Meg McKinlay (text) and Nicky Johnston (illustrator), 31-and-a-half things to know… as you grow, Walker Books Australia, November 2024, 32 pp., RRP $22.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781760658052
This lyrical concept book is a highly giftable ode to growing up and would make an excellent starting school gift or birthday present for junior primary school students.
The text has a poetic quality and covers many of the hallmarks of early childhood including making friends, losing things and class talks. Nicky Johnston’s trademark heart filled illustrations are in gentle pastels and include a diverse cast of children.
There’s an interesting discussion on McKinlay’s website about the ‘creative soup’ behind the story that’s worth a read. She talks about creating ‘rules to live by’ for kids and then adding some word play. To that end, there is:
How to find your way out of a maze
How to be amazing
How to make a mud pie
How to care for a magpie
I confess on my first read through, these little gems escaped me, but they’d certainly make a fun jumping off point for discussing homophones and wordplay in the classroom.
Reviewed by Heather Gallagher
