New Frontier Publishing

An exciting year ahead

2012-01-12T08:30:00.000+11:00

Happy New Year to all!

2012 will be an exciting year for NewFrontier. Our new website will be launched in the next couple of weeks and ourfirst title for 2012 has just arrived.

Professor Fred Hollows written by HazelEdwards is the third book in our Aussie Heroes series. It will give children aninsight into the many great things Fred Hollows achieved in his lifetime andbeyond.

This year is also the National Year ofReading and we hope you will join us in celebrating the joy of books throughoutthe year. Peter Carnavas’ title for 2012 reflects children’s passion for books.The Children Who Loved Books will be released in May.

Our new junior fiction series, Little Rocketslaunches in April with Katie and the Leprechaun by Kathryn England, followed bythree fabulous new titles. All of them are fast paced junior fiction withcoloured illustrations to entice children to pick up a book and readindependently.

The Totally Twins series continues with afourth installment celebrating the girls 11^th birthday. Persephoneand Portia will be celebrating in style!

This is just a snapshot of some of ourreleases this year. We hope children and adults continue to find joy in ourbooks.

Here is a little something to help you kickoff 2012 – a year celebrating books.

We are celebrating Jane Austen's birthday today!

2011-12-16T08:29:00.001+11:00

Jane Austen turns 236 today. To celebrate we are giving away a $25 voucher for our online store with every copy of Mr Darcy purchased today.

Who can forget the first lines of Pride and Prejudice, published 198 years ago:
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife."

Happy Birthday Jane Austen!

Your most eccentric Christmas family tradition

2011-12-09T10:20:00.001+11:00

Wehave a fabulous Christmas picture book for this year.

To celebratethe release of Lily’s Wish we aregiving away two copies today.

Wejust need you to tell us your most eccentric Christmas family tradition. The moreeccentric the better!

Wewill select winners at the end of today.

Mr Darcy will be launched this Sunday at idyllic Marks and Gardner Gallery

2011-11-25T18:27:00.001+11:00

We would love to see you on Sunday at the launch of Mr Darcy.

If you feel like putting your creative skills to the test let us know your imaginative title for a new Pride and Prejudice mash-up. Leave your creative titles here to win a copy of Mr Darcy. Winners will be announced next Wednesday.

Come and join us for the final Kids Book Swap of 2011

2011-11-25T10:48:00.001+11:00

Come and join us for our Christmas themed Kids Book Swap this afternoon. We will be celebrating with our Christmas title, Lily's Wish.

Come and join us for the launch of Nancy Bentley @fullersbookshop in Tasmania

2011-10-27T15:04:00.000+11:00

Three years ago we heard the story of Nancy Bentley, the first Australian female sailor. A former naval officer told the story to a group of children at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

Tracey Hawkins made contact with Nancy’s grandson Allan and began writing the story of Nancy Bentley. Set in 1920 in Port Arthur, Tasmania, this story features beautiful illustrations by Jacqui Grantford reflecting the time and place.

Nancy Bentley will be launched on the 26^th November at Fullers Bookshop in Hobart.

Peter Carnavas goes on a blog tour

2011-10-21T14:52:00.001+11:00

Peter Carnavas, the author of the Little Treasures, is about to begin his blog tour. Over the next couple of weeks you can catch up with Peter at the most brilliant blogs below.

Peter will be answering questions, giving some insights into being a published author and will even be doing a bit of illustrating.

24^th October Be A Fun Mum

25^th October Books For Little Hands

26th October Sophia Whitfield's Blog

31st October Reading Upside Down

2nd November Squiggle Mum

3rd November Life In A Pink Fibro

4th November The Book Chook

7^th November Kids Book Review

8th November My Little Bookcase

Mr Darcy will be attending the Kids Book Swap this month

2011-10-20T14:35:00.000+11:00

Kids Book Swap is hosting Alex Field, the author of Austen inspired Mr Darcy, at 3.30pm on Friday 28th October at Forestville Library.

Do come along for a sneak peek into the world of Pride and Prejudice before Mr Darcy is officially released on the 1st November.

We would love to see you there for our quintessential English tea party!

Hazel Edwards nominated for the prestigious Astrid Lindgren Award

2011-10-19T14:06:00.000+11:00

Congratulations to Hazel Edwards who has been nominated for the prestigious Astrid Lindgren award.

184 candidates were nominated for the award including Australian authors Jackie French and Morris Gleitzman. Hazel said she was ‘extremely honoured’ to be nominated.

Hazel is the author of Flight of the Bumblebee and Sir Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop.

Artist by Artist with Peter Carnavas

2011-10-05T16:16:00.000+11:00

Peter by Christine from ABC Open Sunshine Coast on Vimeo.

Peter Carnavas is about to embark on a blog tour to celebrate the release of Little Treasures

2011-09-26T07:12:00.000+10:00

TheLittle Treasures have arrived andlook spectacular.

Fourof Peter Carnavas’ special books have been reduced in size and now come with anenvelope for easy postage. Instead of sending a card you can now send a veryspecial book.

Eachone of the books has a special message to impart:

Jessica’s Box –Self Worth

Sarah’s Heavy Heart – Love

The Important Things – Family

Last Tree in the City – Environment

Peteris about to embark on a blog tour to celebrate the release of the Little Treasures. He would be thrilledto pop over and visit your blog. Here are a few options:

· An interview. Peter will happily answer any of yourquestions.
· Blog post. Peter will write a guest blog just for yoursite.
· Competition. A pack of four Little Treasures could begiven away free on your site.

Dodrop us a line if you are interested in having Peter as a guest on your blog.

ONCE UPON A TIME, IT WAS BOOK WEEK

2011-08-23T12:18:00.000+10:00

ONCE UPON A TIME, IT WAS BOOK WEEK

Aleesah Darlison, author of the Totally Twins series, shares her story with children from her home town.

We are celebrating Book Week with a Book Swap

2011-08-22T10:04:00.000+10:00

Do join us for a totally awesome Book Swap this Friday.
We will be celebrating Book Week.

Tropical Trouble is about to be released. Come and help us celebrate

2011-08-10T14:26:00.000+10:00

The gorgeous Totally Twins series has a new addition. Tropical Trouble, the third book in the sparkling new series, has just arrived.
Here it is. It look fabulous!

On Friday August 19 we will be launching Tropical Trouble at Berkelouw Books in Balgowlah. Do come along. We would love to see you there.

The Music Box series continues to impress

2011-08-03T09:39:00.000+10:00

Our awesome Music Box series continues to impress.
Deb Abela reviews the latest book in the series - The Sorcerer's Apprentice written by Tom Skinner & illustrated by Annie White.

Deborah Abela - Sorcerer's Apprentice by New Frontier Publishing

Special books

2011-07-20T13:54:00.000+10:00

The Important Things is a special book by Peter Carnavas.

Christopher has lost his father (we are not told how or why). Carnavas highlights the need for a child to be given the time and space to grieve in their own way.

The Important Things is a beautifully perceptive book.

John McIntyre from The Children's Bookshop captures the essence of The Important Things. He also chats about a couple of other fabulous books. It's worth lsitening to.

The Great Expedition comes to Mount Tamborine

2011-06-14T09:21:00.000+10:00

This Sunday we will be celebrating the release of a fabulous picture book -The Great Expedition by Peter Carnavas. Our friends at Marks and Gardner Gallery in Mount Tamborine will be hosting the launch.

Do come along. We would love to see you there - the kids will be entertained with music, history and brilliant storytelling. Parents can relax with coffee and cake!

Peter Carnavas, the author and illustrator, will be signing copies of his books and his original artwork will be on display.

The Great Expedition will be launched by Sophia Whitfield, publisher at New Frontier.

New Frontier congratulates Peter Carnavas

2011-06-02T08:14:00.000+10:00

New Frontier congratulates Peter Carnavas on the shortlisting of The Important Things for the Speech Pathology Book of the Year Award 2011.

Last Tree in the City has also been shortlisted for the Environment Award for Children's Literature.
A big week for Peter Carnavas!

Hazel Edwards visits The Children's Bookshop in Beecroft

2011-06-01T18:43:00.000+10:00

Yesterday Hazel Edwards and I visited The Children’s Bookshop in Beecroft.

35 teacher librarians joined us from the Sutherland Shire as we discussed the future of the book, the preservation of shared reading and ideas for Book Week.

Hazel Edwards discussed the challenges involved in writing a non-boring history for children.

Many of the teacher librarians were interested in Hazel’s offer to conduct a web chat with their students. Using Skype students can have a conversation with Hazel and ask her questions about her latest book, Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop .

We had a brilliant day thanks to our enthusiastic and hospitable host Paul MacDonald from The Children's Bookshop.

Photos are thanks to the lovely Susanne Gervay. It is always a pleasure to catch up with Susanne.

Join us for Kids Book Swap this Friday

2011-05-25T12:00:00.000+10:00

On the last Friday of every month we throw a party at Forestville library.
We share a book with the kids and invite an author or illustrator to attend.
This month Sophia Whitfield, publisher and author, will be the guest at Kids Book Swap.
Come along and join us for this fun filled event. There will be cake!

Celebrating Dame Nellie Melba's 150th Birthday

2011-05-19T09:09:00.000+10:00

The first great Australian diva, Dame Nellie Melba, celebrates her 150th birthday today.

Born Helen Porter Mitchell, she changed her name to reflect her Melbourne heritage. In 1887 Melba made her operatic debut. She went on to sing in all the great opera houses of Europe.

During World War I Melba worked tirelessly for the war effort organising fundraising concerts across America.

Dame Nellie Melba is one of our great Aussie heroes.

Aussie Heroes: Dame Nellie Melba is written as a narrative for children 7+. There are coloured illustrations throughout the book reflecting Melba’s glamorous, colourful life. It is also available as an ebook from Booki.sh. Here is a sneak peek.

A book by Booki.sh

The Great Expedition is launched in style

2011-05-17T14:45:00.000+10:00

On the weekend The Great Expedition, written and illustrated by Peter Carnavas, was launched in style by Kelly Dunham, the festival director of Voices on the Coast. Guests were treated to music, a little history and some fine storytelling.

Krissy and Fiona from Avid Reader were most hospitable hosts. Krissy presented Peter with a birthday cake insisting that we all sing Happy Birthday to The Great Expedition.

The Carnavas band opened the event with a rendition of Botany Bay on the accordion, ukulele and guitar.

Peter then worked his illustration magic. He informed us that his Google searches for Burke and Wills had shown them to be Don Burke and Prince William. With a good deal of skill Peter turned these two famous individuals into two other famous Australians – the Australian explorers Robert O’Hara Burke and William John Wills. The Great Expedition is loosely based on the adventures of these two characters.

The Great Expedition is a humorous tale with an underlying Peter Carnavas message for kids, which makes every one of his books so special. We can’t tell you any more – you will have to read the book.

Hazel Edwards shares a poignant moment in her writing career

2011-05-11T12:59:00.000+10:00

As an author you never know how far your book will travel. Nor possible effects it may have on others’ lives. Occasionally there’s special moment, when a reader contacts you. Or even a potential reader.

I had one of those significant moments this week. It was about relating to a hero, who was a relative.Fact evokes different responses from fiction.

Poignant e-mails arrive about fictional picture books and YA novels with which readers empathise. Parents write to me about the psychological importance of the ‘Guess What, There’s a Hippopotamus on the Hospital Roof Eating Cake’ picture book in helping a child patient adjust to hospital. Or about ‘f2m;the boy within’, the YA novel which has evoked genuine responses of relief because of the subject matter of transitioning gender has been portrayed in an approachable way in fiction.

‘But ‘Weary’ in the factual New Frontier Aussie Heroes series has been evoking responses from the ‘parent’ and ‘grandparent’ wanting to share a ‘hero’ with their young ones who are caught up with ‘celebs’ and in need of heroic, historic role models.

With a factual book, chances are that others knew the subject. And the readers have their stories to share too. I’ve had a few calls from those who knew ‘Weary’ or ‘Fred Hollows’ and each time, I wait to see if I got a fact wrong. But usually, it’s overwhelming praise from the reader, that the subject has been acknowledged in an accessible way for younger readers. And for the opportunity to provide historic ‘heroes’ who have actually done something for others rather than just been fashionably photographed as a ‘celeb.’ e.g. superficial socializing in front of camera.

I had a poignant moment today when Weary's former secretary Valda Street contacted me to get an autographed copy of my 'Weary' book for Sir Edward’s grandson Edward with whom she retains frequent contact.

A charming lady, who has close contact with the grandson, 'who is just like Weary' and regards him as his hero , but whose father Alexander is hospitalised with dementia. We shared anecdotes.

It's conversations like this which make the writing worthwhile.(I did notice she always called him Sir Edward, not ‘Weary’.)

I told her about being asked to speak about 'Heroes' and Weary to teenage Sudanese and Somali males at the Coptic Christian school and she said the grandson is hungry for stories of his grandfather and also wants to be a surgeon and is interested in the peacefulness of Buddhism.

Valda said Weary forgave, but never forgot his POW experiences. Agreed about the flaws such as road rage but also said at the time you don’t realise you are working for a hero. A 'big' man . And now his medical and rugby charities continue this compassion.
I've posted an autographed copy today.

Further resources for the Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop book are available on Hazel Edwards' website.

It's a book launch and you are all invited!

2011-05-03T11:58:00.000+10:00

We are so excited! In two weeks we will be in Brisbane to launch Peter Carnavas' latest book, The Great Expedition.
The launch will be held at Avid Reader bookshop on Sunday 15th May at 10am.
Come along and say hello. Peter has a few surpirses in store.

Peter Carnavas visits Sydney

2011-04-12T13:47:00.000+10:00

Peter Carnavas is the author and illustrator of four books, Jessica's Box, Sarah's Heavy Heart, The Important Things and Last Tree in the City. The Great Expedition will be released on the 1st May.

Last year Peter withdrew from teaching full time to concentrate on writing and illustrating. He still teaches occasionally, but now runs workshops for children in schools on illustration techniques and visual literacy. He is highly sought after as a workshop presenter and last week visited six schools in Sydney over three days.

He now has a huge following of primary school aged fans.

Many thanks to Judith Ridge, Western Sydney Young Children's Literature Officer and Paul Macdonald from The Children's Bookshop in Beecroft, both of whom assisted with the coordination of the school visits.

Aussie Heroes series is now available from Readings in eBook format

2011-03-31T11:33:00.000+11:00

The first two books in our non-fiction Aussie Heroes series are now available from Readings in eBook format.

We are excited! You can now purchase Dame Nellie Melba and Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop from Readings. All the internal illustrations are in colour and look fabulous on an eReader device.

The next book in the series, Fred Hollows, will be released in both print and eBook format later this year.

Little Treasures are a hit in Bologna

2011-03-29T21:57:00.000+11:00

The first news is in from Bologna and it seems this gorgeous Little Treasures collection of Peter Carnavas’ work is ever so popular.

Our creative designer Nick has given Peter’s books a clever new look. Each book has a logo to reflect its simple but important message – Love, Environment, Family and Self Worth. Peter’s fifth book, The Great Expedition, is about resilience. Nick is still working on a logo for this one!

The Great Expedition will be released on the 1^st May.

The Bologna Book Fair 2011

2011-03-28T11:46:00.001+11:00

We have been frantically busy over the last few weeks in preparation for the Bologna Book Fair.

Posters, bookmarks and dummy books have all been created in anticipation of the next four days. After ten years in the business we can confidently say we are experts at cutting and pasting!
The boys have now arrived in Bologna after their gruelling flights and have just completed putting the finishing touches on our fabulous stand. They are now asleep, but this is what they did before they slept.
Rod Hare is cheerily looking forward to the prospect of creating the ALC stand!

Peter Whitfield adds a poster to get in his wife’s good books after leaving her behind!

Applause! They are doing a good job.

As always we are in good company. A sneak peek at our neighbours:

There stand is a tiny bit bigger than ours. Sigh!

If you are in Bologna pay a visit to the Australian Licensing Corporation stand. We are next door to Bloomsbury. Rod and Peter will delight you with a mass of brilliant Australian books.

Kids Book Swap is on tomorrow - Meet fabulous illustrator Serena Geddes

2011-03-24T09:13:00.000+11:00

The last Friday of the month is tomorrow and we have our book swapping shoes on.
The talented illustrator Serena Geddes will be our guest tomorrow afternoon.
Serena began her career as an animator for Disney, but in 2009 she followed her dream, determined to become a children's book illustrator.
Since then she has illustrated this:

and this:

I am sure you will agree that Serena is a fabulous illustrator.
She is currently working on Lily's Wish, a delightful book for Christmas.
Here are some of her roughs:

Do come along to meet Serena. She will be showing off her brilliant skills at 3.30pm tomorrow afternoon at Forestville library.

A True Person - a valuable insight for children today

2011-03-23T13:26:00.000+11:00

There has been a great deal of visual footage in the press recently and many questions have been asked in our home regarding the Christmas Island Detention Centre.

I reached for a book we published back in 2007 to give our children more insight into the lives of refugees.

A True Person is written by Gabiann Marin and illustrated by Jacqui Grantford. It took a couple of years to complete this project and during this time the ending of the book was changed to reflect the current situation at the time. After much public outcry, in late 2005, child refugees were moved into more suitable community detention.

Initially Mwalo (an African man) left the detention centre, but by the time the book was almost ready for press the ending was changed and Zallah (a young girl) and her mother left the detention centre for community detention. Mwalo stayed behind.

A True Person is a moving story which highlights the bond between Mother and Daughter in times of adversity.

Zallah and her mother have escaped their war torn country and are looking for safety in Australia. Instead of freedom they find themselves in a detention centre. Zallah struggles with the reason for this punishment. For Zallah there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

This is a gentle tale that gives children a glimpse of life as a refugee.
The book has also just been made available on CD through Gecko Educational.

Cartoons, kooky characters and plot driven mysteries just for the kids!

2011-03-18T13:22:00.000+11:00

School holidays will soon be upon us.

The kids will be under your feet or locked away playing the Xbox. But, you would much rather they were having the time of their lives being inspired by stories, kooky characters and cartoon creations. We know you would. So we have made it easy for you. Three brilliant author/illustrators will be sharing their magic with kids during the Easter break.

The workshops will be help at a fabulous bookshop – The Children's Bookshop in Beecroft. They are celebrating 40 years this year so wish them a Happy 40th Birthday as you walk through the door.

Illustrating Picture Books with Peter Carnavas

In this hands-on workshop, students will be sharing drawing tips and ideas for creating picture books with well-known Australian illustrator Peter Carnavas. Peter will share his knowledge and expertise and children will develop illustrating techniques to bring characters to life!
When: Monday April 11th, 9-12-30pm
For: Students Aged 8-12
Cost: $50 per student
All materials are provided. Book early
Peter Carnavas will be releasing his fifth picture book in May this year. You may even get a sneak peek of The Great Expedition before it is released. Peter is the author and illustrator.

Draw Dream Write Delight

… A creative writing workshop for younger kids ...
Imaginations will run wild in this writing and illustrating super-session with children’s author, Aleesah Darlison. Create and draw cool, kooky characters and get started on a story about them.
This workshop promotes creativity and sharing of ideas. Free goody bag included.
When: Wednesday 13 April, 9-12-30pm
For: Ages 7-9
Cost: $50 per student. All materials are provided. Book early
Aleesah Darlison is the author of the sparkling new series, Totally Twins. The third book in the series will be released in August.

Calling all Future Writers!

Author Sue Whiting will be leading a writing workshop for students aged 9-12 years.
Participants in this workshop will be exploring the writing process, focusing on writing skills and gaining tips on developing plot, character and setting! Activities will be hands-on and students will particularly gain insight into ways to improve writing skills.
When: Thursday April 14th, 9-12-30pm
For: Students Aged 9-12
Cost: $50 per student
All materials are provided. Book early!

Sue is the author of Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and A Britt Brady Mystery:The Hairy Legs Heist.

RSVP for all workshops:

02 9481 1881
staff@childrensbookshop.com.au

Celebrating Australian Women on International Women's Day

2011-03-08T12:06:00.000+11:00

Today we are celebrating International Women’s Day.

As we look back over the history of Australia there are many women who have shaped and contributed to our society.

Last year we released the Aussie Heroes series, a new series of junior non-fiction books which reflects the heroes of Australia.

The books are for primary school aged children and are written as a narrative, complemented by colour illustrations throughout.

Our first female hero is Dame Nellie Melba. She was the first great Australian diva, but she also worked tirelessly for the war effort, staging numerous fundraising concerts in support of the Red Cross and other charities.

Our next female hero, the manuscript has just dropped into my inbox, will be Mary MacKillop.

Perhaps you have a particular hero whose life has had an impact on your own?

From Hippos to Histories

2011-03-01T10:32:00.001+11:00

Best known for There's a Hippopotamus on Our Roof Eating Cake, which was recently translated into Chinese, Hazel writes across media, for adults & children.
Sir Edward‘Weary’ Dunlop in the New Frontier Aussie Heroes series is her latest print & ebook.
An ambassador for literature and for literacy, Hazel is involved with the 2012 National Year of Reading. She holds webinars ,mentors and is on the Australian Society of Authors’ committee.

Hazel, you are well known for your children’s picture books, especially the well known and much loved classic There’s A Hippo On Our Roof Eating Cake.
Your latest book is a non-fiction book for primary school children entitled Sir Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop.
How different is it to write a ‘history’ book for young children as opposed to a storybook?
The first challenge in writing a junior history is to find anecdotes (mini stories) and a viewpoint likely to interest a reader of that age.
The next challenge is what to leave out.

In writing about one person, you need to read widely about the challenges of their period of history, especially if you weren’t living then. Next you need to read all the detailed adult biographies available on them, and their contemporaries.

There is as much work in writing history for young readers as there is in writing for adults. The skill is in how to shape the facts of the setting and the person in a way which makes sense to a young reader who may not know much about that time or place or even that man (or woman).Or be unfamiliar with certain abbreviations like POW (prisoner of war).

I did have some research help on ‘Weary’ because he’s a man about whom there are many stories, by people who knew him personally and are still alive.

Each type of book has different challenges, whether history for children, adult non- fiction or writing fantasy- based picture books. And then there’s scripting too. It’s a bit like a smorgasbord of food. Sometimes you feel like savouries, other times your taste is for something sweet or spicy. I enjoy having a balanced diet of varied tastes of ideas in different formats.

The proportion of time spent on research is considerable for a history book, because the facts must be accurate. I’ve recently discovered the term ‘fact-checker’which is difficult to say, but vital to have.

Have you written any other books in this genre?
‘Antarctic Close up’ in the National Museum ‘Making Tracks’ series, about the telescope from Mawson’s Antarctic expedition was for a similar age group. That story is ‘faction’ as it has a little dramatic licence in including a10 year old boy in the polar ice. But it is based on the real John Collinson Close (hence the title) who was on Mawson’s expedition. It’s called ‘memorabilia’ when you write a story around an object. That book was commissioned by the Museum, as were others in the museum memorabilia series, and the real telescope can be viewed there.

My Writing A Non-Boring Family History book is used in workshops, when often adults are shaping stories for the children in their families as well.

Is it harder to write fact than fiction for children?
More research is required. But in some novels, which are works of fiction, getting the facts to make the settings believable, takes an equal time e.g. the outback setting with feral pigs and chopper flying in my Outback Feral YA novel. Or the Antarctic iceberg, expeditioner and wildlife facts of picture book ‘Antarctic Dad’. Facts provide you with a time or place framework, but you need to creatively craft a story within that. I enjoy the challenge of improvising against a factual setting. Some of my stories are ‘faction’ which use a factual setting but a made-up character. I do not call these a history.

Other times, I’ve scripted plays using facts, where the characters have names like FIRE or WATER or BORE and act accordingly.

Some factual writing is about how things work e.g. the writer has to understand that process, before they write it more simply for the child reader.

An example would be writing about some of Weary’s homemade surgical or medical equipment in the POW camps.

How did you get involved in writing Sir Edward 'Weary’ Dunlop?
By invitation from New Frontier I had already written Flight of the Bumblebee picture book linked with the classical music of Rimsky Korsakov.

The ‘Aussie Heroes’ concept, where the emphasis was on community contributions rather than only sport, interested me.

Did you know much about ‘Weary’ and what type of research was necessary?
I’d read Weary’s biography earlier, and knew of his medical connections plus I’d travelled in Asia where the POW camps had been. My husband was familiar with Weary’s rugby skills.
A researcher Gail Arkins offered her help, as her medical family had known Weary, plus she checked the military facts. Once I mentioned I was researching Weary, people who had worked with him, or whose family members he had operated on, told me stories.

Although I did some Internet research, I also read many books about Weary, and some about other camp doctors.

We visited the ‘Weary’ statues, and researched the symbolism of the steps representing those who worked on the railway and in the camps.

How do you define the word ‘Hero’ and why how important is it to inspire children with such role models?
A hero is one who inspires by example.

It is very important to distinguish between a ‘celeb’ famous only for being in the media and a person who has done something significant to help others.

A hero may solve a problem for a community, discover a cure or invent a gadget.
But a hero is not perfect and may have weaknesses.

We all need role models, to inspire us, to try beyond the day-to-day.

A footballer who plays skilfully, but misbehaves in public, is not a good role model.
Easy to read histories of inspiring Australians can provide facts about ‘real’ lives, not fictional super- heroes., although there is a place for fantasy too.

What was the most fascinating fact you discovered in the writing of the book?
Weary’s resourcefulness in ‘making-do’ possibly came from his farm childhood.
Risk-taking can pay off, if you are stoic about accepting the consequences when things go wrong.

I was also fascinated that so many people felt they ‘owned’ Weary via their stories.

What other Australian ‘heroes’ do you think we should be introducing our children to?
Let’s rename all the boring ‘Station and Railways’ streets, Australia-wide , with the researched names of ‘heroic’ locals who have solved problems.

Female scientists, pioneers like Granny Smith (Apples), inventors, business people who have found new ways of making things, explorers of the country or of the mind.

New Frontier Publishing’s series Aussie Heroes now has two titles available and a third on the way, Fred Hollows. How important is this series in terms of supporting the national history curriculum? What do you think of the curriculum as it stands at present?
Once students find out about ‘historic’ people and the challenges they faced, they get inspired. The problem is the lack of historic material in accessible formats for junior readers or viewers. The stories need to be dramatically told, not just in chronological order. The stories need to be in print and e-books as well as TV documentaries or multi-media.

Maybe using the Aussie Heroes series for modelling of students’ own research and writing/scripting of a local ‘hero’ could be a start. Write about local State Emergency Services workers, ambulance officers, political activists, artists in new media, interpreters, un-sung heroes who quietly do their jobs or volunteer?

Reading history is not just about dead people. It’s about WHY someone might have acted that way in those circumstances. That’s the mystery of history.

Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop
Written by Hazel Edwards
Illustrated (colour) by Pat Reynolds
Released: 1st March 2011
128pp
Age 9+

Do you want to join the New Frontier team? Submissions are open.

2011-02-22T09:02:00.001+11:00

New Frontier is developing a new series for 6-8 year olds.
Each book in the series will be a standalone book.

We are looking for:

Fast paced fiction
Stories should be plot driven with action and humour
6,000 - 8,000 words

Submissions open on March 1, 2011 and close on March 31, 2011.
Please address your manuscripts to:
Junior Novel Series - March 2011
New Frontier Publishing
Suite 3, Level 2
18 Aquatic Drive
Frenchs Forest
NSW 2086

Kids Book Swap is back for 2011

2011-02-21T14:47:00.000+11:00

Kids Book Swap is back on for 2011.

Come along and join us for the first Kids Book Swap of the year.

Bring a book to swap and enjoy afternoon tea in the company of Peter Whitfield, author of the Zen Tails Series.

Celebrating Samuel's Kisses

2011-02-18T20:54:00.000+11:00

Samuel’s Kisses has been launched!

Thank you to Janene and Mary at Marks and Gardner Gallery in Mount Tamborine. They were fabulous hosts, putting on an exciting festival of activities for the children.

Congratulations to the lovely Karen Collum on the launch of her very first picture book. Karen shared the event with family and friends. Many writers also came along to show their support for Karen.

Kisses were shared by young and young-ish.

Serena Geddes displayed her beautiful original illustrations from Samuel’s Kisses. The children helped Serena create a few exciting new characters. Two lucky children took these fabulous illustrations home with them.

And, of course, there was cake. We had to have a cake and what a cake it was.

Both Karen and Serena are relative newcomers to the world of picture books.

They are both exceptionally talented and have a number of books now in the pipeline. Hooray for them!

A touch of optimism

2011-02-18T19:00:00.000+11:00

Treat yourself this weekend. Amble into your local friendly bookstore, flick through the printed pages of a few good books and find yourself a gem. It will be there, waiting, just for you.

The media is full of the doom and gloom surrounding the Book Industry, but somewhere, if you listen carefully, you will find a positive message.

The lovely Susanne Gervay is organising the 6th Children’s and YA Literature Festival in June. I have been asked to speak and while the sessions are still being put together the broad topic is New Work - New Direction. There is your positive message. The industry is changing, but new opportunities are also arising.

Books will still be around and most especially children’s books. So, this weekend celebrate the book. Lose yourself in a world of words and fuel your imagination.

The book is going nowhere. It’s here to stay. Happy Reading!

Celebrate Valentine's Day a day early with Samuel's Kisses

2011-02-09T10:11:00.000+11:00

We are celebrating Valentine's Day a day early and you are invited to join us for tea.

We are excited to be launching Samuel's Kisses at the idyllic Marks and Gradner Gallery on Sunday 13th February at 2.30pm.

This beautiful book is Karen Collum's debut picture book. Serena Geddes' original illustrations will be on display as she demonstrates her own whimsy style.

Samuel's Kisses is the perfect gift to purchase the day before Valnetine's Day.

So join us for a celebration as we congratulate Karen and Serena on their gorgeous picture book.

The pompous Mr Darcy is even more adorable!

2011-02-04T17:19:00.000+11:00

Mr Darcy has been transformed.
Do you like his new look?

This delightful picture book will be in bookstores later this year.
Can you tell us the name of the illustrator?
If you think you know reply to this through Twitter. The first person to get it right will be sent a previous picture book by this illustrator.

Love is in the air

2011-02-03T11:22:00.000+11:00

Love is in the air...

Valentine’s Day is coming up - a day to celebrate with those we love and to show them how much they mean to us.

Here are a few ideas for fathers and daughters, mothers and sons, husbands and wives, boyfriends and girlfriends.

Samuel's Kisses

Samuel is a happy little boy, keen to share his joy with all those around him.

As Samuel sits in the shopping trolley he blows kisses to shoppers spreading fun, happiness and a generous number of kisses.

This is a gorgeous story for mothers and sons to read together. It will make your heart soar.

Sarah’s Heavy Heart

“Sarah knew the heavy heart would always be hers to carry. She just wished it wasn’t so heavy.”

A magical story about a little girl's search for friendship and love.

Forget roses, let your beloved's heart get carried away with this special book.

Particularly special for fathers and daughters, boyfriends, girlfriends and husband and wives.

Chocolates and roses are so passe! Books are best. The love of your life can keep a book forever.

Join the revolution!

2010-12-15T17:31:00.002+11:00

Peter Carnavas has been touring the country encouraging kids to plant trees. Many kids have been inspired by Peter's talks and workshops. They have been coming up with all sorts of interesting places to plant trees and sending the pictures to Peter. You can see some of them here.

Michael, a year 2 student, attempted his own Christmas Tree based on Peter's Last Tree in the City.
We love it so much we just wanted to share it with you.

What do you think?
We think it's brilliant!
So kids, keep sending Peter your illustrations and they will go up on his blog for all to see.

Samantha says thank you!

2010-12-14T20:57:00.000+11:00

Last week Samantha celebrated her 25th birthday in style.

Over 50 children listened to Gordon Winch's classic tale

and helped Gordon polish off Samantha's birthday cake.

Samantha was very excited to see so many adults and children at her birthday party and would like to thank The Children's Bookshop in Beecroft for hosting her fabulous party.

Happy 25th Birthday Samantha

2010-12-09T22:02:00.000+11:00

Happy 25th Birthday Samantha Seagull's Sandals.
This beautiful commemorative edition of Samantha Seagull's Sandals will be launched on:
Friday 10th December at 9.45am
at
The Children's Bookshop
Hannah St
Beecroft
Gordon Winch will read his picture book at 9.45. It will be followed by a celebration at 10.30 with cake!
So, come along for the party as we applaud this iconic Australian picture book.

Samuel's Kisses is launched

2010-12-05T20:06:00.000+11:00

The lovely Karen Collum is visiting our blog today.

She has just released her fabulous new picture book - Samuel's Kisses.

Congratulations Karen!

SAMUEL'S KISSES IS LAUNCHED!

A book launch is a wonderful experience, especially when the audience is a class of wide-eyed and enthusiastic 4 and 5 year olds. SAMUEL'S KISSES by Karen Collum & Serena Geddes was launched at the Greenbank C & K Kinder on Wednesday, December 1. The afternoon was filled with dress-ups, craft activities, yummy food, and of course, lots of little people blowing kisses.

Some very special volunteers helped Karen act out the story of SAMUEL'S KISSES, including the inspiration for the story, Karen's son, Samuel.

And of course, what is a book launch without book-themed food? For SAMUEL'S KISSES, that revolved around heart- and kiss-related food, including Custard Kisses (biscuits), heart-shaped fruit, miniature heart cupcakes and of course, a SAMUEL'S KISSES cake.

A big thanks to the staff and students of Greenbank C & K Kinder for hosting the launch. It was a wonderful way to launch SAMUEL'S KISSES into the world.

We feel like dancing

2010-12-02T15:03:00.000+11:00

It’s almost Christmas – yes it is and we feel like dancing.

As The Nutcracker opens at the Sydney Opera House tomorrow night we thought our delightful picture book Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy was worth mentioning.

The Nutcracker is a much loved ballet by Tchiakovsky. It is traditionally performed at Christmas time – the giant Christmas Tree which is usually on the stage certainly portrays a Christmas theme.

Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy is a favourite part of the ballet for most children. Sue Whiting and Sarah Davis have created a stunning picture book based on the music from The Nutcracker. It includes a CD narrated by Antonia Kidman with the well known music playing in the background.

We recommend it. Go on – go out and buy it from your friendly bookseller.
You can dance your way through the festive season with toddler in tow.

Peter Carnavas in Sydney

2010-11-19T12:09:00.000+11:00

Peter Carnavas will be visiting Sydney next week to celebrate the launch of his latest picture book, Last Tree in the City.

Peter will be signing books, reading his books and showing off his illustration prowess at the following events:

Thursday 25th November
Kinokuniya, Level 2 The Galleries Victoria, 500 George St, Sydney @ 10.30am

Friday 26th November
The Children's Bookshop, Beecroft @ 9.45am
Further details here..

The tour will finish with
Kids Book Swap at Froestville Library @ 3.30pm

Molly Palmer from Brisbane Writers' Festival launches Last Tree in the City

2010-11-10T11:00:00.002+11:00

The lovely Molly Palmer, producer of Word Play at Brisbane Writers’ Festival, launched Last Tree in the City by Peter Carnavas, at Avid Reader in Brisbane.

The Carnavas family came out in force to support Peter as he released his fourth picture book in two years. An incredible achievement.

Every one of Peter's books has been launched at Avid Reader.

Peter dedicated his latest book to his three siblings - for his two brothers because they are both ‘greenies’ and to his sister. Peter said out of everyone he knows his sister can ‘take something challenging and make it beautiful’.

Last Tree in the City is a gentle story about making a difference. Peter encouraged children to take a stand for something they believe in. Even, or perhaps especially children can make us stand up and take notice.

This book is one you want on your shelves.

The Big, Bad Book Swap is Back!

2010-10-28T12:04:00.000+11:00

It's that time again - come down to Forestville Library tomorrow afternoon for New Frontier's monthly book swap!

Gabiann Marin, author of the awesome books A True Person and Dame Nellie Melba, will be there talking and partying as well.

If you're not sold already, how about the fact that you get free cake and the chance to swap old books? Yeah!

Details for parents are on the image below. See you there!

Don't miss this event

2010-10-26T10:58:00.000+11:00

Since his first book Jessica’s Box was published in 2008 Peter Carnavas has had four books published by New Frontier. The fourth book, Last Tree in the City has just been released.

Each one of Peter’s books develops as a moving story with a gentle message.
They give a child something to think about and something to take away with them. For the most part his books give children solutions to difficult situations.

Peter has the advantage of being able to illustrate his own work; this allows the text and illustrations to work seamlessly together.

At the age of 30 this young primary school teacher from the Sunshine Coast has been ever so quietly producing beautiful, poignant picture books for children and adults to share.

On Sunday 31st October we will be launching Peter’s latest environmentally themed picture book, Last Tree in the City at Avid Reader in Brisbane at 10am. If you are around we would love to see you. Molly Palmer from Brisbane Writers’ Festival will be launching the book.

You will be treated to a visual display of Peter Carnavas’ work and be able to watch him create some of his favourite characters. Peter will also share some of his inspiration behind the creation of his latest book.

Peter’s first book was published in April 2008, his fourth in October 2010. That is quite an achievement. We will be celebrating his success in style on Sunday.

You may even get a sneak peek at his next book.

Aussie Heroes

2010-10-19T09:57:00.000+11:00

We all need a hero, someone we can look up to and admire.

There are many great Australians who have shown compassion, bravery and humanitarianism.

The Aussie Heroes series introduces children to heroes who have made an important contribution to Australian society.

Each hero has helped others in need, and in turn shaped history.

This new series is for primary school aged children. It will give them an insightful look into the lives of great Australians.

The first book has just been released and features the great Australian diva Dame Nellie Melba.

There are coloured illustrations throughout the book.

The second book in the series, Sir Edward “Weary” Dunlop will be released in February 2011.

Further titles include Professor Fred Hollows and Saint Mary MacKillop.

Each book comes with teaching notes which can be downloaded from the Teachers' Resources section of the New Frontier website.

Last Tree in the City!

2010-10-14T15:03:00.001+11:00

Despite the fact that it poured with rain, loads of people came out to see Peter Carnavas read from his book Last Tree in the City. Peter did illustrations for all the kids and everyone that came was given a free tree. Crazy! Some people even got signed books!

This tree was made by Peter out of a picture of Barack Obama's pants and Michelle Obama's dress!

This lucky girl, Lilly, even has a character named after her in Peter's next book!

The bike is finished!

2010-10-07T15:03:00.001+11:00

It’s been a long time coming but Nick’s super secret project is finally ready! Complete with shiny red paint and a very fashionable plant, this bike is the coolest of the cool.

If you want to know more about the bike and why it’s so cool, check out Peter Carnavas’s new book Last Tree in the City.

It’s a story about a young boy called Edward who rides around the city mourning the loss of his favourite tree. It doesn’t take long for Edward to figure out how to make a change and soon the whole city is involved!

The bike is going on tour in Sydney from next Monday so if you want to get involved and have the bike at your store let us know!

Last Tree in the City

2010-10-05T09:42:00.000+11:00

This weekend we are heading to Mount Tamborine for the launch of Last Tree in the City by Peter Carnavas.
There will be craft, storytelling and Peter will be demonstrating a few cartooning techniques for the young and for those a little older.
Marks and Gardner is a beautiful gallery set in the idyllic Mount Tamborine, the perfect setting for this book's first outing.
We are very excited to be able to launch this book at Marks and Gardner and hope to see you there.

Kids Book Swap is this Friday

2010-09-22T10:44:00.000+10:00

The last Friday of the month is coming up and we are baking cakes.

Come along to the Kids Book Swap this week featuring Totally Twins author Aleesah Darlison and illustrator Serena Geddes.

They will be giving out free "Perse Rocks" badges so dont miss out.

Aleesah and Serena will be talking about their cool new series. You can ask questions, eat cake and watch Serena weave her illustration magic.
See you there!

Party time on the northern beaches

2010-09-21T11:10:00.000+10:00

Aleesah Darlison and Serena Geddes have been having a grand old time launching their new series Totally Twins.

Girls and parents proudly wore Perse Rocks badges. Dynamic duo Aleesah and Serena delighted their audience with stories of twins. Serena demonstrated her terrific skill as an illustrator by drawing quirky characters for the kids.

Many thanks to our lovely host Maria from Berkelouw at Balgaowlah.

Aleesah Darlison and Serena Geddes celebrate their success with fellow authors and illustrators

2010-09-17T14:12:00.001+10:00

Aleesah Darlison and Serena Geddes have been busily promoting their new book this week. Musical Mayhem is the first book in the fabulous new Totally Twins series.

It has been a big year for both Aleesah and Serena, marking their successful foray into the world of children's books.

Tonight they will be celebrating their success with fellow authors and illustrators at the SCBWI conference. Marc McEvoy, The Books Editor at The Sun-Herald will be launching Musical Mayhem during the pre-dinner drinks at the conference.

5.30pm tonight at The Hughenden, Woollahra.

Totally Twins Musical Mayhem Book Launch!

2010-09-14T11:53:00.000+10:00

Manly Arts Festival is the place to be this weekend

2010-09-10T13:20:00.000+10:00

Aleesah Darlison and Serena Geddes will be entertaining kids with their delightful new stories tomorrow morning at Manly Library at 10am. Come along and join in the fun!

On Sunday 12th September Aleesah and Serena will be talking about their new super cool series, Totally Twins. Serena will show you how to draw fabulous new characters, mini-manicures will be on offer and you will take home your very own goody bag. Sound cool? See you there.

CYA conference

2010-09-06T13:42:00.000+10:00

From Four on the Floor we moved on to the CYA conference run by the lovely Tina and Ally.

Aleesah Darlison discussed her recent success with delegates - from unknown to published children's author. She also held several workshops for kids and launched her new book Musical Mayhem, the first book in the Totally Twins series.

Peter Carnavas ran an illustration workshop for the enthusiastic kids attending the Hatchlings day on Sunday.

Thanks to Tina and Ally for organising such an informative and fun conference.

Hello Brisbane

2010-09-06T13:21:00.002+10:00

We have just returned from a fun-filled weekend in Brisbane.

Stephanie opened up her beautiful bookshop and cafe for us. Black Cat Books and Cafe is an idyllic bookshop full of treasures.

Stephanie was a welcoming host for the Four on the Floor event; which was held outside on the beautifully decorated verandah.

40 children attended the evening and were delighted with cartooning demonstrations, humour, and fun facts about puggles, twins and ponytails.

Peter Carnavas shared his latest books with the kids and even gave them a sneak preview of his upcoming title Last Tree in the City. It will be published on the 1^st October.

Aleesah Darlison entertained the kids with stories of growing up in the country desperate for a twin sister to share all her INNERMOST secrets. You will have to read her latest book, Totally Twins to find out all about the SECRET totally fabulous life of twin sisters Persephone and Portia.

Peter and Aleesah were joined on the floor by the very funny Oliver Phommavanh and the delightful Julie Nickerson.

A huge thank you to Stephanie and her staff at Black Cat Books and Café for making Four on the Floor such a terrific event.

National Book Week.

2010-09-02T11:40:00.001+10:00

Last week was National Book Week. Jo Oliver came down to our monthly book swap at Forestville Library to help us celebrate. Jo read from her books Tatiara and Pilgrim and everyone had an awesome time. If you would like to come down to the next book swap, they are held on the last Friday of every month at Forestville Library. Check out the pictures of all the fun, cake and mayhem below if you need anymore convincing!

Father's day!

2010-09-02T10:03:00.000+10:00

It's that time of year again. Everyone is searching for the perfect present for Dad, fortunately for YOU New Frontier has a few great gift ideas. These books are bound to put a smile on any Dad's face!

I spy Dad!

A young girl searches for her Dad, encountering all different types of Dads before finally finding her own. A great journey into the joys of fatherhood and shortlisted for Speech Pathology Book of the Year 2010.

THE IMPORTANT THINGS

An intriguing story about a mother and son dealing with the loss of a father. Christopher and his mother discover what is important and unimportant in Dad's absence, learning that sometimes even the smallest of things can make a big difference.

Indigenous Literacy Day

2010-09-01T09:27:00.000+10:00

TALK: DEBRA DANK, DAVID MALOUF – INDIGENOUS LITERACY DAY – WEDNESDAY 1 SEPTEMBER, 5.45-6PM FRIENDS ROOM, MITCHELL LIBRARY (Free but bookings essential)

Join David Malouf, ILP Ambassador and Debra Dank, Literacy Development Facilitator, The Fred Hollows Foundation, as they discuss how we can effectively address literacy issues in remote Indigenous communities. Debra Dank, an Indigenous woman from the Barkly Tablelands, grew up on remote cattle stations in the Northern Territory and western Queensland. With over 20 years experience in education, Debra talks about why the Indigenous Literacy Project is starting to make a difference in Indigenous communities.

The Indigenous Literacy Project is a national initiative of The Australian Book Industry in partnership with The Fred Hollows Foundation.

Entry by donation. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL on: bookings@sl.nsw.gov.au or by phone(02) 9273 1770

Heading for Brisbane with Four on the Floor

2010-08-30T11:26:00.000+10:00

We have a number of authors involved in exciting events around Brisbane over the next couple of weeks.

If you are in town come along and say hello.

Aleesah Darlison will be talking about Musical Mayhem, her first book in the exciting new Totally Twins Series.

Totally Twins is a warm and sparkling series about family, friends and fitting in. Kids will be captivated by 10 year-old-twins Persephone and Portia Pinchgut in this awesome new junior fiction series.

Peter Carnavas will be speaking about his moving picture book The Important Things.
Gillian Cromwell from Busy Mothers described Peter's latest book:

"I love Peter Carnavas books. They are always exquisite. This one is no exception...

A beautiful, beautiful book."

Sydney's Child described The Important Things as a "thought-provoking story".

So, come and join us at Black Cat Books in Paddington, Brisbane.

A special cake for this week's Kids Book Swap

2010-08-27T13:46:00.000+10:00

Come along and help us eat some cake at Forestville Library.
We will be celebrating Book Week.
Today at 3.30pm

Author and illustrator Jo Oliver will be our guest.

A special Kids Book Swap for Children's Book Week

2010-08-20T11:46:00.000+10:00

Next week is Children's Book Week.Yay!

We are encouraging all the kids to come to Kids Book Swap dressed as their favourite children's book character. We hope parents might join in the fun too. We will be!

We are thinking a bumblebee, a sugar plum fairy, a super sorcerer, a teddy bear or a dragon. We are still deciding. Take your pick and we will see you there.

Jo Oliver will be reading her two picture books, Pilgrim and Tatiara, answering questions and giving a few inside tips to budding illustrators.

There will, of course, also be cake.

Nick's Super SECRET project is still going!

2010-08-19T13:58:00.003+10:00

Nick’s very SECRET project is coming along. We’re just wondering what it could be for? The only thing he will tell us is that it's to do with his favourite book!

There is only a little bit more work left until it is completed, so keep watching the blog to see the final results. You won't want to miss it!

Peter Carnavas at Berkelouw Books, Eumundi

2010-08-11T10:32:00.000+10:00

Peter Carnavas Reading/Workshop

Peter will be reading his books and giving an illustration workshop:

Berkelouw Books, Eumundi,

at 11:00am,

Sunday 15 August.

Come along for some fun and watch the talented Peter Carnavas at work.

http://petercarnavas.com/

Kids Book Swap photos

2010-08-05T08:11:00.000+10:00

Author Peter Whitfield and illustrator Serena Geddes entertain the kids at Forestville library.

The kids chose some interesting characters for Serena to draw:

Part elephant, part dinosaur. The kids named him -Delephant!

Part snake, part monkey -sunbathing on a beach.

The next Kids Book Swap is on Friday the 27th August. Guest Author/Illustrator will be Jo Oliver.

To help us celebrate Book Week come along dressed up as your favourite book character.

We will bring the cake!

Kids Book Swap is on tomorrow

2010-07-29T09:03:00.001+10:00

The next Kids Book Swap is happening tomorrow at Forestville Library.

Peter Whitfield will be reading his popular Zen Tails series and Serena Geddes will be sharing her latest picture books while showing off her flair as an illustrator. Serena will be drawing some of her favourite characters from Row, row, row your boat and Samuel's Kisses.

Sophia is baking cakes. Last month we baked 70 cupcakes which were all quickly consumed by ravenous school kids. Tomorrow we will have 100 beautifully decorated little cupcakes.

So come along, bring a book to swap and join us for a party to celebrate the end of the week.

Nick is working on a SECRET project

2010-07-28T14:17:00.000+10:00

We had our weekly Wednesday meeting this morning and Nick brought a couple of things in for show and tell - Nick's nic nacs.

Nick is currently working on a SECRET project so we can't tell you much more. You will have to check out our blog for updates.

A tribute to Sir Charles Mackerras

2010-07-16T11:15:00.003+10:00

Australian conductor Sir Charles Mackerras has died of cancer at the age of 84.

Sir Charles Mackerras was a brilliant conductor, his passion for music was the driving force in his life.
"I always wanted to become a musician. I was hardly interested in anything else. From about eight or nine I had a sort of mania about it," Sir Charles told the Guardian in an interview to mark his 80th birthday in 2005.

He championed the work of Czech composer Janacek bringing his operas to the masses. In 1951 he conducted the first London performance of Janacek's Katya Kabanova after the original conductor became ill. He went on to become the music director at Sadler's Wells Theatre.

In 1951 he also arranged Gilbert and Sullivan's music just after it was out of copyright. His Sullivan ballet arrangement Pineapple Poll continues to be popular. 1951 was the year Charles Mackerras became a recognised figure in the music world.

Sir Charkes Mackerras conducted the opening concert at the Sydney Opera House in 1973.

In 1979 he was knighted for his contribution to music and the following year became the first conductor outside of the UK to conduct the Last Night of the Proms.

Sir Charles Mackerras was an international figure; he had a full schedule traveling all over the world as a guest conductor.

Roy McEwan, managing director of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, said: "Sir Charles was one of the most distinguished conductors of his generation. He had an almost unparalleled mastery of music across a huge range of styles and periods from Handel through Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, Dvorak and Janacek and beyond".

Gillian Karaviotis worked with Sir Charles Mackerras at Sadler's Wells Theatre: "Sir Charles Mackerras was arguably the greatest Australian musician to ever live. He lived and breathed music and apart from his family and sailing, nothing else interested him. His legacy will be his extensive research into Mozart's manuscripts which began with his pioneering performance with ornamentation of The Marriage of Figaro at Sadler's Wells Theatre in 1965. He was also responsible for bringing the music of Janacek, particularly his operas to England in the 50's and his interpretations of Janacek's operas are considered unsurpassed. His life was packed full to the brim with worldwide travel conducting operas and concerts from Sydney, America and Europe at every great opera house and concert hall. He was richly honoured for his enormous and unselfish services to music. Sir Charles opened our minds to the wonders of classical music in the thousands of recordings he left us."

On a personal note Sophia Whitfield, the publisher at NFP spent her youth running around the corridors of Sadler's Wells Theatre. Both her parents worked at the theatre and knew Sir Charles Mackerras and his family. Charles and his wife Judy had supported our Music Box series which introduces young children to classical music.

We send our love and thoughts to Sir Charles Mackerras's wife Judy and their daughter Catherine.xx

ABA conference

2010-07-13T10:29:00.000+10:00

The ABA conference was a success with Alan Robinson joining the New Frontier stand.

Alan illustrated two spreads from his Grandpa's Farm titles.Two lucky delgates from the ABA conference will receive the artwork Alan completed.

Sophia's daughter Helena enjoyed meeting the literary folk at the ABA. She was encouraged and commended for her chosen career in publishing. At 14 Helena is still undecided. We may have to put on a bit more of a show for her next time around. She was indispensable. We are hoping to be able to offer her a job in the not too distant future.

The highlight for Helena was of course being on the New Frontier stand, but it may also have been this:

Pictures from our first successful NFP Kids Book Swap

2010-06-28T09:31:00.000+10:00

On Friday we hosted the first NFP Kids Book Swap at Forestville Library.

Kids feasted on fairy bread, cup cakes and strawberries as they listened to Sue Whiting reading her story Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.

We had balloons, cake and the occasional fairy. There was even dancing to the sounds of Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The kids had an opportunity to ask Sue lots of questions about her books-she has written over 60! She was asked which book was her favourite and Sue was very diplomatic. As she said her publisher was standing next to her!

After question time the kids all got their book swapping hats on.

Much fun was had at Forestville library. Many thanks to Sue Whiting who gave up her time for the first ever NFP Kids Book Swap and to Forestville Library who have allowed us to roll out this program in their library and most importantly to eat cake and fairy bread in their library.

The next Kids Book Swap will be at 3.30pm on Friday the 30th July at Forestville Library.

Guest author will be Peter Whitfield, the author of the Zen Tails series and Serena Geddes, the illustrator of Row, row, row your boat.

CBCA conference

2010-06-21T21:07:00.000+10:00

Imagine this imagine that!

The CBCA conference took place on the weekend at the Menzies Hotel in Sydney.

We were there displaying our books in the trade exhibit and showing off our new logo.

The conference had been sold to publishers as a "no frills" conference in a bid to move away from the expense of the larger venues and provide a more intimate environment.

The vibe from the conference was terrific. The delegates seemed to enjoy the program rushing to queue for signed books during the breaks.

Jo Oliver signed copies of her latest book Tatiara.

The trade exhibit ran smoothly. Nobody seemed to mind the smaller venue. If anything it allowed for a far more amiable conference.

Congratulations to Margaret Hamilton for her dedication in seeing this conference through to its fruition.

Launching into the New Frontier with a Kids Book Swap

2010-06-07T15:01:00.000+10:00

A recent study in the US discovered that children associate reading with homework and playing digital games with fun.
Below are five tips the study felt would contribute to happy readers.

Five tips for parents on how to make happy young readers.

■ Don't make reading a chore; it is not "good" behaviour.
■ Let your child choose their own reading from a handful of selected books.
■ Don't edit their choice by the age range on the back: see what they fancy.
■ Don't tell them what you enjoyed when you were their age.
■ Stand back and let your child talk directly to the librarian or bookseller.

At New Frontier we are releasing a monthly Kids Book Swap program to put the fun back into reading.

On the last Friday of each month we are throwing a party at Forestville Library and inviting kids to come along for a fun filled hour.

Kids will be swapping books and talking to an author and illustrator from New Frontier. They will be able to browse the library and talk to a librarian about books.

We know that books, authors and illustrators should be enticement enough, but just in case we also have party food on offer. So come along and say hello.

A fun filled launch at Avid Reader Bookshop in Brisbane

2010-05-17T11:05:00.000+10:00

Yesterday The Important Things by Peter Carnavas was launched by Dr Virginia Lowe at Avid Reader Bookshop in Brisbane.

We arrived to the visual spectacular Avid Reader had created in their front window.

Guests began arriving and Peter Carnavas began limbering up for his big moment.

Paul did a fabulous job as the convener

and Helen organised the children who all wrote down their important things and then hung them up in a special place. You can see some behind Helen in the photo below.

Peter Carnavas is always a crowd pleaser. His audience arrived in droves.

Peter spoke about the importance of little things in our lives and demonstrated some of his cartooning skill with the help of the kids.

A terrific day was had by all. Many thanks to Avid Reader and to Dr Virginia Lowe for launching the book.

NFP congratulates Janeen Brian and Chantal Stewart

2010-05-14T13:44:00.000+10:00

I Spy Dad! has been shortlisted for the Speech Pathology Book of the Year Awards 2010.

Speech Pathology Australia Book of the Year Awards 2010

Congratulations Janeen Brian and Chantal Stewart.

Jacqui Grantford will be appearing at the Bayside Literary Festival

2010-05-13T13:14:00.000+10:00

Jacqui Grantford's beautiful illustrations from Molly's Memory Jar, Pemberthy Bear and A True Person are all on display at Brighton Library.

The exhibition is being run in conjunction with the Bayside Literary Festival.
Bayside Literary Festival

Jacqui will be appearing at the festival on Monday 24th May for her 15 minutes of fame. Come along and say hello.

Monday 24th May at 2.30pm
The Brighton Savoy Hotel
Wellington Room
150 The Esplanade
Brighton

For further information contact: ahil@bayside.vic.gov.au

A look inside the launch of The Important Things at Marks and Gardner

2010-05-12T10:07:00.001+10:00

We had a fabulous weekend on Tamborine Mountain. Peter Carnavas was in fine form as his latest picture book The Important Things was launched. Peter demonstrated his artistic talents by drawing characters from his book using his 'important thing', his pencil. He has kept the pencil he used to draw the illustrations for his very first picture book, Jessica’s Box.

Janene and Mary from Marks and Gardner Gallery were so supportive and had organised a quiz and treasure hunt for the kids.They had even placed characters and 'important things' from Peter's books for the children to find.

A big thank you to Janene and Mary for making it such a memorable event.

You are invited

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The Important Things by Peter Carnavas is now in a bookshop near you. If you are in Queensland please pop in to one of these events, we would love to see you.

Peter will be in fine form, reading his latest book and demonstrating his artistic talents. You can even purchase a signed copy of The Important Things.

Author talk and demonstration at:
Marks and Gardner
69 Main Western Rd

North Tamborine 4272
Queensland

On Saturday 8th May at 2pm
RSVP:07 5545 4992

The Important Things will be launched at:

Avid Reader
130 Boundary St
West End
Q 4101

On Sunday May 16th at 10.30am
RSVP: events@avidreader.com.au

At this launch one lucky person will receive an original illustration signed by Peter Carnavas.

We hope to see you there!

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Norma Spaulding and Jacqui Grantford have just returned from a trip to beautiful Launceston in Tasmania.

They celebrated the launch of their new picture book, Molly’s Memory Jar, with a big party at Stories Bookshop, followed by a book signing at Fullers Bookshop.

I Spy Mum!

2010-04-27T09:18:00.000+10:00

Just in time for Mother’s Day!

I Spy Mum!
Written by Janeen Brian
Illustrated by Chantal Stewart
32pp
$24.95 HB

A little boy searches for his mum. He finds all sorts of interesting mums,

a ‘waking mum’, a ‘baking mum’ ,

a ‘camping mum and a ‘stamping mum’ but

where is his Mum?

He finally spies his mum, the one that loves

him so.

‘She’s the one for me.’

A beautiful new picture book. The perfect gift for Mother's Day.

Here is the new logo -what do you think?

2010-04-20T12:03:00.000+10:00

Here it is. The new logo for New Frontier Publishing.

We have not yet rolled it out - we thought we should get your feedback first.

Don’t worry, Nick has his armour on so tells us what you really think?

He is waiting expectantly to hear from you.

Jo Oliver has been busy

2010-04-16T15:24:00.001+10:00

Jo Oliver has been having a lovely time launching her latest book Tatiara. The last few weeks Jo has kept busy attending numerous book events and book signings.

Jo had two helpful assistants, Annabelle and Lhotse who assisted her in launching Tatiara. Both girls were models for the young girl featured in the book.
They cut the ribbon and declared Tatiara launched.

The event was held at the beautiful Tathra Surf Club where much of Jo’s story is set.

If you missed out on Jo’s events and would like to purchase a signed copy of Tatiara you will find Jo signing copies of her book at Angus & Robertson, Camden on:

Thursday 29th April 6.30-8pm

Saturday 1st May 10am-12 noon

Jo’s stunning illustrations will be exhibited throughout May at Narellan Library.

New look for NFP

2010-04-08T17:33:00.000+10:00

Well, we are back from our travels. Bologna provided interesting insights into the world of children’s publishing. There has been much discussion about our list and we will be making a few exciting changes. We will keep you posted.

One new development is a brand new look for NFP. We thought our logo was a little boring, so our trusty designer Nick has put his thinking cap on and come up with some stellar ideas. We wanted to keep the theme - into the New Frontier, but also give the logo an element of fun, which is somewhat lacking in the current logo. Nick is just putting the finishing touches on his magical new creation and we will post the new look next week for you to comment on.

We apologise for the lack of recent posts but after Bologna Sophia went on to London for a week and was rather busy enjoying herself. She is now back in Oz and furiously planning books, launches and birthday parties. It was Nick’s birthday this week. We had cake.

Thank you to all our followers. We are aspiring to continue to publish terrific children’s books and to be on the CBCA shortlist next year!!

Final days at Bologna

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Day three & four

Day three began with vast quantities of caffeine, hurried walks to and from the café continued all day in a bid to keep the momentum up as a steady stream of publishers and agents attended meetings on our stand.

There was a buoyant atmosphere at the fair despite the fact that numbers were down. Those whom we met were genuine in their interest of our list, although the next three months will be crucial in finalising the rights to a number of our titles.

The day ended with the Australia Party attended by Ms Amanda Vanstone, Ambassador to Italy, publishers, authors, illustrators and a number of locals who thought there was good free fare on offer.

Most agreed it had been a productive fair.

Day four

Meetings continued while stands were unpacked around us in the afternoon. Undeterred, our agent continued on with his formidable schedule.

Books, posters and banners have now been boxed up in readiness for the London Book Fair and Frankfurt.

Thank you to Rod Hare from ALC for all his hard work and to Ann James and Ann Haddon for their continued support of illustrators.

Here ends the Bologna Book Fair 2010.

Day Two -Bologna Book Fair

2010-03-25T19:50:00.000+11:00

Things have continued along at a cracking pace today.

Our friendly Italian publishers came to visit us all enthused about Sarah’s Heavy Heart by Peter Carnavas. They are about to re-print and have also taken on Peter’s first title Jessica’s Box. Enthusiastic Italians are quite something to behold. Here they are on our stand with the flyer they put together for Sarah’s Heavy Heart.

Our first two titles for this year, Molly’s Memory Jar (Norma Spaulding/Jacqui Grantford) and Tatiara (Jo Oliver) have both had interest.

A new fiction series for 9+ girls is proving popular. The Diary of Persephone Pinchgut by Aleesah Darlison is attracting overseas interest. The first two books in the series, Totally Twins and Model Behaviour are looking good. Serena Geddes has added to the book with her whimsical black and white illustrations. We are very excited for Aleesah and Serena, as they are both relatively new to the world of children’s books.

Other news at the fair was of course the announcement of the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award which went to illustrator Kitty Crowther who lives and works in Belgium.

Winner of Astrid Lindgren Memorial award 2010

After a busy day on the stand we attended Scholastic’s 90^th anniversary celebration. It was a beautiful venue in the heart of Bologna. Unfortunately I have no photographs to show you the sheer artistic brilliance and magnitude of the place. I got a little carried away eating and drinking.

Tomorrow will be full of final meetings. It will finish off with the Australia Party on the APA stand. I will report back on that tomorrow.

Bologna Book Fair - Day one

2010-03-24T17:37:00.000+11:00

Day one at Bologna began a little like a speed dating exercise except with books. We moved from one meeting to the next, each at half hour intervals. By midday the sample style Italian cappuccinos were in high demand.

The larger publishers had teams of people selling in their books; we had three committed individuals doing their best, up against hefty competition.

It is hard to gauge the success of the first day. In most cases we will not know for another three months whether it has been a successful trip, but a number of our titles sparked interest.

In a short break I managed to venture over to Australian Children’s Book Illustration Bologna 2010 exhibition were the lovely Ann James was displaying some beautiful artwork from picture books by Australian artists. One of Peter Carnavas’ illustrations from his first picture book Jessica’s Box had pride of place in the exhibition.

Today saw the announcement of the H C Andersen medal, which went to British author David Almond.

David Almond wins H C Andersen medal

By the end of the day we were all flagging and looking forward to the Egmont party, which proved to be popular, and a great deal of fun. As a smaller publisher we depend on being fed by the larger more successful publishers and Egmont did a stellar job. Thank you Egmont!

Tomorrow the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award will be announced. The award is the biggest international children’s and young adult literature award in the world. A select few Australians have been nominated for this award including Hazel Edwards. We will keep you posted.

A quick look at the Bologna Children's Book Fair

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NFP is in good company

2010-03-23T05:33:00.000+11:00

After over 30 hours of travel we finally reached our destination. A little jet lagged we made our way to the Bologna Book Fair to put the finishing touches on our stand.

You will be pleased to know we are in very good company. Bloomsbury is next door and Hachette across the road. They of course have all the bells and whistles that shout out successful publisher. We have terrific placement, brilliant books and eye-catching banners.

The Fair is held in an enormous, cavernous space brightened today by displays of vibrant children’s books. For any lover of children’s books this is the place to be, a place to get lost in the magic and wonder of books.

As we left the fair today publishers were still putting up posters and setting up displays. Tonight the carpet will be laid in anticipation for the start of the fair tomorrow. Back to back meetings will begin as publishers pitch their titles in order to land that elusive foreign rights deal.

While we work hard at cementing deals we will also be spying on the competition and eating our fare share of pizza and pasta.

Ciao

Packing for Bologna

2010-03-21T02:08:00.004+11:00

We are on our way! The freight left a month ago, the emergency box two weeks ago and the remainder will be keeping us company as we step onto a plane bound for Bologna.

We will be traveling with suitcases full to the brim with books.

We have taken Peter Carnavas’ advice and will be carrying the important things – books and more books.

We are hoping there might be a little room left for a toothbrush.

For lovers of classical music

2010-03-19T13:39:00.000+11:00

At NFP we are lovers of classical music. This terrific video highlights the power of classical music to move both adults and children.

http://www.ted.com/talks/benjamin_zander_on_music_and_passion.html

We do think the combination of classical music and books works well and are delighted with our new Music Box series.

As Charles Mackerras said, and he should know:"I find the Music Box series a most fascinating and original idea.I am sure it will appeal to many young listeners and open their minds to the wonders of classical music."

Look out for our Music Box books. Each book includes a CD narrated by Antonia Kidman.The third book, The Sorcerer's Apprentice will be released in August.

Sophia has put together a program for 2MBS radio based on the top ten most loved classical hits as voted by children. Listen in to see if our three choices are in the top ten - you may be surprised by the number one choice.

2MBS-FM 102.5

Thursday 8th April

12-1pm

Molly's Memory Jar

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Molly's Memory Jar

written by Norma Spaulding illustrated by Jacqui Grantford

Molly has a deep feeling of sadness after the death of Lucy, her golden retriever.

Molly is now without someone she loved dearly. Seeing his daughter lost and lonely, Molly’s father hatches a plan to help her through her grief.

Molly’s Memory Jar is a soothing story about remembering the good times and coping with the loss of a most beloved pet. The story is full of colour as Molly creates her own personal memory of her best friend Lucy.

Upcoming events

Meet Norma and Jacqui

Fullers Bookshop, Launceston

Saturday 17th April at 10.30am

Norma and Jacqui will be reading, illustrating and signing copies of their book.

Tatiara by Jo Oliver

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Tatiara by Jo Oliver

A little girl wears a back brace preventing her from swimming in the ocean.

She sits on the wharf and looks longingly at the sheltered bay as she witnesses an injured seal frolicking in the water.

They become friends and in time healing comes to both of them.

Upcoming events

There will be an exhibition of Jo's beautiful illustrations at Camden Library.

Medium:Drypoint etching and watercolour

26th March - 1st May

Tatiara will be launched at the Tathra Life Saving Club on Sunday the 4th April at 3pm.

Jo will be signing copies of Tatiara.

Welcome to the New Frontier Blog

2010-03-08T12:03:00.001+11:00

Here is an example of the books you will find at New Frontier.