The Family Law

Author: Benjamin Law Publication Date: 2010 Classic line: There are so many classic lines, one doesn't know where to begin. From Benjamin's mother giving graphic descriptions of childbirth (enough to frighten any who would like to remain cool and aloof in the face of giving birth) to Emu horror stories to confused interpretations of the Holy Spirit. What's it all about? Some of you may have read Benjamin Law's work before, he is a senior contributor to Frankie magazine and also has had work appearing in The Monthly, Qweekend, Sunday Life, The Big Issue, New Matilda and The Courier Mail.

This is a book about Benjamin's life and family. It was, for me, a time of hysterical almost embarassing fits of laughter, combined with moments that made you wish you knew this young man and could give him a giant bear hug and tell him that everything's alright. It is a beautiful, honest and fun-filled journey that we take with the Law family, it really made me appreciate all the weird quirks and kinks of my own family in a new way.

The Family Law is simply brilliant, in the words of Dilmah "Do try it!" Publisher: Black Inc

To find out more about this wonderful young Australian writer visit his website

http://www.benjamin-law.com/

Silk Chaser

Author: Peter Klein

Publication Date: 2010

Category: Mystery/Thriller

Who'll want to read it? People who like to read Dick Francis.

What's it all about? Set in the Australian racing circuit, a serial killer is stalking young female strappers. No one know who it is, why he's doing it, or who is next. The police and the racing fraternity seem powerless to do anything. The women are terrified and the union is threatening to go on strike and close down the entire racing industry..............enter John Punter, a professional 'punter', who seems to be in the right place at the wrong time......

'Silk Chaser' is the third John Punter novel of the series, with great characters and reminiscent of Dick Francis.

I love Dick Francis books and when I found Peter Klein I was in heaven. Great characters and good story lines. Set in Australia, readers will appreciate the familiar landscapes.

Publisher: Macmillian

Winter Warmers

With the cold weather upon us it's time to start reading knitting books. Here are just two of the interesting titles available at Newcastle Region Libraries.

Hattitude : knits for every mood by Cathy Carron contains 40 amazing hats you can knit. From the "Tied Bonnet" for humble moods to the "Appliqued Pillbox" for idealistic moods there really is something for every mood. I really must find someone to make me the literary "Floppy Toque".

Publication Date: 2009

Publisher: sixth and spring books

Aware Knits : knit and crochet projects for the eco-conscious stitcher by Vicki Howell and Adrienne Armstrong has been another popular book in our collection. Projects include an aromatherapy eyepillow, organic cotton washcloths, a crocheted jute welcome mat as well as a lovely range of socks, booties, cardigans and wraps.

Publication Date: 2009

Publisher: Lark Books

My Girragundji

Author: Meme McDonald & Boori Monty Prior

Publication Date: 1998

Category: Children's fiction; Indigenous literature

Who'll want to read it? People who love frogs and those needing to find courage.

Point of no return: It was the front cover that made we want to read this book, but as soon as I started it I knew I would finish it.

Classic line: "A frog! A little, green, tree frog. A beautiful little girragundji. 'Where did you come from?' I'm breathing again. I'm gonna live. 'Where you come from, little fulla?' ....'Big snakes out there, yibulla. You gotta watch out for them big fulla snakes.They can gobble your right up. You stay in here with me, you little darlin'. We can look after each other." pg28-30

What's it all about? A boy growing up and experiencing bullying, first love, problems at home and the looming threat of "The Hairyman" - a bad spirit playing tricks in his house. Things pick up when he finds the little gree tree frog who gives him so much courage. The book has beautiful evocative photographs throughout and would be a great read for 8-10 year olds.

I read this book a few years ago and it's one of my favourites. I but bought myself a copy at Sydney Writers' Festival in May - how could I resist when Boori Monty Pryor was there to sign it for me? What a wonderful, interesting and hilarious man. I can't wait for his new book, illustrated by Jan Ormerod,  Shake A Leg which is coming out in October this year.

By the way, My Girragundji  was the winner of the Book of the Year for Younger Readers prize, Children's Book Council Book of the Year Awards 1999.

Publisher: Allen & Unwin