A change is almost as good as a holiday but when it comes to school, every kid (and teacher) knows that escaping the classroom is a true tonic.
This time of year brings lots of possibilities for outdoor adventures whether it be camping in the bush, beach-scavenging, jumping off the jetty or climbing trees. Even star-gazing in the backyard or swinging in a hammock can provide plenty of imaginative escape.
There are so many fantastic books that celebrate the spirit of adventure and the exploration of the great outdoors. Our top Book Doctor recommendation for the holidays is to turn off the screens and turn some pages instead! Don’t forget to pack some good, old-fashioned books to read on long car trips. They won’t run out of battery, are easy to carry and are surprisingly resilient to sand and dirt!
Here’s a quick list of some great Aussie tales that will inspire outdoor adventure over the holidays.
Island Essentials
Dive into the pages of these books for younger readers and be carried away by the sea.
To the Lighthouse – Cristy Burne
Magic Beach – Alison Lester
The Deep - Tim Winton
Hiking in the Bush
From much-loved classics to new adventures, these books open readers’ eyes to the wonders of the Australian bush.
The Complete Adventures of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie – May Gibbs
Possum Magic –Mem Fox
Off the Beaten Track– Cristy Burne
Road Trip
Anyone planning a long car journey will appreciate these great picture books.
Are we there yet? - Alison Lester
Road Trip – Danny Parker
Some Country Air & Starry Nights
These classics give younger readers a gentle insight into country life.
My Farm – Alison Lester
Diary of a Wombat– Jackie French
Two Summers - John Heffernan and Freya Blackwood
Tales as Old as Time
Explore the depth and richness of indigenous stories.
The Rainbow Serpent – Dick Roughsey
Wombat, Mudlark and Other Stories - Helen Milroy
Black Cockatoo - Carl Merrison
Older Readers
Lazy mornings allow for space and time to delve into a good book. These titles all have a wonderful sense of place.
Jasper Jones – Craig Silvey
Storm Boy – Colin Thiele
Catch a Falling Star- Meg McKinlay
Don’t forget to tune in to Scribblers Podcasts between chapters for more creative inspiration during your holidays! Easy to download and fun to listening for those long road trips.
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