I love this local bookshop. The Ten Penners have been there to sell our books. Candice Lemon Scott is a lovely bookshop owner, writing friend, I've read and reviewed many of her books. She's also involved with Gold Coast Writers. I'm a long term member of this group, although I don't get to the meetings… Continue reading Big B Books March Newsletter…
Book Review – The Whispering Palms by Annette Leigh…
This is another book I purchased at BookFest last November. Again, good local writers come up trumps. Jill Smith's Reviews > The Whispering Palms The Whispering Palmsby Annette Leigh (Goodreads Author) Jill Smith's review copyright Mar 22, 2026 Andrea Yates, ex-cop and crime novelist, is drawn into helping Maureen Daniels search for her missing daughter. The small beachside… Continue reading Book Review – The Whispering Palms by Annette Leigh…
Book Review – The Siege of Masada Jodie Lane…
This book is one I purchased at BookFest last November. It's an enticing start to an enthralling series. Here's my review. I will be getting hold of the rest of the series to enjoy. Turning Points #1 The Siege of Masada Jodie Lane My Review Jill Smith copyright March 22, 2026 Gwyn, a nineteen-year-old history buff,… Continue reading Book Review – The Siege of Masada Jodie Lane…
Somerset StoryFest author Nikki Mottram…
Here's another interesting author using her experience to write crime fiction. Nikki Mottram is the best selling author of Crows Nest (UQP, 2023) and Kilarney (UQP, 2024). She has a psychology degree from the University of Queensland and has worked in London and Australia protecting and promoting the welfare of children at risk of harm… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest author Nikki Mottram…
Somerset StoryFest 2026 writer, performer, speaker – Olivia Muscat…
Some of the sessions for this author are already sold out. So kids are keen to see her humous presentations. Olivia Muscat is a writer, performer, speaker, and disability arts activist living on Wurundjeri land. Based in Narrm/Melbourne she writes stories that celebrate intersectional, disabled identities and the fun, colourful, and weird parts of life.… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest 2026 writer, performer, speaker – Olivia Muscat…
Somerset StoryFest 2026 Penny McNamee…
I do love when talented people turn their hands to other forms of entertainment. Penny McNamee is an example of an actress who translates stories into books for children, Somerset audiences will be enthralled. Penny McNamee is an Australian actress, best known for originating the role of Nessarose in the Australian premier of Wicked, playing… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest 2026 Penny McNamee…
Somerset StoryFest author – Carla Salmon…
Somerset this year has small children, middle grade and older readers covered. I'm bound to buy this book, it's a teen who done it! CARLA SALMON AUTHOR. TEACHER. SPEAKER. BLUE SKY SEEKER. ‘This cover. This story. These characters. We Saw What You Started is just itching to be gobbled up by the teens of Australia.… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest author – Carla Salmon…
Somerset StoryFest 2026 author – Tina Wilson…
Somerset StoryFest continues to excite children and adults alike at this years event. Tina Wilson is an award-winning artist who loves creativity in all its forms. From her Rainforest studio high on a mountain, she writes, paints, photographs, and makes animated films. Inspired by the world around her Tina's work captures the wonder, joy and… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest 2026 author – Tina Wilson…
Somerset StoryFest author – Lisa Williams…
Here is another interesting author and first nations presenter at Somerset. Lisa Williams is a proud Wiradjuri woman who grew up in the small town of Bathurst in south-western New South Wales, where life was simple and creativity came naturally. As a child, she was happiest with a all at her feet or mud on… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest author – Lisa Williams…
Book Review – One Out and Won Back by Arnold Van Der Vegt…
This is a book by a fellow member of Gold Coast Writers Association. It's well written and the characters and Australian setting are vivid and real. Jill Smith's Reviews > One Out & Won Back: Mystery at Plyborn Farm One Out & Won Back: Mystery at Plyborn Farm (A Jeremy and Melissa Mystery Adventure)by Arnold van der… Continue reading Book Review – One Out and Won Back by Arnold Van Der Vegt…
HEXWOOD book review – Diana Wynne Jones…
I've just finished this book by Diana Wynne Jones, which left me wondering how detailed her storyboard must have been to created this good vs evil scenario. My review follows. This is the Goodreads blurb. Hexwood Diana Wynne Jones Strange things are happening at Hexwood Farm, not far from London.On another world entirely, a harassed… Continue reading HEXWOOD book review – Diana Wynne Jones…
Book Review – Best Kept Secret Jeffrey Archer…
Amazingly, I've never read a Jeffrey Archer book until now. I doubt I'll stop at one. This series has crept under my skin with this one book. Description 1945. The vote in the House of Lords as to who should inherit the Barrington family fortune has ended in a tie. The Lord Chancellor's deciding vote… Continue reading Book Review – Best Kept Secret Jeffrey Archer…
Somerset presenter – Will Kostakis…
Will Kostakis writes for young adults. First published at 19, he is best known for writing whip-smart comedies that break (then mend) hearts, and occasionally making national news for resisting local book and author bans. We Could Be Something is his latest novel. Its a humerus yet heart-rending look at family, fame, and falling in… Continue reading Somerset presenter – Will Kostakis…
Book Review – Gnoming About by Liv Lorkin…
Here's a great little Graphic book for young children. Liv Lorkin is a fellow member of 'The Ten Penners' and very creative. She's also hard at work for Somerset StoryFest. This year she will be presenting and doing her book launch at the festival on the 1st of April. I'll be there! Jill Smith's Reviews >… Continue reading Book Review – Gnoming About by Liv Lorkin…
Somerset StoryFest 2026 storyteller Richard Kinnon…
Richard Kinnon - http://www.outbackpioneers.com.au Richard Kinnon is a natural storyteller. Brought up in the outback where tales are told around the campfire, he has a wealth of yarns to share. There are stories of the early pioneers, cattle duffers and stagecoaches; stories of his own childhood growing up on a station and learning from the… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest 2026 storyteller Richard Kinnon…
Somerset StoryFest 2026 authors – Rachel Jackson…
I'm looking forward to seeing this author, if I get to one of her sessions. Solve It Your Way Series The Solve It Your Way books are designed to engage readers 8 to 12 with an interactive adventure as imaginative and individual as they are. The books are full of puzzles, secret codes, brainteasers and… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest 2026 authors – Rachel Jackson…
Somerset StoryFest 2026 author – Aska…
This presenter is sure to gather a crowd at Somerset StoryFest 2026. Aśka - http://www.askastorytelling.com Aśka (pronounced Ash-ka), is creative dynamite, an award-winning graphic novelist, an ex-quantum physicist, and a hugely engaging and popular presenter. Having published more than a dozen books and comics Aśka is passionate about visual literacy and teaching people how to… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest 2026 author – Aska…
Book Review – Throne of the Crescent Moon…
I recently read this book. The good vs evil theme with the city of 'Dhamsawaat' at its center, with a love story. My review is below. The Crescent Moon Kingdoms #1 Throne of the Crescent Moon by Saladin Ahmed Goodreads Choice Award Nominee for Readers' Favorite Fantasy (2012) Goodreads blurb The Crescent Moon Kingdoms, home to… Continue reading Book Review – Throne of the Crescent Moon…
Somerset StoryFest 2026 authors – Pip Harry…
Another exciting author for children's picture books. Somerset is going to be dazzling. https://www.storyfest.com.au/gold-coast/authors Pip Harry is an Australian author, copywriter and journalist. Pip's novel August & Jones, published by Hachette in 2022, was shortlisted for the CBCA Book of the Year: Younger Readers 2023 and the 2024 YABBA Awards, and won the CBCA Shadow Judging… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest 2026 authors – Pip Harry…
Somerset StoryFest 2026 authors cont -Tim Harris…
Another author that is sure to be a hit at Somerset is Tim Harris. Tim Harris is the award-winning bestselling author of several laugh-out-loud series for kids, including Ratbags, Mr Bambuckle’s Remarkables, Toffle Towers and Exploding Endings. Exploding Endings 1: Painted Dogs & Doom Cakes Exploding Endings 2: Dingbats & Lollypop Arms Exploding Endings 3:… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest 2026 authors cont -Tim Harris…
Somerset StoryFest authors cont… Dr Caroline Graham…
Here's another interesting author, dealing with the Australian outback mystery at Larrimah. Dr Caroline Graham is an award-winning investigative journalist who specialises in narrative non-fiction storytelling across both traditional and new media formats, including podcasting, data-driven reporting and longform creative non-fiction. Caroline is the co-author of the Australian bestseller Larrimah (Allen & Unwin, 2021), which was shortlisted… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest authors cont… Dr Caroline Graham…
Somerset StoryFest authors cont…Jade Goodwin…
Jade Goodwin is a children’s book illustrator based on Wonnarua Country in the Hunter Valley NSW. Since 2022, Jade has illustrated 23 published books, with another ten (and counting!) currently in progress, including picture books, chapter books and junior fiction series. Jade believes in making art that feels warm and accessible and dreams that her… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest authors cont…Jade Goodwin…
Somerset Storyfest author – Jason Gent…
Here is another new author showcasing his talents at the 2026 Somerset Storyfest. Jason Gent is a Meanjin based writer. He studied Professional Writing and Editing at RMIT. During this time, Jason had a short play performed by RMIT Union Arts, and helped to create a small press label, Rant, which released two anthologies. He… Continue reading Somerset Storyfest author – Jason Gent…
The Land of Ingary #3 Trilogy by Diana Wynn Jones…
Book #3 of this wonderful series. I'll have to read more of this English ladies books. HOUSE OF MANY WAYS:Charmain Baker is in over her head. Looking after Great Uncle William's tiny cottage while he's ill should have been easy, but Great Uncle William is better known as the Royal Wizard Norland, and his house… Continue reading The Land of Ingary #3 Trilogy by Diana Wynn Jones…
The Land of Ingary #2 Trilogy by Diana Wynn Jones…
I love this series. The review of Book #2, 'Castle in the Air', follows. Discover the land of Ingary, where magic and adventure awaits… Howl’s Moving Castle is the first book in this spellbinding trilogy from ‘the Godmother of Fantasy’, Diana Wynne Jones. GOODREADS BLURB: CASTLE IN THE AIR:- #2 The Land of Ingary by… Continue reading The Land of Ingary #2 Trilogy by Diana Wynn Jones…
The Land of Ingary #1 Trilogy by Diana Wynn Jones…
Discover the land of Ingary, where magic and adventure awaits… Howl’s Moving Castle is the first book in this spellbinding trilogy from ‘the Godmother of Fantasy’, Diana Wynne Jones. GOODREADS BLURB HOWL’S MOVING CASTLE:Sophie Hatter catches the unwelcome attention of the Witch of the Waste and is put under a spell. Deciding she has nothing… Continue reading The Land of Ingary #1 Trilogy by Diana Wynn Jones…
Somerset StoryFest author Jessica Townsend part 2…
Jessica Townsend will delight students, teachers and visitors to Somerset Storyfest. Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow (AUS release: 10/10/17; US release 31/10/17) Wundersmith: The Calling of Morrigan Crow (AUS & UK release: 30/10/18; US release 13/11/18) Hollowpox: The Hunt for Morrigan Crow (AUS release: 29/09/20; UK release 15/10/20; US release 27/10/20) Silverborn: The Mystery of Morrigan Crow (AUS… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest author Jessica Townsend part 2…
Somerset StoryFest authors cont – Jessica Townsend books #1 & #2…
Yes, the fabulous Jessica Townsend will softly arrive with her umbrella open in the open area of Somerset College. How lucky are the students and attendees of this terrific event! This is a series I have on my bookshelf, that is a - KEEP-FOREVER!! Series. I love it. My reviews of Books 1# & #2… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest authors cont – Jessica Townsend books #1 & #2…
Matt Ottley author, illustrator & composer – Somerset 2026…
This is an amazing author, illustrator and composer that the very fortunate visitor to Somerset StoryFest will be able to see and hear. Matt Ottley is sure to be a huge hit at Somerset Storyfest this year. https://mattottley.com/ I gave my grand-daughters, 'Suri's Wall' several years ago. I loved this picture book so much when… Continue reading Matt Ottley author, illustrator & composer – Somerset 2026…
Lower Primary authors Somerset StoryFest… Kate & Jol Temple…
Lower Primary authors Somerset StoryFest... Kate & Jol Temple... Kate and Jol Temple Author & Illustrator of Children’s Fiction based in NSW Kate and Jol Temple are the internationally awarded children’s authors of over 30 hilarious books for kids and counting! Their picture books include the smash-hit ‘Bin Chicken’ series and the highly awarded backwards-forwards… Continue reading Lower Primary authors Somerset StoryFest… Kate & Jol Temple…
Somerset StoryFest authors cont Megan Daley…
Yes, I do read lower primary school books, as well as older middle-grade and senior grade books. They all appeal to me for different reasons. My next Somerset Author is Megan Daley. “My hope for all young people is that they have an identity as a reader, no matter what that identity looks like.” –… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest authors cont Megan Daley…
The Girl and the Ghost #3…
I love this author's stories. I've enjoyed many of her children's book series. I've put my review of the first book in this series below. The Girl and the Ghost Jacqueline Harvey Jill Smith copyright August 7, 2025 This was a book I downloaded from the library. It was an audiobook! I'm glad to say… Continue reading The Girl and the Ghost #3…
Tristan Bancks at Somerset StoryFest 2026..
Here is another author with a great line-up of books that are thought-provoking, entertaining and a little scary. I've read a few of his books and will put my reviews below the author information. Tristan Bancks tells stories for the page and screen. His books for kids and teens include Two Wolves, The Fall, Detention, Cop & Robber, Ginger Meggs, the Tom… Continue reading Tristan Bancks at Somerset StoryFest 2026..
Somerset StoryFest authors-Liv Lorkin…
Sage and the Journey of Grief Liv Lorkin Until her mum passed away, grief was as foreign to Sage as the countries she travelled to. With her faithful dog Snowy by her side, Sage explores and experiences the stages of grief.Joined by her dad, Sage navigates the winding road of loss with her butterfly-covered journal.… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest authors-Liv Lorkin…
More Somerset authors-Sarah Armstrong…
Yes, the countdown to Somerset StoryFest is on...and this is another amazing children's author showcasing her work. Big Magic #1 Big Magic Sarah Armstrong Eleven-year-old Tulsi comes from a long line of women magicians, but her mother has always forbidden her to learn Big Magic. It’s dangerous, thrilling, and powerful – and Tulsi wants it more… Continue reading More Somerset authors-Sarah Armstrong…
What I’m reading now and next…
What I'm reading now on my iPad is The Land of Ingary Trilogy, which my friend Kate recommended. Howl's Moving Castle #1-3 The Land of Ingary Trilogy Diana Wynne Jones HOWL’S MOVING CASTLE:Sophie Hatter catches the unwelcome attention of the Witch of the Waste and is put under a spell. Deciding she has nothing more to… Continue reading What I’m reading now and next…
Somerset is coming up – yipee!
We are delighted to welcome over 30 authors, illustrators and storytellers each year to the Gold Coast... NAT AMOUR Nat Amoore's Books https://youtu.be/XMrrgZRqals Nat Amoore Nat Amoore is a Sydney-based children's author and kidlit podcast host of One More Page. Her debut novel, Secrets of a Schoolyard Millionaire, came out in 2019 and had great success as… Continue reading Somerset is coming up – yipee!
Updating The Ten Penners Wix site…
We've been updating our Wix Website for 'The Ten Penners' adults writing for children sub-group of Gold Coast Writers. We have increased our numbers, and the creativity has blossomed because of it. https://thetenpenners.wixsite.com/the-ten-penners We are a creative collective of Ten children's book authors and illustrators, dedicated to bringing imaginative stories and illustrations to life for… Continue reading Updating The Ten Penners Wix site…
Book Review – Charlotte’s Web…
Jill Smith's Reviews > Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, Garth Williams (Illustrator), Rosemary Wells (Illustrator) Charlotte’s Webby E.B. White, Garth Williams (Illustrator), Rosemary Wells (Illustrator) Jill Smith's review copyright Feb 13, 2026 · 5 STARS ON GOODREADS I'd forgotten how wonderfully exciting the world was for Wilbur, the newly born piglet. Fern had fed him with a bottle because he was a runt. She… Continue reading Book Review – Charlotte’s Web…
Book Review -The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society…
Book Review -The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society... Jill Smith's Reviews > The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Societyby Mary Ann Shaffer, Annie Barrows Jill Smith's review copyright Feb 11, 2026 This is an engaging story. A writer, looking for new book ideas, is drawn to… Continue reading Book Review -The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society…
Dimity Powell – Kids Book Review…
Farewell, Dimity After a whopping nine years of dedication to Kids’ Book Review, our Managing Editor, Dimity Powell, is moving on from KBR. We want to thank her for the time, energy and passion she has contributed to the site over the years. Her commitment has helped shape KBR into the vibrant community it is… Continue reading Dimity Powell – Kids Book Review…
Somerset StoryFest 2026…
Somerset StoryFest 2026... I love Somerset and enjoy soaking up the vibes of the bookshop and authors' presentations. This year, I'll be going on Wednesday, the 1st of April, with some ladies from The Ten Penners. Exciting! Somerset Storyfest Gold Coast (March 30 – April 1, 2026) Hosting the conversations and stories you love, hear… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest 2026…
What I’m reading now, next and after that…
What I'm reading now, next and after that... NOW, The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society. I've seen this movie some time ago. The book starts with letters from a publisher to an author who's trying to decide what to write next. She is introduced to The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society,… Continue reading What I’m reading now, next and after that…
Queensland Writers Centre…
Year of the Novel 2026 with Karen Foxlee. If you haven't already seen some of my reviews by this terrific author, I'll share a couple below. Queensland Writers Centre have wonderful programs for authors to hone the writing craft. Description Make 2026 your year – get the tools and support you need to complete the… Continue reading Queensland Writers Centre…
Book Review – The Ickabog J.K. Rowling…
This is a book of good vs evil. I loved that the children found a way to get to know the Ickabog and to help return the kingdom of Cornucopia to its happier state. My book review follows the YouTube - Jill Release & Purpose: Originally written around 2007, the manuscript sat in an attic until… Continue reading Book Review – The Ickabog J.K. Rowling…
The Ten Penners- Queensland Australia…
Today was the first meeting of 2026 and, as always, a very productive one! We discussed our next anthology. The sequence of the stories. How many stories we need to complete, to create the compilation. We are creating a school with Queensland Australian theme. Did you know there are underground lava tubes in Queensland? Check… Continue reading The Ten Penners- Queensland Australia…
Book Review – The Pearler’s Wife Roxane Dhand…
The Pearler's Wife Roxane Dhand GOODREADS BLURB A distant land. A dangerous husband. A forbidden love.The year is 1912. Nineteen-year-old Maisie Porter watches from the deck as England fades from view. Her destination is Buccaneer Bay in Australia’s far north-west. Her fate: marriage to distant cousin Maitland Sinclair, a man she has never met.When Maisie… Continue reading Book Review – The Pearler’s Wife Roxane Dhand…
Somerset StoryFest 2026…
The program is out for this year's event. I'll be going through it and working out the times and authors I want to see. Our valued newer member of The Ten Penners, Liv Lorkin, (RIGHT) has been busy working with Somerset throughout 2025. Share stories, build better lives Welcome to Storyfest – a captivating celebration… Continue reading Somerset StoryFest 2026…
What I’m reading next…
Starting 2026 with an age-old question. What AM I READING NEXT! Going back over last years' posts, during 2025 I recall trying to clear my A, B, and C of books in my collection. I'm currently reading 'The Pearler's Wife' by Roxane Dhand. That's a 'D' in any language. I'm also trying to clear out… Continue reading What I’m reading next…
Books by Helen Edwards…
Books by Helen Edwards...https://www.helenedwardswrites.com/abouthelenedwards/ I'm sharing this inspiring range of books. I recently ordered some and will share with you the joy of these stories shortly. Helen with her book and typewriter at about 4 years old! Hello, there and welcome to my little corner of the Internet. My name is Dr Helen Edwards, and… Continue reading Books by Helen Edwards…
India Holton – New books in my To Be Read list…
Fellow member of The Ten Penners and writing friend Kate has recommended a New Zealand author and her books. As always, anything Kate loves, I do too. So I've added this series to my To Be Read list. Ned Lightbourne is a sometimes assassin who is smitten with Cecilia from the moment they meet. Unfortunately,… Continue reading India Holton – New books in my To Be Read list…
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