'There is a certain feel to the first issue of Magpies for the year as we resettle into the rhythm of the process of sending out books to out reviewers, gathering together the ensuing reviews, placing them into the magazine and sending it off to the printer: all with the knowledge that behind every review and article is the accumulated experience of out panel of reviewers. What a comforting thought!' (Editor's Comments, Introduction)
'I was brought up in a text book 'heteronormative family' - curiously, or offensively (you decide) the official label the current Australian government would apply to this, my childhood family make-up is: 'intact'. (Introduction)
'Richard Yaxley has in recent years received the sort of acclaim that many writers dream of. But his is not the overnight success publishing story but rather the years of hard work leading to very welcome success' story. For thirty years he has been a highly respected teacher and writer but the accolades he has received for his young adult novels have now cemented his reputation.' (Introduction)
''In one way just living my life is a constant source of research, the whole sprawling jig-saw of it - the trivial to the most momentous. I think a way of catching just a few shards of it, the best way you can, is the writer's task' (Libby Hathorn, 2019)' (Introduction)
'Australian reading advocates have the right to be proud of their many achievements in promoting literacy but one of the most recent initiatives is something to be truly celebrated. For, on 11 February 2020, the sixth Australian Children's Laureate - Ursula Dubosarsky (2020-21) - was announced to follow the five who have previously held this prestigious position - Boori Monty Pryor and Alison Lester (2012-13) who shared the role, Jackie French (2014-15), Leigh Hobbs (2016-17) and Morris Gleitzman (2018-19).' (Introduction)
