Penguin Australia

• February 2022
• ISBN: 9780140342130
• Imprint: Puffin
• RRP: $14.99

I was saying to someone just yesterday that, in our pursuit to promote new books, we sometimes forget that back catalogue titles also demand to be shared as each new crop of readers comes along. I am acquainted with so many young adults (that is, anyone younger than me) who exclaim with delight ‘Paul Jennings books!! That’s how I got hooked on reading!’. Going right back to my very first library, I never had any PJ books on the shelves. As fast as they were being returned, some other kid was grabbing them with ferocity.

Paul’s biography (such a delightful and also poignant read) gave readers some insight into his venture into TV script-writing, but it was pretty much slanted to more mature readers. This volume is one that the kids themselves can get into, as they re-visit some favourite stories, learn more about the actors as well as the entire process of creating one of the most successful Australian children’s series ever.

Kids who have yet to experience the absurdity of Paul’s stories but have seen the TV show, now on Netflix, will be keen to pick this up, and what a way to hook those reluctant readers! I would definitely share it with the readers in my new library, but this copy is earmarked to go express post to Wales!

Highly recommended for your readers from around Year 4 upwards – don’t miss out! it’s just TOO good!!