Month: February 2007

A True Person, by Gabiann Marin

A True Persontells the story of Zallah, a young girl who arrives in Australia by boat and is placed in a detention centre with her mother. My first reaction was that it is very political story and it needs to be. The reality of life in a detention centre is unknown to the majority of Australians, and more so for our children.

I love how the story is told from the child’s perspective, something that will draw on the emotions of adults, but will also allow children to relate to Zallah, even if they cannot relate to the experience. This story provides the perfect opportunity to introduce the concept of detention centres and illegal immigration in an age appropriate way.

If we want to change attitudes to major issues that we face today, we can start to do so through our children. Picture books such as A True Person give us the means to begin the process. It not only raises the question about what a true person really is, but allows us to think of this in light of our own experiences and those of others.

New Frontier has produced a beautifully written and illustrated book that gets both adults and children thinking. Once again, they are prepared to tackle some of the more important issues in life and should be congratulated for doing so.

I highly recommend this book to all adults and children alike.

A True Person, by Gabiann Marin, illustrated by Jacqui Grantford
New Frontier, 2007
HB rrp $24.95

Alexander the Great – Reckless Conqueror, by Carole Wilkinson

Alexander the Great was a ruthless warrior and king. He conquered most of the known world and crushed all enemies in his path. This is his story.

Although a mighty and courageous man Alexander was also cruel, vile and racist. He killed people on rumours or for being related to traitors and often forced thousands of men into slavery in his campaign for conquest.

After being crowned for a short amount of years he had already lead many successful campaigns and skirmishes. He was fighting at the front line from the time he became Regent of Macedonia to his death in 323 BCE.

This book is a fantastic resource for all ages; it showcases Alexander’s life and experiences with stunning illustrations, highly detailed maps and theoretical accounts of his experiences during Alexander’s entire life from Age 4 to his death.

This Author, Carole Wilkinson, is gifted in showcasing history in such a way that all ages can understand and be interested in these fantastic chapters in history.

Alexander the Great: Reckless Conqueror, by Carole Wilkinson
Black Dog Books, 2004