Six weeks ago I broke my foot while walking the dog. That’s slowed me down with school and library visits, but I’m a bookworm and so have enjoyed the extra reading time...
Which children’s book are you currently reading?
I’ve just finished Shine Mountain by Julie Hunt.
Can you tell us in two sentences what the book is about?
It’s a quest story about a girl called Ellie who needs to return a magical button box to mystical Gleam Mountain. Her companions are a brave horse and a talking nanny-goat.
How much did you enjoy/are enjoying this title?
I loved this story, especially the chatty goat character. I spent five years researching anthropomorphism for my PhD and love quirky animal stories.
What made you choose this title? Was it a review, advertising, the cover, the blurb, the author/illustrator, or the subject/genre?
Last month (on the day of my foot surgery) two of my books were listed as CBCA Notables. The next day The Dog with Seven Names was also shortlisted for the NSW Premier’s award – what a week - and so I’m now reading the books of my fellow shortlistees before the announcement on April 29th. Fingers crossed.
What other titles are on your bedside table /To Read Pile?
Maya and Cat by Caroline Magerl, Dingo by Claire Saxby and Tannya Harricks and Leave Taking by Lorraine Marwood. I’ve already read and enjoyed the other shortlisted title, Jessica Townsend’s Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow. After I finish these I’m keen to read Black Cockatoo by Carl Merrison and Hakea Hustler and finally, Megsy Caddy’s new book, Devil’s Ballast. Phew!
How did you come by these titles: personal choice/request, publisher’s review copy, or other?
Personal choice.
Do you have a favourite genre? If so, what is it, and why do you prefer it?
I have two favourite genres; historical fiction and animal stories. Historical fiction because it’s a fun way to learn about the past, and animal stories because animal characters can give unusual and deeper insights into human behaviour. Some of my own books like The Dog with Seven Names and Light Horse Boy combine these passions.
Do you read from printed books or some other medium? Please expand a little on the why of your choice.
I definitely prefer printed books, turning the pages and flicking back and forth is part of the joy for me, but when I’m travelling I sometimes read on kindle.
If you’d like to find out more about me and the backstories to my books, my website is www.diannewolfer.com. Hope to see you there!