Do you love a good book? Our Children’s Librarians do! And we’re excited to share some great recommendations with you. Each week, right here, you’ll find a new review of the latest books we’ve been reading.
Millie Mak the Maker, written by Alice Pung and illustrated by Sher Rill Ng
When I saw this book, with its beautiful illustrations, about a Scottish-Chinese girl growing up in Melbourne who loves craft, I couldn’t wait to read it. I was even more excited when I found out it includes craft activities.
Nine-year-old Millie loves making. It helps her to relax when things aren’t going well. Like when she has to get through the day trying to fit in at her new school. At home, Millie can be herself and get creative. She can’t afford fancy craft materials, so she has to be resourceful. She re-uses fabric from old clothes, picks through hard rubbish and searches the web for crafts that can be made with stuff from around the house. With the help of her grandmothers, Millie develops a talent for turning things that have been discarded into things that are beautiful and useful.
The writer, Alice Pung, really gets what it’s like being a kid, dealing with school, family, not having what you want and needing to be understood. I like how she doesn’t romanticise being poor and different. Millie is angry and jealous her family can’t afford nice things. Having a Chinese grandmother isn’t all home-made dumplings and red packets, it can be really annoying. This book describes everyday life in a way that I haven’t seen in kids’ books before. If you’re a maker or you enjoy stories about real-life, I think you’ll love this book. Recommended for readers aged 8+
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Kids Reading Lists
Not sure what to read next? We’ve got all the book suggestions you need! Check out our themed book lists, they are updated every month. From physical books to e-books and e-audiobooks that you can download to your phone, computer or tablet, we’ve selected some fantastic titles for you to choose from.
Book Awards
What books, authors, and illustrators have won top honours? Take a look at the nationally and internationally recognised awards below to find out!
Australian Awards
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UK Awards
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USA Awards
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