AustLit

'This first book in the Our Country series takes readers on a journey across Australia to marvel at our unique geology and geography.

'Our home is an ancient land. In every corner of Australia, wonders are waiting for curious explorers. With each vibrant fact-filled page of this unique book, readers will visit different natural wonders across all states and territories. See the prehistoric beasts that roamed the land in Winton, venture through the lava-formed caves at Undara, experience the fiery glow of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, and more! Adventure is out there . . . Our country is calling.'

Source : publisher's blurb

'Every stone has its own unique story – and everybody needs a story stone and a book to collect it in!

'Mark has collected stones of all shapes and sizes since he was a kid and now he wants to share his passion in a book (unlike al lother other rock and mineral books) that explains the special connection that can be enjoyed when one pays attention to the stones that are all around us and can mean so much, if we take the time to appreciate them. Together Mark and illustrator, Coral Tulloch, have created a book that allows them to share the theme of geological wonder, solitude, special memories and places through stone.'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

'When Apollo 11 blasts off for the moon, the whole world is watching. On the other side of the planet, Billy, Mickey and Buzz decide to be astronauts too.'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

'In 1942, Sergeant “Griff” Griffin was a prisoner of war. With Christmas approaching, he decided to make a book for the children cooped up in nearby Changi Prison. The book was said to contain the secrets to happiness. But the enemy was suspicious … With this picture book, award winners Mark Greenwood and Andrew McLean bring to life the inspirational true story of a book that became a National Treasure.'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

'It’s 1929, and a man named Howard Lasseter claims to have found a massive gold reef in Central Australia. In the excitement that follows, he attempts to find it again. On his journey across the desert he buries maps and secret messages beneath the ashes of his campfires. Until at last he takes its mysterious location to the grave… ' (Publication summary)
 

'In 1936, hunted and trapped by European farmers, the last few Tasmanian Tigers take refuge in the forests of Tasmania. But even after the last-known Tiger dies alone and neglected in a zoo, people claim to have sighted this amazing creature. No one can prove it still exists, until a determined searcher and modern science provide a glimmer of hope.' (Publication summary)

'In March 1942, an aircraft prepares for a desperate midnight escape, taking refugees to safety in Australia. Just before take-off, the pilot is entrusted with a mysterious, wax-sealed package.But when the plane is shot down by the enemy and crash lands on the Kimberley coast, the package is forgotten. Until someone stumbles across the find of lifetime . . .' (Publication summary)

'In 1848 the famous explorer Ludwig Leichhardt sets out on an epic journey. His aim is to cross Australia from east to west, but he never reaches his destination and no one from his expedition is ever seen again. Countless search parties set out to look for the expedition but no trace is ever found. Until a young boy is given an artefact with an incredible story . . .' (Publication summary)

'The first Australian cricket team to tour England was a group of Aboriginal stockmen. This is their story.

'In 1868 a determined team of Aboriginal cricketers set off on a journey across the world to take on England's best.

'Led by star all-rounder Johnny Mullagh, and wearing caps embroidered with a boomerang and a bat, they delighted crowds with their exceptional skill.

'From the creators of Jandamarra, this is the remarkable story of the real first eleven.' (Publication summary)

'A foal is born at midnight, on the homestead side of the river. Coal black. Star ablaze. Moonlight in her eyes. On October 31, 1917, the 4th and 12th Regiments of the Australian Light Horse took part in one of the last great cavalry charges in history. Among the first to leap the enemy trenches was Lieutenant Guy Haydon riding his beloved mare, Midnight. This is their story.' (Publisher's blurb)

Carnival is coming, and the villagers of John John, Trinidad, are getting ready to jump up and celebrate with music, dancing, and a parade. Best of all, the Roti King has promised free rotis - tasty fried pancakes filled with chicken, herbs and spices - for the best in the parade. Publisher's blurb.

'A narrative non-fiction picture book about the life of Ned Kelly and the Kelly Gang, Australia's most infamous bushrangers. Backed by detailed research, the story focuses on Ned as a young man and the little known story of the green sash. The text also includes brief biographies and fact files on the Kelly Gang, the true story behind the green sash and a detailed list of sources.'

Source: Walker Books Australia, website, www.walkerbooks.com.au (sighted 21/06/2010)

'On a three-quarter moon, a bell tolls, marking the minutes to midnight, and a rotted timber backbone slowly rises from a watery grave".

This is the story of the ship Fortuyn in the year 1724 which vanished after leaving the Cape of Good Hope, bound for Batavia. She was laden with gold ingots and bullion.

'Fortuyn's Ghost imagines that fateful voyage to its likely end on Western Australia's treacherous Ship Wreck Coast, a place well known for nautical hauntings.' (Publication summary)