Kids Books Special Features

Mythologica | Steve Kershaw & Victoria Topping | $35 | Allen & Unwin | Ages 11+

For a spell in my childhood I was obsessed with Greek mythology and, if this had been published 20 years ago, I would have pored over this book for hours on end (actually, I still might). An encyclopedic record of 50 gods and goddesses, monsters and mortals, it is bursting with fascinating insights from Classics expert Kershaw and paired with eye-popping illustrations by artist Topping that make this large-format volume entirely enrapturing. — Kate

Absolutely stunning, Mythologica brings to life a vivid reimagining of the Greek Gods and Goddesses. These illustrations, alongside the stories they are based on make Mythologica a compendium that is a must-have for any fan of mythology, young or old. — Lucy V.

A GORGEOUS GIFT FOR THE YOUNG AND YOUNG AT HEART

Hotel Flamingo and Hotel Flamingo: Holiday Heatwave | Alex Milway | $12.99 ea | Allen & Unwin | Ages 7+

When Anna arrives at the Hotel Flamingo, bequeathed to her by great-aunt Mathilde, she is crestfallen. Unlike the photo in her hand, ‘the sunniest hotel in town’ is dilapidated and empty, with a large old bear and a listless lemur the only remaining staff. Anna’s enthusiasm is catching, and with the help of T Bear, Lemmy, and an unusual array of new employees, the hotel is once again open for business, relaunched with a gala performance by Ms Fragranti and her troupe of flamingos. Illustrated throughout, this book oozes charm and I love the messages of kindness, equality and acceptance - everyone is welcome and catered for, even Mr Roachford’s party of cockroaches! I’m looking forward to book two, wherein penguin royalty arrive in the midst of a heatwave and an ice shortage... — Mandy