come, if only Angelica could refrain from squashing fairies for a moment or too. Another beautifully constructed and elegantly pictured book in the cottington series.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

On sale: 01 October 2002
ISBN: 9781862055599
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Fairies
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Sookie Stackhouse #13

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
Dead Ever After by Charlaine Harris

And They All Lived Happily ... Well, The Lucky Ones Lived!

She was told there would be consequences for using the cluviel  dor, great magic like that could not be used without consequences. But even with her telepathic abilities she could never have foreseen this outcome. Saving Sam was a decision that she would gladly make again, saving Sam was a choice that made little difference to her life, and yet saving Sam was going to change her life forever.

Being framed for murder is no picnic, neither is sharing a jail cell with Jane Bodehouse the morning after one of her nights on the drink, which for Jane happened to be about every night. But even with little evidence against her there are those who will be glad to see Sookie go down, one way or another. But before this mystery comes to a conclusion there will be more then one revelation and more then one victim dead ever after.

Dead Ever After is one way to describe her past relationships. In this, Sookie's final adventure, old enemies return for a last showdown and final attempt to kill our favourite telepathic barmaid heroine. The last in this series, this story bring to a close all those questions you had about the fate of this fairy blooded southern belle and the small town she calls home. If you have been following this series then this book is a must.

Charlaine Harris Webpage
Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

Sookie Stackhouse

On sale: 01 May 2013
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9780575096622
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: The End
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
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The Wardstone Chronicles Book5

THE WARDSTONE CHRONICLES:
The SPOOK'S Mistake by Joseph Delaney

Everybody Makes Mistakes!

With his second winter as the spook’s apprentice fast approaching, Thomas Ward is to be sent north to Caster to spend the next six months under the apprenticeship of the spook Bill Arkwright. Tom is told he will learn a lot in the north, that it will toughen him up, but he is not looking forward to leaving the spook or Alice, and according to his letter Arkwright is not looking to having him stay.

When he arrives he soon learns that things are different in the north, yes there are still witches to contend with but these are mostly water witches and nothing like the witches he has encountered so far. The worst of these is Morwena, the Fiend’s own daughter who has made killing Tom her sole purpose in life. But Tom’s is not the only life in danger, and when a deal is made with the dark the spook will make the biggest mistake of his life.

The Spook’s Mistake could cost lives or lose him an apprentice as his greatest fear of the darks influence comes to bare. As Tom is drawn ever closer to the dark and to his own demise, Alice will stop at nothing to protect him despite the consequences. But when truths are revealed and alliances are made, the line between dark and light is blurred and in the half light the future of all is uncertain. Another brilliantly entertaining story.

Joseph Delaney Webpage

Joseph Delaney @ Random House

THE SPOOK'S

On sale: 03 August 2009
Price (AU): $17.95
ISBN: 9781862303515
Recommended age: 12-16
In a word: Morwena
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Healing With The Fairies Oracle Cards

Healing With The Fairies Oracle Cards by Doreen Virtue

 

"Heal Your Life With Help From The Fairies"

Fairies have long existed, sharing their knowledge, wisdom and enchantment to those who were willing to open their hearts to them. Found in places of magic, such as in woods, at the bottom of gardens or simply in your own imaginations, fairies have always served as guides. And now through these oracle cards the fairies are able to do just that.

Healing With The Fairies Oracle Cards are a fun and enchanting source of entertainment, enlightenment and magic. Beautiful and positive affirmations accompany these enchanting images of the fairies who share their wisdom, love and healing. A wonderful gift for a treasured loved one or a special treat to buy for yourself.

Doreen Virtue Webpage
Doreen Virtue @ Walker Books

(includes 44 Cards + Booklet)
On sale: 01 June 2004
Price (US): $24.95
ISBN: 9781561707850
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Fairies
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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The Violet Eden Chapters #4

THE VIOLET EDEN CHAPTERS:
Endless by Jessica Shirvington

Love Will Tear Us Apart!

 

Having witnessed the opening of the gates of hell, and almost falling through, Violet is now dealing with the aftermath of that event, namely the return of her mother. But in this she is not alone, her father is also getting used to her mothers return, taking it a lot better then she is, and is also learning about her Grigori status. But to become a full Grigori Violet must travel to New York where's she will be tested, assessed and if successful accepted as one of their own.

Meanwhile Lilith has plans of her own for Violet and her mother, the woman responsible for sending her to hell in the first place. With the lives of innocents held in the balance Violet can hardly refuse Lilith’s wishes and with her mother watching on, she will suffer as she has never suffered before. But she will not suffer alone; turning what was an act of love into a strategic move against an inevitable attack from the enemy that will have dire consequences for them all.

Endless was how Violet and Lincoln had described their love for each other, beautiful, impossible, painful and endless. But Violet and Lincoln are learning the hard way that sometimes love is not enough. After having faced countless exiles, witnessing the gates of hell open and suffered at Lilith’s hands, in the end will they be torn apart by their own love for each other? A page turning romance that improves with every new chapter.

Jessica Shirvington Webpage

Jessica Shirvington @ Hachette Children's
The Violet Eden Chapters

On sale: 01 September 2012
Price (AU): $24.99
ISBN: 9780734412720
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Eve
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: three out of five
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