Gecko Press is a small by choice, independent publisher of children’s books in translation We publish a curated list of books from the best writers and illustrators in the world. Gecko Press books celebrate unsameness. They encourage us to be thoughtful and inquisitive, and offer different— sometimes challenging, often funny—ways of seeing the world. They are printed on high-quality, sustainably sourced paper with stitched bindings so they can be read and re-read. Choosing books is an adventure, and we wish you the joy of picking the perfect book!
Julia Marshall, Publisher
» Cover image © Anke Kuhl from Do Animals Fall in Love? » Image © Marc Boutavant from No One Is Angry Today
2021
Boardbooks 0–3 yrs
Hippopotamus hippospotamus —animal mischief and joyful word play
David Elliot Grumblebee Playful animals get up to everyday toddler mischief in this delightful board book built on word play, with each scene twisting animal names into funny new words to share. 170 x 170 mm | 20pp | Boardbook 978-1-776574-02-5 NZ 16.99 AU 14.99 UK 7.99
Oink The delicacy and subtlety of the art only adds to the frisky humor. New York Times 180 x 240 mm | 32pp | HB 978-1-776572-14-4 NZ 24.99 AU 22.99 UK 8.99
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» Image © David Elliot from Grumblebee
2021
Boardbooks 0–3 yrs
te reo Māori
Board books in te reo Māori about whānau and our place in the world
Gavin Bishop Koro Share a day with grandad—a small hand in a big one, big gumboots and little, grandad’s garden, grandad’s stories, and a nap to finish. 978-1-776574-01-8 Pops English-languagei edition 978-1-776574-00-1
Mihi This beautiful boardbook for every New Zealand baby introduces ideas of self and whānau within the shape of a simple mihi. 978-1-776573-02-8 Boardbooks | 185 x 185 mm | 18pp NZ 17.99 AU 15.99
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» Image © Gavin Bishop from Koro
Prime Minister’s Award 2020 Sir Kingi Ihaka award for contribution to Māori art and culture
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Boardbooks 0–3 yrs
‘A wonderful interactive little book’ Axel Scheffler of the Gruffalo JÖrg Mühle Tickle My Ears Just irresistible. Who doesn’t want a book that teaches a child how to put someone–one’s self, obviously–to bed? School Library Journal Chosen by BookTrust 978-1-776570-76-8
Bathtime for Little Rabbit The book speaks perfect baby. The Bookbag Funny, sweet, reassuring and empowering ... perfection. Playing by the Book 978-1-776571-37-6
Poor Little Rabbit! Besides being fun, this gem is also a way to show toddlers how to put empathy into action. New York Times 978-1-776571-77-2 Boardbooks | 170 x 170 mm | 20pp NZ 14.99 AU 12.99 UK 6.99
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» Image © Jörg Mühle from Tickle My Ears
Boardbooks 0–3 yrs
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also in te reo Māori
Who’s driving the fire engine? Elephant! Wheeooh...
Leo Timmers Who’s Driving? Animals, sounds and a guessing game make this book for drivers of all ages a Gecko Press backlist favourite, now in boardbook. 170 x 250 mm | 30pp | Boardbook 978-1-776571-66 NZ 17.99 AU 14.99 UK 7.99 Mā Wai e Hautū? Te reo Māori edition BB 978-1-776573-06-6 | 30pp | NZ 19.99 AU 19.99 Who’s Driving? PB 978-0-958272-0-25 210 x 290 mm | 32pp | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99
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» Image © Leo Timmers from Who’s Driving?
Boardbooks 0–3 yrs
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also in te reo Māori
‘This celebration of sound is epic in its scope and delightful in its execution’ Starred review, Publishers Weekly
Soledad Bravi The Noisy Book With over 100 pages, this failproof boardbook is full of bright, bold illustrations and lots of noises—perfect to share with a baby or toddler. 139 x 139 mm | 116pp | Boardbook 978-1-877467-52-3 NZ 24.99 AU 19.99 UK 9.99 Hoihoi Turituri Te reo Māori edition 978-1-776572-62-5 | NZ 24.99 AU 24.99 Noisy Dominoes Card game 52 cards 2 levels 978-1-776571-01-7 | NZ 24.99 AU 24.99 UK 10.99
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» Image © Soledad Bravi from The Noisy Book
Boardbooks 0–3 yrs
‘Spring into action with this little board book with big energy’ Foreword Magazine Cybils Awards Board Book Winner
Tatsuhide Matsuoka Jump! The creatures gaze solemnly at readers, but then each leaps: BOING! ... Children will be begging for this one again and again. School Library Journal 170 x 170 mm | 36pp | Boardbook 978-1-776572-31-1 NZ 17.99 AU 14.99 UK 7.99
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» Image © Tatsuhide Matsuoka from Jump!
Boardbooks 0–3 yrs
‘Use this book for memory games, for identifying objects and for lots of laughter too’ Armadillo Magazine
Antje Damm The Wolf and the Fly A delightful guessing, memory, observation and naming game in which one toy after another disappears—temporarily—into the mouth of the hungry little wolf. 170 x 170 mm | 20pp | Boardbook 978-1-776572-80-9 NZ 17.99 AU 14.99 UK 7.99
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» Image © Antje Damm from The Wolf and the Fly
Boardbooks 0–3 yrs
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‘Hits its mark perfectly, delivering a just-scary-enough jolt to surprise and delight’ Starred review, Publishers Weekly
Bénédicte Guettier I am the Wolf … and Here I Come! Watch the wolf put on his trousers, his T-shirt, his socks. But what is his plan once he’s dressed? Careful, he might bite ... Snap the book shut to keep the wolf inside! 140 x 140 mm | 26pp | Boardbook 978-1-877579-42-4 NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 7.99
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» Image © Bénédicte Guettier from I Am the Wolf ... and Here I Come!
2021
Picture books 2–5 yrs
‘Though the images may be black and white, Pablo is no black-and-white character’ Starred review, Kirkus Reviews
Rascal Pablo Pablo is a deceptively simple story about stepping out on your own into a bright new world. Little chick Pablo pecks out of his egg to discover his five senses and take his first flight. 198 x 198 mm | 32 pp | HB 978-1-776573-24-0 NZ 24.99 AU 22.99 UK 8.99
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» Image © Rascal from Pablo
2021
Picture books 2–5 yrs
‘A lilting Suessian singsong, with wonderful, surprising rhymes’ Starred review, Kirkus Reviews
Leo Timmers Where Is the Dragon? Three not-so-smart knights with only one candle seek a dragon in the dark. Every promising silhouette reveals a luminous surprise—but not a dragon. New York Times Best Illustrated Book recipient 210 x 280 mm | 40 pp | HB 978-1-776573-11-0 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99 PB 978-1-776573-12-7 | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99
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» Image © Leo Timmers from Where Is the Dragon?
Picture books 2–5 yrs
2021
The tiny woman wanted a coat. ‘Where will I get a needle?’
Joy Cowley & Giselle Clarkson The Tiny Woman’s Coat In this vibrant rhyming tale of resourcefulness and friendship by one of the world’s great children’s writers, the tiny woman makes a coat of leaves—a small book to leave readers snug as a bug. 216 x 216 mm | 28 pp HB 978-1-776573-42-4 NZ 24.99 AU 22.99 UK 9.99
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» Image © Giselle Clarkson from The Tiny Woman’s Coat
Picture books 2–5 yrs
2021
‘A dinosaur is just too big,’ says the manager. ‘Or maybe the library is just too small ...’
Julia Liu & Bei Lynn Leilong the Library Bus A library-loving picture book in which an enthusiastic dinosaur absorbed in story time threatens to flatten the library—until they decide to take the books outdoors. 243 x 250 mm | 32 pp | HB 978-1-776573-31-8 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99 PB 978-1-776573-32-5 | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99
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» Image © Bei Lynn from Leilong the Library Bus
Picture books 2–5 yrs
‘Every page contains stories just waiting to be found’ Magpies Ole KÖnnecke The Big Book of Words and Pictures The rare wordbook that can actually spur ideas and conversation and the spontaneous telling of stories. New York Times 340 x 260 mm | 20pp | Boardbook 978-1-877467-87-5 NZ 29.99 AU 24.99 UK 12.99
The Big Book of Animals of the World This is one to pore over—visually appealing, intellectually satisfying, and fun to boot. Starred review, Kirkus Reviews 340 x 260 mm | 20pp | Boardbook 978-1-776570-12-6 NZ 29.99 AU 24.99 UK 12.99
Sports Are Fantastic Fun! Witty, detailed illustrations and dryly humorous ‘commentary’. Booktrust 310 x 255 mm | 64pp | HB 978-1-776572-01-4 NZ 34.99 AU 29.99 UK 12.99
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» Image © Ole Könnecke from The Big Book of Words and Pictures
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Picture books 2–5 yrs
also in te reo Māori
‘A storybook and memory game in one’ Manawatū Standard
Satoru Onishi Who’s Hiding? Who’s Hiding? is a book for anyone to read aloud over and over—simple on the surface with deeper levels on each re-reading: humour, emotion, colour, shapes, animals ... 238 x 207 mm | 32pp | PB 978-1-877467-13-4 NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99 Ko Wai e Huna Ana? Te reo Māori edition PB 978-1-927271-47-6 | NZ 19.99 AU 19.99
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» Image © Satoru Onishi from Who’s Hiding?
Picture books 2–5 yrs
You don’t find a beautiful sock like this every day!
Catharina Valckx Lisette’s Green Sock Friends cheerfully overcome the bullies and make the most of mother’s knitting. Valckx’s droll caricatures, executed in watercolor, are brimming with personality. Starred review, School Library Journal
Utterly simple and springtime fresh. Starred review, Booklist 230 x 210 mm | 36pp | HB 978-1-776572-83-0 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99 PB 978-1-776572-84-7 | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 7.99
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» Image © Catharina Valckx from Lisette’s Green Sock
Picture books 2–5 yrs
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also in te reo Māori
‘Likely to stop even non-bookish kids in their tracks’ Best Picture Books for Children, The Guardian
Stephanie Blake Poo Bum Once there was a little rabbit who could only say one thing ... Poo Bum is loved by children and parents worldwide. This is the book that turned Simon the mischievous rabbit into an international bestseller, now with an animated TV series. 275 x 210 mm | 32pp | PB 978-1-877467-97-4 NZ 18.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99 Paraweta Te reo Māori edition PB 978-1-776572-18-2 | NZ 18.99 AU 17.99 Poo Bum Memory Card game 72 cards 2 levels 978-1-776571-00-0 | NZ 24.99 AU 24.99 UK 10.99
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» Image © Stephanie Blake from Poo Bum
Picture books 2–5 yrs
‘Embrace your inner four-year-old, grab a copy of these books and be silly, be rude, have fun!’ Rhino Reads Now an international TV series SIMON
Stephanie Blake Simon series Simon bumps up against the daily challenges of childhood and growing up in this much-loved series. Nits PB 978-1-776572-24-3 | HB 978-1-776572-23-6 I Want Spaghetti PB 978-1-927271-92-6 Stupid Baby PB 978-1-877579-32-5 I Can’t Sleep! PB 978-1-776571-64-2 I’m the Biggest PB 978-1-776572-02-1 | HB 978-1-776572-13-7 I Don’t Want to Go to School PB 978-1-877579-08-0 Super Rabbit PB 978-1-877579-57-8 All picture books 275 x 210 mm | 32pp PB NZ 18.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99 | HB NZ 29.99 AU 24.99 UK 10.99
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» Image © Stephanie Blake from I Want Spaghetti
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Picture books 2–5 yrs
‘Full of drama, jokes and unexpected twists’ New Zealand Listener
Béatrice Rodriguez The Chicken Thief When a fox steals a chicken from her friends, they set out to rescue her over mountains and across seas in this enduring wordless picture book. 240 x 190 mm | 64pp | HB 978-1-877467-31-8 NZ 24.99 AU 22.99 UK 8.99
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» Image © Béatrice Rodriguez from The Chicken Thief
Picture books 2–5 yrs
‘An explosion of color, light and life’ New York Times A New York Times Best Illustrated Book
Antje Damm The Visitor Gorgeous in pictures and words, this is a terrific read-aloud selection and a great story to spark conversation. Starred review, School Library Journal 247 x 190 mm | 32pp | HB 978-1-776571-88-8 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 10.99 PB 978-1-776571-89-5 | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 7.99
Waiting for Goliath An elegantly understated portrait of patience. Starred review, Publishers Weekly
Readers will be transfixed by the diorama, watching how shadows cast by the grasses change, as first hours and then seasons go by. Starred review, Kirkus Reviews 247 x 190 mm | 32pp | HB 978-1-776571-41-3 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 10.99 PB 978-1-776571-42-0 | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99
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» Image © Antje Damm from The Visitor
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Picture books 2–5 yrs
‘This amusingly absurd story will have kids coming back again and again’ School Library Journal
David Barrow Have You Seen Elephant? Children will delight in details ... Younger audiences will be screaming ‘There it is!’ Starred review, Kirkus Reviews
Chosen for Bookstart Winner, Sebastian Walker Award Shortlist, Waterstones Children’s Book Award 276 x 250 mm | 32pp | PB 978-1-776570-09-6 NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99 HB 978-1-776570-08-9 | NZ 29.99
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» Image © David Barrow from Have You Seen Elephant?
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Picture books 2–5 yrs
A New York Times Best Illustrated Book
‘Perfect for oral language, sharing stories and using imagination’ Books Trailers for Kids and YA
Leo Timmers Monkey on the Run Marvelous wheeled contraptions ... eccentric details. Starred review, Publishers Weekly 275 x 210mm | 32pp | PB 978-1-776572-51-9 NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 7.99 HB 978-1-776572-50-2 | NZ 29.99 AU 27.99
Gus’s Garage One animal’s clutter is another pig’s livelihood in this buoyant, rhyming tale. New York Times 245 x 265 mm | 32pp | PB 978-1-776570-93-5 NZ 19.99 AU 15.99 UK 6.99 HB 978-1-776570-92-8 | NZ 29.99
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» Image © Leo Timmers from Monkey on the Run
Picture books 2–5 yrs
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Two friends share three mushrooms … who will get the extra one?
JÖrg Mühle Two for Me, One for You A delightful look at sharing and the problems that can result. School Library Journal A fine sense of comic pacing ... cozy domesticity in the forest. Kirkus Reviews 265 x 190 mm | 32pp | PB 978-1-776572-40-3 NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 7.99 HB 978-1-776571-77-2 | NZ 29.99 AU 27.99
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» Image © Jörg Mühle from Two for Me, One for You
Picture books 2–5 yrs
My mama always wants to play ... Clippity-clop, Mama trot!
Annemarie van Haeringen My Mama A cheeky baby elephant describes his mother while we follow another story in the illustrations—familiar and funny for both parents and children. 280 x 235 mm | 32pp | HB 978-1-776572-67-0 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99 PB 978-1-776572-68-7 | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 7.99
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» Image © Annemarie van Haeringen from My Mama
Picture books 2–5 yrs
‘Perfect for reading aloud to thoughtful children’ Irish Independent
Shortlisted by booksellers Books Are My Bag
James K. Baxter & Kieran Rynhart Seagull Seagull James K. Baxter is one of New Zealand’s preeminent poets. Seagull Seagull is a gift edition of his playful and funny children’s poems. 234 x 190 mm | 32pp | HB 978-1-776572-81-6 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99
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» Image © Kieran Rynhart from Seagull Seagull
Picture books 4–7 yrs
2021
In a little house behind the hills, a boy packs his suitcase for a long journey …
Clotilde Perrin Inside the Suitcase A magical lift-the-flaps adventure—part puzzle, part fairy tale—where the boy’s suitcase full of tricks and treasures is the key to getting him home. From the creator of international bestseller Inside the Villains. 250 x 235 mm | 20pp, over 35 flaps HB 978-1-776573-43-1 | NZ 37.99 AU 34.99 UK 16.99
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» Image © Clotilde Perrin from Inside the Suitcase
Picture books 4–7 yrs
2021
If you did have a pet … would you play with it very quietly and not bother me until I finish my work?
Constanze Spengler & Katja Gehrmann Seahorses Are Sold Out A high-spirited story about an enterprising only child and a father’s juggle to work from home. 270 x 210 mm | 40 pp | HB 978-1-776573-85-1 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 PB 978-1-776573-86-8 | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 7.99
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» Image © Katja Gehrmann from Seahorses Are Sold Out
Picture books 4–7 yrs
2021
A mother’s a house, she’s a car in a rush, she’s a lullaby hush ...
Aurore Petit A Mother Is a House This bright and contemporary picture book in verse offers a unique baby’s eye view of the first year, from birth to first steps. Charming ... joyful, colourful, humorous. The Times Children’s Book of the Week 238 x 170 mm | 48pp | HB 978-1-776573-23-3 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99
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» Image © Aurore Petit from A Mother Is a House
Picture books 5–9 yrs
2021
Wry, thought-provoking illustrated storybooks about a necessary but often misunderstood emotion
Toon Tellegen & Marc Boutavant No One Is Angry Today Ten new thoughtful, philosophical, absurd tales from the world of The Day No One Was Angry, in which the forest animals discover that anger doesn’t always have to be angry. 270 x 190 mm | 72pp | HB 978-1-776573-45-5 NZ 34.99 AU 32.99 UK 12.99
The Day No One Was Angry Pleasantly lacking moral-mongering, this fresh collection will appeal to parents and children who enjoy sharing stories as springboards to discussion and speculation. Kirkus Reviews 270 x 190 mm | 80pp | HB 978-1-927271-57-5 NZ 34.99 AU 32.99 UK 12.99 PB 978-1-927271-60-5 | NZ 27.99 AU 24.99
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» Image © Marc Boutavant from No One Is Angry Today
Picture books 4–7 yrs
‘The child ... does the rescuing, not through beauty or kindness but with fortitude and determination’ Kirkus Reviews
Anna Höglund The Stone Giant A story of cunning, courage and survival, in which a girl sets out to save her father from the giant who turns people to stone. Clever and quick thinking makes the child the hero ... beautiful, triumphant tale. Volume 200 x 160 mm | 44pp | HB 978-1-776572-73-1 NZ 27.99 AU 24.99 UK 11.99
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» Image © Anna Höglund from The Stone Giant
Picture books 4–7 yrs
‘The most captivating and original book ... A parable for our time’ New York Times
Anete Melece The Kiosk A wonderful, subversive portrait of a woman who does not fit in, Kiosk shows how people who are stuck can find a way to get free. Humour and heart. Red Reading Hub My kids love to pop their faces behind the cutout and pretend to sell magazines and drinks, just like Olga. Kids’ Book Review 280 x 210 mm | 40pp | HB 978-1-776572-99-1 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99
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» Image © Anete Melece from The Kiosk
Picture books 4–7 yrs
‘These intelligent, thoughtful and funny vignettes are a great way to talk about big themes’ INIS magazine
New York Public Library Best Books for Kids 2020
Delphine Perret A Bear Named Bjorn There’s a flick of Moomins style to the simple but striking black line drawings, and echoes of Winnie-the-Pooh in the characters’ droll reflections. Observer These gentle, funny stories are perfect for thoughtful beginner readers. Readings Bookstore Chosen by BookTrust 210 x 150 mm | 64pp | HB 978-1-776572-69-4 NZ 24.99 AU 24.99 UK 9.99
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» Image © Delphine Perret from A Bear Named Bjorn
Picture books 4–7 yrs
‘Just the kind of up-beat exposure grannies need’ Awfully Big Reviews
Most Astonishingly Unconventional Children’s Books 2017, 2019
Eric Veillé Encyclopedia of Grannies A completely bonkers, gleefully silly guide to grandmothers of all stripes. Travis Jonker Truly a book for any age ... simultaneously silly and sincere, and a perfect tribute to grandmothers around the world. The Big Issue 270 x 195 mm | 32pp | HB 978-1-776572-43-4 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99
My Pictures after the Storm A mischievous take on cause and effect. Starred review, Publishers Weekly
This may be the funniest book of the year. School Library Journal
Sophisticated silliness. Guardian 298 x 240 mm | 38pp | HB 978-1-776571-04-8 NZ 22.99 AU 19.99 UK 7.99
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» Image © Eric Veillé from Encyclopedia of Grannies
Picture books 4–7 yrs
‘Catches at the heart’ Starred review, Kirkus Reviews
Eva Lindström My Dog Mouse A walk with Mouse: an old, slow dog with ears as thin as pancakes. 230 x 190 mm | 32pp | HB 978-1-776571-48-2 NZ 29.99 AU 26.99 UK 11.99 PB 978-1-776571-49-9 | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99
Everyone Walks Away A beautiful, multi-layered book about exclusion—and belonging. Eloquent yet playful with an emotionally charged message, and audiences will root for Frank as he takes a risk, sharing pieces of himself. Foreword Reviews 230 x 190 mm | 32pp | HB 978-1-776571-86-4 NZ 29.99 AU 26.99 UK 11.99
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» Image © Eva Lindström from My Dog Mouse
Picture books 4–7 yrs
‘Will be passed down generations—timeless, joyous and heavy with memories’ NZ Book Lovers
Joy Cowley & Giselle Clarkson The Gobbledegook Book A Joy Cowley Anthology Joy Cowley’s favourite stories, poems and nonsense rhymes collected in a hardback gift volume for the family to treasure. 290 x 240 mm | 88pp | HB 978-1-776572-58-8 NZ 39.99 AU 34.99 UK 19.99
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» Image © Giselle Clarkson from The Gobbledegook Book
Picture books 4–7 yrs
‘Graceful, rhyming poetry ... striated light, city smoke, and the broad, blue sea’ Publishers Weekly Teach Early Years Award
Joy Cowley & Kimberly Andrews Song of the River Cowley’s beautiful, melodic story—brimming with atmosphere and descriptive power—is exquisitely brought to life. Lancashire Post 242 x 250 mm | 32pp | HB 978-1-877579-12-7 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 PB 978-1-776572-54-0 | NZ 19.99 AU16.99 UK 7.99
Joy Cowley & Sarah Davis The Fierce Little Woman & the Wicked Pirate Best Children’s Books of 2010 NZ Listener 230 x 140 mm | 32pp | PB 978-1-877467-40-0 NZ 19.99 AU 16.99
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» Image © Kimberly Andrews from Song of the River
Picture books 4–7 yrs
‘The old nursery rhyme is brought brilliantly to life in a colonial setting’ New Zealand Listener
Book of the Year NZ Children’s Book Awards
Gavin Bishop The House that Jack Built A familiar nursery rhyme tells the story of the colonisation of Aotearoa New Zealand. 245 x 295 mm | 40pp | PB 978-1-877467-61-5 NZ 22.99 AU 19.99
Cook’s Cook The Cook who Cooked for Captain Cook A delectable adventure. Kirkus Reviews 245 x 295 mm | 40pp | HB 978-1-776572-04-5 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99
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» Image © Gavin Bishop from The House that Jack Built
Picture books 4–7 yrs
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‘Flaps and foldouts that allow readers to explore their guts, and ultimately, their souls’ Travis Jonker, School Library Journal
Clotilde Perrin Inside the Villains Lift the flaps on the most famous fairytale villains: the giant, the wolf and the witch. Splendid introductions, chock-full of villainous revelations and insights. Starred review, Kirkus A supersized hardback, filled with layer upon layer of meticulous detail. Guardian 400 x 270 mm | 12pp, multiple flaps and pulltabs HB 978-1-776571-98-7 | NZ 34.99 AU 29.99 UK 16.99
The House of Madame M A large-format lift-the-flaps visit to the haunted house of Madame M—enjoy the thrill of uncovering what lurks in the wardrobe, behind the door, under the furniture … The most, and best, (pop-up) haunted house in decades. Starred review, Kirkus Reviews 330 x 270 mm | 10pp, 25 flaps and interactive tabs HB 978-1-776572-74-8 | NZ 37.99 AU 34.99 UK 16.99
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» Image © Clotilde Perrin from Inside the Villains
Picture books 4–7 yrs
‘This magical totem of a book bursts with beauty, absurdity, generosity and the surprise of the natural world’ New York Times
Kitty Crowther Stories of the Night An original, pleasing bedtime book that has the feel of a classic. Starred review, Kirkus Reviews Quirky, quietly beautiful, and a wonderful demonstration of the power of stories. Red Reading Hub 190 x 160 mm | 64pp | HB 978-1-776571-97-0 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99
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» Image © Kitty Crowther from Stories of the Night
Picture books 4–7 yrs
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‘Warm, poignant and witty’ Anthony Browne Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award
Wolf Erlbruch Duck, Death and the Tulip I can’t think of another book that tackles so huge a subject with such simple, heartbreaking eloquence. Meg Rosoff, Financial Times 298 x 240 mm | 38pp | HB 978-1-877467-14-1 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 10.99 PB 978-1-877467-17-2 | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99
The King and the Sea Written by Heinz Janisch 21 ultra-short, thoughtful, and humorous stories of a little king in a big world. 201 x 240 mm | 48pp | PB 978-1-927271-80-3 NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99
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» Image © Wolf Erlbruch from Duck, Death and the Tulip
Picture books 4–7 yrs
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‘A bright and curiously astute picture book about the cycles of nature and life’ Melbourne Sunday Age
Blexbolex Seasons The creamy matte paper, rich colors, and deceptively simple imagery combine to breathtaking effect, encouraging readers to take notice of fleeting detail. Starred review, Publishers Weekly 268 x 202 mm | 176pp | HB 978-1-877467-62-2 NZ 34.99 AU 29.99 UK 12.99
The Holidays A surreal, challenging, engaging beauty of a book. Children’s Books Ireland Each scene picked out in a glorious moire of stunning colour and subtle magical movement. It’s a true treat for the eyes. Read It, Daddy! 215 x 155 mm | 128pp | HB 978-1-776571-93-2 NZ 34.99 AU 29.99 UK 16.99
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» Image © Blexbolex from Seasons
Picture books 4–7 yrs
Perfect read-alouds
Mario Ramos I Am So Strong The wolf’s comeuppance is deeply satisfying; the only disappointment is that the book is over so soon. Better read it again. Publishers Weekly 240 x 173 mm | 32pp | PB 978-0-958272-05-6 NZ 17.99 AU 14.99
I Am So Handsome Here comes the incorrigible wolf. ‘I shine, I dazzle, I gleam and I glitter. I light up the woods with my presence. I am most marvellous.’ 240 x 173 mm | 32pp | PB 978-0-958272-09-4 NZ 17.99 AU 14.99
I Am So Clever The big bad wolf is back, all dressed up in Grandma’s nightie—but it’s not having quite the effect he was hoping for. 260 x 200 mm | 48pp | HB 978-1-776572-48-9 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99 PB 978-1-776572-49-6 | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 7.99
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» Image © Mario Ramos from I Am So Strong
Picture books 4–7 yrs
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also in te reo Māori
‘I got ’im by his trotter, Miss!’ ‘That’s not a hippopotamus!’ Winner New Zealand Book Award
Juliette MacIver & Sarah Davis That’s Not a Hippopotamus! Good-natured, funny, and a fabulous readaloud to groups of kids. Best Books of 2016, School Library Journal 250 x 260 mm | 32pp | PB 978-1-927271-97-1 NZ 19.99 AU 15.99 UK 6.99 HB 978-1-927271-96-4 | NZ 29.99 Te Hipo Huna Te reo Māori edition 250 x 260 mm | 32pp | PB 978-1-776573-10-3 NZ 19.99 AU 17.99
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» Image © Sarah Davis from That's Not a Hippopotamus!
Picture books 4–7 yrs
‘Good friends and a how-to manual on knitting warm hearts’ Kirkus Reviews
Ulrika Kestere Otto Goes North Far up in the north is a blueberry-blue house with a grass roof, where Lisa and Nils live. One day, a tourist arrives with fur too light to keep him warm. 280 x 215 mm | 32pp | HB 978-1-776572-41-0 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99 PB 978-1-776572-42-7 | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 7.99
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» Image © Ulrika Kestere from Otto Goes North
Picture books 4–7 yrs
‘Beautifully offbeat ... with an uplifting message about friendship, diversity, understanding and loyalty’ Lancashire Post
Grégoire Solotareff Wolfy Friendship, bullying, fear, differences, tolerance, racial issues and understanding … The true depth of this book is discovered ... in the conversations you hold with your child after it’s finished. Kiwi Families 308 x 220mm | 32pp | HB 978-1-776571-56-7 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99 PB 978-1-776571-57-47 | NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 7.99
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» Image © Grégoire Solotareff from Wolfy
Picture books 4–7 yrs
Books about things that matter: happiness, empathy, peace Jutta Bauer Selma What makes Selma happy? To eat a little grass, play with her children, exercise, eat some more grass ... 125 x 170 mm | 52pp | HB 978-1-776572-12-0 NZ 15.99 AU 14.99 UK 7.99
Sarah V & Claude Dubois The Old Man Should be shared far and wide across all age ranges, to increase our understanding and empathy. Picture Books Blogger 150 x 210 mm | 64pp | HB 978-1-776571-91-8 NZ 24.99 AU 19.99 UK 10.99
Isabel Martins & Bernardo Carvalho Don’t Cross the Line! A multifaceted gem—a book that can be read many different ways, multiple times, and is bound to appeal to a vast number of people, young and old. Reading Is Our Thing 260 x 220 mm | 40pp | HB 978-1-776570-74-4 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99 PB 978-1-776571-84-0 | UK 6.99
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» Image © Jutta Bauer from Selma
Chapter books 5–9 yrs
2021
‘A sweet, tender, never maudlin evocation of an intergenerational friendship’ Starred review, Kirkus Reviews
Ulf Nilsson & Anna Höglund Can You Whistle, Johanna? A funny, sensitive illustrated chapter book about two boys searching for a grandfather— there are plenty at the retirement home, Ulf suggests. This international award-winner is a classic in many countries. 204 x 144 mm | 92pp | PB 978-1-77657-326-4 NZ 19.99 AU 18.99 UK 7.99 | Ebook available HB 978-1-776573-25-7 NZ24.99
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» Image © Anna Höglund from Can You Whistle, Johanna?
Chapter books 5–9 yrs
2021
No one enjoys entering an enchanted forest ... but Dulcinea knows she must find the witch.
Ole Könnecke Dulcinea in the Forbidden Forest A funny illustrated fairy tale for early readers about the brave and capable Dulcinea, who must save her father from the witch’s spell and get him home to celebrate her birthday. 210 x 170 mm | 64pp | HB 978-1-776573-95-0 NZ 24.99 AU 24.99 UK 8.99 | Ebook available
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» Image © Ole Könnecke from Dulcinea in the Forbidden Forest
Chapter books 5–9 yrs
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‘ Sweet and salty—umami for the emerging reader’ Horn Book
Rose Lagercrantz & Eva Eriksson My Happy Life series This acclaimed series of illustrated chapter books for beginning readers begins when Dani starts school. There she meets Ella, who becomes her best friend in the world. At school and at home, Dani faces real-life ups and downs. Full of fun and happiness, each stand-alone book is warm-hearted and true to how life really is. Series 5–7 yrs
My Happy Life 978-1-877467-80-6 | 136pp My Heart Is Laughing 978-1-877579-51-6 | 120pp When I Am Happiest 978-1-927271-89-6 | 128pp Life According to Dani 978-1-776570-71-3 | 108pp See You When I See You 978-1-776571-30-7 | 152pp Where Dani Goes, Happy Follows 978-1-776572-26-7 | 196pp All’s Happy that Ends Happy 978-1-776572-93-9 | 224pp Paperback 210 x 148 mm | Ebooks available NZ 19.99 AU 15.99 UK 7.99
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» Image © Eva Eriksson from My Happy Life
My Happy Life New York Times notable book
Chapter books 5–9 yrs
‘This pitch-perfect book shows children dealing with death in their own ways and then moving on’ Starred review, Booklist
Ulf Nilsson & Eva Eriksson All the Dear Little Animals A darkly comedic exploration of life and death. Horn Book
A sly, thoughtful, many-layered story. Starred review, Publishers Weekly
A beautiful, sensitively written and gently funny story. Lancashire Post 204 x 144 mm | 64pp | PB 978-1-776572-82-3 NZ 17.99 AU 15.99 UK 6.99 | Ebook available HB 978-1-776572-89-2 | NZ 24.99
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» Image © Eva Eriksson from All the Dear Little Animals
Chapter books 5–9 yrs
‘Unfazed, unflustered childishness’ Just Imagine
Bei Lynn Bibbit Jumps A fun, energetic read. Kirkus Reviews This is a charming and empathetic story to help encourage children to try new things. School Reading List
Will leave young readers with the same satisfied smile as classics such as Winnie the Pooh and Peter Rabbit. Just Imagine 204 x 144 mm | 72pp | PB 978-1-776572-78-6 NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99 | Ebook available
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» Image © Bei Lynn from Bibbit Jumps
Chapter books 5–9 yrs
2021
‘This generation’s Pippi Longstocking’ Readings Bookstore
Frida Nilsson & Stina Wirsén Hattie & Olaf Hattie wants a horse more than anything. Her friend Ellen has three ponies. When Hattie’s father finally comes home with a horse trailer, Hattie is ecstatic. But instead of a horse, out stomps Olaf—a donkey... 978-1-776573-18-9 | 184 pp
Hattie Nilsson has a peculiar power to make you remember exactly what it was like to be small, fierce, disempowered and six. The Times Children’s Book of the Week
A memorable heroine with an impulsive streak and a nose for trouble ... fresh, funny and ohso-relatable. INIS magazine 978-1-776572-71-7 | 152 pp Series 5–8 yrs
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Paperback 204 x 144 mm | Ebooks available NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 7.99
» Image © Stina Wirsén from Hattie & Olaf
Chapter books 5–9 yrs
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It’s hard to imagine someone you’ve never seen ...
New York Public Library top 10 children’s books
Megumi Iwasa & Jun Takabatake Yours Sincerely, Giraffe The combination of short narrative, dialogue, letters, and humorous pen-and-ink drawings is a winning one. Starred review, Booklist This is a rare book: joyful, ingenuous, playfully earnest. Starred review, Kirkus Reviews 978-1-927271-87-2 | 104pp
Dear Professor Whale The story is creative and delightful, full of humor and heart. Manhattan Book Review Delightfully silly. Kirkus Reviews 978-1-927272-07-6 | 104pp Paperback 204 x 144 mm | Ebooks available NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99
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» Image © Jun Takabatake from Yours Sincerely, Giraffe
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Chapter books 5–9 yrs
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‘Gentle adventures, droll humor and delicious cakes at every turn’ Starred review, Shelf Awareness
Ulf Nilsson & Gitte Spee Detective Gordon
Series 6–9 yrs
Gordon is no ordinary detective. Not only is he a toad but he makes his first appearance sound asleep at his desk, face-down on an important document. The Source IBBY award for translation 2016 Best Books of 2015, Horn Book Top 10 Crime Fiction for Youth, Booklist Best Books of 2016, School Library Journal New York Public Library Notable Book 2015 The First Case 978-1-776572-52-6 | 96pp A Complicated Case UK 978-1-776572-64-9 ANZ 978-1-776570-65-2 | 108pp A Case in Any Case 978-1-776571-09-3 | 108pp A Case for Buffy 978-1-776571-79-6 | 112pp Paperback 210 x 148 mm | 204 x 144 mm NZ 19.99 AU 15.99 UK 6.99 | Ebooks available
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» Image © Gitte Spee from A Complicated Case
Chapter books 5–9 yrs
‘Touching, realistic, gently humorous’ Starred review, Kirkus Reviews
Ulf Stark The Runaways Gottfried Junior has thought of everything. His lies are so good that when he decides to tell the truth, no one believes him. Illustrated by Kitty Crowther 204 x 144 mm | 136pp | PB 978-1-776572-33-5 NZ 19.99 AU 18.99 UK 7.99 | Ebook available
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» Image © Kitty Crowther from The Runaways
Chapter books 5–9 yrs
‘Such a Gecko Press book: gorgeous, surprising, filled with kindness’ The Spinoff
Catharina Valckx Bruno: Some of the More Interesting Days in My Life So Far I want more books like this! School Library Journal Illustrated by Nicolas Hubesch 224 x 180 mm | 88pp | HB 978-1-776571-24-6 NZ 34.99 PB 978-1-776571-25-3 | NZ 24.99 AU 19.99 UK 8.99
Zanzibar This quirky little gem of a book, with its delightful language, humour and simple childlike illustrations, is guaranteed to engage young readers. Readings Bookshop Chosen by BookTrust 204 x 144 mm | 64pp | PB 978-1-776572-56-4 NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99 | Ebook available
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» Image © Nicolas Hubesch from Bruno
Chapter books 5–9 yrs
‘Good behavior will only get you eaten in this thrilling tale’ New York Public Library, Best Books for Kids 2018
Bertrand Santini The Yark Gapaillard’s detailed black-ink illustrations perfectly encapsulate the story’s blend of horror and humor and call to mind Maurice Sendak’s Wild Things. Booklist Illustrated by Laurent Gapaillard 204 x 144 mm | 80pp | PB 978-1-776571-72-7 NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99 | Ebook available
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» Image © Laurent Gapaillard from The Yark
Joy Cowley 6–10 yrs
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New Zealand Book Award winners 2008, 2014
Dunger An honest, believable, funny, perceptive, superbly written Kiwi tale. Bookrapt Utterly charming and engaging … A great holiday read to share, read aloud, or pass around. Alligator’s Mouth bookstore 198 x 129 mm | 156pp | PB 978-1-877579-46-2 NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 UK 6.99 | Ebook available
Snake and Lizard Illustrated by Gavin Bishop Everyone fell in love with this foolish, argumentative pair when their first book won the NZ Post Book of the Year award. And they continue to entrance us. Children’s Bookshop 198 x 146 mm | 102pp | PB 978-1-776571-99-4 NZ 19.99 UK 7.99 | Ebook available Helper and Helper PB 978-1-776571-05-5 198 x 146 mm | 128pp | NZ 24.99 AU 24.99 | Ebook available
The Road to Ratenburg Illustrated by Gavin Bishop Hilarious, inventive, funny and poignant. Kate De Goldi, Radio NZ
The best type of junior fiction and my favourite book this year. Children’s Bookshop Kilbirnie 198 x 128 mm | 200pp | PB 978-1-776570-75-1 NZ 19.99 AU 16.99 | Ebook available
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» Image © Giselle Clarkson from The Gobbledegook Book
New Zealand’s leading children’s writer, whose many international accolades include the Hans Christian Andersen Award shortlist
Novels 8–12 yrs
2021
‘An adventure story of such quality and originality, pace and punch’ Bookwagon
Eirlys Hunter The Mapmakers’ Race Already feels like a timeless adventure. BookTrust One of the most poised, stylish children’s books I’ve read in a long time. Kate De Goldi Illustrated by Kirsten Slade 198 x 128 mm | 240pp | PB 978-1-776572-03-8 NZ 19.99 AU 19.99 UK 6.99 | Ebook available
Sequel released 2021 The Santander children are drawn into a community’s rebellion against a despot and use their mapping skills to thwart an environmental scam. 198 x 128 mm | 240pp | PB 978-1-776574-04-9 NZ21.99 AU 19.99 UK 6.99 | Ebook available
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» Image © Kirsten Slade from The Mapmakers’ Race
IBBY Honour List NZ Book Awards shortlist Storylines Notable Book
Comic 8–12 yrs
‘Villains, magical books, and creatures from the deep combine for a fast-paced, rollicking graphic mystery’ Kirkus Reviews
Jonathan King The Inkberg Enigma Funny, exciting, charming, mysterious, and just the right amount of genuinely scary. Dylan Horrocks
King’s dramatic poses and square jaws recall the golden era of pulp action comics but with a modern feel and diverse cast. Booklist 255 x 192 mm | 128 pp | PB 978-1-776572-66-3 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 12.99
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» Image © Jonathan King from The Inkberg Enigma
Novels 8–12 yrs
‘A wild adventure with a huge heart ... a beautiful book singing with hope and justice’ Sarah Driver, author of The Huntress
Frida Nilsson The Ice Sea Pirates No one but Siri dares to face treacherous sailors, hungry wolves and the arctic winter to save her little sister from the dreaded Captain Whitehead and his ice sea pirates. Illustrated by David Barrow 198 x 129 mm | 360pp | PB 978-1-776572-00-7 NZ 19.99 AU 19.99 UK 6.99 | Ebook available
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» Image © David Barrow from The Ice Sea Pirates
2021
Non-fiction 7–12 yrs
‘Discover that the most wide-ranging forms of life and love are a natural part of the diverse life on Earth’ Katharina von der Gathen Katharina von der Gathen & Anke Kuhl Do Animals Fall in Love? All the most fascinating and astonishing facts about animal reproduction, from seduction methods and anatomy to family life and animal babies, in a compendium for the whole family. Demonstrate[s] the wonder of species reproduction as well as her respect for her audience with frankness and good humor. Starred review, Kirkus Reviews 250 x 168 mm | 144pp | HB 978-1-776572-91-5 NZ 32.99 AU 29.99 UK 12.99
Tell Me One of the best books on the topics of bodies, sex, and emotions that I’ve encountered. Travis Jonkers, School Library Journal
Funny and frank, this will be an important resource for many kids. Kirkus Reviews 185 x 140 mm | 208pp | HB 978-1-776572-32-8 NZ 29.99 AU 27.99 UK 11.99 122
» Image © Anke Kuhl from Do Animals Fall in Love?
Non-fiction 7–12 yrs
2021
A spiny sea worm, a four-winged dinosaur, peaceful sea dragons and walking fish ... Damien Laverdunt & Hélène Rajcak Fossils from Lost Worlds A large-format non-fiction picture book that describes the incredible creatures that once walked the Earth, with a lively mix of illustrations, comics and facts. Combines storytelling with science. 320 x 250 mm | 72 pp | HB 978-1-776573-15-8 NZ 39.99 AU 37.99 UK 16.99
Small and Tall Tales of Extinct Animals Cartoons, mythology and science about why animals became extinct. Splendid, oversize encyclopedic study of extinct animals... Animal lovers will pore over this volume for hours. Starred review, Publishers Weekly 320 x 250 mm | 80pp | HB 978-1-877467-90-5 NZ 34.99 AU 29.99 UK 14.99
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» Image © Damien Laverdunt & Hélène Rajcak from Fossils from Lost Worlds
Non-fiction 7–12 yrs
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‘An amazing pictorial assemblage of historical happenings’ San Francisco Book Review, 5 stars Peter Goes Timeline Science & Technology A visual introduction to our planet and society told through our greatest inventions and the technology that has changed the world. 978-1-776573-00-4
Timeline Here is a glowing sucker octopus, with its limbs spread out, pumpkin-colored, looking like a just-exploded Roman candle in the night sky. Wall Street Journal 978-1-776570-69-0
Rivers Peter Goes weaves nature, myth, history and popular culture into a compelling story of the world’s major rivers, seas and oceans. 978-1-776572-16-8 Hardback | 370 x 270 mm | 80pp NZ 39.99 AU 34.99 UK 16.99 126
» Image © Peter Goes from Timeline Science & Technology
Non-fiction 3–7 yrs
Every child is different. There’s only one like you. It’s a miracle and so perfect that you are you.
Anna Fiske How Do You Make a Baby? A funny, forthright non-fiction picture book about how babies are made and different ways to be a family, How Do You Make a Baby? sparks with intelligence and humour. 285 x 210 mm | 80pp | HB 978-1-776572-85-4 NZ 32.99 AU 29.99 UK 12.99
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» Image © Anna Fiske from How Do You Make a Baby?
Non-fiction 7–12 yrs
‘If Roald Dahl wrote a cookbook, this would be it’ West Australian
Alexandra Tylee & Giselle Clarkson Egg and Spoon An Illustrated Cookbook Designed to teach kids (and remind grown-ups) that cooking can be a joy, not a chore—and sometimes just a little bit magic. Dish magazine It’s allegedly for kids but the food will appeal to grown-ups, too… Spinoff 20 books that were a tonic in 2020
A decadent, rule-breaking match made in cookbook heaven. Listener 50 Best Kids’ Books 2020 250 x 216 mm | 128pp | HB 978-1-776572-98-4 NZ 39.99 AU 37.99
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» Image © Giselle Clarkson from Pipi Children’s Cookbook
Non-fiction 7–12 yrs
Aleksandra & Daniel Mizieliński H.O.U.S.E. 35 extraordinary houses designed by the most prominent architects of the world. 200 x 200 mm | 156pp | HB 978-1-877467-66-0 NZ 39.99 AU 34.99 UK 14.99
D.E.S.I.G.N. Written by Ewa Solarz The history of design in a nutshell! 200 x 200 mm | 168pp | HB 978-1-877467-83-7 NZ 39.99 AU 34.99 UK 14.99
Impossible Inventions Ideas that Shouldn’t Work Written by Małgorzata Mycielska A funky and fascinating collection of inventions. 248 x 200 mm | 128pp | HB 978-1-776571-70-3 NZ 34.99 AU 29.99 UK 14.99
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» Image © Aleksandra & Daniel Mizieliński from H.O.U.S.E.
Gecko Press worldwide Gecko Press books are sold throughout the world, and marketed directly into North America, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand, in print and digital editions. In each market we employ a specialist book publicist to promote our books through traditional and new media, conferences and festivals. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @geckopress
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New Zealand and Australia Walker Books Australia +61 (2) 9517 9577 walkerbooks.com.au New Zealand: Arotahi Agency Sales matthew.simpson@harpercollins.co.nz Marketing sandra.noakes@harpercollins.co.nz Australia: Walker Books Australia Sales leone.hodgson@walkerbooks.com.au Marketing steve.spargo@walkerbooks.com.au Distribution Harper Entertainment Distribution Services orders@harpercollins.com.au
» Image © Damien Laverdunt & Hélène Rajcak from Fossils from Lost Worlds
Board books for babies & toddlers 0–3 years
Picture books for preschoolers 2–5 years
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Picture books, a card game and a te reo Māori edition see website
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Picture books 4–7 years
Picture books 4–7 years
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Illustrated chapter books for emerging readers 5–9 years
Novels for avid readers 8–12 years
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One good book can spark a lifetime of reading
978-1-776574-03-2