An Apology, A Promise and A Quest


Hi guys! Remember me? The part-time blogger (what’s a blog?), erstwhile reviewer. This post title sounds like a new novel, doesn’t it? I wish it was. Truth be known, not a lot of new words have been written this year, either as a burgeoning story, or blog post, or even in my diary. It’s just been one of those years. We’ve all had ‘em. But about this (as yet) unwritten novel … Let me explain.

An Apology
Remember how it was one of those years? Loss, shock, anger, frustration. Realisation, resignation, enlightenment, hope. A veritable rollercoaster of ups and downs and those horrid tummy-turning tight bends. I normally don’t mind an adrenaline filled experience but 2024, seriously! So, the gazillion reviews I’d hoped to clear this year got somewhere left behind in the G force of life. Apologies to the creators, publishers, publicists and me who expected more. But ...


‘Sometimes not getting what you want is the best luck of all’

A Promise
It’s not all gloom and doom, though. Far from it. In between not quite living the dream and not quite achieving my 2024 expectations, I explored a myriad of other side streets. I found solace in unexpected places, have broadened my understanding and knowledge in areas that have improved my health; body, soul and mind. Refilled my wells of patience. Renewed resolve and purpose. And so, I endeavour – to promise less and deliver more.
A Quest
Stick with me if you can! Adventures, no matter how brief and meek, are always better shared. Always. There are still oceans of great stories to be enjoyed, shared and, written. My quest is to pursue them all more actively in 2025. Or at least, sweat less about how the pursuit pans out.

As I slide into the Silly Season with less chaotic dread than ever before and clear tiny book mountains with the commitment of Sir Edmund Hillary, I leave you with an eclectic smattering of titles that made the good list. There are dozens more, naturally, but their time will come. It always does. HAPPIEST OF CHRISTMASES – Dim!

Good List goodies


Warning! These Jokes Will Annoy Everyone You Know at Christmas Puffin Graphic Jokes Book
Seriously, they will and have. I couldn’t be more delighted or amused. The penultimate collection for Dads (or anyone else) in need of festive season flavoured jokes.


My Brother Ben by Peter Carnavas UQP Middle Grade Fiction
Birds, boats and brothers. All the feels expressed with the unique Carnavas caress of creativity. A bliss bomb of brilliance.


(Be Smart About) Screen Time! by Rachel Brian Hachette Non-Fiction for Kids
Comic styled and a whizz to assimilate, this self-help offering maintains and focuses attention on a topic that should be compulsory learning.


Bunny and Bird: How To Make A Snowman by Nick Bland Harper Collins Picture Book
Outstanding new addition to this series that pulses with clever humour and post-modern picture book wit. Recommended reading.


Song Of The White Ibis by Phillip Gwynne & Liz Anelli Puffin Picture Book
Striking imagery, compelling text, and a thought provoking endnote that rocks sustainability. Loved it. Viva la Ibis!


Grandma’s Treasured Shoes by Coral Vass & Christina Huynh NLA Publishing Picture Book
Sublimely subtle representation of what being a refugee feels and looks like. A beautiful addition to any classroom.


Raised by Moths by Charlie Archbold & Michelle Conn Midnight Sun Publishing Picture Book
Spectacularly surreal look a who we are, identity and self-appreciation. Gorgeous.


The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Extinct Animals by Sami Bayly Lothian Illustrated Non-fiction Picture Book
Magnificently rendered collection of weird and wonderful animals and their woeful untimely demises. Makes one wonder if we humans will ever end up in a compendium like this one.

Everest: The Remarkable Story of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay by Alexandra Stewart & Joe Todd-Stanton Bloomsbury Books Illustrated Narrative Non-Fiction
Truly magnificent portrayal of Sir Ed’s life, passion and ultimate achievement, reaching the roof of the world along with his revered companion, Norgay. There is much to learn and absorb from this adventure. Highly recommended reading.


I Heart The World by Tania McCartney Hardie Grant Travel Illustrated Non-fiction Picture Book
I didn’t think so many interesting facts, figures and FOOD could be mastered into one complete volume, but McCartney somehow has done so. Artful, informative and packed with delicious illustrations, I imagine the pages will be well worn with repeat visits. An excellent reference source.

One For the Adults


Wellbeing on a Budget: The Inner Ninja Handbook by Dr Alice MacKinnon
I normally shun self-help titles like the plague, mainly because of a highly prioritised reading time or lack thereof. This year however, a seismic shift occurred in my appreciation for the thoughts and gentle nudges from others in similar boats to me. One of those nudges is this book. It centres around your complete wellness but not the kind that is represented by active wear, fad diets, or expensive spa treatments, rather the wellness that comes from a deeper awareness and active appreciation of your own self including your incredible capabilities. It is calming and calm inducing. It is practical and most of all, it is achievable. Do yourself a favour and indulge in the practise of self-care – indulge in yourself. This book is a great place to start. Enjoy!

 

 

 

 

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